Research

I study human service policies and organizations using a mix of quantitative and qualitative methodologies, including interviews, surveys, and data analysis.

Reports

2026

McGinnis-Brown, L., Lang, H., Spalding, K., & Fry, V. (2026) “Measuring the Impacts of Zoning Reform in the City of Boise: A Methodological Framework” Boise, ID: Boise State University

In 2023, the City of Boise adopted a new, modern zoning code - the first comprehensive update in over half a century. This historic rewrite was driven by the City’s commitment to creating a community where all Boiseans can thrive. As Boise has grown and evolved, the City identified the previous code no longer met the needs of residents or reflected the City’s values around equity, housing choice, sustainability, and livability. The modern zoning code supports the vision outlined in Blueprint Boise, the City’s comprehensive plan. It reflects a comprehensive theory of change designed to create a more affordable, diverse, and livable city. To ensure the new zoning code delivers on its promises, the City has partnered with Boise State University’s Idaho Policy Institute (IPI) to develop a robust and evidence-based evaluation methodology. This methodology will allow the City to assess how the zoning code is influencing key outcomes over time.

City of Boise, Idaho

McGinnis-Brown, L., & Onaindia, M. (2026) “Western Nonprofit Compensation & Benefits Survey: Analysis & Reporting” Boise, ID: Boise State University

IPI contracted with nonprofit associations across the western US to design and field a compensation & benefits survey of their collective nonprofit members. IPI conducted analyses, built dashboards with results, and communicated results to partner organizations.

Nonprofit Associations of Oregon, Washington, Montana, and Utah, the Foraker Group (Alaska), the Hawai'i Alliance of Nonprofit Organizations & Idaho Nonprofit Center

McGinnis-Brown, L., & May, M. (2026) “New Idahoan Philanthropy Survey: Analysis & Reporting” Boise, ID: Boise State University

Idaho Policy Institute contracted with the Idaho Community Foundation to conduct a representative survey of Idahoans exploring why Idahoans choose to work with and donate to nonprofits. The research looks closely at how motivations differ between long-time Idaho residents and newcomers to the state. Findings were shared with the Idaho Community Foundation in the form of an executive summary and interactive dashboard.

Idaho Community Foundation

2025

May, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., & Fowler, L. (2025) “Eleventh Annual Statewide Idaho Policy Survey Report” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The Eleventh Annual Idaho Public Policy Survey was conducted November 8-17, 2025, and surveyed 1,000 adults who currently live in Idaho. The sample is representative of the state’s population, both geographically and demographically, with a margin of error of +/- 3.1%. The random sample included respondents from 42 of Idaho’s 44 counties, although residents in all counties had the potential of being selected. Responses were slightly weighted to ensure representativeness of Idaho’s demographics. The survey covered a wide variety of topics, including the economy, taxes, elections, education, housing, public lands, energy, and healthcare. GS Strategy Group fielded the survey by cell phone (38%), landline phone (10%), online (40%), and text message (12%).

School of Public Service

May, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., Onaindia, M., & Lang, H. (2025) “Idaho Alive at 25 Young Driver Education Program Evaluation” Boise, ID: Boise State University

Since 2009, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) has implemented the Alive at 25 national program in Idaho. Each year, thousands of young Idaho drivers participate in the program to learn how to be better and safer on the road. To date, the impact of this program on driver behaviors and attitudes is unknown. ITD contracted Boise State University’s Idaho Policy Institute (IPI) to study the program’s implementation over the past 13 years to better understand how the course is delivered in Idaho and how similar courses are implemented in other states. IPI analyzed data collected through 24 qualitative interviews, 24 years of crash and citation data, and three quantitative surveys of Alive at 25 course participants. Analysis suggests Alive at 25 is viewed favorably by both instructors and participants; demand for virtual course options is under- served; method of instruction does not appreciably impact student attitudes or behaviors; certain elements increase the likelihood of success in behavioral change programs; Alive at 25 curriculum is in needed-flux; the program’s impact on citation and crash occurrence is short-term; and attitudinal changes among participants appear similarly short-term.

Idaho Transportation Department

May, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., Onaindia, M., & Lang, H. (2025) “2025 DMV Customer Satisfaction Survey” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The Idaho Transportation Department’s Division of Motor Vehicles underwent major system modernization efforts over the past decade, including expansion of online service delivery and improvements to its DMV web portal. Boise State University’s Idaho Policy Institute assesses whether system changes are meeting customer needs and expectations to better inform prioritization of future technological improvements. This study’s analysis is informed by informal interviews with current DMV personnel, DMV transaction data, and a public opinion survey to a representative random sample of 1,000 Idaho adults. Findings indicate Idahoans score the DMV highly, with 73% rating it “excellent” or “good,” citing friendly and helpful staff and short wait times as the most positive elements of their experience. The study concludes with recommendations related to strategies for improving customer satisfaction levels, as well as DMV communication and marketing efforts.

Idaho Transportation Department

McGinnis-Brown, L., Lang, H., Fry, V., & Spalding, K. (2025) “South Central Idaho Housing 2025” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The South Central Idaho Housing Analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of housing availability and affordability across Blaine, Camas, Cassia, Gooding, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, and Twin Falls counties. Commissioned by the Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA) and conducted by the Idaho Policy Institute (IPI), this study offers an integrated analysis of quantitative housing data and qualitative insights from regional stakeholders to inform housing policy, investment, and development.

