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Welcome to Boise Contents Boise- A Pioneer Center Organizational Chart Mayor and Council Downtown Redevelopment Planning Community Development Buses Golf Course Bike Lanes Police Fire Parks Forestry Landscape Green Belt Cemeteries Zoo Recreation Art Gallery Library Airport Finance City Clerk Accounting City Treasury Personnel City Attorney Safety Information and Services Boise State University Building Department Emergency Services Public Works Sewers City Shops Communications 1 2 3 5 5 6 7 7 7 9 11 12 12 13 13 13 15 16 18 18 21 22 22 22 22 22 23 23 23 24 25 26 27 28 28 28 The Cover Two-hundred years ago the West was still an untamed frontier. Boise, at that time an unnamed Indian campsite, was yet to be founded. Today, however, Boise has become a hub of eovernmental and commercial activity. The inset in the "0" of "BOISE" is the hallmark of Boise. It tells much - first, the ereen center of "The City of Trees". From this extend rays depictine location and distance (to scale) to major centers of the West - clockwise: Spokane, Great Falls, Denver, Salt Lake City, Las Veeas, San Francisco, Portland, Seattle. The me8881e: Boise's unique central location in the dynamic northwest. Those rays also reflect diversification of major activities - government, financial center, distribution, education, unlimited recreation, lieht manufacturing and transportation. Inside Front Cover: Beautiful Ann Morrison Park, one of 28 parks covering 1,508 acres in Boise. Boise-A Pioneer Center In the fall of 1811 as a party of fur traders traveling to the lower Columbia moved to a vantage point overlooking the Boise Valley, the French-Canadian trappers sighted the tree-lined river and used the name, Boise, or Wooded River in French, which version prevailed as the name of Boise City. In 1834 British fur traders established a post that developed into the Hudson's Bay Company's Fort Boise. Indian trouble along the Oregon Trail in the Boise Valley in 1864 forced the decision of the United States to build a military outpost. Before action was taken on the decision, discovery of rich gold deposits in 1862 in Boise Basin, less than 40 miles to the northeast, resulted in a gold rush to these mines. The military force sent to build Fort Boise chose a location, and three days later a townsite was provided adjacent to the fort. Boise City grew quickly: located at the crossroads of the transcontinental Oregon Trail and the The City of Boise is an equal opportunity employer. routes to the Boise Basin and Owyhee mines to the southwest, the city rose as a commercial center. In 1863 with irrigated farming all along the river below Boise, it became a strategic location and served both the farms and mines. The Territorial Legislature in 1864 chose Boise to be a permanent seat of government, established Ada County with Boise as county seat, and undertook to provide a city government. The citizens refused to ratify the charter until "An Act to Incorporate Boise City in Ada County was approved, January 11, 1866." Even though Boise's growth declined for a time after the gold rush, the town began to grow again steadily but somewhat unspectacularly. Following repeal of the 1866 City Charter in 1961, the brake on expansion of the city limits was removed, and the city extended over more and more of adjacent areas and the population began to rise. After a century of growth, Boise still lives up to the expectations of its founders who had planned a major center of commerce and government. 1 A.C.O.G. Emergency Services 2 CITY OP BOIS• ORGANIZATIONAL CHART Council ~~ Administrative Assistant I I I City Planner Fire Police Recreation I I '~ I Finance Attorney Library Safety Personnel I I City Clerk Building Public Works Park Accounting Housing Sewer Cemetery Treasurer Relocation Sanitation Zoo Printing Inspection Street Lights Tree Purchasing Engineering Landscape Parking Meters Communication City Shops I Airport I Community Development I Information and Services Boise City Council The City Council is the policy-making body, passes or repeals ordinances, approves the annual budget and all city expenditures. Every qualified elector in Boise is eligible to vote for these elective officers, and every resident of Boise, new or old, may be a candidate for Mayor or Councilman. The next City Election will be held in the fall of 1977. Elections are held every two years. Council members are elected for four-year terms, three being elected every two years to stagger terms for continuity. Council meetings are held every Monday at 7:30p.m. in City Hall. Mayor Richard Eardley The City of Boise operates under the Mayor-Council plan as a City of the First Class under 'the General Laws of Idaho, with a Mayor and six Council members. The Mayor is elected for a four-year term. The Mayor is the Executive Officer of the City, carrying out the policies set by the Council and enforcing the ordinances in the City Code. He has the power to appoint Department Heads and committee and board members, by and only with the consent of the Council. The Honorable Richard R. Eardley was elected Mayor of Boise after four years as council member, to a term beginning January, 1974. From t he left: Counci l members Joy Buersmeyer; Marge Ewing, president pro-tem; and Berne Jensen. From the left: Council members Fred Kopke; Ralph McAdams, president; and Corki Onwciler. 3 Boise's Downtown Redevelopment The Boise Redevelopment Agency exists under the authority of the State Urban Renewal Law. Its governing body, the Board of Commissioners, consists of five appointees of the Mayor, with the concurrence of the Boise City Council. Each of the appointees serves for five years without compensation. The Redevelopment Agency is charged by the City Council with all renewal activities within project areas after designation by the Mayor and Council. Currently, the Redevelopment Agency is undertaking two downtown redevelopment projects. Project I is bounded by Capitol Boulevard, Front Street, lOth Street and Main Street. Project II consists of the eight blocks north of Project I. A large enough parcel has been assembled for the construction of a downtown retail shopping mall. Construction of the shopping center is awaiting finalization of negotiations between Dayton Hudson (the developer) and major retailers. Although the mall is the focal point for downtown redevelopment, the Agency has received other proposals. Construction has been completed on what is now Idaho's tallest building - One Capital Center. The rehabilitation of an older building as headquarters for Continental Life & Accident Company was completed during the summer of 1974. Also, Boise City and Ada County have purchased land within the renewal areas and are constructing the first portion of a Joint City-County Administration .~ ... . ~ .. ~ . 1• 't .. * . ..... . ~ City Planning The administration of zoning and subdivision ordinances, preparation of city comprehensive plan amendments, and the research, analysis and development of plans to meet the needs of the public and accommodate future growth are performed by the Ad a Council of Governments (ACOG) staff under contract to Boise City. Responsibility for final decisions affecting Boise rests with the City Council and its advisory Planning Commissions and Boards who are Building complex to be completed in late 1976. Offices of the Redevelopment Agency are located at 7111h Bannock Street. advised directly by the ACOG staff. Recognizing the need to revise the Comprehensive Plan and define the goals and policies on future growth, the City Council actively supports the 160 member Citizens Advisory Committee. The committee prepared a Concept Plan for the City Council which is the basic decision - making tool concerning the future growth of the city. The Ada Council of Governments is located at 525 West Jefferson. 5 Boise City's community development program, funded by an annual $5,297,000 grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, provides Boiseans with 34 separate services and projects. By late 1975, all of the grant had been allocated with the exception of $55,411 in the city's local option fund. Activities provided range from housing rehabilitation and sewer financing assistance to individualized services for all Boise residents, especially the disadvantaged, handicapped and the Community Development aged. The program is administered by the Department of Community Development with the staff being recruited from the phased-out Model Cities program. Programs and projects were selected for funding only after public hearings were held where citizens had the opportunity to express themselves on proposals advanced by an ad hoc citizens committee. Originally, 53 programs were studied by the committee, other citizen groups and public and private agencies. Finally, 24 programs, embracing 31 separate projects were presented Boise City Council for approval. In late summer, an additional four projects proposed by citizen groups, were funded out of the city's local option fund of $150,502. The annual, federal grant is scheduled to be available for at least two more years and now with first-year programs started, agency staffers and citizens are developing policies, programs and plans for the future. The agency is located in the Boise Public Library, 715 S. Capitol Blvd. Buses Boise Urban Stages (BUS) is a contract bus service for Boise. Operation provides 30-minute service over twelve routes throughout various parts of the city. Four newer buses were placed in service by Boise Urban Stages in 1973 and the number of routes was expanded to eight with 30-minute service as published. Eleven more newer buses were added since early in 1974. Further expansion and updating of equipment is on the horizon. The Boise long-range transit plan will be completed by Ada Council Of Governments. Ten new 45-passenger buses will go into service in 1976. Ridership averages 2,500 daily and increased more than 400 percent by late 1975 compared with early 1973. Call 336-3300 for schedule information. Bike Lanes In October, 1973, a technical committee of the Boise Metropolitan Transportation Study (BMTS) suggested a network of bicycle lanes and routes over a long-range program. The study identified the area where bike routes are most needed. The City and Ada County Highway District are systematically working toward establishment and marking of the routes as they are approved and funds become available. Golf Course The Municipal Golf Course on Warm Springs Avenue is self-supporting. Various improvements in the facility have been made and others are planned depending on public use. With nearly 300 days of golfable weather available, many citizens make use of this facility. 