Monday, October 12, 2026
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Idaho Secretary of State: When an Address Becomes a Liability

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(Idaho Secretary of State, October 9, 2026)

Your address. It’s where friends come to visit, where you get your mail and packages, where you get to know your neighbors. It’s the place you call home.

But for victims of domestic violence, stalking or trafficking, an address can be a liability. In the wrong hands, it can bring danger right to their door.

My office is well known for elections and our business services. Fewer people know about another important service we provide: Idaho’s Address Confidentiality Program (ACP).

The program helps vulnerable Idahoans keep their physical location out of public view while still being able to receive mail, register to vote and access essential government services.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and it’s an important opportunity to shine a light on this program.

Domestic violence is a tragic reality for too many Idahoans. Leaving an abusive situation can take tremendous courage, but leaving is often only the beginning. Rebuilding a life while maintaining your safety can be incredibly difficult.

That’s where the Address Confidentiality Program can help.

Operated by our Executive & Legislative Affairs division, the ACP provides participants with a substitute address and mail-forwarding service. It’s a relatively simple service that can make a meaningful difference for someone working to build a safer life.

Our program is also just one part of a much larger network of state and local services available to Idahoans. Our office works closely with advocates, state and local agencies, and community partners who support people navigating some of the most difficult circumstances imaginable. I’m grateful for the work they do every day.

This month, I hope you’ll help us spread the word. You may never need the Address Confidentiality Program yourself, but someone you know might.

Visit sos.idaho.gov/acp to learn more about the program and find links to additional state and local resources for Idahoans who are in, or have recently left, abusive relationships.

Phil McGrane

ABOUT SECRETARY PHIL McGRANE

Phil McGrane was elected Idaho’s twenty-eighth Secretary of State and took office on January 2, 2023. McGrane served as elected Clerk of Ada County from 2019-2022.McGrane holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy, a juris doctorate, and a Master of Public Administration. As a fourth-generation Idahoan, Phil has dedicated his career to making elections in the state of Idaho accessible, secure and transparent.

Bannock County Commissioners Meetings, October 12-16, 2026

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(Bannock County Press Release, October 9, 2026; Cover Photo Credit: Bannock County)

Bannock County Commissioners Meetings, October 12-16, 2026

Monday, October 12, 2026:

  • The Bannock County Courthouse will be closed in observance of Columbus Day.

Tuesday, October 13, 2026:

  • 9:00 AM Business Meeting (action items)

Wednesday, October 14, 2026:

  • There are no meetings scheduled at this time.

Thursday, October 15, 2026:

  • 9:00 AM Work Session and Claims Meeting (action items)

Friday, October 16, 2026:

  • There are no meetings scheduled at this time.

(The information packets for the business meeting and work session can be found at http://www.bannockcounty.gov. Scroll down and click on “Agendas and Minutes” then click on the information packet for the meeting that you are interested in.)

About BOCC Meetings

The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is comprised of the three elected County Commissioners: Ernie Moser (District 1, Chair), Jeff Hough (District 2), and Ken Bullock (District 3).

The BOCC generally meets twice a week: regular business meetings are on Tuesdays at 9:00 a.m. and work sessions are on Thursdays at 9:00 a.m. Meetings are generally held in the Commissioner’s Chambers at 624 E Center, Room 212, Pocatello, Idaho, unless otherwise noted. Times subject to change within 15 minutes of stated time.

During these meetings, the BOCC may: approve contracts, expend funds, hear testimony, make decisions on land use cases and take care of other County matters, and are open to the public.

Idaho’s Republican Congressional Delegation, Statewide Officials Oppose Proposition 1

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(Idaho Republican Party Press Release, October 9, 2026; Cover image credit: IDGOP FB)

BOISE, Idaho — The Idaho Republican Party announced [on Friday] that ten Republican officeholders representing Idaho in Congress and statewide elected positions have publicly declared their opposition to Proposition 1, the proposed initiative to legalize abortion in Idaho.

“If there is one issue that unites Republicans across the ideological spectrum, it is that of life,” said Chairwoman Dorothy Moon. “The Idaho GOP has always believed that the unborn are entitled to the same right to life as you and I, and I’m proud to stand beside our elected officials in urging Idahoans to vote no on Prop 1. It’s too extreme for Idaho.”