Idaho Housing & Finance Association

Fry, V., McGinnis-Brown, L., Hall, M., & Spalding, K. (2025) “New Path Community Housing Annual Evaluation 2024.” Boise, ID: Boise State University

New Path Community Housing is a 40-unit, single-site, Permanent Supportive Housing with a Housing First approach (PSH/Housing First) program in Ada County, Idaho. New Path’s evidence-based program is designed to address specific issues related to chronic homelessness including high utilization of emergency medical and detox services, frequent contact with the criminal justice system, and compromised overall personal well-being. As program evaluator, Idaho Policy Institute oversees all evaluation activities and works closely with New Path partners to design data collection strategies, monitoring, and reporting for this program. The evaluation objectives are to: Measure the program’s ability to meet stated goals and objectives, andInform project partners’ programmatic decisions. This evaluation measures the impact of the Housing First model on New Path residents in four outcome categories: health, criminal justice, housing, and well-being.

City of Boise, Idaho

May, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., Fry, V., & Bertelsen, A. (2025) “Tenth Annual Statewide Idaho Policy Survey Report & Dashboard” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The Tenth Annual Idaho Public Policy Survey was conducted November 9-14, 2024, and surveyed 1,000 adults who currently live in Idaho. The sample is representative of the state’s population, both geographically and demographically, with a margin of error of +/- 3.1%. The sample included respondents in 42 of Idaho’s 44 counties. Responses were weighted to ensure representativeness of Idaho’s demographics. The survey covered a wide variety of topics, including the economy, taxes, elections, education, housing, and healthcare. GS Strategy Group fielded the survey by cell phone (38%), landline phone (11%), online (40%), and text message (11%).

School of Public Service

2024

Project Lead (2024) “HUD Eviction Protection Grant: Mountain West Data Management & Reporting” Boise, ID: Boise State University

IPI partnered with HUD eviction prevention grantee organizations to collect, refine, and analyze eviction prevention impact data for HUD, in addition to providing quarterly data updates to project partners via dashboards.

Idaho Legal Aid Services, Intermountain Fair Housing Council, Jesse Tree, Montana Legal Services Association, & Utah Legal Services

Project Lead (2024) “Northwest 2024 Nonprofit Compensation & Benefits Survey Reporting & Dashboards.” Boise, ID: Boise State University

IPI contracted with nonprofit associations across the northwest region to design and field a compensation & benefits survey of their collective nonprofit members. IPI conducted analyses, built dashboards with results, and communicated results to partner organizations.

Nonprofit Associations of Oregon, Washington, & Montana, the Foraker Group (Alaska), & Idaho Nonprofit Center

Fry, V., McGinnis-Brown, L., & Larsen, B. (2024) “Idaho Health and Welfare: Treatment and Transitions Program Evaluation 2024” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s (IDHW) Treatment and Transitions Program served individuals with severe mental illness and/or a co-occurring disorder who are experiencing homelessness or housing instability. As the Project Evaluator, Idaho Policy Institute oversaw all evaluation activities and worked closely with IDHW program staff to design data collection strategies, monitoring, and reporting for the program with the objectives to measure the program’s ability to meet its stated goals and objectives, and inform IDHW’s decisions for program improvement. Throughout the course of the program, four enhanced safe and sober houses directly provided 278 Idahoans experiencing severe mental illness and/or co-occurring disorders with stable housing and supportive services. This report serves as final evaluation of the five-year program. (Concludes a five year evaluation, with quarterly and annual reports)

Idaho Department of Health & Welfare

May, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., Fry, V., & Kuisachor, E. (2024) “Ninth Annual Statewide Idaho Policy Survey Report & Dashboard” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The Ninth Annual Idaho Public Policy Survey was conducted November 4-14, 2023, and surveyed 1,007 adults who currently live in Idaho. The sample is representative of the state’s population, both geographically and demographically, with a margin of error of +/- 3.1%. Responses were weighted to ensure representativeness of Idaho’s demographics. The survey covered a wide variety of topics, including the economy, taxes, elections, education, growth, housing, and public safety. GS Strategy Group fielded the survey by cell phone (25%), landline phone (25%), online (40%), and text message (10%).

School of Public Service

2023

Fry, V., McGinnis-Brown, L., & Hall, M. (2023) “New Path Community Housing Annual Evaluation 2022” Boise, ID: Boise State University

New Path Community Housing is a 40-unit, single-site, Permanent Supportive Housing with a Housing First approach (PSH/Housing First) program in Ada County, Idaho. New Path’s evidence-based program is designed to address specific issues related to chronic homelessness including high utilization of emergency medical and detox services, frequent contact with the criminal justice system, and compromised overall personal well-being. As program evaluator, Idaho Policy Institute oversees all evaluation activities and works closely with New Path partners to design data collection strategies, monitoring, and reporting for this program. The evaluation objectives are to: Measure the program’s ability to meet stated goals and objectives, andInform project partners’ programmatic decisions. This evaluation measures the impact of the Housing First model on New Path residents in four outcome categories: health, criminal justice, housing, and well-being.

City of Boise, Idaho

King, L., Lee, J., Gillespie, J., Growette-Bostaph, L., McGinnis-Brown, L., & Kayed, A. (2023) “The Needs of Rural Sexual Assault Survivors in Idaho 2023” Boise, ID: Boise State University

Sexual assault (SA) is a significant public health issue which can result in a variety of consequences such as physical injury, post-traumatic stress disorder, suicidal ideation, and financial strain. In Idaho, a total of 2,045 nonconsensual sexual offenses were reported to police in 2022. However, this figure only includes offenses known to authorities, which given the low reporting rate for sexual assault, is likely an underestimation of its actual occurrence. Post-assault, survivors are faced with a host of legal and non-legal needs. To better understand these needs, Idaho Legal Aid Services (ILAS) contracted with researchers at Boise State University to examine the legal and non-legal needs facing rural SA survivors in Idaho.

The Boise State research team used a mixed methods approach to examine official data sources; previously collected survey data; and semi-structured interviews with victim service providers throughout Idaho. The findings of this study clearly illustrate that SA survivors in Idaho have a variety of needs, including civil legal, other legal, and non-legal needs. Legal assistance was reported as an important and frequently needed service across data sources, including assistance with referrals to attorneys, civil protection orders, custody or divorce, eviction, child protection, and immigration issues. Providers commonly refer clients to ILAS for these kinds of services.

