Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

12.6.2022 Commission Minutes

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

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

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

Pledge of Allegiance

Oath of Office for Police Officer Tyler Gibson

Approval of Agenda

Add N6

Approval of Minutes

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the minutes from the November 15thCommission Meeting and the November 29th Special Commission 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.

Approve Application for Raffle Permits for the following:

Barnes County Historical Society on February 9, 2023 at the Barnes County Museum.

VCSU Fisheries Club on February 1st, 2023 at the Rhoades Science Building.

Sharpshooter Showdown on February 4th, 2023 at the Eagles.

VCHS Basketball from December 13, 2022 through February 14, 2023 at the Hi-Liner Activity Center.

Approve Application Renewal for Permit to Sell L.P. Gas from the following:

Petro Serve USA.

Dakota Plains Ag.

Loves Travel Stop #849

Approve Application for Vehicle for Hire License Renewal for South Central Adult Services.

Approve Application to Operate Mobile Home Park Renewals for Rockwater LLC.

Approve Application for Tree Trimming and Removal Service Renewals for the following:

Ross’ Tree Service

Mike’s Construction

Pine Country Nursery

Ground to Sky

Johnny B’s Trees

Kieffer Tree, LLC

Approve Application for Special Alcohol Beverage Event Permit for Dakota Silver on December 17, 2022 for FEI Christmas Party at FEI.

Approve Electrical Contractor License Application for 2 Phase Electric LLC.

Approve Application for House Movers License for Carrington House Moving.

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

Ordinance

Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1121, An Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Subdivision f of Subsection 4 of Section 11-03-08, Subdivision g of Subsection 4 of 11-03-09, and Subdivision g of Subsection 4 of 11-03-10 of the Valley City Municipal Code Related to the Rear-Yard Setback in R-1, R-2, and R-3 Residential Zoning Districts.

City Attorney Martineck stated no changes from the first reading.

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

Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1122, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact section 8-01-02 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to Contractor Licenses.

City Attorney Martineck stated no changes from the first reading.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. 

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

Motion passed.

Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1119, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Subsection 1 of Section 12-02-05 and Sections 12-02-08 of the Valley City Municipal Code Related to Property Maintenance Violations.

City Attorney Martineck stated no changes from the first reading.

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

Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1123, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Subdivision a of Subsection 2 of Section 14-35-04 of the Valley City Municipal Code Related to City Parking Lots.

City Attorney Martineck stated this is an administrative change.  There was a provision related to 72-hour parking in parking lots that was inadvertently left out so this ordinance is to reinstate it.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.

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

Motion passed.

Resolution

Approve Resolution 2381, a Resolution Approving Exemption from Taxation of Improvements to Commercial and Residential Buildings.

City Attorney Martineck stated this will provide a 6-month lookback for property tax exemptions for commercial and residential improvements and increase the cap from $250,000 to $300,000.

Commissioner Erickson 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 $1,684,241.09.        

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

Approve Marketing Agreement with Utility Service Partners Private Label, Inc. for NLC Service Line Warranty.

City Administrator Crawford stated this is a program we can offer to our residents as a type of warranty program.

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve with changes to the agreement City Attorney Martineck suggested seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.

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

Motion passed. 

Approve Adding John Hill to the Renaissance Zone Authority Board.

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

Approve 2023 Board Meeting Schedule.

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

Approve Renewal of Employee Assistance Program Full-Service Contract with The Village Business Institute.

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

Authorize City Administrator to Negotiate Contract for Custodial Services. 

City Administrator Crawford stated custodial services were put up for bids and KS came in with the low bid so we are looking at continuing with them as long as they can fulfill our needs.

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

City Administrator’s Report

City Administrator Crawford provided an update on Viking Court. Commissioner Erickson requested a signed agreement that the work will be done this spring.

2023 is heavy with projects so we are preparing for that.

City Updates & Commission Reports

City Assessor Current provided an update on her progress for the year.

Commissioner Gulmon provided a financial update stating the city recently received $2.5 million of Prairie Dog fund designated for infrastructure.

Commissioner Erickson asked everyone to recycle.  Costs are increasing and recycling will help avoid those increases.  The Transfer Station will be open from 9-noon on December 17th and have your garbage out by 7 AM. Please clean around enclosures and have your garbage accessible.  Employees have been told if it is not they do not have to pick it up to avoid any injuries.

