This is a story that ran in the Idaho State Journal 7 April 2013.
Editor’s note: The information for this story comes from an account of pioneer life written by Marlene Christensen, granddaughter of Charles Nuffer, in 1949.
Charles August Nuffer
In the late 1800s, the line between Northern Utah and Southeast Idaho was pretty blurred, but the hardships endured by pioneers knew no state lines.
One of the many immigrants who settled in this harsh frontier was Charles August Nuffer, who came to Logan, Utah, with his German parents in 1880. The family eventually settled in Worm Creek near Preston.
His granddaughter, Marlene Christensen, pieced together diary and verbal accounts of the Nuffer family’s struggles to survive. It paints a story as seen through the young eyes of Charles Nuffer.
“After three weeks, we found a little old log house with one room and dirt roof and plenty of bed bugs to keep us company,” Nuffer recalled. “It was on a vacant lot on the street going to the college just east of the canal.”
The log house with the dirt roof was traded for a home belonging to Jacob Engle within a month, but Nuffer’s father struggled to find work.
“Father would go out wherever he could get some work,” Nuffer said. “He worked on the threshing machines, and I went with him to help, and he got a bushel of wheat a day. Grandma Spring, Regine and I went out in the north field to glean wheat, we would cut the head off and put them in a sack. Father threshed them out with the flail and it made about 16 bushels.” Nuffer said the effort fed the family, and his brothers, John and Fred, earned money to pay the rent.
There were other chores to attend to as well.
“We had to get the wood from the hills nearby,” Nuffer said. “They have brought a team and an old wagon so we went to get some wood. Father told me to drive, as I drove out the gate and over a little ditch, the tongue dropped down and the reach came up and the team ran away. I fell under the horse’s feet and received a broken shoulder, and the horses ran around the block and back in the gate.”
Nuffer was 10 years old when this happened.
The next order of business for the young German American was to master the language.
“I went to school a few month during the winters of 1881 and 1882 and learned to speak English,” Nuffer said. “We lived in Providence from June 1880 until October 1883. So from here we went to Idaho, the place the Lord has chosen for us to build our future home.”
It would take herculean effort and stout horses to pull the families belongings to Worm Creek. Paradise didn’t await the Nuffer family.
“On arriving at Worm Creek (Preston), we found a place with a house on it, a log house about 14 by 16 feet, all one room, with dirt roof, no fence around it and no plowed land, and when it rained the mud would run down the walls, and we had to set pans on the bed to catch the rain,” Nuffer said.
Winter brought even bigger challenges. Nuffer talked about a trip to retrieve straw purchased from farmers in Richmond and Smithfield, Utah.
“The snow was so deep Regine and I filled some big sacks we had brought from the Old Country with straw and tied on the hand sled and pulled it over the crested snow for home,” Nuffer said. “The Miles’ were the only family that were living on the creek besides us on what is now known as the Webster Ranch, and we lived on what is now known as the Fred Wanner Place. The Miles family ran out of feed for their cattle in March and they shoveled a path over the south side of the hills where the wind and sun had taken snow off the grass that had started to grow, and when they drove the cattle thought the path you could not see them because the snow was so deep.”
That was the long winter of 1884.
Undeterred by winter, the family then moved to Cub River and started building a new log home. Lumber was in short supply.
“They had lumber at the sawmill but they would not sell us any for wheat, and the store in Franklin did not pay cash for it,” Nuffer said. “Father had already laid some lings down to put in the floor on so we just had to step over them all winter, but maybe it was a good thing as we got the warmth from the earth as we only had a lumber roof over us 14 feet to the top and just a four-hole cook stove to warm the house and wood to burn, and it was not at all dry.”
The hardships didn’t deter the family’s faith.
“Still we were happy and thanked the Lord for what we had,” Nuffer shared. “Mother would read a chapter from the Bible. We would have prayer and go to bed.”
By Christmas, things grew tougher.
“On Christmas Day 1884, Father sent me over to John’s after 25 pounds of flour,” Nuffer said. “The snow was up to my knees. After that flour was gone we had to grind the wheat in the coffee mill as no one went to the store any more that winter until Father and I each carried a basket of eggs to the store in Franklin on March 2 over 2 feet of frozen snow to buy some groceries. We could not buy much as we had no money.”
To help make ends meet, Nuffer’s mother baked sugar beets in the oven and ground them up to make a sweet sugary substance to put on the family’s “bread and mush.”
The final leg of the winter provided even more trials for the emigrant family.
“Finally the cow went dry so we had no milk for some time and no sugar, but we got thought the winter without any sickness,” Nuffer said. “But we thanked the Heavenly Father for what we had.”
150th Territorial Series
To commemorate the 150th anniversary of Idaho becoming a territory, the Journal will continue historical stories about life in the early frontier each Sunday. A special event will be held July 4 at the Fort Hall Replica in Pocatello to mark its 50th anniversary with additional sesquicentennial recognition.
Lincoln County is closer to me so I get there more often. Shoshone is the Lincoln County seat. Minidoka County was created out of Lincoln County, so many of the Minidoka cities were incorporated in Lincoln County. This includes the cities of Heyburn, Minidoka, Paul, and Rupert. Acequia is the only city incorporated after the creation of Minidoka County.
This photo is from 2023. The Lincoln County Courthouse has been under renovation, so the last time I had court I attended in the old Wells Fargo Bank building. I will have to get an updated picture next time I am in Lincoln County.
Scanning and working through the photos of Dave & Betty Donaldson continues to be a gold mine. While many of the photos are more routine or mundane, once and a while a few pop up that are an insight into the past we did not previously have. Here are some of those photos. I hope there are even more yet to be found.
Dave Donaldson
Likely in southern California, Dave looks like a young teenager. Dave was born in 1928, I guess he is about 12-14 in the photo.
Maxine, Gladys, Dave, Dena and Dora Donaldson
This photo is fun as it shows a glimpse into the young Donaldson family kids. I don’t have many photos of my Grandma Gladys and every extra one gives more reality to her childhood. Dave was born in 1928, I am guessing he is about 7 or 8 here. Even though Dena and Dora are twins, you can tell they are not identical. I still cannot tell them apart though. I love the wallpaper advertisement in the back ground. It looks like the boonies, but close enough to town to have a large sign advertising wallpaper.
“family Long Beach Calif 1932”
What is the Donaldson family doing in Long Beach, Los Angeles, California in 1932? What is the occasion? Who were they visiting? The neighborhood looks nice. They are dressed nice too.
Dave & Betty Donaldson in Jackson, Wyoming
It looks like a fun ride, but Betty also seems to be holding on extra tight.
Young Milo Ross
This photo is a bit of an enigma to me. I believe this is a pre-war Milo Ross. I haven’t seen this photo before. But why would Dave & Betty have it in their possession, how did they get it if it predates my Grandma Gladys? The hat is similar to some other photos I have seen.
Milo Ross planting
Milo Ross with planter
You can see both of these two photos have Grandpa with probably the same hat. The last one, with the horse in the field, probably dates this into the 1930s. I don’t know how to track down that planter and date it. But I am guessing late 1930s, maybe early 1940s.
Here is another with the same gun.
Milo Ross with gun
John Telford, Jan Birch, Richard Michaelson, Milo Ross
This photo was a delight. Another young photo of my Dad with his first cousins. I am guessing he is 6 or 7, so about 1950-1951.
My Great Grandma Berendena Van Leeuwen Donaldson with Eddie, Irene, Mary, and John Telford
Dena Michaelson and Berendena Donaldson at Will Rogers house (that I believe burned down in 2025)
Dena Donaldson and Dena Michaelson at their home in California. Interesting partial reflections in the water on the sidewalk.
David Donaldson and friends in San Francisco.
This photo appears to be a postcard of sorts. Here is the back of it.
The back gives us more information. The date – 11 December 1917. Taken at 225 Market Street, San Francisco, California. Jack and Byron both appear to have signed their names, but the rest of the writing is David’s. David and Jack are from Ogden, Utah. Byron is from Evanston, Wyoming. I don’t know which is Byron and which is Jack. I also cannot tell Jack’s last name and have been unable to locate something that matches. Kielman? Kiefman? Kilfner?