Idaho Legal Aid Services

Co-author [authors unlisted] (2023) “Digital Access for All Idahoans Statewide Plan” Boise, ID: Boise State University

Many Idahoans face barriers to digital access at a time when internet use is increasingly vital to the ability to thrive in every aspect of life like access to health care, education, business, and government services. The Digital Access for All Idahoans (DAAI) plan documents pervasive barriers to digital access and proposes a visionary strategy to end digital access divides that prevent many Idahoans from accessing crucial technology. The DAAI plan will increase broadband affordability for Idahoans, as well as improve digital skills, cybersecurity awareness, access to devices, technical support, and access to public services.

Idaho Commission for Libraries

Hall, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., Kayed, A., Neher, T. & Fry, V. (2023) “Community Health Needs Assessment Treasure Valley 2023” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The 2023 Greater Treasure Valley Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) represents an unprecedented partnership to align several independent regional assessments to identify the health needs of more than half of Idaho residents. This collaborative approach utilized a social determinants of health (SDoH), also known as social influencers, framework to determine the top priorities of ten counties in the Greater Treasure Valley region of Idaho. This framework defines health in the broadest sense and recognizes SDoH factors such as employment, housing, and access to health care have an impact on the community’s health. In this report, the Greater Treasure Valley Region includes Ada, Elmore, Boise, Valley, Gem, Adams, Canyon, Washington, Payette, and Owyhee Counties.

Western Idaho Community Health Collaborative

Hall, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., Kayed, A., Neher, T. & Fry, V. (2023) “Community Health Needs Assessment Magic Valley Region 2023” Boise, ID: Boise State University

This Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) aims to identify the health needs of Jerome and Twin Falls Counties in the Magic Valley region of Idaho through a Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) framework, which defines health in the broadest sense and recognizes numerous factors— from employment to housing to access to health care—that have an impact on the community’s health. This report is specifically focused on Twin Falls and Jerome counties.

St. Luke's Health System

Hall, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., Kayed, A., Neher, T. & Fry, V. (2023) “Community Health Needs Assessment Malheur County 2023” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The 2023 Malheur County Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) aims to identify the health needs of Malheur County, Oregon through a social influencer, or determinant, of health (SIoH) framework. This framework defines health in the broadest sense and recognizes SIoH factors such as employment, housing, and access to health care have an impact on the community’s health.

Saint Alphonsus Medical System

Hall, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., Kayed, A., Neher, T. & Fry, V. (2023) “Community Health Needs Assessment Wood River Valley Region 2023” Boise, ID: Boise State University

This Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) aims to identify the health needs of various populations in Blaine County, Idaho through a Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) framework, which defines health in the broadest sense and recognizes numerous factors—from employment to housing to access to health care—that have an impact on the community’s health.

St. Luke's Health System

Hall, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., Kayed, A., Neher, T. & Fry, V. (2023) “Community Health Needs Assessment Baker County 2023” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The 2023 Baker County Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) aims to identify the health needs of Baker County, Oregon through a social influencer, or determinant, of health (SIoH) framework. This framework defines health in the broadest sense and recognizes SIoH factors such as employment, housing, and access to health care have an impact on the community’s health.

Saint Alphonsus Medical System

McGinnis-Brown, L., Hall, M., Larsen, B., & Fry, V. (2023) “New Path Community Housing Annual Evaluation 2021” Boise, ID: Boise State University

New Path Community Housing is a 40-unit, single-site, Permanent Supportive Housing with a Housing First approach (PSH/Housing First) program in Ada County, Idaho. New Path’s evidence-based program is designed to address specific issues related to chronic homelessness including high utilization of emergency medical and detox services, frequent contact with the criminal justice system, and compromised overall personal well-being. As program evaluator, Idaho Policy Institute oversees all evaluation activities and works closely with New Path partners to design data collection strategies, monitoring, and reporting for this program. The evaluation objectives are to: Measure the program’s ability to meet stated goals and objectives, andInform project partners’ programmatic decisions. This evaluation measures the impact of the Housing First model on New Path residents in four outcome categories: health, criminal justice, housing, and well-being.

City of Boise, Idaho

May, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., & Kuisachor, E. (2023) “Eighth Annual Statewide Idaho Policy Survey Report” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The Eighth Annual Idaho Public Policy Survey was conducted November 10-17, 2022, and surveyed 1,000 adults who currently live in Idaho. The sample is representative of the state’s population, both geographically and demographically, with a margin of error of +/- 3.1%. The survey covered a wide variety of topics, including the economy, state budgeting, taxes, education, growth, housing, the environment, and crime. GS Strategy Group fielded the survey by cell phone (21%), landline phone (21%), online (32%), and text message (27%).

School of Public Service

2022

Hall, M., Kayed, A., & McGinnis-Brown, L. (2022) “Assessing the Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Idahoans” Boise, ID: Boise State University