7 Police Increasing crime as well as changing social values and lifestyles require that a police department also change to meet the needs of the community. Community and specific crime problems must be identified. The Boise Police Department seeks to identify and impact these problems through a Participative Policing Program. A participative approach will call for citizens' involvement in helping to solve their own problems. It promotes endeavors to establish a cooperative and stable relationship of mutual respect and helpfulness between officer and citizen. The officer cannot be everywhere and the citizens' cooperation is vital to the overall effectiveness of crime control. The concept affords more opportunity for the police officer to expand his service capability, thus, he will be able to initiate new approaches to solving individual problems. There will be new alternatives available and resources which have not been utilized fully in the past. The Police Department is composed of four geographical divisions which are responsible for the delivery of police services; a Central Services Division which includes records and communications, a Personnel Division and the Airport/University Division which is responsible for the Department's Intern Program. A Joint City-County-State Law Enforcement Center is now being constructed and is scheduled for completion in 1977. The present City Police Station is located at 215 North 6th Street. ••• 9 Fire Department The City of Boise has a Class maintenance, training, fire at 520 W. Idaho Street and the Fire III fire rating, which is a prevention and administration. Training Complex is located at determining factor in fire insurance Administrative Offices are located 1050 South 17th Street. rates. The department operates from eight fire stations and another is under construction. In addition to fire suppression, the Fire Department provides services such as extrication from wrecked vehicles, resuscitation for lack of oxygen, scuba diving crews for water emergencies and many others. The Fire Prevention Division has responsibility of enforcing the Uniform Fire and Life Safety Codes. Questions relating to fire prevention, weed burning, flammable liquids and arson are handled by the Fire Prevention Division. They also have a variety of fire and safety programs available to service clubs, PTA's or other interested groups. The Fire Department consists of 179 personnel in five divisions: combat, alarm and 11 Parks Department Boise City's park system consists of 51 park areas, several areas of Greenbelt strips or tracts along the Boise River and various highway and boulevard strips, comprising approximately 1,625 acres of which about 385 acres are partially or completely developed. Included in these parks are an amusement park, art gallery, band shell, historical museum, community center, little theatre, boating lagoon, pool with illuminated fountain , a rose garden and zoo. Other facilities include: children's playgrounds, neighbor hood parks, covered shelters and many acres of shaded turf suitable for picnicking. Annual attendance at Boise's park facilities is over three million visitors. Cassia, a ten-acre park southwest of City Center, is nearing completion and will add another picnic shelter, bar beque pit, baseball fields and four tennis courts to Boise's growing park and recreational facilities. Tot lots are being installed in several parks. Hillside Park, adjacent to Hillside Jr. High School and presently under construction, will add a lighted softball field and an equestrian arena for the public's enjoyment. Administrative offices are located at 1104 Royal Boulevard. Forestry Division The Forestry Division of the Park Department provides services for the citizens of Boise. Some are obvious, and perhaps just as many go unnoticed. Boiseans are most likely to see the big mist-blower spray machines methodically spraying the trees that line the City's streets or abound in the many park areas. Occasionally these trees die, become incurably diseased or present a hazard and must be removed. The Forestry Division maintains men and equipment capable of safely removing these trees with a minimum of inconvenience to the residents. Dutch Elm Disease continues to be the number one problem in Boise. Constant surveillance coupled with efficient spray operation, quick diagnoses and removals help keep the majority of Boise's elms protected from this disease. All tree remnants are recycled in the form of fence rails and posts, mulch, bedding and firewood via sale to the public. The newest forestry operation involves a portable sawmill designed to salvage logs by turning them into dimension lumber. This operation virtually eliminates the need to carry out costly disposal by burying. Some of the lumber is used by the Division and the remainder will, hopefully, be available for sale to the public. Landscape Division Landscape personnel are the green thumb for the City of Trees. They complete special landscaping projects and provide special care of trees, shrubs, turf and flowers. In the spring of '75 they set out 27,000 annuals throughout the City parks, along highway areas, around swimming pool sites and city owned facilities such as the airport, City Library and some fire stations. Weeding maintenance of these areas are under their jurisdiction. Propagating of annuals and other plant materials is done at the City nursery, located in Julia Davis Park. Green Belt Boise River Greenbelt initiated by the City several years ago, has gained in significance in its quest to provide for the citizens of this community valuable open spaces and recreational facilities along the Boise River. The Greenbelt, a federally funded program, assisted through the use of Land and Water Conservation Funds, has to date acquired approximately 90 acres of river front land and developed a number of recreational facilities extending from the Municipal Golf Course to the Lander Street Treatment Plant. This year's dedication of the Boise River Greenbelt was a significant event for the City of Boise. As part of the dedication, Shoreline Park and a new Bicycle Rental facility were opened to the public, providing a unique and aesthetic touch to the Greenbelt. Cemeteries Division Boise City owns and operates two cemeteries, Morris Hill Cemetery, an 80-acre tract acquired and dedicated in 1882 and Pioneer Cemetery, an area of approximately five acres, located between the East End and the downtown business district, acquired in 1920. Also, a City owned and operated Mausoleum is located at Morris Hill Cemetery. Lots are for sale to the general public. 13 Zoo Idaho's finest zoo is located in Julia Davis Park. Through the efforts of the Idaho Zoological Society in cooperation with the City, this facility has become an attractive, up-to-date educational and recreational complex. In 1975, a new aviary and a nocturnal animal shelter were completed. Animals of the northwest, exotic species such as a Bengal tiger, Steppe cats (of which Boise has the only two in captivity in the U.S.), a South American Rhea and various kinds of monkeys and apes as well as a variety of birds are featured for public viewing and entertainment. Through appointment, free school tours are provided; a service which more and more schools from southwest Idaho and eastern Oregon are taking advantage of. In 1974 approximately 21,000 children enjoyed "A Day at the Boise Zoo." An educational program in cooperation with the Boise Independent School District was initiated in 1975. Grade school children are bused from the schools to the zoo where a qualified instructor teaches the children animal care and habits. A visit to the Boise Zoo is a worthwhile and rewarding experience. 15 16 Recreati• on The Recreation Department affords guidance and administrative supervision of various forms of healthful recreational activities for the entire citizenry of the City of Boise and the Independent School District of Boise. The object is to create a life style that makes Boise more than just a city but a good place to live. S orne of the activities sponsored by the City Recreation Department are: Alpine Ski Touring Arts and Crafts Back Packing Banquets Baseball Basketball Bike Touring Camping and Hiking Clinics: Camping Lifeguard Ski Softball Swimming Umpiring Football Golf Gymnastics Handicapped Programs Horseback Riding Physical Fitness Saturday A.M. Programs Ski Conditioning Ski Racing Ski School Ski Touring Softball Special Activities Swimming Tennis (General) Tennis (Schools) Track and Jogging Volleyball White Water Kayaking Wrestling The recreation office is located at 1130 Royal Boulevard in Ann Morrison Park and is open from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Monday through Friday. Boise Gallery Of Art The Boise Art Gallery, Boise's only art museum, has grown threefold thanks to the cooperative efforts of Boise City, the non-profit Boise Gallery of Art Association, Fundsy and many interested citizens. Boise's (and the nation's) cultural explosion is in some measure the reason for the Gallery's growth. Our community's visual arts center provides more space to exhibit the best art of today and yesterday, plus a place for artists, students and the public to meet, work, learn and express themselves in the visual arts. The public is invited to visit and participate at the new Boise Gallery of Art, 716 Capitol Boulevard, which is in the heart of Boise's fast-growing cultural center. Adjacent is the Idaho State Historical Museum and across the Boulevard is the Boise Public Library and Information Center. 18 Library and Information Center All Boise City residents may have borrowing privileges at the Boise Public Library and Information Center without charge. Books, art prints, sculpture replicas, records, cassettes, and 8 mm films are among the items which may be checked out from the library. Also available are current and bound periodicals, the government document collection, the Northwest history collection, and the Reference collection. Reference librarians are available during the library's open hours to answer your reference and research questions either in person or by telephone. The library is an important source of information and recreation. The Library's new automated circulation system checks materials in and out using a light pen terminal. Each item is labeled with a computer readable "Zebra number". The system provides speedy and efficient service to locate materials, place reserves, and generate useful statistical reports for library use. The library is open 70 hours each week during the school session. Monday through Thursday the library is open 9 am to 9 pm; Friday and Saturday 9 am to 6 pm; and Sunday, 1 pm to 5 pm except during summer months. For library patrons who cannot conveniently come to the library, bookmobile service is provided on a regular schedule. The library is located at 715 Capitol Boulevard, just across from Julia Davis Park. Boise Air Terminal The Boise Air Terminal is classified as a Small Hub Airport and is one of the finest aviation facilities in the Northwest. The parallel runway system allows joint civil-military use and provides excellent safety factors in the separation of large and small aircraft, turbine and conventional