Author Archive: Brandy Johnson

2.13.2022 Mayor’s Message

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Hello Folks,

  • The Super Bowl game “kept people in their seats”.   I hope you all had fun and have “recovered”.
  • While it seems eons ago, I am remembering the nice weather we enjoyed in November and December; I am grateful we had it.  Now, having weeks of snow and cold, that time is more distant, but days are getting longer and the sun’s rays are getting stronger so we can be grateful a warmer season is nearer.
  • Be careful on the river, as there is water being released from the dam, there is water run-off from last week’s melting and the river currents causing constant change in ice thickness. Good luck to you folks who are fishing.
  • The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am was played recently with a local flavor.  Tom Hoge, the winner graduated from Fargo South High School and Dick Gulmon celebrated his 19th year of volunteering at the event.  Congratulations to both. J   For more on Tom, see: https://ndhsaa.com/news/1849/fargo-south-grad-tom-hoge-wins-att-pebble-beach-pro-am
  • February 21st is Presidents’ Day and our country honors all who have served as United States President.  It seems to me a person’s presidency would require huge sacrifices and commitment by their families.  Thank you to all the families who supported the presidents.
  • Thank you to contributors again this week.
  • “Every post is honorable in which a person can serve our country.”            (George Washington)                                                                                                    Blessings, Respect, Kindness and Prayers,

Dave

Agenda Available

2.15.2022 Commission Agenda

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The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, February 15, at 5:00 PM CT, at the City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND.

The meeting is also available to view online https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81589542178 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID:  815 8954 2178.

Call To Order

Roll Call

Pledge of Allegiance (please stand)

Approval of Agenda

Approval of Minutes

Approve Minutes from the February 1st Finance and Commission Meetings.

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1.  Approve Application for Raffle Permit for the Following:
    1. Sheyenne Valley Area Career & Technology Center on April 1, 2022 at the Technology Center.
    1. Dakota Plains Ag on March 14th at Dakota Plains Ag.
    1. ND Appaloosa Horse Club on August 21, 2022 at the North Dakota Winter Show.
    1. Valley City Fire Department on April 9, 2022 at the Eagles Club.
  2. Approve Application for Electrical Contractor License for Skeels Electric.

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Bishop             Gulmon           Carlsrud

Public Comments

Attorney General’s “A Citizen’s Guide to North Dakota Open Records & Open Meetings Laws” *A member of the public does not have the right to speak to the governing body at an open meeting.  The public is only entitled to see and hear what happens at a meeting, and to record or broadcast those observations.

  • No personal attacks to persons present or not
  • No inflammatory language used during time that you have the platform
  • 5-minute maximum or as directed by the chair
  • Thank you for participating in City Government.

Ordinance

  1. Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1096, an Ordinance to Rezone and Amend Zoning Map, Lots 1 and 6 of Hidden Ponds Estates PUD.  (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Magnuson        Erickson          Bishop             Carlsrud

Resolution

  1.  Approve Resolution 2347, a Resolution Approving Plat of Tvedt’s Subdivision in the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction of the City of Valley City.  (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Bishop             Gulmon           Carlsrud

a. Consider Variance from V.C.M.C section 16-01-06(4), Sanitary Sewer Requirement for New Subdivisions.

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Magnuson        Erickson          Bishop             Carlsrud

New Business

N1.  Approve Change in Members of Planning and Zoning Commission.  (President Carlsrud)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Bishop             Gulmon           Carlsrud

N2.  Discuss Creation of New Class of License for Sale of Alcoholic Beverages at Event Centers and/or Recreational Facilities.  (City Attorney Martineck)

a.  Presentation by Kayla Cash of 845 Holdings

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Magnuson        Erickson          Bishop             Carlsrud

N3.  Approve Special Alcohol Beverage Event Permits for the FOE Arie 2192 at the North Dakota Winter Show on: (Finance Director Richter)

  • March 5, 2022 for the Concert from 5-10pm.
  • March 9-13, 2022 for the Golden Buckle Bar from 11am-10pm.
  • March 31, 2022 for the Tour of Bands from 4-11pm.

