Emergency announcements and closures
The following are brief public notifications that have been submitted to our newsroom.
Because of a growing incidence of false or misleading information on social media, the SOUTHEAST IDAHO PUBLIC HEALTH DISTRICT and EASTERN IDAHO PUBLIC HEALTH have established websites to provide vetted and reliable information. The latest statistical information at the state level is available through the IDAHO DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND WELFARE.
There have been numerous questions about who and when medical professionals conduct Novel Coronavirus testing. This document explains the protocol they use.
Below, find announcements in several categories, including new information, health, education, counties, cities, business, and general information.
LATEST ANNOUNCEMENTS
APRIL
BANNOCK COUNTY DRIVER'S LICENSE will be offering limited services by appointment only and for Bannock County residents only. Office hours will be Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call for an appointment at 208-236-7158. The partial services include renewals for expired drivers license, CDL's, Concealed Weapons Photos (Tuesdays) and Driver's Training permits and testing. STAR Card updates are not being processed at this time. (4-16)
BINGHAM COUNTY COURTHOUSE has limited access to many of its offices. The only office open is the driver's license division by appointment only. The hours are 8 a.m. to Noon and 1 p.m.. to 4 p.m. Office equipment is sanitized during the lunch break. Sheriff Craig Rowland said the "Star Card" deadline has been pushed back another year. Drivers licenses can be renewed online. Registration of ATV's, UTV's, and boats have been given a grace period until the end of May. (4-1)
BINGHAM COUNTY SHERIFF will take appointments for driver's license business, five days a week from 8 a.m. to Noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Beginning April 27, the Sheriff's Office will begin making appointments for finger prints.
DARE Day, scheduled May 13, has been canceled.
Bingham County Road and Bridge hopes to have mountain roads opened by May 1. American Falls Reservoir is open. Blackfoot Reservoir should be accessible after mountain roads are cleared. (4-23)
CINCO DE MAYO: The Idaho Falls Cinco de Mayo Committee has postponed the event from May to August 29-30. (4-17)
CIVITAN CLUB OF IDAHO FALLS has voted to suspend its Alive After Five program for 2020. The club felt it was irresponsible to plan an event in the middle of a health crisis. The club's board will be making decisions later on other 2020 events to preserve revenue for next year. (4-15)
EAST IDAHO CREDIT UNION is collecting funds for food banks in the eight communities it serves. Employees are now asking members in the credit union's drive-through lanes if they would like to contribute to their community's food bank. The fund raising will help food bank operations include; Helping Hands, Challis; North Bingham County Community Food Bank, Shelley; Family Crisis Center, Rexburg; Community Food Basket, Idaho Falls; Church of the Epiphany Food Bank, St. Anthony; Calvary Chapel Food Bank, Salmon; Food Bank of Idaho, Pocatello. (4-13)
HOLY ROSARY SCHOOL students have set up a Go Fund Me Account to help support the HCA Healthcare Hope Fund and the Mountain View Charity. The funds are a source for health care workers and the community when facing unexpected hardships. (4-10)
IDAHO DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION is pausing recreational vehicle registration during April while it implements a new, online system to speed up transactions. Customers will have limited ability to register RV's or obtain invasive species permits between April 10 to April 20. There will be no registrations from April 21 to April 28. The new system should be online by April 29. (4-9)
IDAHO FALLS SCHOOL DISTRICT 91 EDUCATION FOUNDATION will again provide thousands of dollars in scholarship money through the William J. and Shirley Maeck Family Foundation and Odd Fellows Scholarships. The Foundation has extended the deadlines until April 30. The Maeck Foundation scholarship provides at least one $2,500 scholarship to a deserving senior. The Odd Fellows Scholarship provides a $5,000 scholarship to a senior and another $5,000 scholarship to a former graduate enrolled in college or other training program. With questions, call 208 525 7504 or learn more here. (4-23)
IDAHO FISH AND GAME COMMISSION has adopted a rule temporarily suspending the sale of several types of non-resident fishing and hunting licenses, tags, and permits. The action was effective immediately and lasts until it is repealed. It was ordered in support of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare's Self-Isolation Order in response to COVID-19. (4-4)
The Commission has made some revisions to its most recent order.
IDAHO HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION has canceled all spring sport and activity seasons, as well as all state tournaments.
The decision was made based on guidelines established by Governor Little, the Idaho State Board of Education, and feedback from schools and school districts across the state. (4-17)
POCATELLO has temporarily halted water service shutoffs. Residents are encouraged to keep paying their utility bill as normal, but if unable, to make arrangement with the Utility Billing Department. Arrangements must be done in writing and can be sent via e-mail to utilities@pocatello.us or dropped into one of the city's utility payment boxes. You can find more information on the process here. (4-1)
POWER COUNTY and the City of American Falls will continue to provide access to the American Falls Reservoir from the West Boat Dock, Willow Bay Marina, and Seagull Bay Marina. When engaging in outdoor water recreation, individuals are still required to comply with the State’s Order regarding social distancing. (4-6)
PRIMARY ELECTION will be held by mail in Idaho this year. If you want to vote, you must request a ballot by May 19, which remains the official election day. Ballots must be returned by June 2. Don’t wait. Request your ballot today here or by calling your County Clerk’s Office. (4-8)
SIPH COORDINATING COVID 19 TESTING IN POCATELLO: testing will require an order from your medical provider. There is a $95 charge. For information call Southeast Idaho Public Health at 208-234-5875
SOUTHEASTERN IDAHO PUBLIC HEALTH, on behalf of the Unified Command Team, is offering opportunities for the community to volunteer in the community. The opportunities include delivering food and medicine to vulnerable populations who are unable to go out, donating food and paper supplies to those in need, and working with the Idaho Foodbank to package food, in small groups. You can find additional information here. (4-1)
STAY HOME ORDER: was extended through April 30 by Governor Brad Little. You can see the Governor's formal recommendations here. (4-16)
TETON COUNTY has extended public access restrictions at all County Buildings through Thursday, April 30, 2020. County offices and departments will remain open and available to provide services to the public through alternative methods. Individuals with a request for service from a County office should call or email the office to make arrangements. Contact information for County offices can be found on the Teton County website at www.tetoncountywy.gov.
