🌱 City Council Adds Another Open Seat + Library Renovations Downtown

Hello and happy Tuesday! I'm back in your inbox this morning to walk you through all the most important things happening in Boise.

But first, today's weather:

Mostly cloudy. High: 73 Low: 56.

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Here are the top three stories today in Boise:

1. Boise City Council President Holli Woodings has announced that she will not seek reelection in the November election, leaving another open seat on the council as the transition to fully geographic district elections continues. Woodings cited changes in her personal and professional life as the reason for her decision. The upcoming election would have seen Woodings running against former Council Member Elaine Clegg, but Clegg had already resigned from the council earlier this year to take on a role at the region's public transit agency. (Idaho Statesman)
2. The downtown public library in Boise is undergoing renovations to improve its functionality and accessibility. The planned upgrades include a new roof, improvements to bathrooms and staircases to comply with ADA standards, and updates to the first floor, circulation desk, youth area, and main study space. The city aims to create a safe and welcoming environment while accommodating the growing population's needs. The renovations will continue for at least another year and a half, with potential parking challenges due to nearby construction. (KTVB 7 News)
3. Boise Mayor Lauren McLean appointed Ron Winegar, a longtime member of the Boise Police, as the city's police chief without conducting a formal search or posting a job opening. The City Council unanimously approved the appointment, highlighting Winegar's passion, leadership, and thoughtfulness. While some questioned the lack of a traditional selection process, the city code and internal policies grant the mayor the authority to appoint department directors, allowing flexibility in determining the selection process. (Idaho Press)

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Today in Boise:

• Skills: Getting Started With iPhone At Apple Boise Towne Square (11:45 AM)
• LGBTQ+ Business League At Gem Center For The Arts (5:30 PM)

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From my notebook:

• With the arrival of spring, black bears in south-central Idaho will start emerging from their winter hibernation and may become more active. Idaho Fish and Game advises residents to secure household garbage, avoid leaving pet or livestock food outside, and consider taking down bird feeders, as they can attract bears. By taking these precautions, everyone can help ensure the safety of both communities and wildlife, while keeping bears wild. (Idaho News 2)
• Idaho researchers at Boise State University have been awarded $24 million to study the effects of climate, population, and technology changes on energy and water usage in the state. As water and energy systems are interconnected, finding a balance between their demands becomes crucial in light of the increasing population, technological advancements, and climate change impacts. (Boise State University via Instagram)
• Today, May 23, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Foster and Heart will be organizing a Foster Care Interest night to provide information and guidance to those interested in becoming foster parents or getting involved in foster care. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn, ask questions, and explore different ways to contribute to foster care. (Idaho News 2)

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Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Tuesday! See you tomorrow morning for another update.

— Nicole Fallon-Peek

About me: Nicole Fallon-Peek is a journalist and copywriter with a degree in Media, Culture and Communication from New York University. She has served as a freelance reporter, managing editor, copy editor, and editorial director for a variety of B2B news outlets. She currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.