powered aircraft. The longest runway is 9,767 feet. This runway was reconstructed for strength and a friction course added to improve the runway. The ILS and RVR were moved to Runway lOR and Taxiway "R" was completed during this year, also the installation of airport surveillance radar. The Airport Terminal Building provides second level loading, with two nose loading devices and nine gate positions. The Security check area has an X-ray device to screen carry-on baggage thereby speeding up the flow of passengers. F .A.A. Security Requirements are accomplished by use of a sterile concourse plan on the second level concourse. The terminal is large enough to handle expanded use of ticket lobby, waiting lobby and houses coffee shop, kitchen and restaurant on the lower level, flight service station, six rental car companies, concession and game area, aviation weather information, F .A.A. Office and baggage claim carousel facilities. A 750 car parking facility is available. The Fire Crash Station has been enlarged to a five bay station with two additional pieces of fire crash equipment. A new 100-foot tower has been completed and is in operation. A doubling of the size of the baggage claiming area with one additional baggage carousel is being accomplished this year. United and Hughes Air West provide over 36 schedules per day and Sun Valley Key and Cascade Airways provide scheduled air taxi service. Non-stop service is provided to Chicago, San Francisco, Salt Lake City, Seattle, Portland, Twin Falls, Idaho Falls, Lewiston, Spokane and Sun Valley. For flight information call United, Hughes Air West, Sun Valley Key and Cascade Airways. Aircraft sales, rental, maintenance and agricultural spraying is provided by Boise Air Service, Morrison-Knudsen Company, Simplot Aviation, Inc., Gem State Aviation, Gaige Aviation and Idaho He 1 i copters, Inc. Military operations include Idaho Army and Air National Guard headquarters and units. Aircraft utilized by United and Hughes Air West are DC-8, 727, DC-9; the military utilize RF4C's and HUlA ahd OH58 helicopters. 21 Finance Finance and Administration exercises general supervision over all offices of the city regarding the proper management of fiscal concerns. Under the direction of the Council, this department coordinates the preparation of the annual budget estimating the probable amount of money necessary for all purposes for which an appropriation is to be made and an estimate of the total revenue anticipated during the next fiscal year. This department also provides supervision and technical assistance in the development of Municipal financial planning techniques, revenue forecasts, debt administration, capital improvement planning, economic analysis and cost studies. COMPUTER SYSTEMS Computer Systems is a department within a department. In 197 4, the City of Boise began investigating the use of computer hardware to handle a number of city functions. With the assistance of the Boise Center for Urban Research, a joint City of Boise/Boise State University study group, it was determined that the Modcomp mini-computer would best handle the city's data processing needs. The Modcomp was installed in November, 1975 and now processes all accounting, including payroll, cash flow, projections, and trash and sewer billings. Future applications call for in-depth computer utilization by the department of public works in monitoring treatment plant facilities. The Modcomp currently has five terminals situated throughout city departments and eventually will go to thirty. Annual operating costs of the mini-computer are offset by savings in personnel and time requirements of manual systems. The computer is temporarily being housed in the Idaho building 22 until completion of the new city administration building. URBAN RESEARCH The Boise Center for Urban Research has undertaken several other studies in addition to the computer research. It was assigned three projects by the Boise City Council in 1975; a citizen survey on a wide range of subjects, a population migration study, and a possible city-county regional data center. During 1976, the Center has been asked to study city department productivity, alternatives to present property taxes, alternatives to Boise's solid waste utilization program, zoning changes on ground water, another citizen's survey, and continue its study of the regional data center. Funding for the Boise Center for Urban Research is being provided by Federal grants. City Clerk The City Clerk prepares the weekly City Council Meeting Agenda, attends each of their meetings and keeps a record of all their proceedings. Also, he is the custodian of all the records of the city not otherwise provided for by law. For a nominal fee, he can furnish a certified copy of any records, papers or documents on file. Information relating to the following items can be obtained by calling the City Clerk's Office. Licenses Directory Service Council Meeting Agendas Morris Hill Cemetery Lots Public Hearings City Elections City Records Certification of Documents Accounting Accounting provides technical direction over City accounting procedures, systems, and functions to verify and produce timely financial information and special reports. This plus emphasis on proper controls for keeping and maintaining the real and personal property records of the City provides better inventory controls, management information for budgeting decisions, and more complete coverage of the City's assets for insurance purposes. The department evaluates the City's needs and resources for data processing, and effects coordination with the County as needed. In summary, this office acts as the in-house City Auditor. City Treasury The Division of the Treasury and Purchasing is headed by the City Treasurer who shall generally be responsible for (1) receipt, deposit and investment of all City monies and the records associated therewith, (2) keeping a bond register, ( 3) acting as Purchasing Agent, (4) real and personal property insurance program for the City, (5) central services printing shop, and (6) parking meter operations. Personnel The Personnel Department has responsibility for centralized personnel functions such as: recruitment and selection procedures, maintenance of all personnel records, enrollment of eligible employees in and adminstration of retirement and insurance programs, preparation of regular and special informational and statistical reports Personnel assists and advises employees in the maximum utilization of every benefit to which they are entitled. Also, they maintain employees' salary and benefit programs competitive within the local economy. The department's goal is to continue to develop in a way that will relate employees to productivity and build individual and organizational capabilities through improved personnel selection and evaluation. City Attorney The City legal staff is composed of two secretaries and four attorneys. The City Attorney concerns himself primarily with the civil and corporate functions of the City. The three assistants are responsible for criminal prosecution and the enforcement of the Boise City Ordinances, although they are used more and more for assistance in the civil and corporate areas. Safety The Safety Department of Boise City assists all other city departments by investigation of vehicle and personal injuries and recommends corrective measures to prevent similar accidents; monitoring of safety procedures of the employee work habits and working conditions; plus conducting safety sessions on the use of tools and instruments, first aid classes, defensive driving courses and meeting OSHA standards. These actions help control equipment and material loss; reduce personnel injuries and suffering; and result in the saving of thousands of dollars of unneeded expense to the City. The Safety office is on the fourth floor of the library at 715 Capitol Blvd. Information and Services The Citizens Assistance Officer aids the public by providing information, handling requests with a minimum of inconvenience, and where possible, taking quick action to satisfy complaints. The ultimate goal is to reduce citizen frustration to a minimum, provide one-stop service on all inquiries and engender a higher degree of satisfaction with the services provided by City. 23 24 Boise State University One of the institutions that the City of Boise can be particularly proud of is Boise State University. Founded as a junior college in 1932, BSU achieved university status February 22, 197 4. Now Idaho's largest school of higher learning, BSU offers students nearly 50 undergraduate degrees as well as two areas of graduate study. Spring term enrollment was 10,270. BSU offers students a wide range of educational opportunities including a new four-year program in nursing, numerous vocational-technical educational skills, and schools in business, education, arts & sciences and health science. Boise State University continues to change and expand to meet the needs of the community. A firm believer in innovation and quality teaching, BSU has made excellent teaching its foremost mission. To continue to meet the needs of Boise and Idaho as well, the BSU campus is constantly undergoing change. Six construction programs are slated for 1976. They include phase II of the Science-Education Building, a heavy mechanics Vo-Tech Building, a Pedestrian Mall with foot bridge over the Boise River, a Maintenance Building, and completion of the Special Events Center. Building Department The Building Department is charged with the duty of providing for that aspect of public safety and welfare which relates to the construction and maintenance of all buildings or structures within the city. Enforcement of the Uniform Building Code, the Boise City Zoning Ordinance, and the issuance of required permits, along with inspections and recordkeeping, are its primary functions. There are forty-seven people employed by the Building Department. Twenty-two of these employees are engaged in services which have to do with remodeling and new construction of housing and commercial buildings. Twenty-five perform tasks related to maintaining, up-grading, rehabilitating and relocating existing housing. The two spheres of activity are commonly referred to as the Codes Division and the Housing Division of the Building Department. Starting as a small department in the late 1800's and growing quickly after World War II with Boise City's adoption of the Uniform Building Code, the Building Department has contributed to the safety and welfare of Boise residents for over three-quarters of a century. The Building Department is located on the fourth floor of the new library at 715 S. Capitol Blvd. Calls may be placed to 342-4621 ext. 322. Codes Modern codes provide for a necessary and reasonable degree of protection from fire, natural disasters, blight, deterioration, and improper construction methods. Standards for Boise's construction projects are developed by the International Conference of Building