ISU and City of Chubbuck Proclaim Bengal Community Partnership Agreement

"Even though ISU's physical footprint does not reside in the City of Chubbuck, the university's influence extends into our entire community," Chubbuck Mayor Rodney Burch said during a Chubbuck City Council meeting Wednesday, where council members approved a new agreement between the two entities.

The Bengal Community Partnership agreement creates a multi-agency cabinet made up of five members from each of the partners. President Wagner and Mayor Rodney Burch will serve as co-chairs of the group, who will work to identify and address community issues and opportunities collaboratively. The agreement, similar to one approved by the Pocatello City Council last week, solidifies a growing partnership between the city and the university.

Sharing a story about visiting ISU's iconic Red Hill pillars with his grandson recently, Mayor Burch compared ISU to a lighthouse, offering light, guidance and hope to not only students, but the community as a whole.

"This agreement benefits more than just our individual organizations, it benefits the needs of the individuals both on campus and in our community," Burch said. "We honor Idaho State University for being a lighthouse in our community for over 125 years. You provide a constant source of light, hope and encouragement and we are honored to walk the path with you."

President Robert Wagner shared that when he first started as president for ISU, his first home was in Chubbuck, as the University house near the Pocatello campus was undergoing improvements at that time.

"Chubbuck is a special place. I am impressed by its growth and I appreciate how it has not lost its sense of community," said Wagner. "It is a place where energy and opportunity for new things are happening, but people still know their neighbors and care deeply about where they live."

Recognizing the need to adopt an official city and university partnership agreement, Wagner emphasized the already established relationship between the two organizations.

"Throughout Chubbuck there are Idaho State University alumni, employees and students who are raising families here, running businesses here, serving their neighbors here, and helping shape the future of this city," Wagner said. "I want everyone in Chubbuck to know that Idaho State University is committed to this community."