🌱 Boise Gas Prices + Foster Care Costs + Discussion With The Mayor

Good morning, hello! It's me, John Braese, your host of the Boise Patch newsletter — back in your inbox with everything you need to know about what's happening in town these days. Including news about...

• Federal money is pouring into the state for a host of issues including electric vehicle charging stations
• Foster children are spending nights in short-term rentals, not foster families
• Gas prices slipped some last month but are still substantially higher than one year ago

But first, today's weather: Cloudy, cold; a p.m. flurry. High: 40 Low: 23.

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Here are the top stories today in Boise:

1. The Boise Mayor had much to discuss as she sat down and spoke with Boise State Public Radio's George Prentice. On the agenda was replacement of two vacant council seats, hiring a new police accountability director, rail service to Boise and zoning. (Boise State Public Radio)
2. Gas prices in Boise fell slightly during the last week of February. KTVB-TV's Jeremy Stiles reports even with the sliding price, gas in Boise is still 26 cents a gallon higher than a month ago and more than 19 cents higher than a year ago. (KTVB.com)
3. A total of $1.77 billion in taxpayer money is heading to Idaho. BoiseDev senior reporter Margaret Carmel reports the amount of the state's portion of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act. The money will be used to upgrade airports, build a charging network for electric vehicles across the state, make improvements to State Street in Boise and replace lead pipes in the drinking water system. (boisedev)
4. Boise Patch has a host of new jobs available right now for that right job seeker. Included are a gallery ambassador, beverage sale representative and a housekeeping supervisor position. (Boise Patch)
5. The state has spent over $1.7 million to house foster children in short-term rentals since November 2021. That is the findings of CBS2's Ryan Hawes as he looks into Idaho's foster care system. On any given night, 10-15 Idaho foster children are staying in a short-term rental supervised by state staff. (idahonews)

From our sponsor:

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Today in Boise:

• The Boise Public Library hosts Music and Movement Tuesday morning. (10:30 AM)
• The Garden City Chamber will hold its monthly luncheon Tuesday. (Noon)
• The Boise City Council convenes Tuesday. (Noon)
• The Household Hazardous Waste Collection site for Tuesday is Albertsons located on Vista Avenue. (Noon)
• All are invited as the Timberline High School Orchestra hosts its winter concert. (7:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Boise State University: "There’s no place like 𝐇𝐎𝐌𝐄! @boisestatembb have won 13 straight at home — the longest streak in program history. Be a part of a memorable season and sellout senior night at the 𝐗 for our Broncos! Tuesday, Feb. 28, 7 p.m." (Boise State University via Instagram)
• US National Weather Service Boise Idaho: "We have graupel accumulation here at NWS Boise and the Boise airport! Show us your pictures! #IDwx" (US National Weather Service Boise Idaho via Facebook)
• Idaho Botanical Garden: "Woohoo! The Idaho Botanical Garden has just reached 5,000 members, and it's a party over here! Thank you for your continual support. #idahobotanicalgarden #thankyou" (Idaho Botanical Garden via Facebook)
• Boise State Public Radio: "We're happy to announce our newest intern, Patience! She is an international student from South Africa studying at The College of Idaho. She's been working hard learning the ropes of Boise State Public Radio." (Boise State Public Radio via Facebook)
• Boise Parks and Recreation: "Caring for roses in a year-round job. Join our team of experts for a virtual horticulture class on roses. The class will cover pruning techniques, common pest treatments, and growing tips. The class is free, but registration is required." (Boise Parks and Recreation via Facebook)

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That's it for today. I'll catch up with you bright and early tomorrow morning with a new update!

— John Braese

About me: Welcome to the Boise edition of patch.com. I am the community editor in this exciting endeavor for the Boise area. I was born and grew up in Boise, attending Bishop Kelly High School before graduating from Borah High School more than a few years ago. I have seen Boise grow substantially in the last few years, but still maintain my hometown appeal. I want to hear about what is important to you and the stories you wish to see on patch.com. Feel free to reach out to me via email at john.braese@patch.com or drop me a phone call or text at 208 954-9585.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Boise Patch newsletter? Contact me at john.braese@patch.com