Author: KIFI

Ariel Jensen

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI)– School is almost out for summer, and working parents are looking for child care services to maintain their daily schedule. But for many parents, finding a daycare that fits their specific needs proves a challenge.

However, with state law cracking down on financial regulations and child-to-staff ratios, both parents and daycares are coping with struggles.

Parents frequently say the high cost of daycare is a major hurdle. Meanwhile, daycares are experiencing significant staff turnover due to low wages.

Jayden Reinhart, manager at NiNi Daycare, explains, “The way that the state does funding for child care, it’s getting a little bit more difficult to get I.C.C.P.s (The Idaho Child Care Program) stuff like that. So it makes it more expensive for them [parents] to be able to bring their child to daycare, which makes less parents be able to work and less income for the family in total.”

Several daycares have noted that families with multiple children face the most significant difficulties in securing adequate childcare.

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Seth Ratliff

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a lawsuit against the City of Troy, Idaho, alleging that the city violated the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA) by denying a conditional use permit (CUP) to a small evangelical church. The lawsuit, filed Tuesday in the U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho, claims the city’s decision was influenced by bias against the church’s beliefs.

The church in question, Christ Church, is a Moscow-based fundamentalist congregation founded by Doug Wilson, whom the Idaho Capital Sun has identified as a prominent figure in the Christian Nationalist movement. According to the lawsuit, Christ Church had outgrown its previous worship space and was unable to find suitable rental alternatives. In March 2023, the church sought a CUP to hold weekly services at the Ye Olde Bank Event Center on Main Street in Troy.

The Ye Olde Bank Event Center is owned by a member of the Christ Church congregation, as reported by the Moscow-Pullman Daily News. The building is located within the City’s C-1 zoning district, which permits non-religious assembly uses such as clubs, museums, auditoriums, and art galleries.

The lawsuit asserts that Troy residents largely opposed the church’s CUP application, with “many of their written and verbal comments reflected animus against Christ Church’s beliefs.” While residents at a January 2023 meeting cited concerns about parking, downtown traffic, and limited commercial tax revenue, the lawsuit specifically alleges that the City Council, in its March denial of the CUP, pointed to significant public opposition.

The Moscow-Pullman Daily News reported that the council also echoed fears about parking and the potential impact on commercial growth in downtown Troy, noting that Idaho code prohibits businesses selling liquor by the drink within 300 feet of a church.

However, the DOJ’s complaint highlights that the City’s denial explicitly cited the fact that the public was “heavily against” the permit and that the “great majority of the city residents” opposed granting it.

“RLUIPA unequivocally forbids local governments from deciding zoning matters based on their dislike of certain religious groups,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice will not hesitate to file suit against jurisdictions that discriminate in land use matters on the basis of the applicants’ religious beliefs.”

The lawsuit contends that the City’s denial of the CUP placed an undue burden on Christ Church and was motivated by discriminatory attitudes within the community. It further argues that Troy’s zoning code treats religious assembly differently and less favorably than non-religious assembly.

In 2023, Troy City Attorney Todd Richardson posted a letter on the Troy City Hall Facebook page, acknowledging the city’s voluntary cooperation with the DOJ. The Moscow-Pullman Daily News initially reported that Richardson’s letter noted the presence of at least five religious denominations already holding services in Troy, none of which are located in the central business zone (approximately two blocks on Main Street).

For more information on RLUIPA, click HERE.

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News Team

UPDATE:

McCammon, Idaho (KIFI)— The Department of Environmental Quality has given the all clear to lift the boil order affecting residents in McCammon. The move comes after yesterday’s water samples returned with satisfactory results, according to the city of McCammon Facebook page.

UPDATE:

McCammon, Idaho (KIFI)— Residents in McCammon remain under a boil order for at least the next twenty hours after yesterday’s water samples returned unsatisfactory results this morning.

Water services have been restored since the critical well pump malfunction Tuesday, but residents are still strictly advised not to drink tap water without boiling it first.

The city’s order specifies: “Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute and let it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water.”

ORIGINAL:

McCammon, Idaho (KIFI) — The City of McCammon has issued a mandatory 36-hour boil order for all homes within city limits after a critical well pump malfunction during a water main replacement project led to a significant loss of water pressure.

