State legislators joined the Boise Metro Chamber’s Annual Legislative Forum to share insights on policy priorities, infrastructure investments and affordability ahead of the 2026 Idaho legislative session.
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Panelists discussed water, broadband, transportation, housing and energy as key areas shaping Idaho’s economic future and quality of life.

Water policy and long-term infrastructure
Water remains one of Idaho’s most pressing policy issues as demand continues to grow across agricultural, residential and industrial users. Legislators emphasized the need for conservation, recharge and retention projects, along with legislative action to address long-standing allocation challenges.

Panelists noted that “water is the one resource every living organism depends on, and protecting it requires long-term planning and investment.”

Lawmakers highlighted recent appropriations for water infrastructure planning and signaled continued policy discussions during the upcoming session.

Broadband expansion and digital access
Broadband infrastructure was framed as essential to Idaho’s economy, health care and workforce, particularly in rural communities. Legislators discussed state and federal funding programs, evolving technology options and the role of satellite and wireless connectivity.

Speakers shared that “internet access today is as critical as highways and utilities for modern communities.”

Concerns were raised about affordability and sustainability as technology evolves and infrastructure requires ongoing upgrades.

Transportation investments and economic growth
Transportation infrastructure remains a priority as Idaho’s population growth continues to outpace roadway capacity. Panelists highlighted major projects underway across the state and the role of transportation in business attraction, safety and quality of life.

The forum underscored that “efficient transportation networks expand housing options, support economic development and improve daily life for residents.”

Panelists also noted that delaying infrastructure projects increases long-term costs and can lead to higher local tax burdens.

Housing, land use and affordability
Affordable housing emerged as a central concern, with legislators discussing zoning reform, public-private partnerships and potential adjustments to property tax policy.

Panelists emphasized that “there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and communities need flexibility to address local housing needs.”

Infrastructure investments were also linked to affordability, with improved transportation expanding access to more housing options across the region.

Energy demand and resiliency
Energy infrastructure and resiliency were highlighted as growing concerns, with electricity demand expected to rise significantly over the next decade. Legislators discussed generation, transmission and workforce development, along with the importance of supporting research and innovation.

Panelists shared that “additional generation and transmission capacity will be critical to avoid future reliability challenges.”

Looking ahead
Throughout the discussion, legislators emphasized long-term planning, sustainable funding and technology adoption as critical to Idaho’s continued growth.

A recurring theme was that “the infrastructure decisions made today will determine affordability, competitiveness and quality of life for future generations.”
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The Boise Metro Chamber opened the year with a strong turnout at January’s Business After Hours hosted by First Interstate Bank. Members gathered at the downtown branch for an evening focused on connecting with peers and learning more about the bank’s role in supporting the local business community.

First Interstate Bank’s team greeted attendees and highlighted the company’s commitment to serving families and businesses across the Treasure Valley. Guests had the chance to meet bank leaders, explore available financial services and hear how the organization continues to invest in regional economic growth.

The event brought together professionals from a wide mix of industries, creating a lively setting for conversations and new introductions. Chamber members exchanged ideas, shared upcoming plans and found opportunities to collaborate as the new year got underway.
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The Chamber thanks First Interstate Bank for hosting a welcoming and informative evening and for its continued dedication to the community.

BOISE, Idaho – The Boise Metro Chamber is proud to announce its 2026 Executive Committee and Board of Directors. The Boise Metro Chamber is the only five-star accredited chamber in Idaho.

“I am constantly impressed by the commitment and passion of our board," said Bobbi-Jo Meuleman, President and CEO of the Boise Metro Chamber. "Their dedication to advancing our business community, sharing their expertise, and investing their time and resources makes a real difference in shaping the future of the Treasure Valley.”

The 2026 Executive Committee includes:

• Jim Shipman, Colliers Idaho, Board Chair
• Rebecca Hupp, Boise Airport, Chair-elect
• Bobbi-Jo Meuleman, Boise Metro Chamber, President and CEO
• Hart Gilchrist, Intermountain Gas, Treasurer
• Matthew Walters, Elam & Burke, Of Counsel
• Emily Baker, Portman Square Group, At-large Chair
• Gerald Hunter, Idaho Housing & Finance Association, At-large Chair
• Paul Zurlo, Blue Cross of Idaho Health Service Inc., At-large Chair

The following will serve on the Chamber’s 2026 Board of Directors:

• Tommy Ahlquist, Ahlquist
• Christina Hardesty, Amalgamated Sugar Company
• Sean Briggs, Boise Airport (2026 Visit Boise Board Chair)
• Neil Nelson, E.S.I. Construction
• Tom Mortell, Hawley Troxell Ennis & Hawley LLP
• Laura Smith, ICCU
• Erin Anderson, Idaho Botanical Garden
• Jennifer Swindell, Idaho Education News
• Adam Richins, Idaho Power Company
• Ken Dey, Simplot
• Jessica Hagan, KTVB News Group
• Mike Smith, Lamb Weston
• April Arnzen, Micron Technology Inc. & Micron Foundation
• Dan Price, Mountain West Bank (Executive Board Past Chair)
• Jeff Caywood, PetIQ
• Mark Ruszcyk, Regence
• Sandee Gehrke, St. Luke’s Health System
• Nate Brazier, Stinker Stores
• Allison Bruce, Talent Spark (2026 BVEP Chair)
• Angela Taylor, Indulge Boise / The DIGNITAS Agency
• Alison Patt, Thomas Cuisine
• Michael Ballantyne, TOK Commercial Real Estate
• David McFayden, Trinity Health, West Region
• Todd Gill, United Heritage Insurance
• Laura Kendall, Velma V. Morrison Center for the Performing Arts
• Kelly Olson, Western States Equipment

Ex-officio members of the Board of Directors include:

• Cassie Graves, Gemini Insight, 2026 Boise Young Professionals president
• Gabe Brenner, City of Boise, 2026 Leadership Boise president

The Boise Metro Chamber is excited to share its top 10 stories of 2025
 
1. 5-Star Accreditation
The Boise Metro Chamber applied for re-accreditation this year and once again earned a 5-Star
designation, remaining the only 5-Star Accredited chamber in Idaho and one of the top chambers in the nation. Fewer than 3 percent of chambers across the United States hold this distinction, which recognizes excellence in governance, advocacy, programming and community impact. The accreditation underscores the Chamber’s continued leadership and commitment to serving the region’s business community.
 
2. Leadership Boise turns 50
Leadership Boise celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of developing community leaders across the Treasure Valley. The milestone was celebrated alongside the 2025 graduating class, highlighting the program’s long-standing impact on the region.
 
3. Starch Madness stays in Boise
Visit Boise helped secure Starch Madness’ continued presence in Boise through 2031. The event attracts thousands of visitors each year, contributing significantly to the local economy and showcasing Boise as a premier destination for unique sporting events.
 
4. Micron adds a second fabrication plant
BVEP supported the announcement of Micron’s second fabrication plant in Boise, a major investment in the Treasure Valley. This expansion is backed by CHIPS Act funding: Micron Idaho’s grant was amended to include the second Boise fab, as part of up to $6.1 billion in CHIPS funding.
 
5. Jaialdi festival returns
The Basque Jaialdi Festival celebrated its return in 2025, bringing a major cultural event to Boise after years of anticipation. Visit Boise supported the festival’s logistics and promotions, and the Basque delegation — including Imanol Pradales, president of the Basque Country — met with local city leaders during their visit.
 
6. D.C. fly-in returns
After a long hiatus, the Chamber hosted its D.C. Fly-in, reconnecting Treasure Valley business leaders with federal policymakers. Attendees met with all four of Idaho’s congressional representatives and toured key federal facilities, including Amazon’s headquarters and Amtrak operations at Union Station.
 
7. Board chair transition
The Boise Metro Chamber thanks Garrett Lofto for his time as board chair and welcomes Jim Shipman as the 2026 board chair. Lofto’s leadership left a lasting mark on the Chamber and the local business community, and Shipman steps in to continue guiding the organization forward.
 
8. Annual gala and auction
The Chamber’s Annual Gala and Auction raised $10,000 for Trailhead Boise, spotlighting the organization’s efforts to cultivate entrepreneurship and business education in local schools. Featured businesses included Idaho Barkery, Lovevery, ERTH Beverage Co. and Soleni Shoes, highlighting the diversity and innovation of the local business community.
 
9. Leadership Boise Academy expands
Leadership Boise Academy welcomed 10 new high schools into the program this year, boosting youth engagement across the region. This year’s class will include more than 50 students, giving even more young people the opportunity to develop leadership skills and community connections.
 
10. Local business and economic growth
BVEP saw strong momentum in 2025, engaging in more than 35 new projects across office, manufacturing and supplier sectors. The organization hosted over a dozen site visits from prospective companies. Beth Ineck, director of Boise Valley Economic Development, was also recognized as one of the top 50 economic developers in the United States.