Commissioner Bishop welcomed Officer Gibson. Thanks to the FD and PD for the job they do and the volunteers.

Mayor Carlsrud thanked the street department for the snow removal.  The small snowfalls require big decisions on when to go out. It is a costly process and we need to be prudent with the tax dollars.  The Parade of Lights was wonderful and had lots in attendance.   

Adjourn

Meeting was adjourned at 5:36 PM

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

12.6.2022 Finance Minutes

Called To Order

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 3:30 PM.

Roll Call

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

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

Department Reports

Sanitation Department

Sanitation Supervisor Swart stated the Transfer Station will be open from 9-noon on December 19th.  Make sure to have your garbage out by 7AM and please clean inside and outside enclosures and around dumpsters.

Water Department

Water Superintendent Hesch stated it is slower right now so working on maintenance issues and fiber repairs as needed.

Electric Department

Electrical Superintendent Senf reported 2 outages for November, both squirrels. Outages have increased about 10 more this year mainly due to squirrels and trees that weren’t trimmed due to the flood.  Relay testing is taking place on the downtown sub and hopefully will be online mid-December.  Christmas lights are up and working on the speaker system and inventory.

Fire Department

Fire Chief Magnuson stated they had 22 calls last month which is pretty high. We’re sitting pretty good for volunteers right now but we just received 3 new applications.

Street Department

Nick Yokom reported that snow removal is going well.  The lagoon discharge is complete for the year and also working on inventory.

Administration

City Administrator Crawford stated she will be on the Devils Lake Outlet advisory committee.

Finance Director Richter presented the proposed dates for the 2023 Finance and Commission meetings.

Review monthly bills/reports

Finance Director Richter reported $1,684,241.09 of expenditures for November.

Discuss Update to Resolution 1690, Approving Exemption from Taxation of Improvements to Commercial and Residential Buildings.

City Assessor Current requested the following changes to resolution 1690.  Currently number 8 states the work can not be started and we would like to change that to allow it to be started within the last 6 months but not finished. We are also suggesting to increase the allowance to 300,000 which is what has happened with the RZ. Consensus is to make the changes.

Discuss 5-Year Infrastructure Plan.

Finance Director Richter explained presented projects and recommended funding.

Discuss Proposed Public Works Operating and Capital Budgets.

Public Works Manager Jacobson presented the budgets.

Discuss NLC Service Line Program.

City Administrator Crawford explained this program is like a warranty program for sewer/water lines.  Residents are not required but can be given the option to purchase if we approve them to market in the city.  If it’s something we are interested in, Carl would want to redo some of the wording in the contract.

Viking Court Update.

Will discuss on the Commission Meeting.

Adjourn The meeting was adjourned at  4:54 PM.

12.18.2022 Mayor’s Message

Greetings, Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah,

  • Wow, Snow!  I don’t remember the last time we had a snow event rivaling this one, but soon there will likely be comparisons available.  It was certainly a notable storm though we were Blessed to be spared the tornado type storms that struck a number of our southern states.
  • Thank you to all the Valley City Employees who helped make our town passable.  It was a huge task, much of which took place while we were sleeping.  Thank you for a great job everyone.
  • With the snow we have, there will likely be many times this winter where drifting will create snow moving “opportunities”.  Please consider looking around your neighborhood for people who need help and “give them a hand”. 
  • Valley City is a Municipal Power City and Missouri River Energy Services (MRES), provides power beyond our WAPA Allocation.  MRES also offers Electrical Line Worker Scholarships for high school seniors along with others in the electrical field.  For further information, please direct questions to msenf@valleycity.us.
  • Sunday the 11th began a few days of meetings in Sioux Falls.  Surprise,  we were stranded until Saturday afternoon before driving home.  Fortunately, we were able to stay at the motel where our meetings were held.  Long ago, we officiated a wrestling tournament in Herman, MN. There was a storm, roads were impassable and everybody had to sleep on the mats!  Being in a motel was a much better deal!
  • How about “Ringing the Bell” this week?  Call Naomi at 701-541-1418 or Lenora at 701-840-1357.  Thank you everyone.
  • Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.
  • Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.”                                      ~ Thich Nhat Hanh                                             

Blessings, Pray and Be Safe,

Dave

Agenda Available

12.20.2022 Commission Agenda

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, December 20, 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/83048590778 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID:  830 4859 0778.