Over the past two years, Idahoans have experienced challenges like never before. From the spring of 2020, when the first COVID-19 case was detected in Idaho, to today, our community has faced incredible adversity. Yet, Idahoans have demonstrated resilience and care for one another. This report is a supplement to the 2020 Community Health Needs Assessment. An opportunity to see a more holistic picture of how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted Idahoans, and where we can all lean in to better support our neighbors. and benefits of our collective humanity. It brought us together, it tore us apart. It spread great fear but also gave rise to great hope. It took the existing challenges facing the Treasure Valley – health, housing, education, and poverty, among others – and often made them more pronounced. Job losses and childcare capacity changes, and school shutdowns can be especially devastating for low-income families, and the stress of illness can accentuate financial stress. While these pandemic impacts occurred, Idaho’s housing costs continued rising significantly, adding yet another challenge for income-restricted households. It is hard to deny that the pandemic was a time of hardship for many households. However, by making these challenges more visible and more a part of our social conversation the pandemic also created opportunities. The financial assistance provided for struggling families during the pandemic may have helped to mitigate some of the worst possibilities from COVID-19. In addition, the conversations sparked by these challenges may benefit Idaho and the Treasure Valley in the future. Collecting data on humans is always a challenge, and COVID-19 certainly did not improve that challenge. Most data reporting agencies faced delays and complications, making it difficult to get a clear picture of the impact COVID-19 had on different aspects of society. However, as time goes on, obstacles give way, or paths get built around them. This report represents the best efforts to collect the latest data on the impacts of the pandemic on Idaho’s Treasure Valley composed of Ada, Canyon, Elmore, Gem, and Owyhee Counties, with a focus on demographics, poverty, housing, health, and education.

United Way of Treasure Valley

Kayed, A., McGinnis-Brown, L., Larsen, B., & May, M. (2022) “Transfer of Development Rights Programs 2022” Boise, ID: Boise State University

This study explores Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) programs across the United State and their implementation, investigating TDR programming and ordinance development. Some of the key findings from this research include that TDR programs can be effective at preserving agricultural lands as part of a larger toolbox of planning and zoning measures. Broad criteria for successful TDRs include setting specific, clear preservation goals and understanding local real estate markets. Effective TDR incentives include a mix of market-based and regulatory approaches. Intergovernmental TDR agreements are a potential tool to enhance regional collaboration on preservation efforts and are not expressly prohibited by Idaho Code.

Canyon County Development Services Department

Kayed, A., McGinnis-Brown, L., & Fry, V. (2022) “Transportation Safety in Boise, Idaho: Reaching Vision Zero” Boise, ID: Boise State University

Vision Zero is a strategy to eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries, while increasing safe, healthy, equitable mobility for all. Its proactive, preventative approach prioritizes traffic safety as a public health issue in order to prevent traffic injuries and fatalities. However, crashes are often perceived as isolated incidents caused by human errors, rather than being viewed collectively. Examining the dynamics related to crash fatalities and severe injuries through a systems approach can enable identification of overarching safety issues and lead City of Boise to address systemic faults that result in negative outcomes.

City of Boise, Idaho

Fry, V., McGinnis-Brown, L., Kim, C., & May, M. (2022) “Idaho Statewide Housing Analysis” Boise, ID: Boise State University

As Idaho’s population has grown, housing has become more scarce and more expensive. This impacts Idaho households across income brackets and in all 44 counties. It also impacts Idaho’s economy. Cost burdened households have limited spending power and struggle to pay for necessities, such as childcare, healthcare, and groceries. Limited access to housing that is affordable across income levels reduces employers’ ability to attract and retain talent, and also limits greater tax generation, creation of jobs, opportunities for economic development, and increased job productivity.

Idaho Governor's Office

Co-author [authors unlisted] (2022) “2022 State of the [Non-Profit] Sector” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The Idaho Nonprofit Sector collaborated with Idaho Policy Institute to develop and deploy a statewide survey assessing public attitudes toward the nonprofit and private sectors, gauging trust in corporate, foundation, and nonprofit philanthropic efforts.

Idaho Nonprofit Center

May, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., & Fry, V. (2022) “Seventh Annual Statewide Idaho Policy Survey Report” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The Seventh Annual Idaho Public Policy Survey was conducted November 13-21, 2021, and surveyed 1,000 adults who currently live in Idaho. The sample is representative of the state’s population, both geographically and demographically, with a simple random sampling margin of error of +/- 3.1%. The survey covered a wide variety of topics, including growth, housing, transportation, state budgeting, taxes, education, the environment, and COVID-19. GS Strategy Group conducted the survey by cell phone (43%), landline phone (17%), online (30%), and text message (10%).

School of Public Service

2021

Boucher-Browning, A., Hall, M., Kayed, A., McGinnis-Brown, L., & Fry, V. (2021) “Siting Emergency Homeless Shelters: Community Opposition and Support” Boise, ID: Boise State University

In 2020, approximately 4,035 people experienced homelessness in Ada County. This accounts for 44% of all people experiencing homelessness in the state of Idaho. Not all individuals who experience homelessness need shelter services; however, the need for services is only increasing as COVID-19 related housing protections and resources for populations experiencing homelessness disappear. Four emergency homeless shelters currently serve specific populations in the City of Boise. Idaho Youth Ranch’s Hays House serves youth, Boise Rescue Mission’s River of Life serves men while the same organization’s City Light serves women and children, and Interfaith Sanctuary serves men, women, and families with children. Interfaith Sanctuary is seeking to improve their service approach by developing a new emergency shelter facility. Their most recent proposal plans to offer 200 beds as well as on-site supportive services. These services include but are not limited to transportation, medical care, case management, food services, and educational programs. This approach is common among successful shelter systems. While planning the new shelter, community members expressed concern and opposition to the project. This report attempts to address this concern and opposition by answering the following research questions: How have other communities successfully moved through the siting of emergency shelters effectively and collaboratively?How can the siting of a shelter in a community meet the needs of both the community and homelessness response services? The report includes strategies for identifying shelter sites, community engagement ideas, and examples of shelter programs experiencing similar challenges in nearby and peer communities.

City of Boise, Idaho

McGinnis-Brown, L., Osterhout, G., MacPherson-Krutsky, C.,& Brand, B. (2021) “Boise State COVID-19 Tracking Dashboard” Boise, ID: Boise State University

Idaho Policy Institute, the Hazard and Climate Resilience Institute, and Boise State Public Health collaborated to build an online, regularly updated dashboard tracking COVID-19 testing and vaccination statistics.

