The Idaho Falls City Council Work Session on June 23, 2025, focused on pressing issues surrounding growth, multifamily housing, and traffic concerns in the community. Council members discussed historical growth patterns, noting that while the population has remained stable over the decades, recent developments have sparked significant interest and concern among residents.

One council member highlighted that growth rates have been relatively flat for the past 50 to 60 years, with only a 15% increase over a decade. This stability contrasts with the perception of rapid growth felt by current residents. The discussion included insights from a recent tissue device study, which indicated that growth projections had been underestimated by 20%.

The council also addressed the increase in multifamily housing permits, which saw a spike last year. However, this year has shown a return to more typical levels of construction. A workshop attended by council members revealed that Idaho's proactive approach to "missing middle housing" has positioned the city ahead of many others in addressing housing needs.

Upcoming events were also discussed, including a public meeting scheduled for June 30, where community members can provide feedback on housing initiatives. This meeting is part of a broader effort by the Idaho legislature to tackle housing issues, with various stakeholders involved in the conversation.

The council acknowledged the growing concern over affordable housing, noting that the percentage of income spent on housing has risen from 30% to 40% since 2022. This shift has raised questions about the availability of affordable options in new developments, particularly as some new apartments are priced significantly higher than what many residents can afford.

In conclusion, the council's discussions underscored the complexities of managing growth and housing in Idaho Falls, with a clear recognition of the need for ongoing dialogue and collaboration among various community stakeholders to address these critical issues.