Roll Call:          Bishop             Gulmon           Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

N4. Approve Applying for USDA Grant Funds. (City Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:          Erickson          Bishop             Gulmon           Magnuson        Carlsrud

N5. Concur with Award of Project No. NHU-2-094(175)928, PCN 22934 (West Main Slide Repair) to Gladen Construction Inc. in the amount of $896,136.75. (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Magnuson Erickson          Bishop             Gulmon         Carlsrud

City Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn

2.6.2022 Mayor’s Message

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Hello Everybody,

  • Correction:  I made a mistake last week so please accept my apology.  Referring to COVID, the sentence read,  “…..please respect it as it is still attacking the unvaccinated.”   While true, there are numerous “breakthrough” cases as well.  I omitted that vaccinated people seem to have milder symptoms and comprise only 0.0337% of those hospitalized and 2.454% of those infected as per Barnes County CCHD of 1/21/22.   
  • Next weekend is Super Bowl Weekend; enjoy and please be safe.
  • Valley City is a Public Power City and we are a “winter peaking city”.  That means we use more power in the winter than in summer which is different than most.  Two-thirds of our power, 12 – 13 megawatts (MWH), is WAPA hydropower and is less expensive.  One-third of our power comes from MRES and is more expensive.  Picture a wavy line on a graph.  If we can take the bigger waves out and have a more level line, our costs remain lower.  If we have a wave that is too high, we have a demand charge and that can cost about $10,000.00 per MWH. 
  • How can we help?  Our peak demands begin about 6:30 AM, 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM.  Each of these times can extend for an hour to a couple hours.  During said times, cooking demands significant power, so please refrain from drying clothes or other high demand tasks until in between peak times.   Thank you.
  • Thank you to contributors again this week.
  • “Your life is a gift from the Creator, your gift back to the Creator is what you do with your life.”                                                 (Billy Mills)                                                                                                 Blessings, Respect, Kindness and Prayers,

Dave

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

1.18.2022 Commission Minutes

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President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.

Members present: President Carlsrud, Commissioner Magnuson (via Zoom), Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Erickson, and Commissioner Gulmon

Others City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Richter, Administrative Assistant Johnson

Pledge of Allegiance

Proclamation

President Carlsrud read the proclamation declaring January 30th-Fegruary 5th, 2022 as Catholic Schools Week.

Approval of Agenda

No changes.

Approval of Minutes

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the minutes from the January 4th, 2022 Finance and Commission meetings, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion passed unanimously.

Approval of Consent Agenda

No items.

Ordinance

Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1095, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Chapter 20-05 of the Valley City Municipal Code Relating to the City Restaurant Tax.

City Attorney Martineck stated there was discussion about these funds and that we needed to update our restaurant tax ordinance to reflect state law.  If you look at 20-05-02 we added the word tourism and the other change made was extending this indefinitely which is permitted by state law. 

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.  Motion passed unanimously.

Resolution

Approve the Following Resolutions Creating Special Assessment Improvement Districts on 6th Street NW from 5th Ave NW to Central Ave N. (City Engineer)

  1. Resolution 2333, a Resolution Creating Paving Improvement District No. 123. 
    1. Approve Resolution 2334, a Resolution Creating Watermain Improvement District No. 102. 
    1. Approve Resolution 2335, a Resolution Creating Sanitary Sewer Improvement District No. 66. 
    1. Approve Resolution 2336, a Resolution Approving Engineers Report & Directing Preparation of Detailed Plans, Specifications & Estimates of Probable Cost for Paving Improvement District No. 123, Watermain Improvement District No. 102 and Sanitary Improvement District No. 66. 
    1. Approve Resolution 2337, a Resolution Declaring Necessity for Paving Improvement District No. 123.

Chad Petersen stated this project was started about last year this time and would be DOT funded.  This project is scheduled for bids March 2022.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion passed unanimously.

Approve the Following Resolutions creating a Special Assessment Improvement District on 12th Street N from 9th Ave NW to 5th Ave NE, and on 8th Ave SW at Winter Show Road.

  1. Approve Resolution 2338, a Resolution Creating Paving Improvement District No. 124.
  2. Approve Resolution 2339, a Resolution Approving Engineers Report & Directing Preparation of Detailed Plans, Specifications & Estimates of Probable Cost for Paving Improvement District No. 124.
  3. Approve Resolution 2340, a Resolution Declaring Necessity for Paving Improvement District No. 124.