I located Byron Powell, born 21 July 1894 in Winters Quarter, Carbon, Utah and died 12 September 1957 in Ogden. Byron registered for the military draft in Uinta County, Wyoming, which includes Evanston in 1917-1918.
Dena, Dave, Dora, Maxine, David inside vehicle, and Gladys Donaldson on a trip
Again, I don’t know for certain which is Dora and which is Dena. But another fun photo of my Grandma I did not have before.
I don’t know where this photo is from, but I believe it is somewhere in southern Utah. Probably near or in Zions National Park.
I hope some day to find a better copy of this newspaper clipping.
Back (l-r): Ben Van Shaar, Ervin Heslop, Ellis Stewart, Kenneth Taylor, Don Gibson, John Reese; Middle: Frank Hadley, Howard Wayment, Wayne Rose, Ray Charlton; Front: Keith Hodson, Howard Hunt, Wayne Carver, Lyle Thompson, Milo Ross
Presenting the City-County Baseball Champions… Plain City junior diamond athletes romped away with the county title for 1937 and walloped Lewis junior, Ogden city champions, in a title city-county event last week.
Wayne McLean Carver, athletic manager (1923 – 2015)
2-1: INTERNATIONAL CODE COUNCIL AND STATE BUILDING CODES:
2-1-1: CODE ADOPTION
A. The following recognized codes as currently adopted by the State of Idaho are adopted as the official building codes of the City of Minidoka. The adopted versions of these codes shall be effective 1 January 2026. Each code shall be deemed superseded by successive versions of such codes as they are adopted or approved by the State of Idaho effective on the 1st day of January the year following the date any such codes are made effective for the State of Idaho, unless a different date is required by state statute.
B. For purposes of enforcement and administration of this code, the appointed Minidoka County Building Official will also be appointed and act as the Building Official for the City.
2-1-2: PERMIT FEES:
Applicants shall pay permit and plan review fees in amounts to be determined by Resolution of Minidoka County. All permits required under city code require fees to be paid prior to a permit being issued, unless specified otherwise.
2-1-3: EXEMPTIONS:
Agricultural buildings, as defined by the International Building Code, are exempt from the building codes adopted herein but shall remain subject to placement requirements and permits established by zoning regulations.
2-1-4: SEVERABILITY:
This chapter is declared to be severable. Should any portion of this code be declared invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect and shall be read to carry out the purpose(s) of the ordinance before the declaration of partial invalidity.
2-1-5: COPIES AVAILABLE:
A copy of each of the codes shall be held for use and examination by the public in the Office of the Clerk.
2-1-6: VIOLATIONS:
Any violation of the following subsections shall constitute a misdemeanor, and any person, upon conviction of such violation, shall be punished accordingly.
ARTICLE I – INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE (IBC):
2-1-7: PURPOSE:
The purpose of the IBC is to establish minimum requirements to safeguard the public safety, health and general welfare through affordability, structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, sanitation, light and ventilation, energy conservation and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment and to provide safety to firefighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.
2-1-8: IBC ADOPTED:
All the rules, regulations, and ordinances relating and applying to the regulation of the erection, construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, moving, removal, conversion, demolition, occupancy, equipment, use, height, area, and maintenance of buildings or structures established by the IBC including Appendixes C, E, G, H, I, and J, published under the authority of the International Code Council, Inc., is hereby adopted as the Building Code, and except to the extent that those rules and regulations are hereby changed, altered, or amended by this code, shall be the rules, regulations, and ordinances governing the erection, construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, moving, removal, conversion, demolition, occupancy, equipment, use, height, area, and maintenance of buildings or structures at and within the City. It shall be unlawful to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, remove, convert, demolish, or maintain buildings or structures in violation of, or without complying with the rules, regulations, and ordinances set forth by the Building Code as adopted and as may be changed, altered, or amended by the Building Code.
Snow Load
Wind Speed (mph)
Frost Depth
Seismic – Site Class D
20 (4800)
Risk Category
I
II
III
IV
18”
Risk Category
I & II
III
IV
95
100
105
110
C
C
D
2-1-9: IBC AMENDMENTS:
A. The IBC 2018 Edition, and Appendices C, E, G, H, I, and J, published by the International Code Council; are amended as follows:
1. Section 101.1 inserting “City of Minidoka” in place of [name of jurisdiction].
2. Section 1612.3 inserting “City of Minidoka” in place of [name of jurisdiction] and “September 6, 1977” in place of [date of issuance].
3. 3113.1 General. The provisions of this Section shall apply to relocatable buildings. Relocatable buildings manufactured after the effective date of this code shall comply with the applicable provisions of this code; Title 39, Chapter 43, of Idaho Code; and IDAPA 24.39.31. Exemption: This section shall not apply to manufactured housing used as dwellings.
ARTICLE II – INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE (IRC):
2-1-10: PURPOSE
The purpose of the IRC is to provide certain minimum standards and requirements to safeguard life or limb, health, property, and the public welfare by regulating and controlling the design, construction, erection, alteration, moving, demolition, quality of materials, use, occupancy, location, and maintenance of all buildings and structures, where not regulated by the Building Code or the Existing Building Code, in the City.
2-1-11: IRC ADOPTED:
All the rules, regulations, and ordinances relating and applying to the regulation of the erection, construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, moving, removal, conversion, demolition, occupancy, equipment, use, height, area, and maintenance of one-and-two-family dwelling buildings or structures, and their accessory buildings or structures, established by the IRC parts I through IV and IX, including Appendix Q (Tiny Houses) and Appendix S, (Strawbale Construction) published under the authority of the International Code Council, Inc., is hereby adopted as the One-And-Two-Family Dwelling Building Code for the City as amended, and except to the extent that those rules and regulations are hereby changed, altered, or amended by this code, shall be the rules, regulations, and ordinances governing the erection, construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, moving, removal, conversion, demolition, occupancy, equipment, use, height, area, and maintenance of one-and-two-family dwelling buildings or structures, and their accessory buildings or structures, at and within the City. It shall be unlawful to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, remove, convert, demolish, or maintain buildings or structures in violation of, or without complying with the rules, regulations, and ordinances set forth by the One-And-Two-Family Dwelling Building Code as adopted and as may be changed, altered, or amended by the One-And-Two-Family Dwelling Building Code.
Table 301.2(1) Climatic and Geographic Design Criteria as follows:
Ground Snow Loado
Wind Design
Seismic Design Categoryf
Subject to Damage From
Winter Design Tempe
Ice Barrier Underlayment Requiredh
Flood Hazardg
Air Freezing Indexi
Mean Annual Tempj
Speedd (mph)
Topographic effectsk
Special Wind Regionl
Wind-borne derbis zonem
Weatheringa
Frost line depthb
Termitec
20(4800)
90
NO
NO
NO
B
Severe
24”
Slight/Moderate
5
NO
1977FIRM160201B
1261
48.1 F
MANUAL J DESIGN CRITERIAn
Elevation
Latitude
WinterHeating
SummerCooling
AltitudeCorrectionFactor
IndoorDesignTemperature
DesignTemperatureCooling
Heating Temperaturedifference
4150
42
2
90
.87
70
75
68
CoolingTemperature Difference
WindVelocityHeating
WindVelocityCooling
CoincidentWet Bulb
DailyRange
WinterHumidity
SummerHumidity
_____
15
15
7.5
62
H
50%
50%
______
2-1-12: IRC AMENDMENTS:
A. The IRC 2018 Edition, parts I through IV and IX, including Appendix Q and S, published by the International Code Council; are amended as follows:
1. Delete Tables R403 403.4 Minimum Depth (D) and Width of Crushed Stone Footings (inches), R403.1(1) Minimum Width and Thickness for Concrete Footings for Light-Frame Construction (inches), R403.1(2) Minimum Width and Thickness for Concrete Footings for Light-Frame Construction and Brick Veneer (inches), and R403.1(3) Minimum Width and Thickness for Concrete Footings with Cast-In-Place or Fully Grouted Masonry Wall Construction (inches). (3-20-20)T.