TETON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT #1 has closed schools until May 15th and possibly for the remainder of the 2019-2020 year. The district will review the situation at that time to determine if it would be safe to reopen buildings. (4-23)
WYOMING is mandating a 14-day quarantine for out-of-state visitors. Governor Mark Gordon has also extended previous health orders through April 30. (4-3)
MARCH 31
IDAHO ATTORNEY GENERAL Lawrence Wasden urges Idahoans to be vigilant online and in business dealings. A variety of scams are growing up around the COVID-19 pandemic. See Wasden's warnings here.
IDAHO HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION has suspended activities to April 20. They had originally postponed activities until after April 5. The new date aligns with recommendations from the Idaho State Board of Education's "soft closure". The IHSAA staff is working on contingency plans for any upcoming spring events that may occur.
TETON COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS has extended public access restrictions to all county buildings through April 20, 2020. County offices and departments remain open for business and available to provide services through alternative methods. Call or email the office to make arrangements. You can find contact information here.
TETON COUNTY DISTRICT HEALTH (WYOMING) has issued a new order limiting gatherings strictly to individuals of the same family. Violations are enforceable as a high misdemeanor with a penalty as much as $1,000 and a year imprisonment. The official order lays out potential exemptions. See the details here.
TETON COUNTY, WYO. has extended public access restrictions at all county buildings through April 20, 2020. County offices and departments will remain open and available to provide services to the public through alternative methods. Individuals with a request for service from a County office should call or email the office to make arrangements.
MARCH 30
CITY OF CHUBBUCK is temporarily closing its City Hall lobby to protect residents and employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. People making utility payments or dropping off other information should use the box drop located at the south exit of the parking lot. Beginning March 31, city offices will be available by phone Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to Noon and from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at 208-237-2400. City offices will be closed on Fridays. You may also reach city officials by email at: info@cityofchubbuck.us
FISHERMEN'S BREAKFAST in St. Anthony on Memorial Day weekend has been canceled.
SOUTHEASTERN IDAHO PUBLIC HEALTH reports the risk of "community spread" of the COVID-19 virus is increasing. Community spread is often a trigger to begin implementing new strategies to slow spread of the disease. The district says creation of a household plan can help. The health district has released some suggestions to help the public meet those goals. You can see it here.
US DISTRICT COURT courthouses in Pocatello and Coeur d'Alene and the fourth, fifth, and sixth floors of the James A. McClure Federal Building will be closed until April 15. All but essential cases will be continued. The Court will individually determine what cases are "essential". You can learn more here.
MARCH 27-29
HIGHLAND AND RIVERSIDE Golf Courses in Pocatello will open for play. The opening came in consultation with the Southeastern Idaho Public Health District and Attorney General Lawrence Wasden. Wasden said, ""Golf is allowed and clubhouse food carryout is, too. The main difference is the usual pro shop check-in, reservations, payment, etc. These need to take place on the phone, online or by other means that don't involve person-to-person contact." That in mind, the courses will take the following steps.
• Passholder check-in will be facilitated without entering the clubhouses
• Daily round golfer check-in shall be paid and completed online, by phone, or one golfer at a time and only after previous player checking in vacates the clubhouse area
• Players must practice safe social distancing of six feet or more at all times
• Pins shall be played "in-place" and not removed
• Café food shall be phone-in and take-out only, and shall be secured one order at a time, and only after previous take-out order patron has vacated Café area
IDAHO DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND WELFARE (DHW) has announced a new toll-free number for Idahoans to call with questions about COVID-19 or the Statewide Stay-Home Order. The number, 1-888-330-3010, will be staffed Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The number will be in service beginning Monday, March 30.
IDAHO STATE TAX COMMISSION has closed its customer service counters in all of its offices across the state. The agency continues to process tax returns as they come in. You may contact the agency by phone or e-mail or visit their website. All offices have drop boxes for payments, returns, and correspondence.
IDAHO FALLS DISTRICT 91 MEAL PROGRAM will be available Mondays through Fridays until further notice. It will provide a breakfast and a lunch in a sack along with milks. There are 7 school sites and 9 bus stop locations. See below for specific times & locations:
School Sites: 9:00-11:00 a.m.:
• Dora Erickson Elementary School
• A.H. Bush Elementary School
• Hawthorne Elementary School
• Linden Park Elementary School
• Temple View Elementary School
• Eagle Rock Middle School
• Emerson Alternative High School
Bus stop locations: (These meals will be delivered by a school bus)
• Old Butte Apartment Complex: 9:00-9:15 a.m.