Chad Petersen stated this is also being developed through the DOT process.  The work being planned on the 8th Ave Winter Show project is playing catch up to the improvements that were part of the Petro Serve project from about 5 years ago.  The work on 8th Ave will not be special assessed, it will be funded through the Urban Roads Program and through R & R.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.

Roll Call:          Gulmon-aye     Bishop-aye       Magnuson-aye              Erickson-nay    Carlsrud-aye

Motion carried.

Approve Resolution 2341, a Resolution Placing City Sales, Use, and Gross Receipts Tax Extension Advisory Vote on Ballot of Municipal Election to be Held June 14, 2022, Said Tax to be Dedicated to Economic Development, Property Tax Relief and Retail Image Enhancement and Beautification.

Finance Director Richter stated this was discussed at the last meeting but in order for us to plan long term commitments or debt, 7 years is not enough time.  We would like to extend it for 30 years.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Resolution 2342, a Resolution Placing City Sales, Use, and Gross Receipts Tax Extension Advisory Vote on Ballot of Municipal Election to be Held June 14, 2022, Said Tax to be Dedicated to the Funding of Infrastructure Renew and Replacement. 

Finance Director Richter stated this is the same situation as the previous resolution.  We are asking for the 30-year extension as it is very helpful in the long-term funding.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion passed unanimously.

New Business

Approve Valley City Barnes County Development Corporation Request for Funds for a Financial Analysis.

Jennifer Feist stated this is to approve $15,000 from the Economic Development fund to contract with an independent financial firm to assist us with a financial analysis demonstrating ROI for economic development.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.  Motion passed unanimously.

Approve using the $284,860 NDDOT COVID Relief Funds for the 12th St N/8th Ave SW Mill and Overlay Improvement Project. 

Chad Petersen from KLJ stated these funds to be used on our program road corridors and needs to be used or obligated by 2024. We are looking at a number of different things such as an increase in construction costs and the uniqueness of the proposed improvement on the 8th Ave project since we are not special assessing that since it should have been done earlier during the development of the project.   

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.

Roll Call:          Gulmon-aye     Bishop-aye       Magnuson-aye  Erickson-nay    Carlsrud-aye

Motion carried.

Approve removal of flashing beacon on 4th St SW (adjacent to the Rec Center) from future NDDOT Highway Safety Improvement Project.

City Administrator Crawford stated this project has been in the works for a few years.  After some research it was determined that the flashing beacon is no longer needed by the Rec Center and it has been recommended to move to the Wellness Center.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve with the request to move the light by the Wellness Center, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Mobile Home Park Renewal for Viking Drive Estates.

City Administrator Crawford stated based on the information we do have a timeline.  That being said, this has been going on for about 20 years.  In 2019 our building inspector reached out to them, Mr. Wick replied back and they met out at Viking Court and a plan was supposed to be put together.  That being said, we’ll move on with the information we do have and I am recommending that the renewal with the milestones to be set and agreed upon by both parties and if they aren’t met the permit is pulled and a conditional permit put in place.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  Motion passed unanimously.

Consider Visitor’s Committee Recommendation for Image Enhancement Grant for Enterprise Sales in the amount up to $7,500.

Finance Director Richter stated there was a due pass approval from the Visitor’s Committee for up to $7500 reimbursement for qualifying invoices.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  Motion passed unanimously.   

Approve Task Order for Preliminary Engineering and environmental Documentation for 2nd Ave NE/3rd Street NE Reconstruction Project. 

Chad Petersen from KLJ stated this project is primarily being funded from the construction standpoint primarily from the NDDOT Urban Roads system.  This project is currently set for bid opening in February 2023.    

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.

Roll Call:          Gulmon-aye     Bishop-aye       Magnuson-aye  Erickson-nay    Carlsrud-aye

Motion carried.

Approve Task Order Amendment for Design Engineering for Water/Sanitary Sewer extensions to Nextera Addition. 

