New residence in works for ISU president

Idaho State University’s president, Arthur Vailas, may be getting a new presidential home.

The president said there are several reasons to need a new home. One of the big reasons is the current home just doesn’t have much room to entertain potential donors to the university.

Vailas said the cost to maintain the home is getting higher and higher, whereas simply buying a new home would actually save money in the long run.

The current home, at 341 S. Seventh Ave. in Pocatello, was built in 1917. Vailas said the home is more than a home, however — it’s a university-owned property where business is conducted on a regular basis, and the space isn’t able to meet the university’s needs.

Adrienne King, director of Marketing and Communications, released a statement Wednesday afternoon discussing the proposal to be addressed with the State Board of Education Monday.

“We look forward to discussing the University property proposal with the SBOE on Monday,” King said in the statement. “After extensive analysis, as outlined in the public agenda, the University has determined that this is the most cost-effective facility option to fulfill the University’s advancement and business needs. This University facilities investment will not require new debt or increases in state appropriations or student tuition and fees.”

The new home at 2627 Wild Horse Ridge in Pocatello, is more than 3,600 square feet, with an additional 2,600-square-foot sports court.

Vailas said the cost of the new house, combined with the sale of the current house, may result in little effect on current budgets.

The decision is not final, and there are other homes the board will compare. To see the entire proposal, click here:http://bit.ly/14OhA0L