The following Republican elected officials have declared their opposition to Proposition 1:

  • Governor Brad Little
  • Senator Mike Crapo
  • Senator Jim Risch
  • Congressman Mike Simpson
  • Congressman Russ Fulcher
  • Lt. Governor Scott Bedke
  • Attorney General Raúl Labrador
  • State Controller Brandon Woolf
  • Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield
  • State Treasurer Julie Ellsworth

“I am voting no on Proposition 1,” Gov. Little said. “It would allow girls under 18 to receive abortion without parental consent, and it would make abortion far more accessible in Idaho. Proposition 1 simply goes too far.”

“It’s up to the voters whether or not Idaho adopts extreme California-style abortion laws, or remains a sanctuary for life,” Moon added. “Get out and vote—our future depends on it.”

About the Idaho Republican Party
The Idaho GOP is the state’s official Republican organization, working to elect Republicans and advance principles of faith, family, and freedom throughout Idaho.

Gov. Little Signs EO Suspending Dyed Diesel Inspections for 30 Days

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(Photo Credit: Karyn Simmons)

(Governor’s Office Press Release, October 9, 2026)

Boise, Idaho — Governor Brad Little [on Friday] signed an executive order temporarily suspending state inspections related to dyed diesel fuel, cutting red tape for Idaho farmers and ranchers during harvest season.

The order directs the Idaho State Police and Idaho Transportation Department to suspend inspection efforts conducted under Idaho Code section 49-676 for 30 days while the agencies review Idaho’s existing inspection policies and procedures.

The review will consider how other states approach dyed diesel enforcement and will result in recommendations to the Governor for efficient, effective, and practical inspection practices.

The executive order follows a directive from President Donald Trump to cut red tape and reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens on American farmers, ranchers, and businesses. Governor Little is building on that effort in Idaho by taking immediate action to give producers relief during harvest and reviewing state policies to identify opportunities for further common-sense reforms.

“Idaho farmers and ranchers work hard to feed our families, our country, and the world. President Trump has made cutting red tape a priority, and Idaho is doing the same. We will continue looking for ways to give our farmers, ranchers, and working men and women on the road more freedom to do what they do best,” Governor Little said.

Dyed diesel is commonly used for agricultural purposes and is subject to different state and federal requirements than fuel used for on-road purposes. The Governor’s executive order provides temporary relief from Idaho’s inspection requirements while the state evaluates how its policies compare with those of other states.

The order does not exempt individuals or businesses from other applicable federal laws, the laws of other states, or warranty requirements for their vehicles.

The executive order will remain in effect for 30 calendar days unless rescinded or extended by a subsequent order of the Governor.

LEGISLATOR SUPPORT FOR EXECUTIVE ORDER

Legislative leaders expressed support for providing men and women on the road relief during a period of high diesel prices.

“Our farmers and ranchers work long hours to put food on our tables and strengthen Idaho’s economy. They deserve a government that supports them. Suspending these inspections while the state reviews its policies is a practical approach that puts common sense first and gives Idaho producers one less thing to worry about during harvest,” House Speaker Mike Moyle said.

“Idaho has always been a state where we value hard work, personal responsibility, and limited government. This executive order reflects those values by taking a closer look at regulations that can create unnecessary burdens for our farmers and ranchers. I’m glad to see Idaho continuing to cut red tape and stand up for the people who feed our families and drive our rural communities,” House Transportation Committee Chairman Joe Palmer said.

“This order is a common-sense step that gives our producers some breathing room during the busiest time of year. Idaho is proud to take action and make sure Idaho’s regulations work for the people who keep our agricultural economy moving,” Senate Transportation Committee Chairman Doug Okuniewicz said.

“Idaho farmers and ranchers are facing high costs across the board, and expensive diesel is adding to the pressure during harvest. This order provides some immediate relief while giving the state time to review these requirements and find a practical approach that supports our producers without adding unnecessary costs or red tape,” Senate President Pro Tem Kelly Anthon said.

“Our farmers and ranchers are already dealing with high operating costs, and rising diesel prices make harvest season even more challenging. We need to give Idaho producers some breathing room while they get their crops out of the field. This order provides immediate relief and gives us time to find common-sense solutions that cut unnecessary red tape and help keep costs down for the people who feed our families,” Senate Majority Leader Lori Den Hartog said.