Call To Order

Roll Call

Pledge of Allegiance (please stand)

Approval of Agenda

Approval of Minutes

Approve December 6, 2022 Finance and Commission Meeting Minutes.

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Application for Raffle Permit for Skills USA from January 13, 2023 through February 13, 2023 at SVACTC.

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Gulmon           Erickson          Bishop             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 1123, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Subdivision a of Subsection 2 of Section 14-35-04 of the Valley City Municipal Code Related to City Parking Lots.  (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Erickson          Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud

Resolution

  1.  Approve Resolution 2382, a Resolution Creating Paving Improvement District No. 125 (2nd Ave/3rd Ave /3rd St NE).  (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Gulmon           Erickson          Bishop             Carlsrud

2.  Approve Resolution 2383, a Resolution Creating Paving Improvement District No. 126 (Secarse/6th Ave NW).  (City Engineer) 

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Gulmon           Erickson          Carlsrud

New Business

  1. Viking Court Update.  (City Administrator Crawford)
  2. Approve Public Works 2023 Operating and Capital Budgets.  (Public Works Manager Jacobson)

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Erickson          Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud

3. Approve 2023 Employee Policy and Procedure Manual.  (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Gulmon           Erickson          Bishop             Carlsrud

4. Approve Accepting the TA Grant for the Wintershow Road Shared Use Path – Phase 1 Project.  (City Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Gulmon           Erickson          Carlsrud

5. Approve Official Zoning Map for City of Valley City.  (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Erickson          Bishop             Magnuson        Gulmon           Carlsrud

6. Approve Design and Plan Development Task Order for Viking Drive Water Main River Crossing Relocation.  (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Erickson          Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud

7. Approve Design and Plan Development Task Order for 8th Ave SW Flashing Beacons, Pedestrian Crosswalks & Signing.  (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Gulmon           Erickson          Bishop             Carlsrud                      

City Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn

11.8.2022 Planning and Zoning Minutes

Chair Mike Schell presided and called the meeting to order 4:00pm on Tuesday, November 8th, 2022. Commissioners present: Dave Carlsrud, Jim Wright, Bobby Koepplin, Jeff Erickson, Joe Faure and Bill Carlblom

Others: City Attorney Carl Martineck, City Administrator Gwen Crawford, City Planner Joel Quanbeck, City Assessor/Acting Secretary Tina Current, Building Inspector/ Asst Fire Chief Lance Coit, City Engineer Chad Peterson (KLJ), Tracy Eslinger (Moore Engineering)

Bill Carlblom moved to approve the minutes of the October 11th, 2022 regular meeting seconded by James Wright. Motion passed unanimous approval.

Building Inspector Report

Building Inspector/Asst Fire Chief Lance Coit gave a report of one commercial permit, and five demo permits in the last month. The permits are starting to slow down.

Public hearing and recommendation regarding amendment to sections 11-03-08, 11-03-09, and 11-03-10 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to rear-yard setbacks in residential zones.

Chair Schell opened the public hearing

City attorney Carl Martineck explain the code reads 25% or 25ft as a rear setback. The discussion is to remove the 25% and leave the 25ft only.   

Commissioner Carlsrud made a motion to eliminate the 25% and only have 25ft for the setback amount. Seconded by Commissioner Joe Faure. Followed rolled call and unanimous approval.

Discussion on parking and storage of vehicles in rear yard of residential lot.

The board discussed the parking and storage of vehicles in rear yard of residential lot. The board decided to table the topic and do more research.  

Discussion of improved parking surface.

The board discussed options for improved surfaces. The board does not want to limit the improved surface to asphalt and concrete only. The board would like some other options. Martineck will work with City Planer Joel Quanbeck and City engineers to come up with a definition of improved surface for the next meeting.

Discussion of accessary buildings

The board discussed the definition of an accessary building. The recommendation was any building 120 square ft or more is considered an accessary building.

Adjourn

With no other items to discuss, Chair Schell called for the meeting to close at 5:08pm.