Chad Petersen from KLJ stated we talked about the agreement with the DOT to put the maintenance agreement along the frontage road going out to Nextera but those plans put the utilities in that easement.  This amendment redesigns what was previously designed for the utilities in the easement and to update cost estimates and redo the cost share request to the Department of Water Resource.  The cost share request has already been redone and submitted. Proposed plan for this project is to be awarded the first part of March so construction can begin early.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.

Roll Call:          Erickson-nay    Gulmon-aye     Bishop-aye       Magnuson-aye  Carlsrud-aye

Motion carried.

Approve and Award Bid for 2022 VCPW Vehicle Purchase.

Operations Superintendent Klemisch stated this will be a replacement for the blue S10 and am looking for approval to move forward with the quote from Stoudt Ross Ford.

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion passed unanimously.

City Administrator’s Report

City Administrator Crawford stated as of right now garbage is still scheduled to be done with the extra pick up date tomorrow.  The Downtown Streetscape committee has just received a grant to install new benches, garbage and planters.  They are also going to be working on phase 2 of the Christmas decorations.

We keep getting comments on widening the roads.  That is still being worked on but there are other things that need to be finished first and by the time they get those done it snows again and the cycle starts over.  Please be patient and if there is a safety hazard please call so we can address it.

Christmas tree pickup happened.  There were some left because they still had bags or bases on them.  Due to the storm we will be picking them up again so you have another chance to remove them.  The plastic and wood bases both need to be removed.

City Updates & Commission Reports

Finance Director Richter stated the final general engineering planning services report. The contract was $87,000 and that was met with $286 over the contract.  The second item is the Renew and Replacement fund but there is some missing information so this will be reprinted and discussed in the February Finance Meeting. 

Commissioner Gulmon gave a shout out to the employees for all they do especially those working in the outdoors all hours in these conditions. 

President Carlsrud thank you to everybody especially those that are exposed a little more in these conditions, some that are pretty tough, you are appreciated

Adjourn

Meeting was adjourned at 5:52 P.M.

1.30.2022 Mayor’s Message

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Hi Everybody,

  • Last Saturday there was a Robotics Tournament at Washington School with eighteen teams from ND, SD and MN competing in the school’s gymnasium.  Students in these tournaments require knowledge in design, construction operation and use of the robots; watching them is absolutely fascinating.  The next time a robotics event is near you, go in and see what they are doing.  Oh yah, they also had a “killer” concession stand!  Thank you for your invitation.
  • Street crews have been hauling snow from medians and some corners, but snow has been falling at a greater rate than they can haul it. L  Please be patient, drive according to conditions and know that conditions are not the best right now.  Go a little slower.
  • Saturday evening the VCFD held its Ladies Appreciation & Awards Banquet.  Our VCFD boasts 35 volunteer firefighters who, study, drill and test so they can maximize their abilities for our safety.  That means time away from home is necessary and though training is scheduled, fire and rescue calls happen “anytime”!  That means firefighters have to rush away from Thanks giving Dinners, Christmas with families, church and kids’ ballgames to name a few.  Considering the aforementioned, spouses, children and significant others must be very supportive of the firefighter so we can be protected.  Please say “thank you” to firefighters and their families.
  • This week’s COVID is a little less grim; though please respect it as it is still attacking the unvaccinated.
  • ** Please license your pets!
  • Thank you to contributors again this week.
  • “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”                                                                 (Maya Angelou)             Blessings, Respect, Kindness and Prayers,

Dave

Agenda Available

2.1.2022 Commission Agenda

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The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, February 1st, 2022 at 5:00 PM CT, at the City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND.

The meeting is also available to view online https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83491221220 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID:  834 9122 1220.

Call To Order

Roll Call

Pledge of Allegiance (please stand)

Approval of Agenda

Approval of Minutes

Approve Minutes from the January 18th, 2022 Commission Meeting.

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1.  Approve Application for Raffle Permit for the following:
    • Barnes County Ducks Unlimited on March 24, 2022 at the Eagles Club.
    • Sheyenne Valley Friends of Animals on April 16, 2022 at the Eagles Club.
    • El Zagel Sheyenne Valley Flag Corps on May 21, 2022 at the Eagles Club.
  2. Approve Tree Trimming and Removal Application Renewal for Ground to Sky.
  3. Approve Monthly Reports from the Fire Chief, Electrical Superintendent, Building Inspector, Finance Director and Municipal Judge.