Work on the city’s water system improvement project began Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 7:00 AM, with crews replacing a critical water main. However, according to an urgent update posted on the City of McCammon’s official Facebook page, the well has unexpectedly gone down, and currently, the entire city is without water.

“They are actively working to get it back online,” city officials stated in the Facebook post. “Once the well pump is repaired, the entire city will be on a boil order,” added the city officials in an email to the press.

While city officials anticipate water service to be restored tonight around 7:00 PM, the boil order will remain in effect until at least 5:00 PM on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, when results from water quality tests are expected to confirm the water is safe for consumption.

Boil Water Instructions and Health Risks:

Residents are strictly advised not to drink tap water without boiling it first once service is restored. The city’s order specifies: “Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute and let it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water.”

The presence of low water pressure or a well pump failure can introduce harmful bacteria, such as E. coli, into the water system. E. coli bacteria are indicators of potential contamination with human or animal waste. Ingesting contaminated water can lead to short-term health effects such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and headaches. Infants, young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk of more severe illness.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can have other causes. If you experience persistent symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Individuals with increased health risks should consult their healthcare providers.

Further updates regarding the water situation will be posted on the City of McCammon’s official website: HERE.

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News Release

PRESTON, Idaho (KIFI) — The City of Preston, Idaho, is gearing up to celebrate its 125th Anniversary in 2025 with a summer-long initiative with a celebration event on Friday, July 25, 2025, coinciding with the annual Preston Rotary Pioneer Day Fireworks festivities. 

Mayor Keller shared, “On behalf of the Preston City Council, as Mayor of Preston, It is a pleasure for me to announce and invite all Franklin County residents to join the City of Preston in celebrating the 125th anniversary of the City of Preston’s incorporation on Friday, July 25, 2025 at the Robinson Building shelter at the Preston City recreation park.”

Reflecting on the city’s history, Mayor Keller noted, “After over three decades in the late 1800s, the geographical area of Preston was referred to and known as ‘Worm Creek’, ‘The Flat’, and ‘Sandridge’. On July 25, 1900, Preston was officially and legally incorporated as a ‘Village’, and later the incorporation was upgraded to a ‘City’, as well as the County Seat for the newly created Franklin County. The City’s name of PRESTON, was in honor of the 4th Presiding Bishop of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, William B. Preston. 

Again, we invite all in the community to join in this celebration, which will include birthday cake and ice cream provided by Todd Thomas, Chris Larsen, Brent Dodge, and Terry Larson of the Preston City Council, as well as Mayor Keller.”

Members of the Preston Area Chamber of Commerce and other volunteers are working on collecting historical business information to put on display in the current businesses around town. A walking tour will be available for anyone interested in learning more about the rich history and discovering what businesses exist today. 

“We are excited to work with the City to showcase Preston City’s business history,” added the Preston Area Chamber of Commerce. “We look forward to a fantastic celebration that honors our past, observes the present, and looks forward to the future of this community.”

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Sam Ross

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI)– Holy Spirit Catholic School is hosting their annual ‘Art Exhibition of Excellence’ event on Tuesday, May 20, for people to enjoy the creative work students have compiled throughout the year.

The exhibition features the paintings, poetry, and sculptures of Holy Spirit’s 3 through 12-year-old students and showcases some of the school’s award-winning science and social studies projects.

“It’s really fantastic to see what kids can do,” said Margie Gabiola, principal of Holy Spirit Catholic School. “…When you go into a space where you’re looking at art, it creates this sense of calm in you or gets you excited; if you want to come for the full experience, this is the type of event you want to come to–especially when it’s local.”

The Art Exhibition of Excellence will be preceded by the school’s preschool spring concert, which starts at 5:30 p.m. The exhibition will open after the concert at 6 p.m. in the Holy Spirit Catholic School gym.

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News Release

BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) — The Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is preparing to implement several statutory and rule changes passed during the 2025 Legislative Session. These changes will affect everything from license plates to instruction permits, system security, and even how next of kin is recorded on driver records. Some changes take effect this summer, while others are slated for early 2026.

Here’s a high-level look at the updates that will impact DMV services and Idaho residents:

Available Now

SB 1105 – Don’t Tread on Me Plate UpdateThis bill amends the design of the “Don’t Tread on Me” license plate to allow a full yellow background with a centered rattlesnake and the slogan displayed prominently. It also establishes the Idaho Firearms Safety Committee, which will oversee the distribution of plate revenue for firearms safety grants.

