Pocatello residents charged $11.5M in unconstitutional utility fees under scrutiny

Pocatello City Council faces a critical decision regarding utility fees that have been labeled unconstitutional, potentially impacting local taxpayers significantly. During the town hall meeting on June 25, 2025, resident Stephen Adams raised alarms about over $11.5 million collected in what he termed "disguise tax fees" over the past decade.

Adams referenced the Bradbury case, which challenged similar utility fees in Lewiston, highlighting that Pocatello's right-of-way maintenance fees could face similar scrutiny. He warned council members that failing to address these issues could lead to costly legal battles, with potential settlements exceeding $5 million. "Your decision will be your legacy," Adams stated, urging the council to seek guidance from the Attorney General's office to rectify the situation.

In addition to the utility fee concerns, Adams emphasized the importance of adhering to the city's financial management policies established in 2017. He cautioned that neglecting these policies could jeopardize Pocatello's credit rating and future funding opportunities.

The council now stands at a crossroads, weighing the immediate revenue against the long-term financial implications of their decisions. As they deliberate, the community watches closely, aware that the outcome could shape Pocatello's financial landscape for years to come.