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Erickson          Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud

Public Comments

Attorney General’s “A Citizen’s Guide to North Dakota Open Records & Open Meetings Laws” *A member of the public does not have the right to speak to the governing body at an open meeting.  The public is only entitled to see and hear what happens at a meeting, and to record or broadcast those observations.

  • No personal attacks to persons present or not
  • No inflammatory language used during time that you have the platform
  • 5-minute maximum or as directed by the chair
  • Thank you for participating in City Government.

PUBLIC HEARING

Ordinance

  1. Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1096, an Ordinance to Rezone and Amend Zoning Map, Lots 1 and 6 of Hidden Ponds Estates PUD.  (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Gulmon           Erickson          Bishop             Carlsrud

2.  Approve Second and Final Reading of 1095, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Chapter 20-05 of the Valley City Municipal Code Relating to the City Restaurant Tax. (City Attorney Martineck) 

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Gulmon           Erickson          Carlsrud

Resolution

  1.  Approve Resolution No. 2343, a Resolution Approving Final Plans & Specifications and Authorizing Advertising for Bids for Consolidated Sewer & Water District No. 59 (Nextera).  (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Erickson          Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

2. Approve Resolution No. 2344, a Resolution Accepting Bids and Awarding Contract for Master Lift Station Improvements.  (City Engineer)

      Roll Call:          Erickson          Gulmon           Erickson          Magnuson        Carlsrud

3. Approve Resolution 2345, a Resolution Updating the Public Works Fee Schedule.  (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Erickson          Carlsrud

4. Approve Resolution 2346, a Resolution Approving Replat of Hidden Ponds Estate PUD.  (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Gulmon           Erickson          Carlsrud

New Business

  1. Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $ 1,254,171.00. (Finance Director Richter)         

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Gulmon           Erickson          Bishop             Carlsrud

2. Approve Policy for Paying for the First Seal Coat Following a Street Reconstruction from Infrastructure Funds instead of Special Assessments.  (Deputy Auditor Klein)

        Roll Call:        Bishop             Magnuson        Gulmon           Erickson          Carlsrud

3. Approve Extension of 2021 Contractor Licenses though May 31st, 2022.  (Finance Director Richter)

Roll Call:          Erickson          Bishop             Magnuson        Gulmon           Carlsrud

City Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn

Agenda Available

2.1.2022 Finance Agenda

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The City Finance Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, February 1st, 2022 at 3:30 PM CT, at the City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND. 

Members of the public may view the meeting online https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84161742650 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 841 6174 2650

Call to Order

Roll Call

Agenda items

  1. Department reports.
    • Sanitation Department
    • Water Department
    • Electric Department
    • Fire Department
    • Police Department
    • Street Department
    • Administration
  2. Review monthly bills/reports (10 minutes) – (President Carlsrud)
  3. Consider Moving up Public Works Budget Deadline or at least any Fee Increases.  (City Administrator Crawford)
  4. Consider Policy for Paying for the First Seal Coat Following a Street Reconstruction from Infrastructure Funds instead of Special Assessments.  (Deputy Auditor Klein)
  5. Discuss having P&Z doing all Variances. (City Administrator Crawford)

Adjourn

1.23.2022 Mayor’s Message

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Hi Folks,

  • I hope yours was a nice, safe weekend.
  • Last week Sue and I had the pleasure of touring the VCSU Center For the Arts.  The building is spectacular and something about which our community can be very proud.  It was built with state of the art technology; it is functional and certainly beautiful.  Many people worked many years bringing it to fruition so “thank you” to all who did.  I think there is something of interest there for almost everyone so watch for touring opportunities.
  • Friday evening we had a power outage in the south half of town.  Due to wind causing loping wires over time, there was an insulator tracking to the pole ground igniting a fire on the pole.  The pole broke at the middle insulator causing the transmission to trip out leaving part of town, including basketball games at the Bubble, out of power”.  Because there is redundancy in our system, our Electrical Dept. was able to reroute power in about an hour so life to which we have become accustom could resume.  Thank you to the team for a great job.
  • Our Public Works Department is moving snow daily in addition to the demands of everyday duties.  One of the tasks is widening streets as time permits, but about the time they get rolling, it snows again and they are back to cleaning streets!  Please be patient, as the frequency with which we have been receiving snow, removing it appears to be a bit like a marathon.
  • COVID numbers are exploding!  Saturday, ND positives were 11,991 and Barnes County’s were 137! The highest numbers are in the 20 – 39 age group; this is also the group with the fewest vaccinations.  It seems vaccination is proving to be the best defense; please get vaccinated!
  • Thank you to contributors again this week.
  • “Sportsmanship, next to the church, is the greatest teacher of morals.”         (Herbert Hoover)             Blessings, Respect, Kindness and Prayers,