Officials headquartered in Whittier, California. This independently owned non-profit corporation's membership includes building officials from throughout the United States. Associate membership provides for representation from nearly every segment of the construction industry. Under this leadership, Boise has available professional evaluation of most new materials and methods of installation available. Codes used by Boise City are performance codes as opposed to specification codes. There is a broad spectrum of Boise citizenry represented on the boards which review and make recommendations on these codes to the Mayor and Council. Ten separate boards work with the Building Department on the various code boards and boards of appeal. Housing In sharp contrast to many U.S. cities, Boise may be unique in not having a slum area. Slum areas generally must give way to major overhauls such as clearing away all structures and rebuilding new multi-story residential or commercial buildings. In the process, much of the historic character of a community is cleared away too. While Boise has some neighborhoods with a relative abundance of substandard dwellings, virtually none qualify for a wholesale sweep by the wrecking ball. Thus Boise is particularly well suited for a housing rehabilitation program. By repairing substandard homes in older neighborhoods, we revitalize the neighborhoods, resulting in maintenance of property values and general stabilization of the area, making it a more desirable location in which to live. Boise's rehabilitation program has seen some 80 homes completed, and projections call for approximately 200 completions per year over the next three years with current pace at 20 homes per month. 25 ------- - -- --- 26 - - - Emergency Services The Ada County - Boise Department of Emergency Services, previously Ada-Boise Civil Defense, is responsible for preparation, testing and implementing the local emergency plan. The plan provides detailed check lists to be followed in the event of natural or man-caused disasters such as floods, earthquakes, storms, major accidents, civil disorders or fires. Tasks for County Commissioners, City Councils, Mayors, fire agencies, law enforcement, health, welfare, public information, public works, rescue, highway and other agencies are identified. The purpose of the Ada County-Boise Emergency Services is to provide for the maximum protection of life and property and to prevent, minimize, repair and recover from injury and damage due to any disaster. Offices are located at 306 Idaho Building and will relocate to the joint City-County-State Law Enforcement Center in 1977. Public Works The Public Works Department is the engineer for the City and acts as a service department to other City functions. Public Works is responsible for the operation and maintenance of: 1. The sanitary sewer lines of the City. 2. Sewage treatment plants. 3. The City Shops, which maintain all the City vehicles. 4. The radio and electronics communication systems of City Departments. 5. Street lighting. 6. Sanitation inspection As engineer for the City, the Department: 1. Maintains maps and air photos showing streets, properties, Green Belt, etc. 2. Assigns house numbers. 3. Maintains maps for the City. 4. Reviews new subdivisions and rezone requests. 5. Coordinates with agencies in engineering aspects such as ACHD, AGOG, Green Belt, Ditch Safety, etc. For new sewers, sewer stoppages, street lights, ditch covering, weeds or other problems listed above. Administrative offices are located on the fourth floor of the library at 715 Capitol Boulevard. 27 Communications The City of Boise Communications Department is a service organization for the other city departments, responsible primarily for the installation and maintenance of the city's two-way radio communications system. Maintenance responsibilities include such other electronic equipment as police radars, intercom systems, sound and P.A. systems, electronic sirens and video and audio recording equipment. This department is also working on the design for communications to include 911 for the new Joint Law Enforcement facility. City Shops One of the least publicized departments of the City of Boise is the Repair and Maintenance Shops located at 825 South 17th Street. The Shop is fully equipped for servicing and maintaining some 300 pieces of mobile equipment ranging from Cushman scooters to heavy-duty Caterpillar road graders, from high performance Police cars to five -ton snow removal equipment used at Municipal Airport. Sewer Division The duty of this utility of the City is to collect and treat all contaminated water within the city limits of Boise. There are approximately 165 miles of sewer collection lines ranging in size from 8" to 42". 28 The biological treatment plant, a $6 million facility, is located at 602 Lander Street. It produces effluent that meets United States Environmental Protection Agency and Idaho State Health Water Quality Standards. Expansion of the Lander plant, construction of the new West Boise Treatment Plant (below) and a major connector and trunk lines were approved by voters in a $4.5-million bond election in May, 1974. Phase I is expected to be completed in 1976 on $7 -million of contracts. Boards And Commissions Many citizens of Boise give their services on City Boards and Commissions without pay. The assistance and guidance in city government by these civic-minded and generous persons is invaluable. Their reports and recommendations to the Administrative branch help solve the problems which constantly confront a city of this size. Membership Aesthetics Review Board .................................. 19 Airport Commission ....................................... 5 Bicentennial Commission .................................. 20 Board of Adjustment ...................................... 5 Board of Appeals - Uniform Sign Code ........................ 3 Board of Appraisers - Sewer Service Charge .................... 5 Board of Electrical Examiners ............................... 3 Board of Examiners and Appeals ............................. 5 Board of Park Commissioners ................................ 7 Boise Housing Authority ................................... 5 Building Code Committee .................................. 8 Boise Redevelopment Agency ............................... 5 Civil Service Commission ................................... 3 Design Review Board ...................................... 7 Fire Prevention Code ...................................... 5 Fort Boise Community Center Board .......................... 9 Garbage and Refuse Board of Review .......................... 5 Gas Code Examining Board ................................. 3 Greenbelt Commission .................................... 15 Housing Advisory and Appeals Board ......................... .4 Library Board ............................................ 5 License Commission ....................................... 9 Water Study Commission ................................... 8 Parking Commission ....................................... 7 Parking and Transportation Committee .................... · ... 11 Performing Arts Commission ................................ 7 Planning-Zoning Commission ................................ 9 Plumbing Fixture and Materials Board ......................... 5 Recreation Committee .................................... 13 Regional Planning Committee ............................... 3 Safety Committee ....................................... 22 Sewer Commission ........................................ 8 Smoke Abatement Committee ............................... 2 Sign Code Committee ...................................... 3 Transportation Committee .................................. 5 Dia I For Service Ada Council of Governments Airport Manager Art Gallery Building Department Housing and Relocation Inspections Bus Cemetery (Morris Hill) City Attorney City Auditor City Clerk City Finance City Planner City Treasurer Community Development County Commissioners Drivers License Dog Pound Drug Abuse Emergency Services Fire Department: Fire Other Garbage Pickup Golf Course Municipal Health (County) Dept. Housing Division Information & Services Landscape Library Landfill (Hidden Hollow) Mayor's Office Marshall's Office Magistrate Court Marriage License Mental Health Center Emergency Fort Orchard Municipal Systems Parks Department Picnic Shelter Band Shell Fireplaces and Picnic Parking Meter Maintenance Parking Tickets Personnel Department Police Department Emergency Other Property Taxes Public Works Purchasing Agent Recreation Department Safety Sanitation Inspector Sewer Engineer Sewer Billing Streets Street Lights Out Trash Billing Trash Pickup Trees Vital Statistics Voting Information Water (Boise Water) Weeds Welfare Department Zoning Zoo 384-8950 342-4621 ext. 220 345-8330 342-4621 ext. 325 342-4621 ext. 322 336-3300 342-4621 ext. 275 342-4621 ext. 235 342-4621 ext. 296 342-4621 ext. 231 342-4621 ext. 269 384-8950 342-4621 ext. 270 345-9400 384-8700 384-8720 343-3451 336-1630 384-8945 384-8945 343-4623 345-1265 343-5661 375-5211 342-4621 ext. 325 342-4621 ext. 224 342-4621 ext. 200 345-1820 384-8968 342-4621 ext. 221 384-8916 384-8921 384-8980 342-5671 384-3132 375-2113 342-4621 ext. 331 342-4621 ext. 276 342-4621 ext. 217 342-4621 ext. 276 342-4'621 ext. 203 342-4621 ext. 270 342-4621 ext. 299 342-4621 ext. 215 345-8200 342-2617 384-8791 342-4621 ext. 315 342-4621 ext. 270 342-4621 ext. 217 342-4621 ext. 340 384-8967 342-4621 ext. 315 342-4621 ext. 317 345-9711 345-7210 342-4621 ext. 308 345-1265 342-4621 ext. 284 384-2493 384-8980 345-3100 342-4621 ext. 315 384-8926 384-8950 342-4621 ext. 274 I .. , :...------ 1 ~ ~· .. t,•. (., I . J •• a. .. ! .. . ,, f ' . . . ;. ·! '( '" -\,.·.) )'I' .. . ~t.i ': . ' . ": . :: ~J; . . .. . ..• I J - • \ ,..1 ' '.. ... ... _ ..... .... ' · T .• • - - •,1 · ) •. 1 .•• .,.,_..... ·• ~ . • ~- . ..:.- ' -.r.. .,_ A 1975 Dedication · Shoreline Park in the Boise River Greenbelt Boise is the gateway to the Sawtooth Mountains and numerous lakes and rivers. Boise's elevation is 2,7 39 feet above sea level. AV. DAILY TEMP. Maximum Mean Minimum BOISE CLIMATE SUMMER 90.5 74.8 59.1 WINTER 34.6 27.3 19.9 ANNUAL 62.4 50.8 39.1 Annual precipitation averages 11.48 inches. Average summer humidity at noon 41. Nights cool. ORIGINAL SEAL- BOISE CITY
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Identifier | Cataloged Periodicals, Special Collections Box 4 |
Title | Welcome to Boise |
Date | 1976 |
Searchable Date | 1976 |
Description | Special issue of Boise Business. A commemorative booklet on the city of Boise, including descriptions of all city level departments. |
Subject |
Government officials Government facilities Government employees Demography |
Creator | Greater Boise Chamber of Commerce |
Publisher | Greater Boise Chamber of Commerce |
Contributors | Boise State University Library, Special Collections and Archives. |
Language | eng |