• Melaleuca Field parking lot: 9:00-9:15 a.m.
• Park Avenue Grill parking lot, next to the gas station at the corner of Fremont and Science Center: 9:00-9:15 a.m.
• Herbs Ez-Ze Stop parking lot: 9:20-9:35 a.m.
• Shady Rest campground: 9:25-9:40 a.m.
• Idaho Falls Public Library parking lot: 9:25-9:40 a.m.
• Sunnyside Acres: 9:50-10:05 a.m.
• Sunset Trailer Court on Solar Avenue: 9:40-9:55 a.m.
• Corner of Hollipark Dr. and Huckleberry St., Neighborhood: 9:45-10:00 a.m
This Grab ‘n Go program was designed to comply with the CDC guidance discouraging gatherings of 10 or more people. We ask parents to make sure children don’t linger or gather at a school or pick-up site, but rather get their meals and return safely home.​
IDAHO LEGAL AID SERVICES is continuing to take new cases from Idahoans with COVID-19-related legal problems. Those include such things as housing, health access, public benefits and domestic violence. Most staff is working from home, ILAS continues to serve clients through free senior, housing, and domestic violence legal advice lines. Call 208-746-7541 to apply for services or visit their website.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN POWER is modifying operations at its recreation sites in Idaho. The facilities provide boating, swimming, camping, and picnic opportunities at mostly hydro-electric resources. In Idaho most trails and boat ramps remain open unless otherwise noted.
Idaho Recreation Sites – Interim Operations
• Soda Day Use Area – Open; Limited maintenance for restroom facilities
• Oneida Boater Put-In and Take-Out – Open; Limited maintenance for restroom facilities
• Black Canyon Boater Put-In and Take-Out – Open; Limited maintenance for restroom facilities
• Ashton Fishing Access – Open
SALMON- CHALLIS NATIONAL FOREST is closing a number of campgrounds that have impacts on local communities who may be at risk of the COVID-19 virus. Any existing float permits on the Salmon and Middle Fork of the Salmon rivers will be cancelled. New reservations will not be created through April 15. Other reservations beyond that point could be canceled at any time.
SOUTHEAST IDAHO PUBLIC HEALTH is encouraging people aged 60 and up to make plans in case they become sick with COVID-19. That group is at highest risk for serious complications and poorer outcomes. Learn more here.
START BUS will reduce commuter service to Teton Valley, Idaho and Star Valley, Wyoming March 30, from 4 trips per day to 3 trips per day. The Teton Valley 4, departing at 7:40 am and returning at 7:30 p.m. and the Star Valley 4, departing at 7:40 a.m. and returning at 7:45 p.m. will be suspended.
TETON COUNTY, WYOMING health officials encourage anyone who travels outside the geographic area and return to self-quarantine for at least 14 days. Non-essential businesses are encouraged to close. You can find more details here.
TETON (Wyoming) DISTRICT HEALTH has issued an order directing those who are 65 and older to stay home. Except for essential travel people living in nursing homes or long-term care, who live with a person in that category , or those with other medical issues should stay home. Find all the details here.
TOWN OF JACKSON has approved an ordinance requiring everyone in Jackson to stay at home or their place of residence. Essential activities include health and safety, supplies and services, outdoor activity, certain types of work, and to care for others. The ordinance is in effect through April 17. Find all the details here.
HEALTH AND HOSPITALS
Bingham Memorial
Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center
Idaho Falls Community Hospital
Lost Rivers
Madison Memorial
Mountain View
Portneuf Medical Center
Power County
St. John's Health
Teton Valley Health
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND WELFARE (DHW) has announced a new toll-free number for Idahoans to call with questions about COVID-19 or the Statewide Stay-Home Order. The number, 1-888-330-3010, will be staffed Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The number will be in service beginning Monday, March 30.
EASTERN IDAHO PUBLIC HEALTH has issued a new health notice, recommending actions aimed at slowing the spread of the COVID-19 virus. You can see the latest here.
SOUTHEASTERN IDAHO PUBLIC HEALTH is asking for community help to overcome a national shortage of emergency response supplies. The health district is seeking surgical, N95 masks, medical grade gloves, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes. Donations may be made to District offices in the region.
TETON COUNTY, WYOMING HEALTH SERVICES are still available, even though the Board of County Commissioners restricted public access to County buildings. Here are instructions on how to do that.
TETON DISTRICT HEALTH (Wyoming) has released some detailed recommendations designed to help decrease the spread of COVID-19. They state that adults who are over 65-years-old with high-risk medical conditions should stay at home. People currently visiting Teton County are advised to return to their primary residence. People who travel away from Teton County are being told to quarantine themselves for 14 days after they return. You can see the full list of recommendations here.
EDUCATION
All regional schools have been closed until further notice. Watch for additional information as it develops here.
AMERICAN FALLS SCHOOLS, District 381 classes will move to on-line instruction March 30 and nutrition services will begin that same day. The decision to close school after April 3 will be made on a week-by-week basis.
COLLEGE OF EASTERN IDAHO will close the physical campus to all but essential personnel until April 16. Staff and faculty will work remotely at home during the closure. General Education classes will resume after spring break on March 30 through use of online learning techniques.
DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP will close its Salmon, Idaho campus to client services until April 6. Salmon Janitorial Services will continue as normal. Campuses in Idaho Falls and Rexburg will remain open for all services. All clients and staff should consider their own protection and that of others before returning to work or programming.
IDAHO EDUCATION ASSOCIATION has canceled its 2020 Delegate Assembly and Annual Meeting. It had been scheduled April 17-18 in downtown Boise.
IDAHO HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION: The Association’s State Cheer/Dance Championships is canceled. This event will not be re-scheduled. The State Debate Championship is still postponed as officials work on the possibility of combining with the State Speech Championships.
IDAHO STATE HISTORICAL SOCIETY has closed public access to Idaho State Historical Society sites, including the Old Idaho Penitentiary, Franklin and Stricker Ranch Historic Sites, the Idaho State Museum, and the Research Center at the Idaho State Archives. All programming and events are currently canceled or postponed until further notice. Essential agency services, as mandated by state statute, will still be offered during the public closure. This closure will be in effect until April 6, 2020, unless extended.
IDAHO STATE UNIVERSITY has canceled or postponed all events, including commencement and graduation-related activities, at all of campus locations, through May 15. This announcement includes both on-campus and off-campus University-sponsored events and gatherings of more than 10 people in Pocatello, Meridian, Idaho Falls and Twin Falls.
JEFFERSON SCHOOL DISTRICT 251 schools will be closed for spring break extending until Friday, April 3. The district will be offering Grab-N-Go lunches and next day breakfast to children 1-18 years of age.
POCATELLO CHUBBUCK SCHOOL DISTRICT will begin an emergency meal service program on Monday, March 30.
TETON SCHOOL DISTRICT 401 has named a volunteer coordinator. Former school board member Mary Mello will be collecting contact information from community members who want to help during the COVID-19 crisis. Those interested should send their name, e-mail, and cell phone number to volunteer1@d401.k12.id.us
COUNTIES
BINGHAM COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENTS are coming together to help deliver groceries, medications, and health care items to at-risk citizens in the community. You can find the details here.
BANNOCK COUNTY DRIVER'S LICENSE will only serve customers whose license expired March 1. ITD has approved a 90-day extension on driver's licenses. The office will no longer serve any customer under 18, since some required documentation for a permit must be obtained from schools, which are closed. The restriction will be in place till further notice.
BANNOCK COUNTY SHERIFF Lorin Nielsen will accommodate Governor Little's objective to preserve public health and raise awareness of the need to lessen exposure to COVID-19 by home isolation. The Driver's License Office is closed till further notice. For additional information see the Sheriff's Office notice here.
BINGHAM COUNTY DRIVER'S LICENSE bureau will be working reduced hours with some new rules. The bureau will open at 8 a.m. and close at noon for cleaning. It will reopen at 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The room will be limited to two persons being helped and two who are waiting. Everyone else will have to wait in the hall. Everyone has been given a 90-day license extension by the Governor.
BINGHAM COUNTY SHERIFF Craig Rowland has announced some changes in day-to-day operations into mid-April. Patrol, dispatch and jail operations will all run as usual. But inmate visitation will be done at home. Driver's License offices will re-open Monday by appointment only. Further details are available in the document below. There will be no public fingerprinting services, sex offender registration, or concealed weapons permits issued until mid-April. All visitors to the Bingham County Courthouse will be greeted by security personnel.
BONNEVILLE COUNTY has established a special website to help residents deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.
BONNEVILLE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES will only conduct essential services, including concealed weapon license and sex offender registration by appointment only. Appointments can be made by calling the Bonneville County Driver License Office at 208-529-1374 , Concealed Weapon License-Sex Offender Registration at 208-529-1350, extension 1524, or the Bonneville County Motor Vehicle Department at 208-529-1350, extension 1330. During those calls, officials can determine your eligibility and the information you'll need to conduct your business. The public can and should access all other non-essential services through Idaho Online Driver & Vehicle Services
Non-Essential services include: Driver’s license renewal (not first time Star Card), Acquiring a replacement driver’s license or identification card, Paying driver’s license reinstatement fees, Purchasing a driving record, Vehicle registration renewal, Ordering Personalized license plates, Checking status of vehicle plates and titles, Commercial vehicle oversize/overweight permits, Commercial vehicle registrations. You can direct questions or complaints to; State of Idaho Driver License Services phone number 208-334-8736, or State of Idaho Department of Motor Vehicle phone number 208-334-8649. The Idaho Transportation Department provided a 90-Day Extension to June 30, 2020 for non-commercial driver’s licenses and non-commercial registrations that expire between March 1, 2020 and May 31, 2020 as a public accommodation to this temporary service modification.
BONNEVILLE COUNTY TREASURER, GIS & ASSESSOR OFFICES: Bonneville County Treasurer, Mark Hansen and Bonneville County Assessor, Blake Mueller announce the following service modifications in an effort to comply with Presidential and Idaho Governor Covid-19 Virus Emergency Declarations. Effective March 20, 2020 8:00 a.m. Until Further Notice. The offices will be closed to walk in traffic.