Patriots for Liberty and Constitution to Continue Discussing “The American Covenant” TODAY, October 12

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Patriots for Liberty and Constitution

October 12, 2026

Pocatello–Local book group “Patriots for Liberty & Constitution” plans to discuss Chapter 3 of Marshall Foster’s book, The American Covenant, at their weekly meeting tonight. 

A PDF of the book is available for download here.

Patriots for Liberty & Constitution meets at Mountain Valley Baptist Church, 202 S. 7th Avenue in Pocatello, every Monday evening at 6:30.

Pocatello: Road Closure and Traffic Report for Week of October 12, 2026

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(Photo Credit: City of Pocatello)

October 12, 2026 (Cover Photo Credit: City of Pocatello)

The City of Pocatello’s Road Construction & Traffic Report for the week of October 12, 2026, has been published and may be read here.

Highlights include:

  • Street sweepers are currently performing their regular sweeping schedule.
  • The Street Services crew will be patching potholes and curb lines throughout the City.
  • Traffic Operations crews are repainting crosswalks throughout the City.
  • Crews will be jetting and cleaning sewer mainlines throughout the City.
  • The Street Services crew will be performing shoulder work on S 5th Avenue near Cliffs Drive, beginning Monday, October 5, 2026. The work will require a southbound lane closure and is expected to continue for several weeks.
  • The Water Department will be working on the water main on W Wyeth St.
  • Demolition of the Monarch Building continues.
  • Work continues on the Benton Street Bridge, Johny Creek’s Expanded Sewer Project, the Center Street Underpass, and the safety improvements in the area of Hiline Rd. and El Rancho Blvd.
  • South Garfield Avenue between Center Street and West Lewis Street will be closed from 6 AM to 3 PM every Saturday for the Portneuf Valley Farmers Market.

City of Pocatello Calendar for October 12016, 2026

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(City of Pocatello Press Release, October 9, 2026; Cover Photo Credit: City of Pocatello)

City of Pocatello Calendar of Meetings ~ October 12-16, 2026

MONDAY, OCTOBER 12

  • Airport Bid Opening 2:00 p.m., Council Chambers
  • Pocatello Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council Meeting 3:15 p.m., Council Chambers
  • Human Relations Advisory Committee Meeting 5:30 p.m., Council Chambers

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13

  • EPA Lead Abatement Workers Training 8:00 a.m., Council Chambers
  • Pocatello Regional Airport Commission Meeting 11:00 a.m., Airport Conference Room
  • Site Plan Review 1:30 p.m., Paradice Conference Room
  • Library Board Meeting 4:00 p.m., 113 S. Garfield Avenue
  • Pocatello Iwamizawa Sister Cities Foundation Meeting 5:15 p.m., Council Chambers

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14

  • EPA Lead Abatement Workers Training 8:00 a.m., Council Chambers
  • Golf Advisory Committee Meeting 1:00 p.m., 144 Wilson Avenue
  • Planning & Zoning Commission Clarification Mtg. 6:00 p.m., Council Chambers
  • Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting 6:30 p.m., Council Chambers

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15

  • Forest Service End of Year Meeting 9:00 a.m., Council Chambers
  • Housing Alliance & Community Partnerships Mtg. 11:00 a.m., 750 N. 5th Avenue
  • City Council Clarification Meeting 5:30 p.m., Council Chambers
  • City Council Meeting 6:00 p.m., Council Chambers

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16

  • No Meetings Scheduled

Job Openings at Bannock County

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(Bannock County HR, October 9, 2026)

Substance Abuse Education and Prevention Assistant
Bannock County – Pocatello, ID
Read the full job description:  CLICK HERE!

Maintenance Technician, Level 2
Bannock County – Pocatello, ID
Read the full job description:  CLICK HERE!

On-call Juvenile Detention Deputy
Bannock County – Pocatello, ID
Read the full job description:  CLICK HERE!

Part-Time Driver’s License Technician
Bannock County – Pocatello, ID
Read the full job description:  CLICK HERE!

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney
Bannock County – Pocatello, ID
Read the full job description:  CLICK HERE!