12.11.2022 Mayor’s Message

Hi Everyone,

  • Last Saturday Valley City Parks and Rec. sponsored a youth basketball tournament with over 65 teams. It was fun seeing all the people around town.  Thank you Parks & Rec.!
  • Since we have had more slippery conditions, there have been more accidents.  That said, there have been a number of injuries and deaths where people were not wearing seatbelts.  “Seatbelts save lives”.  Please wear a seatbelt, it may save your life allowing you continued time with your family and friends.  
  • Christmas Lighting, garland, trees and other decorations are present throughout town.  During this season of love, hope and peace, why not take a little drive and enjoy?
  • This week’s weather is forecast to be pretty nasty with possible rain, snow and wind.  Be sure to have a complete winter survival kit in your vehicles and drive as conditions dictate.  Be safe.
  • Become a sports official, “Without officials, it is just practice”.  Call 701-845-3953 for information.
  • Every once-in-awhile conflicts seem to arise in our lives.  A path to finding resolution is; clarify the issue, bring parties together to talk and identify possible solutions.  To make it work, we each need to respect the other’s position and simply communicate. Face-to-face seems to be the most effective so  “Don’t let your ants become alligators” communicate.
  • There are a couple weeks left to “Ring the Bell”.  Please sign up and enjoy seeing the people. Call Naomi at 701-541-1418 or Lenora at 701-840-1357.  Thank you to all who “donate and ring” for our Barnes County Salvation Army Unit.
  • Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.
  • The task of the modern educator is not to cut down jungles, but to irrigate deserts.”  ~ C. S. Lewis
  •                                                        

Blessings, Pray and Be Safe,

Dave

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

11.29.2022 Special Commission Minutes

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 12:00 PM.

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

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

Public Hearing

Open Public Hearing Regarding Application for Alcoholic Beverage License for The Reserve at Woodland.

Commissioner Gulmon asked about indicating “yes with special event permits” on question 1 under the License application Questionnaire as he thought this license was just for this specific event center.

Kayla Cash with The Reserve at Woodlands stated they do this at their other venues.  If there is an event and someone needs a licensed server at a different location, they would get a special event permit in those cases.

City Attorney Martineck stated allowing this was in the original plan as long as they applied for the special event permit each time.

Motion to Close Hearing.

Commissioner Bishop moved to close the public hearing, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Application for Alcoholic Beverage License for The Reserve at Woodland contingent on the Fire Chiefs Approval.

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

Adjourn

Meeting was adjourned at 12:06 PM.

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

11.15.2022 Commission Minutes

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

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

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

Pledge of Allegiance

Proclamation

President Carlsrud read the Small Business Saturday Proclamation

Approval of Agenda

Add RES 2

Approval of Minutes

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the minutes from the November 1st Commission Meeting and seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion passed unanimously.

Approval of Consent Agenda

Approve Raffle Application for VCHS Art Club on December 15th, 2022 at the VCHS Art Room.

Approve Application for Parade of Lights on December 1,2022 at 6 PM.

Approve Application to Block off Central Ave from 2nd St N to 4th St N from 6-8 PM on December 1, 2022 for the Parade of Lights Events.

Approve Application for Contractor License for Scherbenske Inc.

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

Ordinance

Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1121, An Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Subdivision f of Subsection 4 of Section 11-03-08, Subdivision g of Subsection 4 of 11-03-09, and Subdivision g of Subsection 4 of 11-03-10 of the Valley City Municipal Code Related to the Rear-Yard Setback in R-1, R-2, and R-3 Residential Zoning Districts.

City Attorney Martineck stated the PZ Commission reviewed this issue and determined the 25% lot depth was no longer applicable and changed it to a straight 25 feet.

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

Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1122, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact section 8-01-02 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to Contractor Licenses.

City Attorney Martineck stated this is to reduce the job cost from $4000 to $1000.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by President Carlsrud.

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

Motion carried.

Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1119, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Subsection 1 of Section 12-02-05 and Sections 12-02-08 of the Valley City Municipal Code Related to Property Maintenance Violations.

City Attorney Martineck stated these changes are to bring our code more in-line with the international maintenance code and clarification on enforcement and an appeal process.

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

Resolution

Resolution 2379, a Resolution to allow the Purchase of Properties that are Subject to Tax Deed Proceedings.

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

Resolution 2380, a Resolution Authorizing Public Sale of Parcel No. 63-0880080 and setting minimum sales price.

City Attorney Martineck stated there was interest from the public in purchasing lot 7 in Crestwood. To do this fairly, it will be put out for bids with a recommended minimum bid starting at $2,000.