Source | Special Collections and Archives Book Collection |
Coverage | Boise (Idaho) |
Original Physical Format | pamphlet; |
Digital Format | |
Type | Text |
Relation | http://boisestate.worldcat.org/oclc/42301383 |
Rights | The contents of this item, including all images and text, are for personal, educational, and non-commercial use only. The contents of this item may not be reproduced in any form without the express permission of Boise State University Special Collections and Archives. For permissions or to place an order, please contact the Head of Special Collections and Archives at (208) 426-3958 or archives@boisestate.edu. |
Full-text | Welcome to Boise Contents Boise- A Pioneer Center Organizational Chart Mayor and Council Downtown Redevelopment Planning Community Development Buses Golf Course Bike Lanes Police Fire Parks Forestry Landscape Green Belt Cemeteries Zoo Recreation Art Gallery Library Airport Finance City Clerk Accounting City Treasury Personnel City Attorney Safety Information and Services Boise State University Building Department Emergency Services Public Works Sewers City Shops Communications 1 2 3 5 5 6 7 7 7 9 11 12 12 13 13 13 15 16 18 18 21 22 22 22 22 22 23 23 23 24 25 26 27 28 28 28 The Cover Two-hundred years ago the West was still an untamed frontier. Boise, at that time an unnamed Indian campsite, was yet to be founded. Today, however, Boise has become a hub of eovernmental and commercial activity. The inset in the "0" of "BOISE" is the hallmark of Boise. It tells much - first, the ereen center of "The City of Trees". From this extend rays depictine location and distance (to scale) to major centers of the West - clockwise: Spokane, Great Falls, Denver, Salt Lake City, Las Veeas, San Francisco, Portland, Seattle. The me8881e: Boise's unique central location in the dynamic northwest. Those rays also reflect diversification of major activities - government, financial center, distribution, education, unlimited recreation, lieht manufacturing and transportation. Inside Front Cover: Beautiful Ann Morrison Park, one of 28 parks covering 1,508 acres in Boise. Boise-A Pioneer Center In the fall of 1811 as a party of fur traders traveling to the lower Columbia moved to a vantage point overlooking the Boise Valley, the French-Canadian trappers sighted the tree-lined river and used the name, Boise, or Wooded River in French, which version prevailed as the name of Boise City. In 1834 British fur traders established a post that developed into the Hudson's Bay Company's Fort Boise. Indian trouble along the Oregon Trail in the Boise Valley in 1864 forced the decision of the United States to build a military outpost. Before action was taken on the decision, discovery of rich gold deposits in 1862 in Boise Basin, less than 40 miles to the northeast, resulted in a gold rush to these mines. The military force sent to build Fort Boise chose a location, and three days later a townsite was provided adjacent to the fort. Boise City grew quickly: located at the crossroads of the transcontinental Oregon Trail and the The City of Boise is an equal opportunity employer. routes to the Boise Basin and Owyhee mines to the southwest, the city rose as a commercial center. In 1863 with irrigated farming all along the river below Boise, it became a strategic location and served both the farms and mines. The Territorial Legislature in 1864 chose Boise to be a permanent seat of government, established Ada County with Boise as county seat, and undertook to provide a city government. The citizens refused to ratify the charter until "An Act to Incorporate Boise City in Ada County was approved, January 11, 1866." Even though Boise's growth declined for a time after the gold rush, the town began to grow again steadily but somewhat unspectacularly. Following repeal of the 1866 City Charter in 1961, the brake on expansion of the city limits was removed, and the city extended over more and more of adjacent areas and the population began to rise. After a century of growth, Boise still lives up to the expectations of its founders who had planned a major center of commerce and government. 1 A.C.O.G. Emergency Services 2 CITY OP BOIS• ORGANIZATIONAL CHART Council ~~ Administrative Assistant I I I City Planner Fire Police Recreation I I '~ I Finance Attorney Library Safety Personnel I I City Clerk Building Public Works Park Accounting Housing Sewer Cemetery Treasurer Relocation Sanitation Zoo Printing Inspection Street Lights Tree Purchasing Engineering Landscape Parking Meters Communication City Shops I Airport I Community Development I Information and Services Boise City Council The City Council is the policy-making body, passes or repeals ordinances, approves the annual budget and all city expenditures. Every qualified elector in Boise is eligible to vote for these elective officers, and every resident of Boise, new or old, may be a candidate for Mayor or Councilman. The next City Election will be held in the fall of 1977. Elections are held every two years. Council members are elected for four-year terms, three being elected every two years to stagger terms for continuity. Council meetings are held every Monday at 7:30p.m. in City Hall. Mayor Richard Eardley The City of Boise operates under the Mayor-Council plan as a City of the First Class under 'the General Laws of Idaho, with a Mayor and six Council members. The Mayor is elected for a four-year term. The Mayor is the Executive Officer of the City, carrying out the policies set by the Council and enforcing the ordinances in the City Code. He has the power to appoint Department Heads and committee and board members, by and only with the consent of the Council. The Honorable Richard R. Eardley was elected Mayor of Boise after four years as council member, to a term beginning January, 1974. From t he left: Counci l members Joy Buersmeyer; Marge Ewing, president pro-tem; and Berne Jensen. From the left: Council members Fred Kopke; Ralph McAdams, president; and Corki Onwciler. 3 Boise's Downtown Redevelopment The Boise Redevelopment Agency exists under the authority of the State Urban Renewal Law. Its governing body, the Board of Commissioners, consists of five appointees of the Mayor, with the concurrence of the Boise City Council. Each of the appointees serves for five years without compensation. The Redevelopment Agency is charged by the City Council with all renewal activities within project areas after designation by the Mayor and Council. Currently, the Redevelopment Agency is undertaking two downtown redevelopment projects. Project I is bounded by Capitol Boulevard, Front Street, lOth Street and Main Street. Project II consists of the eight blocks north of Project I. A large enough parcel has been assembled for the construction of a downtown retail shopping mall. Construction of the shopping center is awaiting finalization of negotiations between Dayton Hudson (the developer) and major retailers. Although the mall is the focal point for downtown redevelopment, the Agency has received other proposals. Construction has been completed on what is now Idaho's tallest building - One Capital Center. The rehabilitation of an older building as headquarters for Continental Life & Accident Company was completed during the summer of 1974. Also, Boise City and Ada County have purchased land within the renewal areas and are constructing the first portion of a Joint City-County Administration .~ ... . ~ .. ~ . 1• 't .. * . ..... . ~ City Planning The administration of zoning and subdivision ordinances, preparation of city comprehensive plan amendments, and the research, analysis and development of plans to meet the needs of the public and accommodate future growth are performed by the Ad a Council of Governments (ACOG) staff under contract to Boise City. Responsibility for final decisions affecting Boise rests with the City Council and its advisory Planning Commissions and Boards who are Building complex to be completed in late 1976. Offices of the Redevelopment Agency are located at 7111h Bannock Street. advised directly by the ACOG staff. Recognizing the need to revise the Comprehensive Plan and define the goals and policies on future growth, the City Council actively supports the 160 member Citizens Advisory Committee. The committee prepared a Concept Plan for the City Council which is the basic decision - making tool concerning the future growth of the city. The Ada Council of Governments is located at 525 West Jefferson. 5 Boise City's community development program, funded by an annual $5,297,000 grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, provides Boiseans with 34 separate services and projects. By late 1975, all of the grant had been allocated with the exception of $55,411 in the city's local option fund. Activities provided range from housing rehabilitation and sewer financing assistance to individualized services for all Boise residents, especially the disadvantaged, handicapped and the Community Development aged. The program is administered by the Department of Community Development with the staff being recruited from the phased-out Model Cities program. Programs and projects were selected for funding only after public hearings were held where citizens had the opportunity to express themselves on proposals advanced by an ad hoc citizens committee. Originally, 53 programs were studied by the committee, other citizen groups and public and private agencies. Finally, 24 programs, embracing 31 separate projects were presented Boise City Council for approval. In late summer, an additional four projects proposed by citizen groups, were funded out of the city's local option fund of $150,502. The annual, federal grant is scheduled to be available for at least two more years and now with first-year programs started, agency staffers and citizens are developing policies, programs and plans for the future. The agency is located in the Boise Public Library, 715 S. Capitol Blvd. Buses Boise Urban Stages (BUS) is a contract bus service for Boise. Operation provides 30-minute service over twelve routes throughout various parts of the city. Four newer buses were placed in service by Boise Urban Stages in 1973 and the number of routes was expanded to eight with 30-minute service as published. Eleven more newer buses were added since early in 1974. Further expansion and updating of equipment is on the horizon. The Boise long-range transit plan will be completed by Ada Council Of Governments. Ten new 45-passenger buses will go into service in 1976. Ridership averages 2,500 daily and increased more than 400 percent by late 1975 compared with early 1973. Call 336-3300 for schedule information. Bike Lanes In October, 1973, a technical committee of the Boise Metropolitan Transportation Study (BMTS) suggested a network of bicycle lanes and routes over a long-range program. The study identified the area where bike routes are most needed. The City and Ada County Highway District are systematically working toward establishment and marking of the routes as they are approved and funds become available. Golf Course The Municipal Golf Course on Warm Springs Avenue is self-supporting. Various improvements in the facility have been made and others are planned depending on public use. With nearly 300 days of golfable weather available, many citizens make use of this facility. 