Dave

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

1.4.2022 Finance Minutes

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Called To Order

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 2:30 PM.

Roll Call

Members present: President Carlsrud, Commissioner Magnuson (2:53), Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Gulmon and Commissioner Erickson (2:39)

Others Present:  City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Richter, Administrative Assistant Johnson

Commission Topics

Discussion took place around the following topics:

The Little Dam

Snow Removal

Emergency Route

Department Reports

Electrical Superintendent Senf reported they are starting to take down the Christmas lights.  The lights on Central will stay up a little longer.  Finishing up inventory-the auditor comes on Thursday.  Marshall also stated he walked through the library and noticed the lighting is outdated and updating everything would save them money.  Eventually you will be forced to replace them due to them being outdated.

Operations Supervisor Klemisch reported the downtown took 4 nights for snow removal.  Things are narrow so it will be an ongoing process.  There have been equipment issues, the hook truck was down so we reached out to another company and they were hauling our garbage for us but both of their trucks broke down.  We talked to Jamestown and they let us dump over there.  We received the U-bolt and it is getting replaced now.  There is also a garbage truck down but that piece should be in today.  Everyone has jumped in and helped from different departments, it’s been a team effort. 

Fire Chief Magnuson reported they received back their truck that was getting repainted and that looks good.  They are still working on the addition.  There were probably more rescue calls this year than we have ever had and some of the worst ones were in the summer which is odd.

Police Chief Hatcher reported they had about 10,000 calls for service.  Congratulations to Officer Horner as their family has grown by one.  We have been trying to get bids for our new car.  In August we were told no one could bid anything so we held off until December.  The closing took place last Thursday and the only bid received was from Stoudt Ross Ford.  Should we wait since that was the only bid due to the current issues?  Ford will not put in a bid unless there’s a sales order signed.  We will have another car coming up that will need to be replaced.  Due to the wait, should we order two now? Decision was to just purchase the one vehicle now and the other in 2023 budget.

Review the monthly bills/reports

Finance Director Richter stated there were $990,351 in expenditures for December which includes construction projects at $26,419; fire hall addition at $28,088; MRES at $265,106; payroll & benefits at $469,430; PFP CLOMR at $38,521; VCBCDC at $42,500 leaving $120,287 as the balance for operations.

Discuss Image & Enhancement Grant and Valley City Tourism Development Grant Requirements.

City Administrator Crawford stated we realized these needed to be revamped and have come up with the changes outlined in the packet.

Discuss Love’s Winter Road Maintenance

City Administrator Crawford stated she was not aware of all the issues but now everyone is on the same page.  The calls of service are included in the packet outlining how many times we have been called up to sand, direct traffic or other services. 

Operations Supervisor Klemisch added that a lot of the calls have been after hours.  The trucks can’t make it up the hill so we pay overtime to sand.  Sanding on snow doesn’t work so we have to call in the motor graders.  The last snow storm we shut everything down because we couldn’t keep up while trying to keep the emergency routes open. Gilles Construction has been up there sanding and maybe that is an option to have them help us out.  The DOT’s bylaws and regulations do not allow them to brine it for us.  We are looking at other options for that.  The sheriff’s department has been out there helping as well.  We will do our normal sanding route but the extra calls to keep up is where we’re running into issues.  Loves is not willing to pay Gille for the additional sanding. 

Police Chief Hatcher added if there are any other roads that cause this many issue, we close them.  This is the only entrance into Love’s so we can’t close it.