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

New Business

Approve to Accept 2024 Urban Grant Program Award for Project 2nd St N, 2nd Ave NW, and 4th St N.

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

Approve Annual NDDOT Maintenance Certification for Urban Federal Aid Projects.

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

Approve Appointing Insure Forward for the City’s NDIRF’s Local Agent of Record from 2023-2027.

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

Consider Visitor’s Committee Recommendation to Approve Amending the Image Enhancement Grant Guidelines to Expand Areas of Eligibility to include Arterial Roadways into Valley City Immediately Adjacent to Either Side, that are Annexed within Valley City and Zoned as a B1, B2 or I.

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

Consider Visitor’s Committee Recommendation to De-obligate Funds previously approved to Dakota Dogs.

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

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

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

Consider Application for Property Tax Exemption for Addition at Stoudt Miller.

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

Approve Final Design & Plan Development Task Order for 2nd Ave NE/3rd St NE Reconstruction Project (NDDOT Project No. SU-CPU-2-990(062), PCN 23571 and SU-2-990(063), PCN 23572).

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.

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

Motion passed.

Approve Special Alcohol Event Permit for Bridges Bar and Grill at the North Dakota Winter Show for the North Star Classic on December 2nd, 2022. 

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

Viking Court Update Due Nov 15th.

City Administrator Crawford stated there is work being done but it is taking a while. We need some sort of guarantee, so we will continue to work with David the next couple of weeks and before we approve his renewal, we will need documentation signed as to when work will be completed by December 6th.

City Administrator’s Report

City Administrator Crawford reported the 6-10-year plan is being reviewed and adjusted. We will be bidding our cleaning for all our buildings. We are also looking at fuel prices and what options we have. Complaint calls for snow removal are extremely high at already, people are calling on their neighbors too so the PD is extremely busy taking those calls. Talk to your neighbor, be neighborly, work together, this is only the first snow occurrence of the year.

City Updates & Commission Reports

Finance Director Richter reported the county conducted their tax deed property sale this morning.  There was one property in the city that did not have any bids so we have taken that over as there were specials applied to it.

Fire Chief Magnuson stated the annual fireman’s dance is on Friday after Thanksgiving. Keep your pets away from the river. We will hit over 100 rescue calls this year which is unheard of so thank you to our volunteers.

Police Chief Hatcher reported the PD is fully staffed again.  Consider where you are moving your snow. Do not put snow on other people’s property and it may be there for awhile so try to avoid visual obstructions if possible.  

Commissioner Bishop thanks the FD and PD for the job they do.  It seems the whistle has been going non-stop. Also, to the city crew for all the work they do at all different hours.

Commissioner Magnuson asked that people try to be aware when the whistle does blow, where the emergency vehicles and volunteers are and to move over to clear the path. Also, if you are planning a remodel or new build and come to get a building permit or something related, ask if there are any programs available to help you with your projects.

Mayor Carlsrud thanked everyone for all the work they do. Some people ask why we don’t send the crews out to clean the streets right away or when there’s 1-2 inches of snow on them. We some numbers together a couple years when we had a storm and there was about 5-8 inches and it cost right around $20,000 to clear that.  We try to make good decisions and the best use of your tax dollars.

Adjourn

Meeting was adjourned at 5:55 P.M.

12.4.2022 Mayor’s Message

Hello Everybody,

  • Last Thursday provided a beautiful night downtown for this year’s “Parade of Lights”.  The parade units were many and spectacular!  Thank you all who worked so diligently decorating floats, pets, cars, trucks and other machinery so beautifully.  Attendance was awesome, there were people all along both sides of the parade route from the Dairy Queen to the Connect Church.  I hope you all had a great time and encourage those who weren’t able to attend can be there next year.
  • There is still ice remaining from the early rain and snow events so when there is a snow fall on the ice like last Friday, streets and sidewalks become extremely slippery.  Our Street Dept. folks were sanding streets, but some people were driving “too fast for conditions” and caused some accidents.  Please, be safe, slow down.
  • As I grow older my balance and strength aren’t what they used to be.  “Tai Ji Quan” is a program offered by City County Health Department (CCHD) to help us regain some balance, strength, flexibility & mobility.  Check it out at www.citycountyhealth.org/mbb or call 845-8518.
  •  * “SHOP SMALL BUSINESSES & SHOP LOCAL”.
  • One in three American adults has Pre-diabetes.  To avoid Pre-diabetes or learn more, contact CCHD at www.citycountyhealth.org/dpp or call 845-8518
  • To assure your Salvation Army donation stays in Barnes County, please put it in our kettles, do not mail it.  To “Ring the Bell” please call  Naomi at 701-541-1418 or Lenora at 701-840-1357.  Thank you to all who “donate and ring” for our Barnes County Unit.
  • Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.
  • Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard.”                                                  ~ Kevin Durant                                                  