7 Police Increasing crime as well as changing social values and lifestyles require that a police department also change to meet the needs of the community. Community and specific crime problems must be identified. The Boise Police Department seeks to identify and impact these problems through a Participative Policing Program. A participative approach will call for citizens' involvement in helping to solve their own problems. It promotes endeavors to establish a cooperative and stable relationship of mutual respect and helpfulness between officer and citizen. The officer cannot be everywhere and the citizens' cooperation is vital to the overall effectiveness of crime control. The concept affords more opportunity for the police officer to expand his service capability, thus, he will be able to initiate new approaches to solving individual problems. There will be new alternatives available and resources which have not been utilized fully in the past. The Police Department is composed of four geographical divisions which are responsible for the delivery of police services; a Central Services Division which includes records and communications, a Personnel Division and the Airport/University Division which is responsible for the Department's Intern Program. A Joint City-County-State Law Enforcement Center is now being constructed and is scheduled for completion in 1977. The present City Police Station is located at 215 North 6th Street. ••• 9 Fire Department The City of Boise has a Class maintenance, training, fire at 520 W. Idaho Street and the Fire III fire rating, which is a prevention and administration. Training Complex is located at determining factor in fire insurance Administrative Offices are located 1050 South 17th Street. rates. The department operates from eight fire stations and another is under construction. In addition to fire suppression, the Fire Department provides services such as extrication from wrecked vehicles, resuscitation for lack of oxygen, scuba diving crews for water emergencies and many others. The Fire Prevention Division has responsibility of enforcing the Uniform Fire and Life Safety Codes. Questions relating to fire prevention, weed burning, flammable liquids and arson are handled by the Fire Prevention Division. They also have a variety of fire and safety programs available to service clubs, PTA's or other interested groups. The Fire Department consists of 179 personnel in five divisions: combat, alarm and 11 Parks Department Boise City's park system consists of 51 park areas, several areas of Greenbelt strips or tracts along the Boise River and various highway and boulevard strips, comprising approximately 1,625 acres of which about 385 acres are partially or completely developed. Included in these parks are an amusement park, art gallery, band shell, historical museum, community center, little theatre, boating lagoon, pool with illuminated fountain , a rose garden and zoo. Other facilities include: children's playgrounds, neighbor hood parks, covered shelters and many acres of shaded turf suitable for picnicking. Annual attendance at Boise's park facilities is over three million visitors. Cassia, a ten-acre park southwest of City Center, is nearing completion and will add another picnic shelter, bar beque pit, baseball fields and four tennis courts to Boise's growing park and recreational facilities. Tot lots are being installed in several parks. Hillside Park, adjacent to Hillside Jr. High School and presently under construction, will add a lighted softball field and an equestrian arena for the public's enjoyment. Administrative offices are located at 1104 Royal Boulevard. Forestry Division The Forestry Division of the Park Department provides services for the citizens of Boise. Some are obvious, and perhaps just as many go unnoticed. Boiseans are most likely to see the big mist-blower spray machines methodically spraying the trees that line the City's streets or abound in the many park areas. Occasionally these trees die, become incurably diseased or present a hazard and must be removed. The Forestry Division maintains men and equipment capable of safely removing these trees with a minimum of inconvenience to the residents. Dutch Elm Disease continues to be the number one problem in Boise. Constant surveillance coupled with efficient spray operation, quick diagnoses and removals help keep the majority of Boise's elms protected from this disease. All tree remnants are recycled in the form of fence rails and posts, mulch, bedding and firewood via sale to the public. The newest forestry operation involves a portable sawmill designed to salvage logs by turning them into dimension lumber. This operation virtually eliminates the need to carry out costly disposal by burying. Some of the lumber is used by the Division and the remainder will, hopefully, be available for sale to the public. Landscape Division Landscape personnel are the green thumb for the City of Trees. They complete special landscaping projects and provide special care of trees, shrubs, turf and flowers. In the spring of '75 they set out 27,000 annuals throughout the City parks, along highway areas, around swimming pool sites and city owned facilities such as the airport, City Library and some fire stations. Weeding maintenance of these areas are under their jurisdiction. Propagating of annuals and other plant materials is done at the City nursery, located in Julia Davis Park. Green Belt Boise River Greenbelt initiated by the City several years ago, has gained in significance in its quest to provide for the citizens of this community valuable open spaces and recreational facilities along the Boise River. The Greenbelt, a federally funded program, assisted through the use of Land and Water Conservation Funds, has to date acquired approximately 90 acres of river front land and developed a number of recreational facilities extending from the Municipal Golf Course to the Lander Street Treatment Plant. This year's dedication of the Boise River Greenbelt was a significant event for the City of Boise. As part of the dedication, Shoreline Park and a new Bicycle Rental facility were opened to the public, providing a unique and aesthetic touch to the Greenbelt. Cemeteries Division Boise City owns and operates two cemeteries, Morris Hill Cemetery, an 80-acre tract acquired and dedicated in 1882 and Pioneer Cemetery, an area of approximately five acres, located between the East End and the downtown business district, acquired in 1920. Also, a City owned and operated Mausoleum is located at Morris Hill Cemetery. Lots are for sale to the general public. 13 Zoo Idaho's finest zoo is located in Julia Davis Park. Through the efforts of the Idaho Zoological Society in cooperation with the City, this facility has become an attractive, up-to-date educational and recreational complex. In 1975, a new aviary and a nocturnal animal shelter were completed. Animals of the northwest, exotic species such as a Bengal tiger, Steppe cats (of which Boise has the only two in captivity in the U.S.), a South American Rhea and various kinds of monkeys and apes as well as a variety of birds are featured for public viewing and entertainment. Through appointment, free school tours are provided; a service which more and more schools from southwest Idaho and eastern Oregon are taking advantage of. In 1974 approximately 21,000 children enjoyed "A Day at the Boise Zoo." An educational program in cooperation with the Boise Independent School District was initiated in 1975. Grade school children are bused from the schools to the zoo where a qualified instructor teaches the children animal care and habits. A visit to the Boise Zoo is a worthwhile and rewarding experience. 15 16 Recreati• on The Recreation Department affords guidance and administrative supervision of various forms of healthful recreational activities for the entire citizenry of the City of Boise and the Independent School District of Boise. The object is to create a life style that makes Boise more than just a city but a good place to live. S orne of the activities sponsored by the City Recreation Department are: Alpine Ski Touring Arts and Crafts Back Packing Banquets Baseball Basketball Bike Touring Camping and Hiking Clinics: Camping Lifeguard Ski Softball Swimming Umpiring Football Golf Gymnastics Handicapped Programs Horseback Riding Physical Fitness Saturday A.M. Programs Ski Conditioning Ski Racing Ski School Ski Touring Softball Special Activities Swimming Tennis (General) Tennis (Schools) Track and Jogging Volleyball White Water Kayaking Wrestling The recreation office is located at 1130 Royal Boulevard in Ann Morrison Park and is open from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Monday through Friday. Boise Gallery Of Art The Boise Art Gallery, Boise's only art museum, has grown threefold thanks to the cooperative efforts of Boise City, the non-profit Boise Gallery of Art Association, Fundsy and many interested citizens. Boise's (and the nation's) cultural explosion is in some measure the reason for the Gallery's growth. Our community's visual arts center provides more space to exhibit the best art of today and yesterday, plus a place for artists, students and the public to meet, work, learn and express themselves in the visual arts. The public is invited to visit and participate at the new Boise Gallery of Art, 716 Capitol Boulevard, which is in the heart of Boise's fast-growing cultural center. Adjacent is the Idaho State Historical Museum and across the Boulevard is the Boise Public Library and Information Center. 