JEFFERSON COUNTY ASSESSOR’S OFFICE AND DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES In an effort to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus and to keep our employees and the public safe, the Jefferson County Assessor’s Office and Department of Motor Vehicles will be closed to all public walk-in services starting Thursday, March 19, 2020 until further notice.
POWER COUNTY JAIL canceled visitation for Wednesday and Thursday. Visitation will then be by appointment only. If visitors are more than five minutes late, you will have to reschedule.
POWER COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE has issued a partial closure for driver's licenses to only serve Power County and Aberdeen residents. You can view more here.
TETON COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS voted Friday to restrict public access at all County Buildings effective Monday, March 23, 2020, through Friday, April 3, 2020.
TETON COUNTY, IDAHO SHERIFF'S OFFICE Driver's License Department will suspend its fingerprinting services for concealed weapons, and employment or background checks. Renewals or duplicates can be obtained online through the Idaho Department of Motor Vehicles. Entry to the Department will be limited.
TETON COUNTY, Idaho cities and health officials have advised self-isolation. People should stay home and practice social distancing to avoid spread of the Covid-19 virus.
TETON COUNTY, WYOMING PARKS AND RECREATION special events, aquatic, recreational, and leisure programs are suspended. Afterschool and spring break youth programs are suspended. Community special use permits for groups of 75 or greater are suspended. The Community Recreation Center will operate at reduced hours for lap swimming only.
TETON COUNTY, WYOMING is asking members of the public in need of county services to call or e-mail as an alternative to in-person interaction. You can find contacts on the county's website.
CITIES
BLACKFOOT FIRE DEPARTMENT is accepting donations of surgical or N95 masks, medical grade gloves, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant spray or wipes. The materials will be distributed to health care workers and other agencies in the Bingham County area. Donations may be delivered to the Blackfoot Fire Station at 225 N. Ash or call 208-785-8605.
CHUBBUCK PARKS AND RECREATION will close all playgrounds and restrooms in the city's park system. City parks and trails are still available for use, but please maintain appropriate social distancing of 6 feet or more.
IDAHO FALLS CITY facilities have been closed under the Governor's "Stay Home" order. Water, seer, sanitation, power, police, fire and emergency services will all continue. Utility payments may be made online or at usual drop boxes. Other online services will be available electronically. Most city offices will be operating but facilities will be closed, into the Idaho Falls Library city hall and city annex. Parks and Recreation facilities are also closed, but remain open with strict social distancing.
IDAHO FALLS PARKS AND RECREATION is suspending all classes, lessons and programs. Indoor parks and recreation facilities, including the Aquatic Center, Ice Arena, Activity Center, and the Recreation Center will be closed until further notice. Staff is attempting to regularly clean and sanitize playground equipment, but the public should follow CDC recommendations for hygiene and sanitation.
IDAHO FALLS PUBLIC LIBRARY is discontinuing its programming, however, the library will remain open for now. City hall is also open, but tours of facilities like Idaho Falls Power, Fire Department, and Police Department have been canceled.
MARSHALL PUBLIC LIBRARY will be closed to the public until further notice.
POCATELLO City Hall remains open for business but the city will be limiting access starting March 17 at 8 a.m. Citizens are strongly encouraged to utilize phone or email first to contact City employees and officials as most issues can be taken care of through these channels.
POCATELLO PARKS AND RECREATION will be closing its offices and the Community Recreation Center to the public as a precaution, after consulting with the Southeastern Idaho Public Health. The decision came because there are a large number of senior citizens who use the facility, and they are considered most at risk for the COVID-19. If you have questions call 208-232-3901.
POCATELLO ANIMAL SHELTER will be closed to the public, although staff will continue to care for animals at the shelter. Animal Control officers will operate as normal. People who need to pick up a pet that was picked up by an officer can call for an appointment at 208-234-6156. The shelter will not be accepting animals from the public during the time of the order.
POCATELLO PARKS AND RECREATION and the Community Recreation Center will remain closed to the public. Residents can contact Parks and Recreation Department staff Monday through Friday 208-232-3901. Additionally, the two City-owned golf courses will be closed for the duration of the order. Zoo Idaho will continue to care for zoo animals. Cemetery Division staff are still available via phone or email.
POCATELLO PARKS AND RECREATION will close city playgrounds until April 12. The department is also extending the closure of the Community Recreation Center and Parks and Recreation Department offices.
POCATELLO POLICE DEPARTMENT lobby will continue to operate as normal, but the police and fire stations will be closed to the public. The Police Department lobby will remain open, but the records division and other divisions will be operating with limited staff. Non-essential property releases have been postponed until the Governor's emergency declaration is lifted.
POCATELLO REGIONAL TRANSIT is operating its A, B, C, and E routes for essential travel only. Buses are being rotated after every shift for disinfecting. Door-to-door service is also limited to essential services. Some routes have been canceled. For information conact the department at 208-234-2287.
POCATELLO UTILITY DEPARTMENT will be closed to the public, but available to answer questions regarding payments, services, and billing at 208-234-6241. Payments can be made by mail, dropboxes, phone and online.
POCATELLO WATER POLLUTION CONTROL DEPARTMENT is limiting operations to plant operation only. Residents can still report sewer-related emergencies by phone at 208-705-6442.