Boise State University

McGinnis-Brown, L., Hall, M., Larsen, B., & Fry, V. (2021) “New Path Community Housing Annual Evaluation 2020” Boise, ID: Boise State University

New Path Community Housing is a 40-unit, single site, Permanent Supportive Housing with a Housing First approach (PSH/Housing First) program in Ada County, Idaho. New Path’s evidence-based program is designed to address specific issues related to chronic homelessness including high utilization of emergency medical and substance dependence services, frequent contact with the criminal justice system, and compromised overall personal well-being. As program evaluator, Idaho Policy Institute oversees all evaluation activities and works closely with New Path partners to design data collection strategies, monitoring, and reporting for this program. The evaluation objectives are to: Measure the program’s ability to meet stated goals and objectives, andInform project partners’ programmatic decisions. This evaluation measures the impact of the Housing First model on New Path residents in four outcome categories: health, criminal justice, housing, and well-being. Key achievements in New Path’s first two years include: A reduction in emergency services by 60% or 1,372 fewer days,Total savings/cost avoidance of $2,659,021, andAn increase in overall resident well-being.

City of Boise, Idaho

Larsen, B., Hall, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., & Fry, V. (2021) “Evictions in Idaho: Statewide Data for 2020” Boise, ID: Boise State University

IPI completed the second annual Idaho Eviction Study looking at statewide eviction filings for 2020. Data was obtained for all eviction court records from the Idaho Supreme Court. In 2020, 1,893 (1%) of Idaho’s renting households had an eviction filing and 1,127 (.06%) were formally evicted. Overall, eviction filings in court decreased by 30% from 2019. Eviction filings were the lowest in April 2020 due to court closures ordered by the Idaho Supreme Court. The courts reopened in May 2020 followed by a sharp spike in eviction filings and formal evictions. Monthly fluctuations may relate to various policy and aid responses to the coronavirus pandemic, such as statewide court closures, federal eviction moratoriums, unemployment benefits, and emergency rental assistance programs. Because monthly eviction filings are nearing pre-pandemic levels, it is clear that efforts of federal, state, and local programs to mitigate the eviction crisis are unable to help a majority of households facing eviction and housing displacement.

Idaho Policy Institute

Larsen, B. Hall, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., Moss, M., & Fry, V. (2021) “Ada County Peer County Selection” Boise, ID: Boise State University

In collaboration with Ada County, Idaho Policy Institute used a clustering algorithm to determine a set of peer counties for use across County departments. This analysis uses a set of population and demographic variables to identify a group of counties that closely match Ada County’s profile. This peer selection process will help County departments standardize their research about peers and apply lessons learned from these counties into policy and operational decisions throughout County government.

Ada County, Idaho

Author [authors unlisted] (2021) “2020 Oregon Nonprofit Compensation & Benefits Analysis” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The Nonprofit Association of Oregon collaborated with Idaho Policy Institute to develop and deploy a compensation and benefits survey to send to nonprofit organizations across the state. Results were incorporated into an interactive online dashboard for the purpose of informing nonprofit organizational decisionmaking.

Nonprofit Association of Oregon

2020

McGinnis-Brown, L., Osterhout, G., Pape, E., & Fry, V. (2020) “Idaho’s Transportation Infrastructure: Moving Idaho Forward” Boise, ID: Boise State University

Idaho’s transportation system and infrastructure are vital to the state’s economy. The state’s vast network of critical infrastructure, from its roads and bridges to the systems that support transit, bikes, and pedestrians, enables personal freedom and spurs responsible growth in employment, job creation, business retention, and property development. However, Idaho must determine how to properly fund this essential system to ensure it is maintained and accommodates the state’s unprecedented growth. In 2010, a task force appointed by Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter and led by then Lieutenant Governor Brad Little began addressing these issues. In 2011 the group released a report, Modernizing Transportation Funding in Idaho. Since then, the Idaho legislature has passed revenue enhancements, while the state’s population has grown significantly. These changes have spurred a diverse group of stakeholders to re-examine Idaho’s transportation infrastructure and identify alternatives available to meet the needs of the state now and in the future. These stakeholders engaged Idaho Policy Institute, a nonpartisan research organization, to conduct an independent analysis for this report.

Idaho transportation stakeholders

McGinnis-Brown, L., Hall, M., Larsen, B., & Fry, V. (2020) “New Path Community Housing Annual Evaluation 2019” Boise, ID: Boise State University

New Path Community Housing is a 40-unit, single site, Housing First project in Ada County, Idaho. New Path’s evidence-based program is designed to address specific issues related to chronic homelessness including high utilization of emergency medical and detox services, frequent contact with the criminal justice system, and compromised overall personal well-being. As program evaluator, Idaho Policy Institute oversees all evaluation activities and works closely with New Path partners to design data collection strategies, monitoring, and reporting for this program with the objectives to: Measure the program’s ability to meet stated goals and objectives, andInform project partners’ decisions for program improvement. This evaluation measures the impact of the Housing First model on New Path residents in four outcome categories: health, criminal justice, housing, and well-being. Key achievements in New Path’s first year include: A 63% decrease in utilization of emergency services,Total annual savings/cost avoidance of $1,381,386, andAn increase in overall resident well-being.

City of Boise, Idaho

McGinnis-Brown, L., Osterhout, G., Fry, V., Larsen, B., & Hall, M. (2020) “College & Career Advising & Mentoring Program Evaluation 2020” Boise, ID: Boise State University

Idaho’s College and Career Advising and Mentoring Program (Program) is intended to support Idaho’s Local Educational Agencies’ (LEAs) efforts to support Idaho students’ preparation for college and career readiness. In 2019, for the second consecutive year, the Idaho Legislature requested an independent evaluation of the Program. This evaluation, authored by the Idaho Policy Institute (IPI), builds on IPI’s 2019 report and considers the Program’s design, use of funds, effectiveness and other relevant metrics. It also presents an analysis of the Program’s internal strengths and weaknesses, as well as its external opportunities and threats (also known as a SWOT analysis).