ARTICLE III – INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE (IECC)
2-1-13: PURPOSE:
The purpose of the IECC is to establish minimum regulations for energy-efficient buildings using prescriptive, performance-based, or energy rating index compliance alternative provisions. The provisions of this code shall regulate the design and construction of building envelopes for adequate thermal resistance and low air leakage, including the design and selection of mechanical systems, service water-heating systems, pools and spas, electrical equipment, power, and lighting systems in order to enhance the efficient use and conservation of energy in new and existing building construction.
2-1-14: IECC ADOPTED:
All the rules, regulations, and ordinances relating and applying to the design, construction, quality of materials, erection, installation, alteration, repair, location, relocation, replacement, addition to, use or maintenance of the building envelope, building mechanical systems, service water-heating systems, pools and spas, electrical equipment, power, and lighting systems, established by the IECC, published under the authority of the International Code Council, Inc., is adopted as the Energy Conservation Code as amended, and except to the extent that those said rules and regulations are hereby changed, altered, or amended by this code.
ARTICLE IV – INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE (IEBC)
2-1-15: PURPOSE:
The purpose of the IEBC is to establish regulations to allow for the use of alternative methods from those contained in the Building Code and the One-And-Two-Family Dwelling Building Code in order to comply with and conform to those minimum requirements necessary to safeguard the health, safety, property, and public welfare insofar as they are affected by the repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition, or relocation of existing buildings.
2-1-16: IEBC ADOPTED:
All rules, regulations, and ordinances relating to the design, construction, quality of materials, erection, installation, alteration, repair, location, relocation, replacement, addition to, use, change of occupancy, or maintenance of existing buildings, established by the IEBC, published under the authority of the International Code Council, Inc., is adopted as the Existing Building Code as amended, and except to the extent that those rules and regulations are hereby changed, altered, or amended by this code.
ARTICLE V – INTERNATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE (IFGC)
2-1-17: PURPOSE:
The purpose of the IFGC is to establish minimum requirements for fuel gas systems and gas-fired appliances using prescriptive and performance-related provisions. It is founded on broad-based principles that make possible the use of new materials and new fuel gas systems and appliance design.
2-1-18: IFGC ADOPTED:
All rules, regulations, and ordinances relating and applying to the design, construction, quality of materials, erection, installation, alteration, repair, location, relocation, replacement, addition to, use or maintenance building fuel gas systems and appliances. It shall be unlawful to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, remove, convert, demolish, or maintain buildings or structures in violation of, or without complying with the rules, regulations, and ordinances set forth by the IFGC as adopted and as may be changed, altered, or amended by the IFGC.
ARTICLE VI: INTERNATIONAL MECHANICAL CODE (IMC)
2-1-19: PURPOSE:
The purpose of the IMC is to establish the minimum acceptable level of safety and to protect life and property from the potential dangers associated with the installation and operation of mechanical systems. The code also protects the personnel that install, maintain, service and replace the systems and appliances addressed by this code.
2-1-20: IMC ADOPTED:
All rules, regulations and ordinances relating and applying to the design and installation of mechanical systems, appliances, appliance venting, duct and ventilation systems, combustion air provisions, hydronic systems and solar systems.
ARTICLE VII: IDAHO FIRE CODE (IFC)
2-1-21: PURPOSE:
The purpose of the IFC is to establish minimum regulations for fire prevention and fire protection systems using prescriptive and performance-related provisions.
2-1-22: IFC ADOPTED:
All rules, regulations, and ordinances relating to the safeguarding of life and property from fire and explosion hazards arising from the storage, handling and use of hazardous substances, materials and devices, and from conditions hazardous to life or property in the occupancy of buildings and premises as herein provided.
ARTICLE VIII: ABATEMENT OF DANGEROUS BUILDINGS CODE (ADBC):
2-1-23: PURPOSE:
It is the purpose of this code to provide a just, equitable and practicable method, to be cumulative with and in addition to any other remedy provided by the Building Code, Housing Code or otherwise available by law, whereby buildings or structures which from any cause endanger the life, limb, health, morals, property, safety or welfare of the general public or their occupants may be required to be repaired, vacated or demolished.
2-1-24: ADBC ADOPTED:
The provisions of this code shall apply to all dangerous buildings, as herein defined, which are now in existence or which may hereafter become dangerous in this jurisdiction.
ARTICLE IX: INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE (IPMC):
2-1-25: PURPOSE:
The purpose of the IPMC is to regulate the minimum maintenance requirements for existing buildings.
2-1-26: IMPC ADOPTED:
All rules, regulations, and ordinances regulating and applying to the minimum maintenance standards for basic equipment, light, ventilation, heating, sanitation and fire safety.
ARTICLE X: IDAHO PLUMBING CODE (IPC):
2-1-27: PURPOSE:
The purpose of the ISPC is to establish the minimum acceptable level of safety to protect life and property from the potential dangers associated with supplying potable water to plumbing fixtures and outlets and the conveyance of bacteria-laden wastewater from fixtures.
2-1-28: IPC ADOPTED:
All rules, regulations, and ordinances regulating the design and installation of plumbing systems including the plumbing fixtures in all types of buildings except for detached one and two-family dwellings and townhouses that are not more than three stories above grade in height. The regulations for plumbing systems in one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses are covered by IRC. The ISPC addresses general plumbing regulations, fixture requirements, water heater installations and systems for water distribution, sanitary drainage, special wastes, venting, storm drainage and medical gases. The ISPC does not address fuel gas piping systems as those systems are covered by the IFGC. The ISPC also does not regulate swimming pool piping systems, process piping systems, or utility-owned piping and systems.
ARTICLE XI: ELECTRICAL CODE (EC):
2-1-29: PURPOSE:
The purpose of this code is the practical safeguarding of persons and property from hazards arising from the use of electricity.
2-1-30: EC ADOPTED:
All rules, regulations, and ordinances relating to the design, construction, operation, quality of materials, installation, alteration, and repair of electrical systems and use of electricity.
2-2: ELECTRICAL CODE:
2-2-1: SCOPE OF CODE:
The regulations of this code shall apply to all electrical wiring and equipment installed within the city electrical service area, except wiring and equipment which is used for the generation, control, distribution or communication system of a utility and which is installed by or for, and owned and maintained by an electric or communication utility operating under due authority granted by the city.
2-2-2: MINIMUM SAFETY STANDARDS:
Except as herein provided all installments of wires and equipment to convey electric current and apparatus to be operated by such current, made after the effective date of this code, shall be in accord with the national electrical code, published by the National Fire Protection Association, state of Idaho statutes, rules and regulations of the Idaho department of labor and industrial services electrical safety bureau, relating to such work so far as the same covers both fire and personal injury hazards.
2-2-3: SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
All public commercial and industrial buildings, all apartment buildings with more than three (3) dwelling units and all buildings, of any kind, located within the city, shall be wired to conform to any of the following designated articles of the national electrical code:
Article 346, Rigid Metal Conduit; article 348, Electrical Metallic Tubing; article 350, Flexible Metal Conduit; article 352, Surface Metal Raceway; article 362, Wireways; article 364, Busways; article 354, Underfloor Raceways; article 356, Cellular Metal Floor Raceways; article 358, Cellular Concrete Floor Raceways; article 330, Mineral Insulated Cable; article 331, Aluminum Sheath Cable; article 347, Rigid Nonmetallic Conduit, may be used only where installed underground, embedded in concrete, or in indoor locations where subject to severe corrosive influences; article 353, Multioutlet Assemblies; article 363, Flat Cable Assemblies; article 365, Cablebus; article 366, Electrical Floor Assemblies.
2-2-4: ALTERATIONS TO EXISTING WIRING:
When extensions and/or alterations are made to any electrical circuit in or on any building or structure, coming under the provisions of this code, which said circuit was not originally installed in a manner complying with the provisions of this code and/or the ordinances of the city, the electrical circuit, in its entirety, shall be made to conform to such provisions of this code as are particularly applicable thereto.
2-2-5: ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR: The mayor is hereby authorized with the consent of the city council, to enter into an agreement with the state of Idaho department of labor and industrial services electrical safety bureau, to furnish electrical inspection service to the city, as authorized by section 54-1001C of the Idaho Code. Electrical inspections made under such agreement shall be in accordance with this code by a duly appointed state electrical inspector acting as electrical inspector for the city.