Effective July 1, 2025* 

*Although the effective date is July 1 or January 1 for some plate programs, all new plates will be available to order beginning June 18, 2025.

HB 21 – Full-Size Plates for Agencies & Clarified Permit Rules

Removes the “A” and “M” designators from exempt trailer and motorcycle plates and allows agencies to request large trailer plates for better visibility. Also clarifies that commercial trip permits must be purchased before entering Idaho.

HB 22 – Background Checks for System AccessIn accordance with REAL ID standards and in order to enhance security of customer data, this law authorizes DMV to require background checks for all staff, state and county, who access core DMV systems or customer information.

HB 23 – IPs and Motorcycle Endorsement Permits StreamlinedInstruction permits (IPs) and motorcycle endorsement permits (MIPs) are now valid for one year, aligning with commercial learner permits. Also removes the knowledge test requirement for returning Idahoans with a valid out-of-state license who previously held an Idaho license.

HB 99 – Clarifies Parent-Student Driver Training (PSORDT)Cleans up last year’s language by confirming the required hours: 30 classroom, 6 driving, 6 observation. Adds flexibility by allowing approved third-party classroom providers.

HB 204 – New “World Famous Potatoes” PlatesTwo new designs:

Black plate with white text ($70 initial / $50 renewal, proceeds to State Highway Account).

Teal & white plate with no program fee, only $2.75 plus mailing—making it the most affordable plate in Idaho. Both versions omit county designators.

HB 402 – U.S. Passport for Proof of IdentityAllows unexpired U.S. passports to be used instead of birth certificates when proving identity, citizenship, or date of birth for driver’s licenses and ID cards.

SB 1180 – License Plate Readers & Front Plate RequirementsLimits use of automated license plate readers to official law enforcement purposes only. Also eliminates the front plate requirement for vehicles that lack a front plate bracket. ITD will continue issuing two plates.

SB 1365 – Next of Kin InformationDMV will begin asking all driver’s license and ID card applicants for emergency contact information (up to two people, 18 or older). This is optional and will be securely accessible only to law enforcement and coroners via ILETS.

Effective January 1, 2026

HB 174 – Towing and Storage OverhaulRepeals and replaces Chapter 18, Title 49. The department will manage a towing portal, and law enforcement will no longer be responsible for appraisals or sales. All notifications shift from LE/towers to DMV.

HB 235 – “An Appeal to Heaven” PlateThis patriotic plate features a pine tree on a white background and references the Revolutionary War-era flag flown by George Washington’s navy. Initial and renewal fees will support plate production.

SB 1153 – USS Idaho Commemorative PlateHonoring the USS Idaho submarine (SSN 799), this five-year commemorative plate features the sub emerging from the ocean and the phrase “THE GEM OF THE FLEET.” Revenue from sales supports related educational and historical efforts.

“These legislative updates help modernize our systems, enhance access to DMV services, and give Idahoans more choices, from how they register to what they display on their bumpers,” said DMV Administrator Lisa McClellan. “We’re committed to rolling out these changes with as much clarity and convenience as possible.”

More detailed implementation information will be shared with DMV staff, county partners, and stakeholders as effective dates approach.

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News Release

The following is a press release from the American Red Cross:

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — People wanting to make a difference in the Pocatello area will soon have a new larger, more modern place to donate lifesaving blood. On May 30, the American Red Cross is set to open its doors at a new blood donation center, located at 4233 Yellowstone Ave., Suite 101. The new center is in the Pine Ridge Shopping Center, a newly constructed open-air retail space.

This new six-bed facility replaces the previous Red Cross location inside the old Pine Ridge Mall, 4155 Yellowstone Ave., and will provide lifesaving blood products to cancer patients, accident victims, expecting moms and countless others across Idaho.

“We are so excited to provide our generous blood donors in Bannock County a fresh new place to give the gift of life,” said Dharma Nichols, regional donor services executive for the Red Cross of Idaho, Montana and East Oregon. “It’s a gorgeous facility, and we encourage the community to make a donation appointment and come check it out.”