REXBURG is suspending non-essential activities, programs, events and meetings with the exception of City Council and Planning and Zoning Meetings. Day to day activities will continue. City Hall will remain open. City boards and committees will be scheduled as needed with appropriate accommodations made.
SHELLEY City Hall and DMV Services will be closed to the public beginning March 20, 2020. City Hall will still be operational and conducting limited business. The city will be able to accept city utility payments through the dropbox outside of the main doors of the city building. The city will also accept payments online via the city website or over the telephone; however, there is a fee that the host company charges for this service. If you have questions regarding other services please contact City Hall at 208-357-3390. Public closure will be until further notice.
TOWN OF JACKSON has closed public buildings to the public, including Town Hall, Public Works Administration, and START Administrative offices. The Jackson Police office is closed. Court services are open and available. If you need to conduct business, calll the Municipal Court at 307 733 3932, extension 1165 for a phone conference.
VICTOR City Council unanimously passed an Emergency Ordinance to limit gatherings of 10 or more people, to restrict dining-in at restaurants, and to close self-serve food offerings and certain types of facilities to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the Victor community.
VICTOR is temporarily closing all City playground equipment including jungle gyms, swing sets, and the like effective immediately. All other areas of parks and pathways currently remain open to the public. Citizens are encouraged to recreate outdoors, including in open areas of City parks and pathways, while practicing safe social distancing requirements.
BUSINESS
BALL VENTURES and its affiliates and partners will extend paid sick leave to employees who may contract COVID-19. (There are none, so far) Idaho does not require the practice, but Ball Ventures said it would take steps to help its employees taking time off to care for family members as well.
BANK OF COMMERCE will offer drive-up or appointment-only services at all branches beginning March 19 at some locations. Customers who need additional service should call their local branch to make an appointment.
BANK OF IDAHO and the IDAHO NATIONAL LABORATORY have launched a public, community fund to help nonprofit agencies and community partners rapidly find emergency funding. It can be used to maintain operations and help individuals deal with issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The bank and INL each pledged $5,000 to kick off the fund. Donations may be made through a local Bank of Idaho branch.
BLUE CROSS OF IDAHO is expanding telehealth services for its members. Blue Cross of Idaho will expand access to MD LIVE, the company's telehealth partner, and will waive all cost-sharing for doctor's office and urgent care visits related to COVID-19.
BROULIM’S will implement Senior Shopping Hours, Monday, Wednesday and Fridays from 6-7 a.m. Store teams will be opening doors and assisting senior guests in and out of the store. Guests who are feeling flu-like symptoms are encouraged not to participate. Guests are also encouraged to use recommended social distancing practices whenever possible.
CHICK-FIL-A in Ammon announced it will be closing its dining room for the foreseeable future beginning Thursday, March 19 as a precaution measure. The drive-thru and mobile curbside will remain open as an option for you.
DENNY'S Restaurants is now offering carryout and free delivery. Delivery fees will be waived through April 12. Guests may order online.
FALL RIVER ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE has announced it will not disconnect service to any member while health officials are fighting the Covid-19 virus. The coop will limit access to customer service offices in Ashton, Driggs, and West Yellowstone.
FAT CATS entertainment center in Rexburg has announced that all of its locations will close at the close of business March 18. There is no set date for reopening, guests and employees will be kept updated.
FIREHOUSE SUBS will offer counter service for takeout orders, online or call-in orders via phone, and, where available, third party delivery and drive-thru services. There may be operational procedures to significantly reduce physical contact.
FRED MEYER Chairman and CEO Rodney McMullen has enacted emergency leave guidelines for associates. Fred Meyer has immediate positions open at its retail stores, manufacturing plants, and distribution centers. Candidates may apply online
FRED MEYER is offering special hours for Seniors and other high-risk customers, as defined by the CDC. All stores will reserve the hours of 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. for those respective customers each Monday through Thursday until further notice. Shopping for all other customers on those days will begin at 8 a.m. There are no re-stocking issues, so customers should shop for what they need, knowing stores will be replenished daily.
GRAND TARGHEE RESORT will close for the season March 15. Lodging will remain open through March 18 for in-house guests. All uphill traffic will be closed. People with reservation questions should call 800-724-4433, option 1 or e-mail info@grandtarghee.com
GREATER IDAHO FALLS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE has canceled all events until mid April.
GRIZZLY & WOLF DISCOVERY CENTER will be closed to the public March 18 through March 31 and beyond if necessary.
IDAHO FALLS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE has established a Facebook page to help local business communicate their opportunities.
IDAHO POWER COMPANY has announced it is temporarily suspending disconnections and waiving late fees for homes and small businesses facing hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The utility is asking the public to give IPC employees six feet of space as they continue to perform services through the outbreak.
JACKSON HOLE MOUNTAIN RESORT is now closed for the remainder of the winter season. All major events have been canceled for the remainder of the winter season.
JOANN FABRIC is offering free kits to make protective non-surgical masks and gowns. Once constructed, customers may bring back the kits for donation to hospitals that need them across the country.
KJ'S SUPER STORES: Starting Thursday, March 26, between 7-9 a.m., employees will be outside pumping gas for all seniors and immunocompromised. Each location across Wyoming, Utah, Idaho and Nevada will have employees ready to assist.
LAVA HOT SPRING'S World-Famous Hot Pools and Indoor Aquatic Center will be closed until further notice.