18 Library and Information Center All Boise City residents may have borrowing privileges at the Boise Public Library and Information Center without charge. Books, art prints, sculpture replicas, records, cassettes, and 8 mm films are among the items which may be checked out from the library. Also available are current and bound periodicals, the government document collection, the Northwest history collection, and the Reference collection. Reference librarians are available during the library's open hours to answer your reference and research questions either in person or by telephone. The library is an important source of information and recreation. The Library's new automated circulation system checks materials in and out using a light pen terminal. Each item is labeled with a computer readable "Zebra number". The system provides speedy and efficient service to locate materials, place reserves, and generate useful statistical reports for library use. The library is open 70 hours each week during the school session. Monday through Thursday the library is open 9 am to 9 pm; Friday and Saturday 9 am to 6 pm; and Sunday, 1 pm to 5 pm except during summer months. For library patrons who cannot conveniently come to the library, bookmobile service is provided on a regular schedule. The library is located at 715 Capitol Boulevard, just across from Julia Davis Park. Boise Air Terminal The Boise Air Terminal is classified as a Small Hub Airport and is one of the finest aviation facilities in the Northwest. The parallel runway system allows joint civil-military use and provides excellent safety factors in the separation of large and small aircraft, turbine and conventional powered aircraft. The longest runway is 9,767 feet. This runway was reconstructed for strength and a friction course added to improve the runway. The ILS and RVR were moved to Runway lOR and Taxiway "R" was completed during this year, also the installation of airport surveillance radar. The Airport Terminal Building provides second level loading, with two nose loading devices and nine gate positions. The Security check area has an X-ray device to screen carry-on baggage thereby speeding up the flow of passengers. F .A.A. Security Requirements are accomplished by use of a sterile concourse plan on the second level concourse. The terminal is large enough to handle expanded use of ticket lobby, waiting lobby and houses coffee shop, kitchen and restaurant on the lower level, flight service station, six rental car companies, concession and game area, aviation weather information, F .A.A. Office and baggage claim carousel facilities. A 750 car parking facility is available. The Fire Crash Station has been enlarged to a five bay station with two additional pieces of fire crash equipment. A new 100-foot tower has been completed and is in operation. A doubling of the size of the baggage claiming area with one additional baggage carousel is being accomplished this year. United and Hughes Air West provide over 36 schedules per day and Sun Valley Key and Cascade Airways provide scheduled air taxi service. Non-stop service is provided to Chicago, San Francisco, Salt Lake City, Seattle, Portland, Twin Falls, Idaho Falls, Lewiston, Spokane and Sun Valley. For flight information call United, Hughes Air West, Sun Valley Key and Cascade Airways. Aircraft sales, rental, maintenance and agricultural spraying is provided by Boise Air Service, Morrison-Knudsen Company, Simplot Aviation, Inc., Gem State Aviation, Gaige Aviation and Idaho He 1 i copters, Inc. Military operations include Idaho Army and Air National Guard headquarters and units. Aircraft utilized by United and Hughes Air West are DC-8, 727, DC-9; the military utilize RF4C's and HUlA ahd OH58 helicopters. 21 Finance Finance and Administration exercises general supervision over all offices of the city regarding the proper management of fiscal concerns. Under the direction of the Council, this department coordinates the preparation of the annual budget estimating the probable amount of money necessary for all purposes for which an appropriation is to be made and an estimate of the total revenue anticipated during the next fiscal year. This department also provides supervision and technical assistance in the development of Municipal financial planning techniques, revenue forecasts, debt administration, capital improvement planning, economic analysis and cost studies. COMPUTER SYSTEMS Computer Systems is a department within a department. In 197 4, the City of Boise began investigating the use of computer hardware to handle a number of city functions. With the assistance of the Boise Center for Urban Research, a joint City of Boise/Boise State University study group, it was determined that the Modcomp mini-computer would best handle the city's data processing needs. The Modcomp was installed in November, 1975 and now processes all accounting, including payroll, cash flow, projections, and trash and sewer billings. Future applications call for in-depth computer utilization by the department of public works in monitoring treatment plant facilities. The Modcomp currently has five terminals situated throughout city departments and eventually will go to thirty. Annual operating costs of the mini-computer are offset by savings in personnel and time requirements of manual systems. The computer is temporarily being housed in the Idaho building 22 until completion of the new city administration building. URBAN RESEARCH The Boise Center for Urban Research has undertaken several other studies in addition to the computer research. It was assigned three projects by the Boise City Council in 1975; a citizen survey on a wide range of subjects, a population migration study, and a possible city-county regional data center. During 1976, the Center has been asked to study city department productivity, alternatives to present property taxes, alternatives to Boise's solid waste utilization program, zoning changes on ground water, another citizen's survey, and continue its study of the regional data center. Funding for the Boise Center for Urban Research is being provided by Federal grants. City Clerk The City Clerk prepares the weekly City Council Meeting Agenda, attends each of their meetings and keeps a record of all their proceedings. Also, he is the custodian of all the records of the city not otherwise provided for by law. For a nominal fee, he can furnish a certified copy of any records, papers or documents on file. Information relating to the following items can be obtained by calling the City Clerk's Office. Licenses Directory Service Council Meeting Agendas Morris Hill Cemetery Lots Public Hearings City Elections City Records Certification of Documents Accounting Accounting provides technical direction over City accounting procedures, systems, and functions to verify and produce timely financial information and special reports. This plus emphasis on proper controls for keeping and maintaining the real and personal property records of the City provides better inventory controls, management information for budgeting decisions, and more complete coverage of the City's assets for insurance purposes. The department evaluates the City's needs and resources for data processing, and effects coordination with the County as needed. In summary, this office acts as the in-house City Auditor. City Treasury The Division of the Treasury and Purchasing is headed by the City Treasurer who shall generally be responsible for (1) receipt, deposit and investment of all City monies and the records associated therewith, (2) keeping a bond register, ( 3) acting as Purchasing Agent, (4) real and personal property insurance program for the City, (5) central services printing shop, and (6) parking meter operations. Personnel The Personnel Department has responsibility for centralized personnel functions such as: recruitment and selection procedures, maintenance of all personnel records, enrollment of eligible employees in and adminstration of retirement and insurance programs, preparation of regular and special informational and statistical reports Personnel assists and advises employees in the maximum utilization of every benefit to which they are entitled. Also, they maintain employees' salary and benefit programs competitive within the local economy. The department's goal is to continue to develop in a way that will relate employees to productivity and build individual and organizational capabilities through improved personnel selection and evaluation. City Attorney The City legal staff is composed of two secretaries and four attorneys. The City Attorney concerns himself primarily with the civil and corporate functions of the City. The three assistants are responsible for criminal prosecution and the enforcement of the Boise City Ordinances, although they are used more and more for assistance in the civil and corporate areas. Safety The Safety Department of Boise City assists all other city departments by investigation of vehicle and personal injuries and recommends corrective measures to prevent similar accidents; monitoring of safety procedures of the employee work habits and working conditions; plus conducting safety sessions on the use of tools and instruments, first aid classes, defensive driving courses and meeting OSHA standards. These actions help control equipment and material loss; reduce personnel injuries and suffering; and result in the saving of thousands of dollars of unneeded expense to the City. The Safety office is on the fourth floor of the library at 715 Capitol Blvd. Information and Services The Citizens Assistance Officer aids the public by providing information, handling requests with a minimum of inconvenience, and where possible, taking quick action to satisfy complaints. The ultimate goal is to reduce citizen frustration to a minimum, provide one-stop service on all inquiries and engender a higher degree of satisfaction with the services provided by City. 23 24 Boise State University One of the institutions that the City of Boise can be particularly proud of is Boise State University. Founded as a junior college in 1932, BSU achieved university status February 22, 197 4. Now Idaho's largest school of higher learning, BSU offers students nearly 50 undergraduate degrees as well as two areas of graduate study. Spring term enrollment was 10,270. BSU offers students a wide range of educational opportunities including a new four-year program in nursing, numerous vocational-technical educational skills, and schools in business, education, arts & sciences and health science. Boise State University continues to change and expand to meet the needs of the community. A firm believer in innovation and quality teaching, BSU has made excellent teaching its foremost mission. To continue to meet the needs of Boise and Idaho as well, the BSU campus is constantly undergoing change. Six construction programs are slated for 1976. They include phase II of the Science-Education Building, a heavy mechanics Vo-Tech Building, a Pedestrian Mall with foot bridge over the Boise River, a Maintenance Building, and completion of the Special Events Center. Building Department The Building Department is charged with the duty of providing for that aspect of public safety and welfare which relates to the construction and maintenance of all buildings or structures within the city. Enforcement of the Uniform Building Code, the Boise City Zoning Ordinance, and the issuance of required permits, along with inspections and recordkeeping, are its primary functions. There are forty-seven people employed by the Building Department. Twenty-two of these employees are engaged in services which have to do with remodeling and new construction of housing and commercial buildings. Twenty-five perform tasks related to maintaining, up-grading, rehabilitating and relocating existing housing. The two spheres of activity are commonly referred to as the Codes Division and the Housing Division of the Building Department. Starting as a small department in the late 1800's and growing quickly after World War II with Boise