The center will be open Mondays from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donors are also able to donate at the numerous Red Cross mobile blood drives across the area. Schedule an appointment at either the new donation center or at a mobile drive by visiting RedCrossBlood.org and entering your zip code or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Donating blood is essential to community health, and volunteer donors are the only source of blood for those in need. Red Cross provides lifesaving blood products to 38 hospitals and medical centers across Idaho and East Oregon.

“Donating blood takes less than an hour, and a single donation can save more than one life,” Nichols said. “How often can you give just an hour of your day and walk out the door knowing you may have helped saved someone’s life. It’s a pretty amazing feeling.”

The current location will remain open and will continue collecting blood through May 27.

How to donate blood: Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card, a driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds, and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

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Seth Ratliff

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — The Bonneville County Republican Central Committee (BCRCC) has officially opened the application period for the Bonneville County Clerk position. This follows the upcoming retirement of current Clerk Penny Manning, who will step down on July 25, 2025, after nine years of service.

“Penny set a high standard of excellence in the Office of County Clerk. We appreciate her outstanding dedication and service”, said Bryon Reed, 4th Vice Chair and former County Commissioner.  

The BCRCC is now tasked with recommending her replacement to the Bonneville County Commissioners. From now until Friday, June 6, 2025, the BCRCC is accepting letters of interest and resumes from interested candidates. For more information on the important role of Idaho’s County Clerks, click HERE.

“Preferred qualifications include attention to detail, experience with large budget development, experience supervising large numbers of employees, auditing, and proficiency in complex software systems,” writes the BCRCC. “The BCRCC will send each interested candidate a pre-interview questionnaire to be completed before the public meeting and interview.”

To submit an application for the County Clerk position, click HERE. 

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Seth Ratliff

SALMON, Idaho (KIFI) — A dedicated teacher from Salmon has earned a coveted spot in the National STEM Scholar Program. Renae Lewis, of Salmon Junior-Senior High School, is one of only ten middle school teachers nationwide selected for this highly competitive program, recognizing her commitment to making science, technology, engineering, and mathematics come alive for her students.

Teachers were asked to apply with a “challenge project” they would implement in their classroom if funds were available, making learning more exciting.

“STEM education is essential for my students because it equips them with critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills that are vital for success in today’s rapidly changing world. By engaging in hands-on, real-world learning, students gain the confidence and curiosity needed to pursue high-demand careers and become innovative contributors to their communities,” said Renae Lewis.

Studies show that middle school students who become excited about science are more likely to pursue STEM courses throughout their education.

“Supporting teachers who inspire and motivate middle school students at this critical decision-making age will directly impact how many choose to pursue the STEM skills essential for living-wage jobs. By investing in the influential middle school STEM teacher now, we reach thousands of students in classrooms today and far into the future,” said Dr. Paula Grisanti, CEO of the National Stem Cell Foundation.

Now in its 10th year, there are 100 National STEM Scholars representing middle schools in 37 states. 93% teach in public schools, 44% teach in mid- to high-poverty schools, and 39% teach in communities with a population under 15,000.

A unique requirement of the program is the responsibility for STEM Scholars to share lessons learned with colleagues in their home schools, districts or states, magnifying impact over multiple classrooms and years. By June 2026, National STEM Scholars will have directly and indirectly impacted more than 190,000 middle school students in the U.S.

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Sam Ross

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI)– Owners of local classic car restoration business ‘Badass Glass’ are trying to get back on their feet after a fire destroyed the company’s body shop.

Jordan Miller, owner of Badass Glass, said his son woke him up in the early hours of May 13 after noticing a fire in the large body shop near their home. Miller called the Pocatello Fire Department, and firefighters extinguished the blaze, but not before the loss of the shop and the tools and vehicles stored inside.

“I was thinking it was a nightmare every time until I walked out here and looked at it again every day and realized I wasn’t dreaming,” said Miller. “It’s total annihilation.”

Among the vehicles lost in the fire were a 1966 Chevy pickup truck and two Volkswagen Beetles.

Miller said, despite the loss, Badass Glass’ loyal customers and local fans have been understanding and supportive in the wake of the tragedy.

“I couldn’t do any of it without them,” said Miller. “We’re just gonna try to get cleaned up here and try to see what little we can save and see if we can’t get back on our feet doing something.”

A GoFundMe page was created to raise money for Badass Glass’ cleanup efforts and replacement of the tools and equipment lost in the fire; the fundraiser has already collected over $1,000 in donations.

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