Blessings, Pray and Be Safe,

Dave

Agenda Available

12.6.2022 Commission Agenda

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, December 6th, 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/83423430597  or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID:  834 2343 0597.

Call To Order

Roll Call

Pledge of Allegiance (please stand)

Oath of Office for Police Officer Tyler Gibson

Approval of Agenda

Approval of Minutes

Approve Minutes from the November 15th, 2022 Commission Meeting and the November 29th, 2022 Special Commission Meeting.

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Monthly Reports from the Fire Chief, Electrical Superintendent, Building Inspector Finance Director and Municipal Judge.
  2. Approve Application for Raffle Permits for the following:
    • Barnes County Historical Society on February 9, 2023 at the Barnes County Museum.
    • VCSU Fisheries Club on February 1st, 2023 at the Rhoades Science Building.
    • Sharpshooter Showdown on February 4th, 2023 at the Eagles.
    • VCHS Basketball from December 13, 2022 through February 14, 2023 at the Hi-Liner Activity Center.
  3. Approve Application Renewal for Permit to Sell L.P. Gas from the following:
    • Petro Serve USA.
    • Dakota Plains Ag.
    • Loves Travel Stop #849
  4. Approve Application for Vehicle for Hire License Renewal for South Central Adult Services.
  5. Approve Application to Operate Mobile Home Park Renewals for Rockwater LLC.
  6. Approve Application for Tree Trimming and Removal Service Renewals for the following:
    • Ross’ Tree Service
    • Mike’s Construction
    • Pine Country Nursery
    • Ground to Sky
    • Johnny B’s Trees
    • Kieffer Tree, LLC
  7. Approve Application for Special Alcohol Beverage Event Permit for Dakota Silver on December 17, 2022 for FEI Christmas Party at FEI.
  8. Approve Electrical Contractor License Application for 2 Phase Electric LLC.
  9. Approve Application for House Movers License for Carrington House Moving.

Roll Call:    Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             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 1121, An Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Subdivision f of Subsection 4 of Section 11-03-08, Subdivision g of Subsection 4 of 11-03-09, and Subdivision g of Subsection 4 of 11-03-10 of the Valley City Municipal Code Related to the Rear-Yard Setback in R-1, R-2, and R-3 Residential Zoning Districts. (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Gulmon           Erickson          Bishop             Carlsrud

2. Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1122, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact section 8-01-02 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to Contractor Licenses. (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Gulmon           Erickson          Carlsrud

3. Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1119, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Subsection 1 of Section 12-02-05 and Sections 12-02-08 of the Valley City Municipal Code Related to Property Maintenance Violations.  (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Gulmon           Erickson          Bishop             Carlsrud

4. Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1123, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Subdivision a of Subsection 2 of Section 14-35-04 of the Valley City Municipal Code Related to City Parking Lots.  (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Erickson          Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud

Resolution

  1.  Approve Resolution 2381, a Resolution Approving Exemption from Taxation of Improvements to Commercial and Residential Buildings.

Roll Call:                Erickson          Bishop             Gulmon           Magnuson        Carlsrud

New Business

N1. Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $          

Roll Call:    Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Carlsrud

N2.  Approve Marketing Agreement with Utility Service Partners Private Label, Inc. for NLC Service Line Warranty.  (City Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:    Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

N3.  Approve Adding John Hill to the Renaissance Zone Authority Board. (City Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:    Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud

N4.  Approve 2023 Board Meeting Schedule.  (Finance Director Richter)

Roll Call:    Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Carlsrud

N5. Approve Renewal of employee Assistance Program Full-Service Contract with The Village Business Institute. (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call: Bishop Magnuson Erickson Gulmon Carlsrud

City Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn