The mismanagement of the so called North Loop project is a large example of the chaos that is happening within Idaho Falls city government.  We have seen recently  that Idaho Falls is having serious budget problems due to overspending and foolish projects.  The automatic solution of the city council is to raise taxes.  Fortunately there was an immediate outcry by Idaho Falls citizens which stopped talk of raising taxes for the moment.  Then we also learn that council members are developing strategy behind closed doors, blatantly defying open meeting laws.  Now we have also been advised that the long time city legal representative has resigned.  This chaos must end.

The north loop project was the result of a 1973 study by a Boise consulting firm that has never been seriously updated.  There are other ways to accomplish the needed transfer of power from the South sub-station to the sugar mill station.  Additional load could be added to the existing south loop, internal transmission is a option, a new line could be brought in from the west sub-station enlarged for the Ariva project.  There are many other options, unfortunately the Idaho Falls electrical division has been focused on an outdated recommendation and has not looked for other alternatives.  Now it is time to look. 

It is shameful that Idaho Falls has spent so much money in preparation for a transmission line which may not be built.  They have even gone to the extent of purchasing a home on the corner of 35th west and 33rd north.  This home now must be razed per the contract with the home owner.  What a terrible loss of money to taxpayers if the transmission line does not go through.  Remember, a federal judge just ruled that the city may not build this line without willing sellers.  The city will not get willing sellers for the remainder of the route.

Enough is enough, it is time for Idaho Falls to get control of this chaos.  Call your city leaders and advise them that they must become more responsible and return Idaho Falls to the friendly and prosperous city it once was. If they will not do that, it will be time for a change of leaders.