Idaho Office of the State Board of Education

Larsen, B., Hall, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., Moss, M., & Fry, V. (2020) “City of Boise: Peer Cities Selection” Boise, ID: Boise State University

In collaboration with the City of Boise (City), the Idaho Policy Institute (IPI) used an objective, statistical approach to determine a set of peer cities for use across City departments. This analysis uses a set of population and demographic variables to identify a group of cities that closely match Boise’s demographic profile. This peer city selection process will help City departments standardize their research about peer cities and apply lessons learned from these cities into policy and operational decisions throughout City government. IPI’s next steps in the peer cities analysis include creating an online dashboard with profiles of each peer city, automating the updating process for variables, and conducting specific service level comparisons across the peer cities.

City of Boise, Idaho

Hall, M., Larsen, B., Osterhout, G., McGinnis-Brown, L., & Fry, V. (2020) “Advanced Opportunities Program Evaluation 2020” Boise, ID: Boise State University

In 2019, the Legislature commissioned an evaluation of the Advanced Opportunities (AO) Program (Idaho Code § 33-4601 – 4602). This evaluation considers the AO Program’s use of funds as well as program design and effectiveness. Data for the evaluation came from three primary sources: enrollment and spending data collected by the Idaho State Department of Education, an online survey of 133 AO personnel, and in-depth interviews with eight AO staff across the state.

Idaho Office of the State Board of Education

Co-author [authors unlisted] (2020) “2020 Idaho Knowledge Report” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The Idaho Knowledge Report showcases Idaho’s business-friendly environment while measuring its successes. Data from the report is a great way to identify specific industry sectors primed for growth and development opportunities. The report’s information and metrics provide an unfiltered reflection of ldaho’s strengths and challenges, enabling us to be more strategic in developing and adopting sound, responsible public policies that advance prosperity.

Idaho Technology Council

Author [authors unlisted] (2020) “2019 Oregon Nonprofit Compensation & Benefits Analysis” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The Nonprofit Association of Oregon collaborated with Idaho Policy Institute to develop and deploy a compensation and benefits survey to send to nonprofit organizations across the state. Results were incorporated into an interactive online dashboard for the purpose of informing nonprofit organizational decisionmaking.

Nonprofit Association of Oregon

Larsen, B., Costa, A., Hall, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., & Fry., V. (2020) “Human Wildlife Conflict Monitoring: Understanding Human Tiger Conflict Through Big Data” Boise, ID: Boise State University

This research examines global methodologies for understanding community attitudes and tolerance regarding Human Wildlife Conflict. Both traditional and future-focused approaches are examined for use in the World Wildlife Fund’s 13 tiger landscapes. Traditional methodologies are resource intensive and limit the ability for longitudinal studies and timely indication of attitudinal shifts. This research uses the Safe System Approach to explore innovative ways of understanding community attitudes toward human tiger conflict. We argue that improved monitoring of conflict areas will improve conflict management in all areas. This research uses policy analysis tools to evaluate the effectiveness of various big data techniques, including trend and sentiment analysis, network analysis and community leader identification. Piloting innovative approaches to understanding attitudes has great potential to expand knowledge of human tiger conflict and lead to conflict responses that can eliminate retaliatory killings of tigers globally.

World Wildlife Fund

2019

McGinnis-Brown, L., Hall, M., Costa, A., Fry, V., & Larsen, B. (2019) “Ending Family Homelessness in Ada County, Idaho” Boise, ID: Boise State University

What interventions are most suitable for preventing family homelessness?What is the gap between current capacities of housing and homelessness services and the service capacity needed to end family homelessness in Ada County?What are the programmatic costs of ending family homelessness in Ada County? To answer these questions, Boise State University’s Idaho Policy Institute (IPI) conducted a literature review of homelessness prevention services as well as an analysis of Ada County’s Coordinated Entry System (CES). Research included tracking households with children through the CES, assessing their referral into programs and determining costs associated with placement into housing. Data over a two-year period indicates nearly 1,300 households with children were experiencing housing instability and reached out for assistance. Of those households, 680 entered the CES while 636 households were diverted via preventative programming. Of those entering the CES, 287 were able to move into housing at a cost of $847,870. The cost would be approximately $2,295,155 to place households without stable housing into homes. Up to 110 of the families that entered into the CES may have been able to remain stably housed through preventative programs. As the community continues to build services to address housing instability and homelessness, focusing more resources on preventive programs could yield a significant cost savings to the community while contributing to the effort to end family homelessness.

City of Boise, Idaho

Hall, M., Osterhout, G., McGinnis-Brown, L., & Fry, V. (2019) “Social determinants of health in Idaho: Evidence-based models for bridging the clinical to community gap.” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The focus of modern health care is changing. Today, it is widely recognized that health care doesn’t just happen at the doctor’s office; it happens in our home, work and school environments, and it is impacted by the socioeconomic context, or social determinants of health (SDOH), in those environments. Recognizing this, the Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health (Foundation) launched the Healthcare Innovation Initiative to bridge the gap between clinical and community services to create business solutions that address this shifting landscape of health care. SDOH can be addressed through numerous channels in a community, this literature review identifies various programs across the United States (U.S.) that have been implemented and evaluated that can specifically bridge the gap between clinical and community settings and address socio-environmental and socio-economic conditions impacting health outcomes. This report aims to act as a resource and guide in identifying solutions suitable for implementation in Idaho.

Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health, Inc.

Co-author [authors unlisted] (2019) “Nampa, ID: Community Strategic Planning Survey & Analysis” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The City of Nampa collaborated with Idaho Policy Institute to develop and deploy a community survey for the purpose of informing Nampa’s comprehensive plan and other strategic planning efforts.