LEO'S PLACE FAMILY FUN CENTER, in Idaho Falls, will be closed until further notice (@ April 6). Mangini's Take N' Bake will be open to take-out customers. Call 208-542-7681.
MOUNTAIN VIEW EVENT CENTER The Pocatello-Chubbuck Auditorium District is suspending operations at the Mountain View Event Center (MEC) in Pocatello effective immediately through March 29, 2020.
PEBBLE CREEK SKI AREA will be closed for the season effective March 19. No patrol or emergency services will be available. The lodge and base area will be completely closed to the public as our mountain operations team conducts seasonal closing procedures. Pebble Creek has taken these measures out of concern for the health and safety of our guests, employees and community.
PITMASTER BARBECUE in Idaho Falls is offering a 10% discount if customers bring in a non-perishable food item for donation to the Idaho Falls Rescue Mission. Curbside, drive-through, and take out are available.
POMERELLE MOUNTAIN RESORT will end operations for the 2019-2020 season as of 4 p.m. Tuesday.
REGAL THEATRES has announced closure of all theater locations beginning March 17. Theaters will remain closed until further notice.
RIDLEYS on Pocatello Creek Road has approved first responders and medical personnel going in with ID from 6 am -7 am Monday through Saturday. This is the same time as the elderly.
SAGE HILL TRAVEL CENTER will be closed until further notice, but the convenience store and fuel station will remain open. Take out food options are available at TP Gas and Deli and Bannock Peak Truck Stop.
SMITH'S FOOD AND DRUG stores is hiring workers immediately to deal with increased demand. Workers will help keep shelves stocked and extra deep cleaning to mitigate the risk of virus spreading. You can learn more at the company's website.
SMITH'S FOOD AND DRUG will dedicate the first hour on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. solely to the shopping needs of senior citizens until further notice. For all other customers, temporary store hours will continue to be 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. until further notice.
STAGE STORES (Gordman's) has adjusted store hours as a result of the COVID-19 virus. Hours will be Monday thru Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from Noon to 6 p.m. Events planned in conjunction with store openings, like those in Blackfoot, have been canceled.
T-MOBILE will remove smartphone data caps for all customers, add more hotspot data, and expand data access for Empower ED schools.
TAUTPHAUS PARK STORAGE will close its office to the public until further notice. Staff members are standing by phones to assist with payments, storage rentals and other inquiries. Call 208-524-0099.
WALMART stores will adjust operating hours to 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Stores that open later than 7 a.m. will continue their regular starting hours. Beginning March 24, Walmart stores will host an hour-long senior shopping event every Tuesday for customers aged 60 and older. This will start one hour before the store opens. Walmart pharmacies and Vision Centers will also be open during this time. Stores will have limits for customers in certain categories including paper products, milk, eggs, cleaning supplies, hand sanitizer, water, diapers, wipes, formula and baby food.
WALMART IN BLACKFOOT is open on Tuesdays 6:00-7:00 am for seniors citizens only.
GENERAL ANNOUNCEMENTS
AARP has announced all of its Tax Aide sites in Idaho have been suspended until further notice. The AARP Foundation is taking the action to "flatten the curve" of transmission.
AMERICAN RED CROSS has scheduled emergency blood drives at the Pine Ridge Mall in Pocatello. They are scheduled Tuesday, March 17 from Noon to 5 p.m., Wednesday, March 18, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Thursday, March 18 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. To sign up visit their website.
ART MUSEUM OF EASTERN IDAHO (TAM) is temporarily closing until further notice.
BINGHAM SENIOR CENTER activities have been suspended, but the kitchen is continuing to prepare meals on wheels.
BLACKFOOT COMMUNITY PANTRY will continue its normal distribution schedule, but distribution will be curb-side.
BRIDGER-TETON NATIONAL FOREST has decided to close the majority of its public toilet facilities indefinitely for the health and safety of visitors and staff. These actions will be implemented over the coming week and will be in effect until further notice. Additionally, all rental cabins on the Bridger-Teton National Forests have been closed indefinitely for the health and safety of visitors and staff.
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT will temporarily suspend the collection of all entrance fees until further notice. As a result, site-specific standard amenity and day-use fees at BLM recreation sites and areas will be waived for the foreseeable future. Other fees, such as overnight camping, cabin rentals, group day use, and use of special areas, will remain in effect.
CARIBOU-TARGHEE RENTAL CABINS will be closed indefinitely. 15 rental cabins and 2 warming huts on the Forest will be closed for the health and safety of visitors and staff. Renters have been notified and refunds will be processed. The action was prompted by the COVID-19 virus pandemic.
CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BOISE has announced that all public masses in the Diocese of Boise are being suspended through Palm Sunday, April 5. You can find more information, including a Spiritual Communion at the Diocese Website.
DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP will close its Salmon, Idaho campus to client services until April 6. Salmon Janitorial Services will continue as normal. Campuses in Idaho Falls and Rexburg will remain open for all services. All clients and staff should consider their own protection and that of others before returning to work or programming.
FEDERAL COURTS OPERATIONS: Until further notice, all public events and ceremonies scheduled for the U.S. District & Bankruptcy Courts in Boise, Coeur d’Alene and Pocatello are canceled. All other court proceedings shall proceed as scheduled, subject to an order by the presiding judge in the case. The Court also announced that persons who have traveled to any of the following countries or cities within the previous 14 days shall not enter the federal courthouses: China, Iran, Italy, Japan, South Korea or the Seattle / Tacoma area.