Operations Supervisor Klemisch stated he already spoke with Gille’s and they said they would help.

Commissioner Magnuson asked who approved this road and if all the traffic studies went to the DOT.

Chad Petersen stated the plans were submitted and reviewed and that he specifically commented to the designers and previous administrator that the grades meet standards but there he was concerned about the grand due to this exact situation but the comment back was that it meets standards.  Back at that point it was originally going to stay Love’s road so maybe the city wasn’t as concerned with it but now it became the city’s road.  There were several times the grade of the road was discussed.

Commissioner Gulmon stated it is what it is and if it is our road, we are responsible to keep it clean or contract with Gille to keep it clean.

President Carlsrud stated if we are paying overtime and are still unable to keep up it may make sense to contract the services out.

Discuss Transportation Alternatives Program

City Administrator Crawford stated this is the one we were going to work with the county.  There are a few things that will be looked at but wanted to make sure you are okay with this because we would be paying half and the county would like an MOU.

Discuss Mobile Home Park Renewal for Viking Drive Estates

City Administrator Crawford stated information from David Wick is in the packet.  We can hold off on the license decision until the next meeting to give more time to look through the information.  There have been several different stories on what has happened in the past with this area so we are looking back to find that information.  We do know that KLJ was asked to look into it in 1997 and basically said it will cost a lot of money to fix it and nothing further happened after that. 

Discuss Rescheduling March 1st Finance and Commission Meeting.

This will be added to the February 1st meeting for a decision.  There may be a conflict on this date.

Discuss Quarterly Finance Meeting start Time.

Quarterly meetings will continue to be scheduled to start at 2:30 if there are topics to discuss.  If not, it will change to 3:30.

Discuss Bids for Police Department Vehicle.

Police Chief Hatcher stated 

Adjourn The meeting was adjourned at ­4:53 PM.

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

1.4.2022 Commission Minutes

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President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.

Members present: President Carlsrud, Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Erickson, and Commissioner Gulmon

Others City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Richter, Deputy Auditor Klein

Pledge of Allegiance

Approval of Agenda

Remove N6

Approval of Minutes

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the minutes from the December 21st, 2022 meeting, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion passed unanimously.

Approval of Consent Agenda

Approve Monthly Reports from the Fire Chief, Electrical Superintendent, Building Inspector Finance Director and Municipal Judge.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion passed unanimously.

Ordinance

Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1093, and Ordinance to Amending and Reenacting Chapter 20-06 of the Valley City Municipal Code re City Lodging Tax.

City Attorney Martineck reported no changes from the first reading.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1094, an Ordinance to Amend and Enact Section 15-01-16.2 of the Valley City Municipal Code regarding Surface Drainage and Storm Sewer System Cleaning and Maintenance Fee.

City Attorney Martineck reported no changes from the first reading.
Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  Motion passed unanimously.

Resolution

Approve Resolution 2331, a Resolution Authorizing the Issuance and Sales of $859,000 Wastewater Treatment Assessment Warrant, Series 2022 for 7th Ave NW Reconstruction Project.

Finance Director Richter stated this is our financing source that we will special assess out for the sanitary sewer and storm sewer.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  Motion passed unanimously. 

Approve Resolution 2332, a Resolution Authorizing the Issuance and Sales of $180,000 Water Treatment Assessment Warrant, Series 2022 for 7th Ave NW Reconstruction.

Finance Director Richter stated this is our financing for the watermain replacement and is at a 2% interest rate.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.  Motion passed unanimously.

New Business

Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $990,351.12.

Finance Director Richter stated there were $990,351 in expenditures for December which includes construction projects at $26,419; fire hall addition at $28,088; MRES at $265,106; payroll & benefits at $469,430; PFP CLOMR at $38,521; VCBCDC at $42,500 leaving $120,287 as the balance for operations

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.  Motion passed unanimously.

Consider Visitor’s Committee Request for Approval of Changes to the Image Enhancement Grant and Valley City Tourism Development Grant Guidelines as Presented.

Bobby Koepplin stated there was a unanimous due pass recommendation for the changes.  Major changes to the Image Enhancement were the increase from $5000 to $7500, took out the $1000 restriction for landscaping and $1000 restriction for signage.  We removed the requirement that you couldn’t apply again within 10 years. 

Valley City Tourism biggest change is the name change.  We changed the jurisdiction to be within the city.  We added allowing for profit entity but they must maintain insurance and operate for a minimum of 5 years or will be required to refund to the city.  Also added that they must be current on PW utilities and property taxes.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion passed unanimously.

Consider Visitor’s Committee Recommendation for Image Enhancement Grant for Smith Lumber in the amount up to $7,500.

Bobby Koepplin stated Smith Lumber stated this grant would be for new signage.  The Visitor’s committee made unanimous recommendation of up to $7500 from the Image Enhancement Grant Funds.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.  Motion passed unanimously.

Consider Visitor’s Committee Recommendation for Image Enhancement Grant for VC Chamber of Commerce in the amount up to $20,273.36.

The Visitors Committee recommends approval of up to $20,273.36 for Downtown Streetscape accessories.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion passed unanimously.

Consider Visitor’s Committee Recommendation for Tourism Development Grant for Sky Lanes.

The Visitor’s Committee recommends approve a of up to 75% of the bowling equipment and repairs up to $40,000 and recommends the Drake’s request $10,000 of Roundtable funding from the Development Corporation.  This will also include the claw back provisions.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Mobile Home Park Renewal for Viking Drive Estates.

Approve Rescheduling March 1st Finance and Commission Meeting.

This item will be tabled in the event that the event that is a conflict gets cancelled.

Review and Award bid for 2022 PD Vehicle Purchase.

Police Chief Hatcher stated we have sent out bids and at that time none of the manufacturers were comfortable giving bids so we delayed it until December.  The bid closing was the 30th and at this time we only received one bid-from Stoudt Ross Ford.  Recommendation is for this 2022 budget purchase to be awarded to Stoudt Ross Ford.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion passed unanimously.

City Administrator’s Report

City Administrator Crawford reported that we are behind with the garbage as many are aware, we are having truck issues.  As time allows, we will finish what was missed.  The employees that were not able to be in a garbage truck were put in snow removal equipment.  They can only operate for 12 hours at a time.  We know there is still work to be done and we are working on it.  Side note, there is a lot of cardboard out there.  Recycling saves time and money for everyone.  Thanks to our staff for what they are doing and what they are going through.  There are always some complainers but the majority of the community has been supportive and it’s been great to see the teamwork.

As for the emergency route, that was changed back when 5th Ave NE went through from Main up to the North City limits.  The only thing was the 6th Ave E signs were not taken down.  

City Updates & Commission Reports

Finance Director Richter reported we will start our preparing for our audit, the fieldwork will take place the end of March.

Fire Chief Magnuson reminded people to watch their vents and gas meters and new batteries in your detectors.

Police Chief Hatcher reported they are looking for a new hire, there is one opening.  Please have your numbers on your house.  Thanks to the residents on the snow emergency routes, we had very few people parking on the route during the last snowfall.  Reminder that if you can’t see the hydrant, it is still there so do not park in front of it.  The same thing goes for sidewalks.

Commissioner Gulmon reported that the Finance Committee met to review the budgets.  To date the City has very strong reserves in the general fund and public works.  Public Works net income to date is running very close to the budget other than the garbage fund which was addressed at the last meeting.  Sales tax report was very positive.  City Sales Tax through October was up about 29% over last year. 

Commissioner Erickson reported the hook truck is now fixed.  Christmas tree pickup has not been scheduled as of yet but you can take them to the tree pile.  Thanks to Public Works for all their work.  For those of you that don’t go to other towns or drive down their side streets, we did pretty good.

Commissioner Bishop thanked Public Works for all the hard work and long hours.  Thanks to the FD and PD for the jobs they do.  We stay home in the bad weather while they’re out helping people.  There are a lot of hydrants that are buried, go clean around those so if they fire department has to use them, they don’t have to waste time cleaning them first.

President Carlsrud thanked the folks utilizing the available grants and investing in the city.  Thanks to the Street Department and the whole team for doing a great job.  

Adjourn

Meeting was adjourned at 5:48 P.M.