City of Nampa, Idaho

Co-author [authors unlisted] (2019) “City of Mountain Home 2019 Comprehensive Plan” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The Comprehensive Plan (“Plan”) is a policy document—a document all municipalities in Idaho are required to have, per Idaho Statute—used to guide future development in the City. The Plan directs city officials relative to land use planning, public services, infrastructure, and resource management; the Plan is used to determine how and where growth should occur, ways to wisely invest capital improvements, and techniques for enhancing and sustaining a city’s quality of life. In short, a Comprehensive Plan is a blueprint that cities use to illustrate the visions and objectives of the community. This blueprint includes established goals to assist in realizing those visions and objectives. Because it is a tool that directs the future of the community, the Plan is based in large part on citizen’s directives obtained through public input during the outreach efforts.

City of Mountain Home, Idaho

Author [authors unlisted] (2019) “2018 Wisconsin Nonprofit Compensation & Benefits Analysis” Boise, ID: Boise State University

InterSector Wisconsin collaborated with Idaho Policy Institute to develop and deploy a compensation and benefits survey to send to nonprofit organizations across the state. Results were incorporated into an interactive online dashboard for the purpose of informing nonprofit organizational decisionmaking.

InterSector Wisconsin

McGinnis-Brown, L., Osterhout, G., Fry, V., Larsen, B., & Hall, M. (2019) “College & Career Advising & Mentoring Program Evaluation 2019” Boise, ID: Boise State University

Idaho’s College and Career Advising and Mentoring Program is a five-year intervention intended to enable Idaho’s Local Educational Agencies’ (both school districts and charter schools) efforts to support Idaho students’ preparation for college and career readiness. Such efforts include opportunities for students to identify strengths, areas for improvement and areas of interest in regard to career and postsecondary education goals. In 2018, the Idaho Legislature requested an independent evaluation of the Program. This report, by the Idaho Policy Institute, serves as that evaluation. Student-level data from the Idaho Department of Education, school-level data from the National Center for Education Statistics, and Local Educational Agency plans from the Idaho State Board of Education were used to examine program participation and outcomes. The evaluation considers the Program’s design, use of funds, effectiveness and several other relevant metrics.

Idaho Office of the State Board of Education

May, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., Hall, M., & Fry, V. (2019) “Literacy Intervention Program Evaluation” Boise, ID: Boise State University

For over 20 years, Idaho leaders have recognized the critical importance of early childhood literacy. In this time, the Idaho State Legislature, State Board of Education and State Department of Education have put in place policies, rules, plans and programs to support reading proficiency in Idaho’s kindergarten through third grade students. In 2015, the Board of Education published an updated Comprehensive Literacy Plan for the state and the Legislature responded in 2016 by amending statutes related to early literacy development and establishing the current Literacy Intervention Program. Most recently, in 2018, the Legislature requested an external evaluation of the Literacy Intervention Program. This report, by the Idaho Policy Institute, serves as this evaluation. The report briefly reviews early childhood literacy efforts in Idaho to provide the necessary background and context of this program. It then evaluates the Literacy Intervention Program itself and discusses its design, use of funds and effectiveness during its first two years.

Idaho Office of the State Board of Education

Co-author [authors unlisted] (2019) “2019 Idaho Knowledge Report” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The Idaho Knowledge Report showcases Idaho’s business-friendly environment while measuring its successes. Data from the report is a great way to identify specific industry sectors primed for growth and development opportunities. The report’s information and metrics provide an unfiltered reflection of ldaho’s strengths and challenges, enabling us to be more strategic in developing and adopting sound, responsible public policies that advance prosperity.

Idaho Technology Council

2018

Fry, V., McGinnis-Brown, L., Sargeant-Hu, S., Costa, A., & Hall, M. (2018) “West Central Mountains Business Needs Assessment” Boise, ID: Boise State University

How can understanding the plans of high school students and workforce needs in the West Central Mountains Region of Idaho inform workforce development in the region? To answer this question, Boise State University’s Idaho Policy Institute partnered with West Central Mountains Economic Development Council to analyze the workforce needs of the region. Research included utilizing secondary data and a survey of businesses to identify the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats facing the region’s business community. The key findings of this ‘SWOT’ analysis indicate that wages are high and businesses in the region are growing. However, businesses are seeing both high rates of turnover and large gaps in the labor pool - particularly when it comes to entry level positions and positions requiring skilled labor and technical expertise and experience. The housing market and overall cost of living may be contributing to these challenges. Opportunities for both continued and new partnerships with the Idaho Department of Labor, Idaho Department of Commerce, local school districts, Boise State University, University of Idaho and College of Western Idaho could support low residency and distance-learning apprenticeship and training programs to help alleviate employment needs. The student survey addendum further informs the SWOT analysis and helps identify future workforce development partnerships and programs.

West Central Mountains Economic Development Council

Fry.,V., Sargeant-Hu, S., Costa, A., McGinnis-Brown, L., & Sheldon, C. (2018) “Ending homelessness in Ada County: Opportunities for Boise State University engagement” Boise, ID: Boise State University

How can Boise State University engage with Ada County stakeholders to end homelessness? To answer this question, the Blue Sky Institute at Boise State University partnered with the university’s Idaho Policy Institute to analyze the Ada County, Idaho, homelessness service provider network. Research included conducting a SWOT analysis, mapping the network, interviewing stakeholders and analyzing provider operations. While this particular research project used Interfaith Sanctuary, a nonprofit homelessness service provider in Ada County, as the focal point, the project analyzed and addressed the entire homelessness service network in the county. This report demonstrates that the Ada County homelessness service network functions best when stakeholders collaborate to address the issue of homelessness. Ultimately, this report recommends Boise State University work to purposely build relationships within the homelessness service provider network in order to work collaboratively with the community’s efforts to address and end homelessness.

Blue Sky Institute at Boise State University

McGinnis-Brown, L. & May, M. (2018) “Idaho by the Numbers: 2018 Facts and Figures” Boise, ID: Boise State University

Idaho Policy Institute compiled a report on relevant public statistics for Idaho, illustrating Idaho’s demographic and economic trends, and tracking changes in these trends over time.

Idaho Policy Institute

Author [authors unlisted] (2018) “2018 Idaho Nonprofit Compensation & Benefits Analysis” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The Idaho Nonprofit Center collaborated with Idaho Policy Institute to develop and deploy a compensation and benefits survey to send to nonprofit organizations across the state. Results were incorporated into an interactive online dashboard for the purpose of informing nonprofit organizational decisionmaking.

Idaho Nonprofit Center

Kim, C., May, M., McGinnis-Brown, L., & Hill, G. W (2018) “Watercraft Inspection Station Analysis” Boise, ID: Boise State University

The state of Idaho maintains a total of 18 stations that inspect boats to protect the state’s waterways from aquatic invasive species (including zebra and quagga mussels specifically). This study aimed to estimate the costs and benefits of extending inspection station hours of operation from daylight hours only to 24-hours. This was achieved by conducting a thorough analysis of cost and benefit data from the 24-hour pilot operation of the Cotterell station and administering an attitudinal survey of station managers.

Idaho State Department of Agriculture

2017

Fry, V., Sargeant-Hu, S., & McGinnis-Brown, L. (2017) “Boise Pre-K Program Evaluation” Boise, ID: Boise State University

Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) can successfully prepare children to enter kindergarten with confidence, a readiness to learn, and the ability to positively engage with their peers. In 2015, the City of Boise partnered with the Boise School District to launch free Pre-K at two elementary schools in Boise’s Vista neighborhood. The two cohorts that have matriculated through the Boise Pre-K Project show early indication of positive impacts on students’ cognitive and social skills. There has been much debate over the years regarding the investment of public funds in Pre-K. Many scholars, educators, and policy-makers have hailed Pre-K as a significant contributing factor in both preparing children for kindergarten and developing early cognitive skills. Evidence shows Pre-K education has been found to benefit individual students as well as their families and communities. The number of children in the United States (US) enrolled in public Pre-K education tripled from 1990 to 2005 and data reveals that in 2014, 4.7 million three- and four-year old children attended preschool. It is expected that roughly 60 percent of three through five-year-old children will attend public Pre-K programs or private preschools in 2017. Not surprisingly, more and more US states are adopting Pre-K programs and state spending on Pre-K programs continues to increase. In states without universal Pre-K, school districts and municipalities have attempted to implement their own programs.

City of Boise, Idaho

McGinnis-Brown, L., May, M., Fry, V., & Hill, G. I (2017) “Idaho by the Numbers: 2017 Facts and Figures” Boise, ID: Boise State University

Idaho is a dynamic, growing state. It is home to the 9th fastest growing population, the 5th youngest population, the 6th most fertile population, and the 8th largest average household size in the United States. Migration accounts for nearly half of recent population growth in the state. Idaho’s population is also becoming increasingly dense, as the more urban counties of Canyon, Ada, Kootenai, and Twin Falls continue to grow more rapidly than surrounding areas, and more diversified, as minority populations continue to increase. Idaho’s economy has experienced growth and diversification as well. With a wide range of exports and industries, Idaho has a strong labor market and an atmosphere that promotes business success. Tourism has also increased significantly, bringing in increasing numbers of out-of-state visitors, money, and jobs. This data, along with other relevant economic and demographic data, is highlighted in this short report.

Idaho Policy Institute

2016

Hill, G., Fry, V., McGinnis-Brown, L., Jones, C. (2016) “Assessment of Idaho’s Transportation Infrastructure and Funding” Boise, ID: Boise State University

Idaho’s transportation system and infrastructure are vital to the state’s economy. Transportation infrastructure can help spur responsible growth in terms of employment, job creation, business retention, and property development. However, Idaho, like most states, is facing critical issues in its transportation system. Declining revenues and escalating debt service will reduce Idaho’s ability to maintain its transportation infrastructure in a state of good repair. Ultimately, without adequate investment in its transportation system, Idaho’s economy and its people will be negatively impacted. Yet Idahoans are not aware of the deteriorating transportation system or the negative consequences of underfunding it. By engaging the citizenry and key transportation stakeholders regarding this issue and offering policy alternatives adopted by peer states, Idaho can move toward instituting dedicated funding sources for transportation infrastructure which is critical to Idaho’s future economic competitiveness and vitality.

Idaho 2020

Dissertation

McGinnis-Brown, L. (2024) “Narratives on Homelessness: Investigating the Connections between Organizational Language and Learning” Boise, ID: Boise State University

Nonprofits with poor feedback processes, and accordingly poor conceptions of client needs and characteristics, are expected to face difficulty in representing their clients effectively or equitably. Few studies have explicitly looked at the connection between organizational narratives and structures. To best examine this connection, this study employs a comparative case study of 46 homelessness service nonprofit organizations across a clustered sample of cities similar to Boise, Idaho. The Narrative Policy Framework is used to identify key narrative areas in which organizations may vary, including prevailing descriptions of the setting/context that the organization operates within, the key characters at play, the nature of the problem being addressed, the solution for that problem, and the plot (the perceived relationship between the other elements). This study considers these elements and their impact, through feedback processes, on client representation through organizational learning.

Media Publications

Conference Publications

Osterhout, G., McGinnis-Brown, L., & May, M. (2022) “Voting Rights Act Bilingual Ballots and Election Turnout”. Proceedings of MPSA, Chicago, IL