IDAHO COMMUNITY FOUNDATION has launched a COVID-19 Response Fund for Idaho. The charitable fund will provide grants to trusted organizations that support services to low-income, vulnerable people and families.
IDAHO DEMOCRATIC PARTY has canceled its in-person April 4th Delegate Selection Caucuses. Leadership is working to determine an appropriate alternative using mail or technology. Party headquarters closes to the public March 16.
IDAHO DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND WELFARE’S DIVISION OF WELFARE is shifting from walk-in services to appointment-and phone-based services only in some Idaho locations beginning March 18, 2020. You can view more HERE.
IDAHO FALLS SYMPHONY AND THE IDAHO FALLS SYMPHONY YOUTH ORCHESTRAS will be canceling all concerts and rehearsals for the remainder of the 2019-2020 season.
IDAHO FISH AND GAME, Southeast Idaho Region, has postponed a Fisheries Open House originally scheduled March 18 in Pocatello.
IDAHO STATE PARKS will remain open for day use, but camping will end March 27 at 5 p.m. in keeping with the Governor's "Stay Home" order. The closure will be in effect through May 15 and no new reservations will be taken. In addition to the order, officials were concerned about the ability to maintain social distancing within concentrated campgrounds. And, some communities expressed concern about attracting out-of-area visitors.
IDAHO STATE PARK visitor centers shut down Thursday as a precautionary measure to limit propagation of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) – but the parks will remain open to the public. Rangers and other staff will be on duty to assist visitors and can be contacted by telephone. Parks continue to offer day use and most camping options – but hands-on activities and large group events are discontinued. Premium cabins and picnic shelters also have been closed to reduce infection potential. The visitor centers will stay closed through April, and possibly longer.
IDAHO STATE PARKS will close the Camper Cabins, Yurts and Idaho City Backcountry Yurts to protect the public and park employees from potential Covid-19 exposure. All visitors with reservations will receive full refunds. The closures will last until April 30and could be extended, depending on the status of the virus outbreak in six weeks.
IDAHO TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT has postponed scheduled public meetings until after May 1. Among them, the Interstate 15 and US 20 connector team had scheduled a public meeting in Idaho Falls in late April. That session will be shifted to sometime this summer.
NATIONAL PARKS OF SOUTHERN IDAHO visitor centers are closed at Craters of the Moon National Monument, Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, and Minidoka National Historic Site. The parks will remain open to provide open trails and winter recreation to the public.
PORTNEUF VALLEY AUDOBON SOCIETY has canceled its March 19 meeting and March 21 field trip.
RECLAIM IDAHO is suspending signature gathering operations for its Invest in Idaho initiative. The effort must obtain necessary signatures by an April 30 deadline.
RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVES are being canceled nationwide. 54 blood drives were canceled in Idaho alone. As the need for blood donations rises, the Red Cross Donation Center at 1165 E. 17th St. in Idaho Falls will be open Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and in the Pine Ridge Mall in Pocatello from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome but appointments are preferred. Donors can save time by submitting their complete health history here.
SALMON-CHALLIS NATIONAL FOREST is limiting public access to Forest buildings. Customer service representatives will be staffing phone lines, In Salmon call 208-756-5100, in Challis 208-879-4100 or 208-879-4101, in Mackay 208-588-3400, in North Fork 208-865-2700, and in Leadore 208-768-2500.
SALMON-CHALLIS NATIONAL FOREST has postponed all of the forest plan review public workshops originally scheduled in April The workshops will be rescheduled and announced when new dates are set.
SENIOR ACTIVITY CENTER in Pocatello will provide curbside lunches for eligible seniors from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The building itself will be closed.
SERVICE ACADEMY DAYS have been postponed by the Idaho Congressional delegation. They were scheduled April 4 at Gowen Field in Boise and April 18 at the Idaho National Guard Armory in Pocatello.
SHOSHONE-BANNOCK TRIBES tribal government is operating with essential staff only. All others have been asked to stay at home and only travel for necessities. The Tribal Casinos/Hotel and food establishments were closed March 20. The Tribal grocery store is operating at reduced hours with special hours for elderly shoppers. The store is also limiting the number of items that may be purchased by a customer.
SNAKE RIVER ANIMAL SHELTER is currently closed to the general public. Please call 208-523-4219 to make an appointment to adopt or surrender an animal.
ST. JOHN II PARISH, along with other Catholic churches in the Diocese, is closed for public attendance. Services will be live-streamed on the parish Facebook page. Masses may also be found online.
START Bus is taking appropriate steps in response to the pandemic. Service will continue, but there will be some adjustment to schedules. Visit the START bus website or call 307 733 4521. The administrative office is closed to the public.
WYOMING HIGHWAY PATROL will be suspending services for Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspections.Most county clerks and treasurer’s through-out Wyoming have stopped issuing titles and registrations due to their offices being closed to the public. WHP is suspending the service of doing VIN inspections for 30 days and will reevaluate at that time when we return to providing this service.
ZOO IDAHO is postponing all outreach efforts until further notice and the Science and Environment Division is canceling the 2020 Portneuf Valley Environmental Fair.
.