City's adoption of the Uniform Building Code, the Building Department has contributed to the safety and welfare of Boise residents for over three-quarters of a century. The Building Department is located on the fourth floor of the new library at 715 S. Capitol Blvd. Calls may be placed to 342-4621 ext. 322. Codes Modern codes provide for a necessary and reasonable degree of protection from fire, natural disasters, blight, deterioration, and improper construction methods. Standards for Boise's construction projects are developed by the International Conference of Building Officials headquartered in Whittier, California. This independently owned non-profit corporation's membership includes building officials from throughout the United States. Associate membership provides for representation from nearly every segment of the construction industry. Under this leadership, Boise has available professional evaluation of most new materials and methods of installation available. Codes used by Boise City are performance codes as opposed to specification codes. There is a broad spectrum of Boise citizenry represented on the boards which review and make recommendations on these codes to the Mayor and Council. Ten separate boards work with the Building Department on the various code boards and boards of appeal. Housing In sharp contrast to many U.S. cities, Boise may be unique in not having a slum area. Slum areas generally must give way to major overhauls such as clearing away all structures and rebuilding new multi-story residential or commercial buildings. In the process, much of the historic character of a community is cleared away too. While Boise has some neighborhoods with a relative abundance of substandard dwellings, virtually none qualify for a wholesale sweep by the wrecking ball. Thus Boise is particularly well suited for a housing rehabilitation program. By repairing substandard homes in older neighborhoods, we revitalize the neighborhoods, resulting in maintenance of property values and general stabilization of the area, making it a more desirable location in which to live. Boise's rehabilitation program has seen some 80 homes completed, and projections call for approximately 200 completions per year over the next three years with current pace at 20 homes per month. 25 ------- - -- --- 26 - - - Emergency Services The Ada County - Boise Department of Emergency Services, previously Ada-Boise Civil Defense, is responsible for preparation, testing and implementing the local emergency plan. The plan provides detailed check lists to be followed in the event of natural or man-caused disasters such as floods, earthquakes, storms, major accidents, civil disorders or fires. Tasks for County Commissioners, City Councils, Mayors, fire agencies, law enforcement, health, welfare, public information, public works, rescue, highway and other agencies are identified. The purpose of the Ada County-Boise Emergency Services is to provide for the maximum protection of life and property and to prevent, minimize, repair and recover from injury and damage due to any disaster. Offices are located at 306 Idaho Building and will relocate to the joint City-County-State Law Enforcement Center in 1977. Public Works The Public Works Department is the engineer for the City and acts as a service department to other City functions. Public Works is responsible for the operation and maintenance of: 1. The sanitary sewer lines of the City. 2. Sewage treatment plants. 3. The City Shops, which maintain all the City vehicles. 4. The radio and electronics communication systems of City Departments. 5. Street lighting. 6. Sanitation inspection As engineer for the City, the Department: 1. Maintains maps and air photos showing streets, properties, Green Belt, etc. 2. Assigns house numbers. 3. Maintains maps for the City. 4. Reviews new subdivisions and rezone requests. 5. Coordinates with agencies in engineering aspects such as ACHD, AGOG, Green Belt, Ditch Safety, etc. For new sewers, sewer stoppages, street lights, ditch covering, weeds or other problems listed above. Administrative offices are located on the fourth floor of the library at 715 Capitol Boulevard. 27 Communications The City of Boise Communications Department is a service organization for the other city departments, responsible primarily for the installation and maintenance of the city's two-way radio communications system. Maintenance responsibilities include such other electronic equipment as police radars, intercom systems, sound and P.A. systems, electronic sirens and video and audio recording equipment. This department is also working on the design for communications to include 911 for the new Joint Law Enforcement facility. City Shops One of the least publicized departments of the City of Boise is the Repair and Maintenance Shops located at 825 South 17th Street. The Shop is fully equipped for servicing and maintaining some 300 pieces of mobile equipment ranging from Cushman scooters to heavy-duty Caterpillar road graders, from high performance Police cars to five -ton snow removal equipment used at Municipal Airport. Sewer Division The duty of this utility of the City is to collect and treat all contaminated water within the city limits of Boise. There are approximately 165 miles of sewer collection lines ranging in size from 8" to 42". 28 The biological treatment plant, a $6 million facility, is located at 602 Lander Street. It produces effluent that meets United States Environmental Protection Agency and Idaho State Health Water Quality Standards. Expansion of the Lander plant, construction of the new West Boise Treatment Plant (below) and a major connector and trunk lines were approved by voters in a $4.5-million bond election in May, 1974. Phase I is expected to be completed in 1976 on $7 -million of contracts. Boards And Commissions Many citizens of Boise give their services on City Boards and Commissions without pay. The assistance and guidance in city government by these civic-minded and generous persons is invaluable. Their reports and recommendations to the Administrative branch help solve the problems which constantly confront a city of this size. Membership Aesthetics Review Board .................................. 19 Airport Commission ....................................... 5 Bicentennial Commission .................................. 20 Board of Adjustment ...................................... 5 Board of Appeals - Uniform Sign Code ........................ 3 Board of Appraisers - Sewer Service Charge .................... 5 Board of Electrical Examiners ............................... 3 Board of Examiners and Appeals ............................. 5 Board of Park Commissioners ................................ 7 Boise Housing Authority ................................... 5 Building Code Committee .................................. 8 Boise Redevelopment Agency ............................... 5 Civil Service Commission ................................... 3 Design Review Board ...................................... 7 Fire Prevention Code ...................................... 5 Fort Boise Community Center Board .......................... 9 Garbage and Refuse Board of Review .......................... 5 Gas Code Examining Board ................................. 3 Greenbelt Commission .................................... 15 Housing Advisory and Appeals Board ......................... .4 Library Board ............................................ 5 License Commission ....................................... 9 Water Study Commission ................................... 8 Parking Commission ....................................... 7 Parking and Transportation Committee .................... · ... 11 Performing Arts Commission ................................ 7 Planning-Zoning Commission ................................ 9 Plumbing Fixture and Materials Board ......................... 5 Recreation Committee .................................... 13 Regional Planning Committee ............................... 3 Safety Committee ....................................... 22 Sewer Commission ........................................ 8 Smoke Abatement Committee ............................... 2 Sign Code Committee ...................................... 3 Transportation Committee .................................. 5 Dia I For Service Ada Council of Governments Airport Manager Art Gallery Building Department Housing and Relocation Inspections Bus Cemetery (Morris Hill) City Attorney City Auditor City Clerk City Finance City Planner City Treasurer Community Development County Commissioners Drivers License Dog Pound Drug Abuse Emergency Services Fire Department: Fire Other Garbage Pickup Golf Course Municipal Health (County) Dept. Housing Division Information & Services Landscape Library Landfill (Hidden Hollow) Mayor's Office Marshall's Office Magistrate Court Marriage License Mental Health Center Emergency Fort Orchard Municipal Systems Parks Department Picnic Shelter Band Shell Fireplaces and Picnic Parking Meter Maintenance Parking Tickets Personnel Department Police Department Emergency Other Property Taxes Public Works Purchasing Agent Recreation Department Safety Sanitation Inspector Sewer Engineer Sewer Billing Streets Street Lights Out Trash Billing Trash Pickup Trees Vital Statistics Voting Information Water (Boise Water) Weeds Welfare Department Zoning Zoo 384-8950 342-4621 ext. 220 345-8330 342-4621 ext. 325 342-4621 ext. 322 336-3300 342-4621 ext. 275 342-4621 ext. 235 342-4621 ext. 296 342-4621 ext. 231 342-4621 ext. 269 384-8950 342-4621 ext. 270 345-9400 384-8700 384-8720 343-3451 336-1630 384-8945 384-8945 343-4623 345-1265 343-5661 375-5211 342-4621 ext. 325 342-4621 ext. 224 342-4621 ext. 200 345-1820 384-8968 342-4621 ext. 221 384-8916 384-8921 384-8980 342-5671 384-3132 375-2113 342-4621 ext. 331 342-4621 ext. 276 342-4621 ext. 217 342-4621 ext. 276 342-4'621 ext. 203 342-4621 ext. 270 342-4621 ext. 299 342-4621 ext. 215 345-8200 342-2617 384-8791 342-4621 ext. 315 342-4621 ext. 270 342-4621 ext. 217 342-4621 ext. 340 384-8967 342-4621 ext. 315 342-4621 ext. 317 345-9711 345-7210 342-4621 ext. 308 345-1265 342-4621 ext. 284 384-2493 384-8980 345-3100 342-4621 ext. 315 384-8926 384-8950 342-4621 ext. 274 I .. , :...------ 1 ~ ~· .. t,•. (., I . J •• a. .. ! .. . ,, f ' . . . ;. ·! '( '" -\,.·.) )'I' .. . ~t.i ': . ' . ": . :: ~J; . . .. . ..• I J - • \ ,..1 ' '.. ... ... _ ..... .... ' · T .• • - - •,1 · ) •. 1 .•• .,.,_..... ·• ~ . • ~- . ..:.- ' -.r.. .,_ A 1975 Dedication · Shoreline Park in the Boise River Greenbelt Boise is the gateway to the Sawtooth Mountains and numerous lakes and rivers. Boise's elevation is 2,7 39 feet above sea level. AV. DAILY TEMP. Maximum Mean Minimum BOISE CLIMATE SUMMER 90.5 74.8 59.1 WINTER 34.6 27.3 19.9 ANNUAL 62.4 50.8 39.1 Annual precipitation averages 11.48 inches. Average summer humidity at noon 41. Nights cool. ORIGINAL SEAL- BOISE CITY |
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