2-2-6: JURISDICTION OF ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR:
Except as herein provided the installation of electrical wiring or equipment in or on any building or structure within the city electrical service area shall be done at all times subject to inspection by the electrical inspector.
2-2-7: AUTHORITY TO DISCONNECT:
If any electrical installation made after the effective date of this code is found to be defective or defectively installed, or otherwise not in conformity with this code, the electrical inspector may order such installation disconnected from the source of supply until the necessary corrections have been made, provided that the owner of the premises, the tenant, if any, and the power supply company shall be notified in writing.
2-2-8: ELECTRICAL INSPECTION TAG:
A. It shall be unlawful for any person to install or cause to be installed, any electric wiring, or equipment coming under the provisions of this code unless an electrical inspection tag, as authorized by section 54-1005 of the Idaho Code, or application for such electrical tag, properly completed, has been mailed to the Electrical Safety Bureau, State House, Boise, Idaho. Electrical contractors shall use the standard electrical contractor’s inspection tag issued to all licensed electrical contractors by the electrical safety bureau. Owners installing electrical wiring or equipment on their own property shall use the standard application for owner’s electrical inspection tag which applications shall be made available at the office of the clerk and at the local offices of the power suppliers.
B. The city shall not connect to or energize an electrical installation coming under the provisions of this code unless the city has in possession, an electrical inspection tag, issued by the electrical safety bureau, covering the installation to be energized.
2-2-9: STATE LICENSE REQUIRED:
A. Journeyman Electrician: Except as herein provided it shall be unlawful for any person to perform or supervise the actual physical work of installing electric wiring or equipment to convey electric current unless such person holds a valid journeyman electrician’s license, issued by the state of Idaho department of labor and industrial services electrical safety bureau.
B. Electrical Contractor: Except as herein provided it shall be unlawful for any person, partnership, or corporation to engage in the business of installing electrical wires or equipment to convey electric current or to enter into agreements to install such wires or equipment without a valid electrical contractor’s license issued by the state of Idaho department of labor and industrial services electrical safety bureau.
C. Exemptions: The licensing provisions of this section shall not apply to persons making electrical installations on their own property, to apprentice electricians working under the direct, on the job supervision of licensed journeyman electricians nor to persons regularly employed to do electrical maintenance work on their employer’s premises.
2-2-10: LIABILITY OF CITY:
This code is not to be construed to relieve from or lessen responsibility or liability of any party owning, operating, controlling, or installing any electrical wiring or equipment, for damages to person or property caused by any defects therein, nor shall the city be held as assuming any such liability by reason of the inspection required herein.
2-2-11: REQUIREMENTS FOR NEW METER INSTALLATION:
A. Definition Of New Installation: It shall be deemed to be a “new installation” when service entrance facilities are placed in new buildings, or when electrical wiring is replaced in existing buildings, or when installation of new services are placed in existing buildings, and shall include any remodeling or rewiring, either on the interior or the exterior on any existing building.
B. Meters: Only socket type meters shall be used, and the meters shall be located on the outside of the buildings served with electricity; the meter bases shall be mounted five feet six inches (5’6″) to the center from the ground or walkway level.
C. Wiring: Wiring from service wires to the meter must be in conduit and the conduit from the service wires to the meter must be exposed. No materials such as water or gas pipe fittings shall be acceptable as a substitute for electrical conduit. An entrance cap shall be used on the upper end of the conduit extending above the meter base and must not be more than one foot (1′) from the point of attachment of the service wires. There shall be at least two feet (2′) separation between any service wires and any exposed wiring on the load side of the meter.
D. Safety Measures: All meters on a single residence shall be ahead of all fuses, switches, and/or other protective or disconnecting devices, and no wiring shall be exposed between the meter base and main switch. The main switch or disconnecting device shall be enclosed and shall contain suitable fuse or circuit breaker protection. No circuit shall be taken off between the base and the main switch except pump circuits and such pump circuits must have raintight or waterproof switches for said water pumps, and the main disconnecting device shall be situated on the outside of the building adjacent to the meter base, with a weatherproof enclosure for the fuse or breaker disconnect.
E. Service Entrances: Weatherproofed wire shall not be used in conduits for a service entrance, and any service wires shall have a clearance of ten feet (10′) above the ground; provided, however, that where a service entrance position is to be used by public vehicles, the clearance shall not be less than eighteen feet (18′) above the ground. The service entrance shall be placed on such side of a building or structure to which service is most readily available from existing power lines. All service drop wires must be connected to a mast (subsection H of this section), which extends through the roof of the building. Masts terminating below the eaves of a roof will not be permitted.
F. Wire Connections: The neutral wire (white) of 3-wire systems or the grounded wire (white) of a 2-wire system shall be connected to the ground terminal of the meter base.
G. Alternative Meters: In any case where the estimated load may exceed one hundred (100) amperes per phase for continuous periods at an individual meter installation, the City may require other than self-contained metering. (1982 Code)
H. Masts: The service entrance mast shall not be smaller than one and one- half inch (11/2“) ID rigid galvanized conduit for one hundred (100) amp services, two inch (2”) ID rigid galvanized conduit for two hundred (200) amp services. Type IMC may be used if approved by the Public Works Department.
I. Multiple Meter Installation: In the event multiple meter installations are made, all of the above requirements shall apply to such installation, except that requirement that refers specifically to the service of a single residence, and, in addition thereto, the following requirements shall be met:
1. Electrical service shall be supplied at only one point on each individual building, and the service wires shall be 3-wire 120-240-volt. For single-phase or 4-wire combinations, 120/240-volt 3-phase, and 480-volt 3-phase. (Ord. 332, 3-27-1991)
2. The meters shall be arranged in a horizontal position at five feet six inches (5’6″) from center of meter to ground or walkway level and shall be as close together as practical.
3. Enclosed disconnect devices shall be provided on the load side of each meter and such devices must be classed as main switches as in other requirements, and must have suitable means for sealing. Any and all devices such as gutters, etc., installed on the line side of the meters must be of such a type that they can be sealed with standard meter seals. Permission to install gutters, splice boxes, etc., ahead of meters shall be obtained from the City before construction is started.
2-3: BUILDINGS CONSTRUCTED OUTSIDE OF CITY:
2-3-1: APPLICABILITY OF CODES:
All buildings previously constructed outside the City limits for which a building permit would have to have been issued had the construction been within the City originally, which buildings are to be moved within City limits of the City must meet the requirements of the existing City codes applicable to buildings, including the codes set forth in chapter 1 of this title.
2-3-2: BUILDING PERMITS AND INSPECTIONS:
Further, the owner of such a building, prior to moving the same into or within the City, must obtain a building permit and submit the structure to inspection so that it can be determined that the building meets the requirements of said codes as applicable. Any travel expenses necessary for an official of the City to conduct such inspection or, in the discretion of the City (should the City determine to hire an inspector in the locality of the building), such expense for such inspector shall be borne by the person bringing the building into the City or moving it within the City. In the case of buildings that are subject to the standards of the Building Code, as defined in section 2-1-1 of this title, the inspection will be conducted by an official certified by the International Conference of Building Officials. In the case of manufactured homes, as defined in this Code, the inspection will be conducted by a licensed engineer, who shall certify in writing that the manufactured home meets the requirements of a manufactured home Class A or manufactured home Class B, as defined in this Code. Such certification shall also expressly certify the structural integrity of any modification to the manufactured home made since its original manufacture. However, homes which meet the specifications of manufactured home Class A and which are of the current year’s manufacture or have never been sold and used as a dwelling since new from the factory are exempt from this requirement. Also, manufactured home Class B which has received a certificate of compliance within the last ninety (90) days by the Administrator of the Division of Building Safety that the home complies with the requirements of Idaho Code section 44-2503 is also exempt from this requirement, as long as such home has not been modified since issuance of the certificate.
2-3-3: BOND IN LIEU OF COMPLIANCE:
In the event that the building does not comply with any portion of the codes above referred to, such building must be modified, altered, repaired or otherwise changed to comply with such codes; or, in the sole discretion of the City, the City may determine the expense necessary for such modification and the person wishing to bring the building into the City or move it within the City may post a cash bond for the amount of funds reasonably anticipated to hire a contractor to make such changes and/or remove the building and any foundation; or, to post a bond in the same amount with a surety to the City. A bond in the amount of five thousand dollars ($5,000.00) for manufactured homes or a bond in the sum of ten thousand dollars ($10,000.00) for all other types of single-family dwellings shall be presumed to be reasonable minimum amounts. For all other buildings, the amount shall be set by the Community Development Director. The owner of the building may appeal the decision of the Minidoka County Building Official to the City Council if the owner believes the bond amount to be excessive. Such appeal shall be in writing, delivered to the City Clerk.
2-3-4: BOND FORFEITURE:
In the event that the owner of the building posts such a bond and fails within one hundred eighty (180) days to make the corrections, changes, repairs or improvements as required, such bond shall be forfeited to the City.
2-3-5: CITY’S REMEDIES:
Bond forfeiture does not prevent the City from taking such other legal action as is necessary to abate any private or public nuisance or otherwise require removal of the structure from the City at the expense of the owner or person bringing the structure within the City.
2-4: ELECTRICAL SAFETY CODE:
2-4-1: ADOPTION OF NATIONAL ELECTRICAL SAFETY CODE:
To provide for the safeguarding of persons and property from the hazards arising from the installation, operation, or maintenance of: a) conductors and equipment in electric supply stations, and b) overhead and underground electric supply and communication lines, the City hereby adopts the 2002 edition of the National Electrical Safety Code as promulgated by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc., and the American National Standards Institute.
2-4-2: CLERK TO MAINTAIN A COPY:
As provided by Idaho law, the City Clerk shall maintain one copy of said code.
2-4-3: ENFORCEMENT, REMEDIES, AND PENALTIES:
The Minidoka County Building Official and/or his designee(s) shall be and are empowered to conduct inspections and to seek and obtain enforcement of the provision of this chapter as it may be applicable. The City reserves all rights at law and equity for the enforcement of this chapter, including the seeking of damages and/or injunction or both. Any violation of the provisions of this chapter shall constitute a misdemeanor.
2-5: REGULATIONS FOR USE OF PUBLIC EASEMENT:
2-5-1: PURPOSE AND INTENT:
The purpose of this Chapter is to regulate and control the use of public easement within applicable laws to:
A. Establish a policy concerning the use of public easement by providers or other persons.
B. Establish clear local guidelines, standards, and time frames for the exercise of local authority with respect to the regulation of providers or other persons;
C. Promote competition;
D. Encourage the provision of advanced and competitive services on the widest basis to the businesses, institutions, and residents;
E. Permit and manage reasonable access to the public easements of the city for telecommunications or other purposes on a competitively neutral basis;
F. Assure that all providers or other persons constructing, repairing, or maintaining facilities within the easements comply with ordinances, rules, and regulations; and
G. Assure the City can continue to fairly and responsibly protect the public health, safety, and welfare.
2-5-2: DEFINITIONS:
For the purpose of this Chapter, the interpretation and enforcement thereof, the following words and phrases shall have the following meanings, unless the context of the sentence in which they are used shall indicate otherwise. When not inconsistent, words in present tense include future, words in plural include singular, singular include plural. Words not defined shall be given their common and ordinary meaning:
APPLICANT: Any person or entity that applies for any permit pursuant to this Chapter.
CITY: The City of Minidoka, Minidoka County, Idaho or its authorized designees.
CITY PROPERTY: All real property owned by the City or dedicated for a specific purpose, other than public ways and utility easements as those are defined herein. City property shall include, for example, all City-owned poles, buildings and antenna support structures and infrastructure outside of the public ways, provided that additional Agreements, Pole Attachment Agreements or Leases with the City shall be required for their use.
EASEMENT: As used in this chapter and in title 9 of this Code, shall mean an easement granted to or reserved by the City for municipal or public purposes, including, but not limited to: access to City property; use of land for access by the City to utilities, or use of land to place City utilities upon; or access to utilities or use of land by franchisees or use by other authorized third party utility providers, as provided in Idaho Code section 50-329A, or by other providers or persons, or otherwise provided by law.
ENCROACHMENT: Any impermissible or unlawful use of an easement. It includes any unauthorized use of an easement, including, but not limited to: construction of unauthorized structures upon an easement; unauthorized blocking of any easement or unauthorized restriction of access or use of same; an expansion of use beyond the grant of use; use of the easement for purposes not granted or reserved by the City; or any other improper use or any misuse of the easement as defined by law.
PERMIT: The authorization in whatever form whereby the City may grant permission for construction to a provider or other person to enter and use the specified public ways for the purpose of installing, maintaining, operating, repairing, or removing facilities.
PERSON: Includes any natural person, sole proprietorship, joint venture, corporations, associations, partnerships, limited liability companies, and any other form of entity. Person shall not include the City.
PROVIDERS: Include all broadband, telecommunications, video service, telephone, gas, electric, and other utility service and infrastructure providers.
STATE: State of Idaho
TELECOMMUNICATIONS PROVIDER: A telecommunications service provider or infrastructure provider, or both, as applicable.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICE: As defined in 47 U.S.C. 153(53).
2-5-3: CONTROL AND USE OF EASEMENTS:
A. Exclusive Control. All City easements are and at all times hereafter remain under the exclusive control of the City, unless otherwise herein provided. The City’s consent or other permission to use an easement does not negate the City’s continuing right of control or supervision of the easement and its use.
B. Use. No structure use restriction of any kind is permitted upon a City easement except as herein provided. Access over a City easement shall be only as permitted by the City as herein provided or as established by policy of the City.
C. Sheds, doghouses, and other structures not requiring a building permit. Sheds, doghouses, and other similar structures (like fences, etc.), which do not require a building permit, may be placed on a City easement upon the following conditions:
1. Such sheds or doghouses, etc., must be placed on skids or are otherwise not permanently affixed or anchored to the ground or to concrete or other permanent foundation.
2. Any fence constructed on an easement must, in the opinion of the City, not be burdensome for the City to negotiate around to use or access the easement and also, must have an unlocked access gate or doorway to the easement of the size and type approved by the City.
3. The owner of the encroaching structure must sign an acknowledgement with the City, in a form approved by the City, that provides for a hold harmless covenant in favor of the City in the event that the City, in its discretion, decides that the shed or structure must be moved or destroyed in order to make use of the easement. Such agreement shall cover the items in or with the structure as well. The agreement will also provide for the removal of the structure by the City will occur at the cost of the owner and in case of emergency, could occur without prior notice.
4. The structure must be used for a lawful purpose and may not constitute a private or public nuisance.
5. The structure cannot store hazardous or toxic substances or any other substance if the intentional or inadvertent release of such would violate any environmental protection laws.
6. The structure cannot be used for human occupancy.
7. Consent to allow a structure to be placed on an easement lies in the sole discretion of the City and can be revoked at any time.
D. Structures Requiring a Building Permit. Unless otherwise herein permitted, a structure which requires a building permit to be built or which is placed on or attached to a foundation or otherwise anchored to the ground or any other encroaching structures not described in subsection C of this section may not be placed on a City easement. If the encroaching structure is not removed voluntarily by the landowner, then the City may undertake legal proceedings to have it removed, unless an emergency occurs which, in the City’s opinion, requires its immediate removal, at which point the City will accomplish the removal without notice and at the expense of the owner of the structure.
E. Public Utility Structures:
1. Access. Public utilities or other utility providers, as contemplated in Idaho Code 50-329A or other persons, are granted access to City’s easements as herein provided.
2. Multiple uses. Easements can, as the City permits, be used for multiple utility uses, such as for access and also to provide for more than one buried or overhead utilities services or other facilities. In the case of multiple uses, consent for uses will generally be on a “first come, first served” basis, unless determined otherwise by the City, in its sole discretion, as to the needs of the City. Multiple users of utility easements are expected to use the facilities cooperatively and with due consideration to other uses and to make accommodations as needed to permit multiple uses of an easement.
3. City is sole arbiter. The City is the sole arbiter of use of the easement and also as to questions of joint use between lawful users.
F. No prescriptive rights. No party may gain prescriptive rights as to the use or occupancy of an easement nor any change or use or expansion of use.
G. Consent not implied. Consent to use or encroach upon an easement shall not be implied. All use of an easement must be by consent or other permission or grant of use and must be made in writing from the City.
H. Agreement for use. Other than use of an easement by the City itself, use of an easement must be by written agreement approved by the City. Abandonment of use of an easement for more than two (2) years shall require a new written agreement to establish use.
I. Consent to permit encroachments. On occasion the City, in its sole discretion, may consent to an encroachment on an easement. The following minimum considerations will apply:
1. The structure must have been in continuous use for at least the last ten (10) years.
2. The structure must be in good repair and not otherwise abandoned.
3. If the structure is either destroyed or becomes dilapidated, it must be removed and a replacement structure cannot be erected in its place unless the replacement structure is qualified for use under this section.
4. At the end of the useful life of the structure, no replacement structure may be erected in its place.
J. Lawful uses. Lawful uses of easements for public utility, video telecommunications or broadband purposes shall be deemed to be uses consented to by the City and no new written application is required; however, a permit is required and must be paid for by the provider.
2-5-4: FEE AND COST REIMBURSEMENT
A. A person or entity seeking a permit, franchise, or agreement for the use of City Easement or other property for facilities shall:
1. Reimburse the City for fees, costs, and expenses incurred by the City for application reviews, plan reviews, review and administration of applicable permits, testing, and inspection within the City. This includes, by way of illustration and not limitation, concrete plant mix; pavement placement; sidewalk replacement; landscaping repair including sod, irrigation lines, sprinklers, shrubs, and trees; traffic control set up; street restoration; graffiti removal; clean-up; public safety.
2. Pay to the City a non-refundable fee to cover the cost of all direct and indirect administrative expenses and staff efforts devoted to developing, drafting, negotiating, and finalizing a franchise or agreement for the use of City Easement or other property for its facilities;
3. Reimburse the City for all out-of-pocket processing costs, including but not limited to the cost of publication of notices related to the franchise or agreement for the use of City Easement or other property for their facilities;
4. Reimburse the City for the City’s reasonable outside attorney fees, consultant fees, and expenses incurred in developing, drafting, negotiating, and finalizing the franchise or other agreement for use of City Easement or other property for their facilities; and
5. Pay all franchise fees, other fees, and taxes as permitted by Federal and State Law.
B. The fees, taxes, and costs paid shall not be offset against any franchise fees or other amounts payable to the City during the term of the franchise or agreement. All payments are due within thirty (30) days of written notice from the City.
2-5-5: BUSINESS LICENSE:
A City business license is required for all providers, unless specifically waived by the City.
2-5-6: PERMIT REQUESTS:
Requests for permits to install, maintain, operate, repair, and remove facilities shall be submitted to the City upon forms to be provided by the City and shall be accompanied by drawings, plans, and specifications in sufficient detail to demonstrate:
A. The installation, maintenance, operation, repair, or removal of facilities will be in accordance with all applicable codes, rules, and regulations;
B. Preliminary engineering plans, specifications, and a map showing where the facilities are to be located within the City, all in sufficient detail to identify:
1. Location and route requested for the proposed facilities.
2. Location of the overhead and underground lines and equipment in the public ways along the proposed route.
3. Specific trees, structures, improvements, facilities, lines, equipment, and obstructions, if any, that the applicant proposes to temporarily or permanently remove or relocate and a landscape plan for protecting, trimming, removing, replacing, and restoring any trees or areas to be disturbed during construction.
C. If a provider is proposing underground installation with new ducts or conduits to be constructed within the public ways, the following shall be provided;
1. Location proposed for new ducts or conduits;
2. Evidence that there is sufficient capacity within the public ways for the proposed facilities.
D. Construction methods to be employed for protection of existing structures, fixtures, lines, and other facilities within or adjacent to the public ways or easements.
E. Proposed construction schedule and work hours which may be limited by the City for public health, safety, and welfare related issues.
2-5-7: TRAFFIC CONTROL PLAN:
Any permit which involves work on, in, under, across, or along any public way shall be accompanied by a traffic control plan demonstrating the protective measures and devices that will be employed, consistent with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, to prevent injury or damage to persons or property and to minimize disruptions to efficient pedestrian and vehicular traffic. The traffic control plan must be approved prior to approval of the permit.
2-5-8: ROAD CLOSURE:
A permittee must coordinate with the City Administrator, Engineer, and Police Chief forty-eight (48) hours before any lane, sidewalk, or road closure and obtain reasonable permission for the closure.
2-5-9: TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
A. All work being performed within City Easement is subject to inspection whether by City or by its representative. Providers shall notify adjacent residents and businesses of proposed work and make accommodations to maintain access to properties affected by construction activity.
B. Open trenches are protected to prevent accidental ingress by people, animals, or vehicles.
C. Contractor will provide City with compaction reports for all backfill activities.
D. Unless stated in the permit, the permit is granted for one hundred eighty (180) calendar days and all work must be completed in that time. Applicant or permittee may apply for an extension. Any work, repairs, or remediation not completed in time shall be subject to a $100 weekly inspection fee until work has been completed to the satisfaction of City.
E. Failure to abide by the terms and conditions of a permit or of any associated agreement is considered due cause for revoking a permit.
F. Permittee shall file, at least quarterly, a statement of system construction and build-out to date, and as-built maps of underground and aerial build-out and per linear foot distances and locations in a GIS format acceptable to the City.
G. Providers are limited to three (3) open permits in process at one time. Where the maximum number of approved permits are open, the City will not approve a new permit until complete restoration of the Easement, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, roads, and to the extent applicable, work done on affected private property, occurs.
H. As practicable and economically feasible, the construction and location of facilities shall be of minimal impact to private property including, but not limited to, yards and fences. All construction and maintenance of any and all facilities on private property shall be and remain the responsibility of the providers or other persons. Prior to beginning any construction, notice shall be provided at least five (5) days before commencing work by door hanger or other appropriate written notice to all private property owners. Gates shall not be left open, yards in disarray, or fences hopped.
I. When any opening is made in a yard on private property or fences are disturbed, such shall be promptly restored to as good or better condition than that existing before the work commenced. If the permittee or provider fails to complete the work referred to within the time prescribed and to the City’s satisfaction, the City may cause such work to be done and bill the cost of the work to the provider. Payment shall be remitted to the City within thirty (30) days of receipt of an itemized list of costs. All work shall be done in compliance with all laws, regulations, and ordinances of the City and State.
J. The transmission and distribution system, lines, wires, and appurtenances of the provider shall be located, installed, and maintained so as not to endanger or interfere with the lives of persons or to unnecessarily hinder or obstruct the free use of private property, City or other easements, or other public property.
2-5-10: FRANCHISE OR OTHER AGREEMENT REQUIRED:
In addition to obtaining any and all requisite permits from the City, a provider desiring to place its facilities in easements or public ways must first obtain a Franchise or other Agreement from the City, unless a specific exception is clearly provided by Federal or State law.
2-5-11: LEASE OR OTHER AGREEMENT REQUIRED:
In addition to obtaining any and all requisite permits from the City, providers desiring to place their facilities on City property (other than public easements) must first obtain a Lease or other Agreement from the City.
2-5-12: RELIEF:
The City may seek legal or equitable relief to enjoin any acts or practices and abate any condition which constitutes or will constitute a violation of the applicable provisions of this Chapter. Violation of the terms of this Chapter may also result in the revocation of any permit or franchise or other agreement granted hereunder.
2-5-13: FEES AND COMPENSATION NOT A TAX:
The franchise fees and charges provided for or any compensation charged and provided for herein, whether monetary or in-kind (to the extent permitted by law), are separate from, and additional to, any and all Federal, State, local, and City taxes as may be lawfully levied, imposed or be due from a provider, its customers, or subscribers, or on account of the sale, delivery, or transmission of service.
2-5-14: NONEXCLUSIVE GRANT:
No permit issued hereunder shall confer any exclusive right or privilege to occupy or use the public way or easement for delivery of services or any other purposes.
2-5-15: POLICE POWER:
In accepting any permits issued hereunder, the provider acknowledges that its rights thereunder are subject to the legitimate rights of the police power of the City to adopt and enforce general ordinances necessary to protect the safety, health, and welfare of the public, it being understood that such exercise must be done in accordance with applicable law and be related to use and management of public ways or easements.
2-5-16: REGULATION BY THE CITY:
In addition to the inherent powers of the City to regulate and control any permit it issues, and those powers expressly reserved by the City, or agreed to and provided in any permit, the right and power is hereby reserved by the City to adopt such additional regulations as it may find necessary in the exercise of its lawful powers to manage the public ways or easements.
2-5-17: CODES:
Construction of facilities shall be done in accordance with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws, codes, rules, and regulations.
2-5-18: COMPLIANCE WITH ONE-NUMBER LOCATOR SERVICE:
All providers or other persons shall, before commencing any construction in the public way or easement, comply with Idaho DIGLINE (“Idaho 811”). Underground utilities must be located and marked prior to any trenching or boring work.
2-5-19: NOTICE OF WORK EMERGENCIES:
In the event of an unexpected repair or emergency, a provider may commence such repair and emergency response work as required under the circumstances, provided the provider shall notify the City as promptly as possible, including on-call, before such repair or emergency work commences or as soon thereafter as possible, if advance notice is not practicable. Further, the provider shall apply for a permit and pay all associated fees as soon as the emergency is abated.
2-5-20: MOVING A BUILDING:
Whenever any Person shall have obtained permission from the City to use any public easement for the purpose of moving any building, a provider upon seven (7) days written notice from the City shall raise or remove, at the expense of the Person desiring to move the building, any of the provider’s facilities which may obstruct the moving or removal of such building; provided, that the Person desiring to move the building shall comply with all requirements of the City of the movement of buildings and remit the applicable cost of raising or removing the facilities prior to the commencement of such work.
2-5-21: CITY DAMAGE TO FACILITIES:
Unless directly or proximately caused by the sole negligence or willful misconduct of the City, City shall not be liable for any damage to any facilities within the public easement as a result of or in connection with any public works, public improvements, construction, excavation, grading, filling, or work of any kind within the public easement by or on behalf of the City.
2-5-22: RESTORATION:
A. When a provider or other Person does any work in or affecting any public easement, it shall, at its own expense, promptly remove any obstructions therefrom and restore such public easement to the condition as existed before the work was undertaken.
B. If weather or other conditions do not permit the complete restoration required by this subsection, the provider shall temporarily restore the affected public easement. Such temporary restoration shall be at the provider’s sole expense and the provider shall promptly undertake and complete the required permanent restoration when the weather or other conditions no longer prevent such permanent restoration.
C. A provider or other person acting on its behalf shall use suitable barricades, flags, flaggers, lights, flares, and other measures as required for the safety of all members of the general public and to prevent injury or damage to any Person, vehicle, or property by reason of such work in or affecting such public ways.
D. The City Public Works and Community Development Departments shall be responsible for inspection and final approval of the condition of the public easement following any construction and restoration activities.
E. Whenever a provider intends to discontinue using any facility within an easement, it shall submit for approval a complete description of the facility and the date on which it intends to discontinue using the facility. The provider may remove the facility or request the City permit it to remain in place. Notwithstanding a request that any such facility remain in place, the City may require removal of the facility from the easement or modify the facility to protect the public health, welfare, safety, or convenience, or otherwise serve the public interest at no cost to the City. The City may require a combination of modification and removal of the facility. The provider shall complete such removal or modification in accordance with a schedule as set by the City. Until such time as removal or modification of the facility occurs as directed by the City, or until the rights to and responsibility for the facility are accepted by another person having authority to construct and maintain such facility, the provider shall be responsible for all necessary repairs and relocations of the facility, as well as maintenance of the easement, in the same manner and degree as if the facility were in active use, and shall retain all liability for such facility. If the provider abandons its facilities, the City may choose to use such facilities for any purpose whatsoever.
F. If the provider fails to complete any required work to the satisfaction of the City, the City may cause the work to be done, and the provider shall reimburse the City for the reasonable costs and expenses incurred within thirty (30) days after receipt of an itemized list of the City’s expenses and costs, or the City may recover its expenses and costs from the bonds or pursue any other judicial remedies for the collection thereof. Any expenses incurred in the collection by the City of such obligation shall be included in the monies due the City including reasonable attorney fees, court costs, and expenses for work conducted by City staff or its agents.
2-5-23: FIBER CAPACITY:
A telecommunication provider shall have the right, without prior City approval, to offer or provide fiber capacity or bandwidth to other carriers, resellers, customers, or subscribers consistent with such permit; provided, however, that the telecommunication provider shall remain responsible for the compliance with this Chapter and such permit, and provided that the other carrier or reseller must obtain any necessary Franchise or other Agreement required by the City.
2-5-24: INSURANCE:
A. Each provider shall secure and maintain the following insurance policies insuring both the provider and the City against claims for death or injuries to Persons or damage to property which may arise from or in connection with the acts, omissions, or exercise of the rights, privileges, and authority granted to the provider:
1. Comprehensive general liability insurance, written on an occurrence basis, with limits not less than: a) three million dollars ($3,000,000) for bodily injury or death to each Person; and b) three million dollars ($3,000,000) for property damage resulting from any one accident;
2. Automobile liability insurance for owned, non-owned, and hired vehicles with a combined single limit of three million dollars ($3,000,000) for each accident;
3. Worker’s compensation within statutory limits and employer liability insurance with limits of not less than one million dollars ($1,000,000);
4. Excess umbrella liability with limits of no less than five million dollars ($5,000,000) per occurrence and in the aggregate.
B. Insurance shall be placed with insurers licensed to do business in the State with an A.M. Best rating of A VII or better. The liability insurance policies required by this subsection shall be maintained by the provider throughout the term of the permit, and such other period of time during which the provider has facilities in the public easement or is engaged in the removal of its facilities. Failure to maintain such insurance shall be grounds for cancellation of the permit, Franchise, or Agreement. The provider shall furnish acceptable certificate(s) of insurance, together with the endorsement naming the City to the City prior to the commandment of any work or installation of any facilities pursuant to any permit.
C. The provider’s insurance shall be primary and noncontributory insurance as respects the City. Any insurance maintained by the City shall be in excess of the provider’s insurance and shall not contribute with it. Maintenance of insurance shall not be construed to limit the liability of the provider to the coverage provided by such insurance or otherwise limit the City’s recourse to any remedy available at law or in equity.
D. In addition to the coverage requirements set forth in this subsection, the provider must notify the City in writing of any cancellation or reduction in coverage at least forty-five (45) days in advance. At least fifteen (15) days prior to cancellation or reduction in coverage, the provider shall obtain and furnish to the City replacement insurance and certificate(s) of insurance meeting the requirements of this section.
E. All insurance policies shall contain a waiver of subrogation against the City for any claims arising out of the provider’s work or service. The provider shall be responsible for all deductibles under the policies.
2-5-25: INDEMNIFICATION:
A. A provider shall indemnify, protect, defend, and hold harmless the City from any and all actions, causes of action, suits, claims, costs, damages, expenses, attorney fees, judgments, settlements, awards, or liability to any Person or entity arising from injury, sickness, or death of any Person or damage to property arising out of the acts or omissions of the provider, its contractors of any tier, agents, servants, officers, or employees with regard to a permit, Franchise, Agreement, or operations.
B. Inspection or acceptance by the City of any work performed by the provider at the time of completion of construction shall not be grounds for avoidance of any of these covenants of indemnification. Provided, that the provider must be given written notice by the City of any such claim, and said indemnification obligations shall also extend to claims which are not reduced to a suit and any claims which may be compromised prior to the culmination of any litigation or the initiation of any litigation. The City has the right to defend or participate in the defense of any such claim and has the right to approve any settlement or other compromise of any such claim.
C. In the event that the provider refuses the tender of defense in any suit or claim, said tender having been made pursuant to this subsection, and said refusal is subsequently determined by a court having jurisdiction (or such other tribunal that the parties agree to decide the matter), to have been a wrongful refusal on the part of the provider, then the provider shall pay all of the City’s costs for defense of the action, including all expert witness fees, attorney fees, and expenses.
D. The obligations of the provider under the indemnification provisions of this subsection shall apply regardless of whether liability for damages arising out of bodily injury or death to Persons or damages to property were caused or contributed to by the negligence of the City, its officers, agents, employees or contractors. The court shall apportion liability accordingly.
2-5-26: LIMITATION OF DAMAGES:
In no event shall the City be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, exemplary, or punitive damages, including by way of example and not limitation lost profits, lost revenue, loss of goodwill, or loss of business opportunity in connection with the City’s performance or failure to perform. The provider releases and waives any and all such claims against the City.
2-5-27: CONSTRUCTION BOND:
Providers performing work in the public ways must also provide a construction bond acceptable to the City equal to at least one hundred fifty percent (150%) of the estimated cost of each phase of construction and restoring the public ways to their pre-construction condition.
2-5-28: COORDINATION OF CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES:
All providers are required to cooperate with the City and with each other in coordination of construction activities. The City Public Works and Community Development Departments shall coordinate all construction locations, activities, and schedules to minimize public inconvenience, disruption, or damage to public easement.
2-5-29: ASSIGNMENT OR TRANSFER:
Ownership or change in control of a permit, Franchise, or Agreement granted hereunder may not occur, directly or indirectly, or be transferred, assigned or disposed of by sale, merger, consolidation, or other act of a provider, without the prior written consent of the City, which shall not be unreasonably withheld.
2-5-30: ADDITIONAL DUCTS OR CONDUITS:
City may require a provider that is constructing, relocating, or placing ducts or conduits in the public easement provide the City with additional ducts or conduits and related structures necessary to access the same. The terms and conditions under which such additional ducts and conduits shall be provided are subject to the mutual written agreement of the provider and City.
2-5-31: CITY APPROVAL:
Upon completion of any construction, installation, maintenance, repair or replacement work, the permittee shall, to the satisfaction of the City, promptly repair and restore any and all public ways, City property and private property including improvements, fixtures, structures, and other facilities in the public easement, to as nearly as practicable their condition before the start of such work. All providers shall warrant such work for a period of at least one (1) year.
2-5-32: ABOVE-GROUND FACILITIES:
Installation in the public easement of above-ground wires and facilities by providers may create safety hazards and adverse visual effects. Consequently, the City is authorized to impose reasonable conditions in order to mitigate those potential adverse effects.
2-5-33: UNDERGROUND CONSTRUCTION AND BORING TECHNIQUES:
All underground construction and boring techniques are subject to the pre-approval of the City Engineer. In the event of non-compliance by a provider, the City Engineer shall give written notice and the provider shall have ten (10) days to cure the deficiency. If the deficiency is not cured to the satisfaction of the City Engineer, a written stop work order will be sent to the provider and no new permits will be issued until the deficiency or default is cured to the satisfaction of the City.
2-5-34: CONFLICT:
In the event of a conflict between the regulations in this Chapter and any other provision of City Code, the regulations in this Chapter shall prevail.
2-5-35: SEVERABILITY:
If any section, subsection, clause, or phrase of this Chapter, or its application to any Person or circumstance, is, for any reason, declared invalid, in whole or in part by any court or agency of competent jurisdiction, said decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions.
This letter was provided to me by Deanne Larue Yancey Driscoll. Deanne is the granddaughter of Frieda Minna Andra, who is sister to my William Fredrick Andra. This letter is in my Great Grandmother’s handwriting, Mary Louise Wanner Andra. She is writing from their home in Queen Creek, Arizona.
Frieda was born in Meissen, Germany 6 March 1893. If you search this site, you will find various references to Frieda as she was a great source of history for the Andra family. She married George Edward Greaves (1892 – 1968) 10 June 1914 in Salt Lake City, Utah. They had five children together, George Andra (1915 – 1977), Walter Taylor (1916 – 2011), Elizabeth Frieda (1918 – 2001), Marion Minna (1920 – 1996 – Deanne’s mother), and Ada Helen (1923 – 2020). George disappeared. Frieda remarried Franz Heinrich Wilhelm Lehmitz (1863 – 1947) 10 August 1930 in Salt Lake City. Frieda and Franz had one daughter, Hazel Marie (1931 – 1945). She remarried after Franz’s death to Leonhard Michael Wendel (1883 – 1970) 6 March 1952 in Idaho Falls, Bonneville, Idaho. Leonhard was the son of Johann Wendel who had married Frieda’s mother after arriving in Utah. She remarried after Leonhard’s death to Brigham Horrocks (1890 – 1976) 7 June 1972 in Blackfoot, Bingham, Idaho. She passed away 18 October 1978 in Idaho Falls. She is buried in the Grove City Cemetery, Blackfoot, Idaho.
The letter refers to Dale and Judy Andra’s son, Jeremy Dale Andra. The letter also refers to Judy, who is Clara Anna Andra Blanke’s granddaughter. I don’t know details, but I believe she was charged with murder. Clara is Frieda and William’s sister. Another brother, Otto is also referenced. Iona and Carol are both Otto’s daughters.
March 3 / 68
Dear Frieda, thanks for the birthday card and money.
We’re glad you are better, we sure enjoy our selves down here it sure keeps me busy when we go to the Temple. I wash + Iron quite a bit, I think its a vacation for the men but we women have the same things to be done. Otto + Lizz left a week ago to go out to Iona’s should be back to night or tomorrow, they like it down here pretty good. Carol + hubby bought a home of their own so Otto has a job putting in bathroom sink + things, so they sure go over enough.
I have to go over to the ward house 4 miles away to singing Mothers we are going to sing in stake conference Sunday. It gets in the 80 in the after noons down here but it really feels good. We will leave about the 10 April it should be nice weather by then.
May God bless you both, Love: Bill + Mary
over,
P.S. Frieda have you ever heard anything about Judy’s trial? Rebecca sent down a clipping which stated they started Feb 15th but we haven’t heard a word since.
If you know anything about it I wish you would write us.
Sure to bad Clara + Emil have so much to go thru + my heart really goes out to them. They’ll “never” live it down I’m afraid.
Just got our 33rd grand child born the 27th a beautiful baby, they sent us a picture of the baby. A Boy just what they wanted. Dale is the proud father.
So please Frieda if you’ve heard, let us know. I wrote Clara a nice letter but she said she would write me a letter but as yet she hasn’t written.
P.S. Dale is the son on the farm, I already got a picture of the baby its a Boy they have the 2 little girls.
I previously wrote about a new Minidoka Mayor and Councilman in early 2025. I then wrote about another new Councilman sworn in due to the move and resignation of another. I mentioned the results of the election held 4 November 2025 and that more changes were coming.
Minidoka City 4 November 2025 election results
Minidoka swore in a new City Clerk on 9 December 2025.
Jennifer Walker sworn in by Mayor Peterson as the new Minidoka City Clerk
Then at the first meeting of 2026, all the newly elected officials were to be sworn into office. Clerk Walker first swore in reelected Mayor Julie Peterson.
Minidoka City Clerk Jennifer Walker swears in Mayor Julie Peterson
Mayor Julie Peterson then swore in newly elected Monique Hurst. Monique had been serving as an appointed Councilman, but now sits as an elected Councilman.
Councilman Monique Hurst sworn in by Mayor Julie Peterson, Clerk Jennifer Walker watches
Then Mayor Peterson swore in reelected Councilman Jim Cook.
Mayor Julie Peterson swears in Councilman Jim Cook, Clerk Jennifer Walker listens while water operator Cody Creek watches
Bulmaro Paz was out of the country visiting family, so he was not able to attend and be sworn in at the January meeting. Bonnie Hofmeister submitted a resignation for her position before the evening, she was not sworn in. With only two Councilmen present, no further business could be conducted. The meeting was adjourned until February.
At the 3 February 2026 meeting, reelected Councilman Bulmaro Paz was back in town and sworn in.
Bulmaro Paz being sworn in by Mayor Julie Peterson, Monique Hurst watches
Due to the resignation of Bonnie Hofmeister, Mayor had an opportunity to appoint a new Councilman. Mayor Peterson nominated Mark Cartwright and Council approved.
Mayor Julie Peterson swears in Mark Cartwright to Minidoka City Council after a resignation left a vacancy
With that reorganization, that will have Monique and Jim’s seats both up for a 4 year term in 2027. Mark was just appointed to fill a four year term, but will be up for election in 2027 for a 2 year term. Mayor and Bulmaro are both up for a 4 year term in 2029.