Probation Officer – Adult Probation
Bannock County – Pocatello, ID
Read the full job description:  CLICK HERE!

Booking Deputy
Bannock County – Pocatello, ID
Read the full job description:  CLICK HERE!

PT – Family Engagement Self and Community Intervention Program Coordinator
Bannock County – Pocatello, ID
Read the full job description:  CLICK HERE!

For a complete list of available jobs… please visit our career site at: https://bannockcounty.applicantpro.com

Ski Ingram: A Veteran’s Thoughts – Provide for the Common Defense

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October 11, 2026

A Veteran’s Thoughts
Provide for the Common Defense

By: Ski Ingram

This is the third month in my continuing series dealing with the Preamble to our Constitution. The third principle listed is “provide for the common defense.”

For too many years the liberals, progressives, and the newly formed Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) have been attempting to change this country and its Constitution in order to give themselves power to take away our God-given rights, thereby giving them complete control over our lives. It’s sad to say, but too few citizens today understand the threat this is to America.

It will be up to us, freedom loving Americans, to ensure that the Socialists in this country do not fundamentally change the country. We must be firm in this fight for freedom. We must do all we can to educate our family and friends about the dangers of socialism before it takes over the whole country.

It will not be an easy fight, but it is a necessary fight. Not only for us but for our children and our children’s children. In Viet Nam I served as an Airborne Ranger. There was a sign in our compound that said, “If the going gets tough, the tough get going.” Today is the time for the tough to get going. During the Revolutionary War we lost almost every major battle before winning the war. In the War of 1812, England succeeded in burning the White House before we were able to come out victorious. America has been against the proverbial ropes many times and has always prevailed. We were a tough lot then and are still just as tough today.

This is why I am happy to report that things in America are looking brighter. With Donald Trump as our Commander in Chief, the military is being strengthened. Sectary of War Pete Hegseth is purging the bloated Generals corps. He is removing DEI and working to make our military the toughest and best trained in the world.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is telling the world that, for us, America comes first. One way he has done this is by removing over 200 foreign flags from the State Department and replacing them with American flags. This is his way of telling all who work there that America comes first.

Donald Trump is boldly engaged in removing the nuclear threat from Iran so that America will be safe and secure for future generations. He understands that the world runs on oil. He understands that Iran is a threat to the world’s oil supply. He is working to rid this country of a woke agenda that aims to halt the use of oil in America.

It is imperative that we all understand the Capitalist system and what it asks of us:What can I contribute? What can I build? What can I do for my family and others? Socialism asks: What can I take? What can I use? What can I get for free?Socialism has never worked anywhere in the world, and it will not work here.

In order for the government to provide for the common defense the country needs a strong military. It needs oil and it needs capitalism. Without them we will become weak and vulnerable to any corrupt government or political party who desires to change the country into something none of us will recognize.

I am looking forward to the mid-term elections next month. This is the time for every patriot to vote for the candidates that reject socialism. By voting you will be showing your gratitude to our founding fathers, our Constitution, and the men and women who have given their life to defend it. If it is your desire for this country and its people to remain free, you must vote in November and vote only for those who love America as much as you do.

Ski Ingram, a combat veteran, can be reached at Ski@Skiingram.com or www.Skiingram.com

What’s the Status on Bannock County’s Land Use and Development Ordinance Update Project?

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(Bannock County Press Release, October 9, 2026; Cover photo credit: Bannock County)

Bannock County is proposing an update to the county’s land-use rules.

Planning & Development staff have been working on modernizing and bundling eight outdated codes into one simplified rulebook called the Land Use & Development Ordinance (LUDO). If adopted, the proposed LUDO would only apply to unincorporated areas of the county and would not impact city codes.

Key Proposed Changes:

  • Adjusts lot size requirements for certain zones
  • Removes open space requirements
  • Simplifies minor land divides into a streamlined Short Plat process
  • Moves from outright ban of alternative energy to a Conditional Use Permit process

Public Hearing Schedule

Planning & Development Council Hearing

Thursday, October 29, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at Chubbuck City Hall, Council Chambers (290 E. Linden Ave., Chubbuck)

Board of County Commissioners Hearing

Tentatively scheduled for Thursday, November 19, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Bannock County Courthouse, Room 119 (624 E. Center St., Pocatello)