Office & Transfer Station Closings:
Garbage Schedule: Week of December 23
Tuesday, December 17, 2019
5:00 PM
Minutes from December 3, 2019 meeting
Roll Call: Powell Bishop Erickson Magnuson Carlsrud
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.
President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.
Members present: Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Powell, Commissioner Erickson.
Members absent: Commissioner Magnuson.
Others Present: City Administrator Schelkoph, City Auditor Richter, City Attorney Martineck, City Assessor Hansen, Public Works Accountant Jacobson, Building/Fire Inspector Andersen, Fire Chief Magnuson, Lieutenant Rustebakke, Deputy Auditor Klein, Chad Petersen from KLJ.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the minutes from November 5, 2019 meeting, seconded by Commissioner Powell. Motion carried.
Commissioner Erickson moved to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. Motion carried.
Approve Resolution No. 2224, A Resolution Approving the Oxbow Addition Plat
City Attorney Martineck reported the Planning & Zoning Commission recommends approval of this subdivision with the condition that lot be identified on the final plat as lot 3 is located in the county (but within the extraterritorial jurisdiction). Martineck reported this change was made. Commissioner Powell moved to approve Resolution No. 2224, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.
Approve Resolution No. 2225, A Resolution Authorizing Filing of Application with North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality for a Loan under the Clean Water Act and/or Safewater Drinking Act (5th Avenue NW: NDDOT No. SU-2-990(059))
City Auditor Richter stated the loan application is through the State Revolving Loan Fund for the 5th Avenue NW project with $1.75 million being applied for. Commissioner Erickson moved to approve Resolution No. 2225, seconded by Commissioner Powell. City Auditor Richter clarified this loan is for the portion of the project that will be special assessed as the loan rates are lower than the bond market.
The motion passed unanimously.
Consider City Recommendations for Streetscape II on Main Street and Central Avenue S (NDDOT Project No. UGP-2-999(051)
Chad Petersen from KLJ reported that Streetscape II will include Main Street from the Elks building to 3rd Avenue SE; City Park; and Central Avenue S. ADA improvements and decorative lighting are included in the project. The City Commission was presented with two options for this project: Option A – no build (stop project completely); Option B – proceed with recommendations as presented in CATEX pages 4-8. The project costs approximately $2.2 million with $1.53 million from federal; $115,000 from state; $500,000 local cost including special assessments to property owners for mill & overlay. Petersen stated the recommendations include moving the curb line to address slope requirements without a step down. A bump out for ADA compliance will be added by the Edward Jones building to allow for a ramp into the building. The Commission discussed moving the ramp to the west and/or the basement steps exiting to the south. Petersen stated since the entrance is within the NDDOT right of way encroachment, it needs to be ADA compliant. Petersen stated the final plans are due to the NDDOT by the end of December and asked for action.
Commissioner Powell moved to approve Alternative B, seconded
by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.
Approve Contract No. 19-UGPR-114 between Western Area Power Administration (WAPA), Missouri River Energy Services (MRES) and the City of Valley City regarding Scheduling & Payment
City Administrator Schelkoph reported for the ease of billing – WAPA energy is paid and scheduled through MRES. This contract allows for this. Schelkoph recommended approval.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve Contract No. 19-UGPR-114, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. City Auditor Richter reported the contract is effective 2021 – 2050.
The motion passed unanimously.
Approve Annual Blue Cross Blue Shield Contract for 2020
City Attorney Martineck stated a committee is reviewing health insurance options for 2021. The City is moving from a self-funded plan to fully insured fund in 2020. With the change, there is potential for $100,000 to $200,000 in cost savings next year.
Commissioner Erickson moved to approve the Annual Contract, seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously.
City Administrator Schelkoph provided a final report on the Fall 2019 flood. No sandbags were used. The City incurred costs of $487,000 which includes $250,000 for erosion repairs primarily along the downstream bank near Mill Dam.
Schelkoph reported VCPW has distributed two light bulbs to the customers and reminded the public to use more efficient energy options. Schelkoph stated that a meter data management will be rolled out. This will help with locating outages and customers will be able to see their electrical and water usage during the month.
City Auditor Richter reported that Tony Kobbervig submitted his resignation for the Renaissance Zone Authority Board. There is an opening on the board, please contact the Auditor’s Office if interested.
Chad Petersen from KLJ reported on Friday, November 8 the NDDOT opened bids for 5th Avenue NW and the bids are $600,000 over the Engineer’s estimate. Review will occur regarding the impact to Special Assessments and local funds. Federal funds were capped on the project and no further federal funds are available.
Commissioner Powell inquired about the mill dam reconstruction. Petersen stated Barr Engineering has completed the design to 30%. Petersen will meet with Schelkoph to discuss with the next presentation likely in December/January. Erosion is a stand-alone project.
President Carlsrud thanked Tony Kobbervig for his service.
Meeting was adjourned at 5:40 PM.
President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.
Members present: Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Powell, Commissioner Erickson.
Others Present: City Administrator Schelkoph, City Auditor Richter, City Attorney Martineck, City Assessor Hansen, Public Works Accountant Jacobson, Building/Fire Inspector Andersen, Fire Chief Magnuson, Lieutenant Rustebakke, Chad Petersen from KLJ.
President Carlsrud read the No Shave November proclamation for the Valley City Public Schools Access for All program fundraiser. Josh Johnson explained how the Access for All program provides behavioral health support for student and invited the public to participate in the fundraiser.
Commissioner Powell moved to approve the minutes from October 15, 2019 meetings, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. Motion carried.
Commissioner Erickson moved to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously.
There were no public comments.
Approve Resolution No. 2223, a Resolution Placing City Sales, Use and Gross Receipts Tax Advisory Vote on Ballot of Municipal Election to be held June 9, 2020
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve Resolution No. 2223, seconded by Commissioner Powell.
City Administrator Schelkoph reviewed the project to date and stated at this time, he expects Permanent Flood Protection construction to continue for another 10 years. Schelkoph recommended extension of the tax by 15 years so that a longer period for the loan can be secured, the loan requires a matching revenue source. Commissioner Powell inquired what happens if the loan is paid off early, City Attorney Martineck stated it could be rescinded if the bonds are paid off prior.
The motion passed unanimously.
Approve 2020 Board Calendar
City Auditor Richter reviewed the 2020 Board Calendar. Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. President Carlsrud recommended moving the Planning & Zoning Commission meeting to November 4 from November 18. Commissioner Magnuson amended his motion to approve the calendar with the recommended change, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.
Approve NDDOT program documents
Chad Petersen from KLJ reviewed the annual maintenance certificate and reminded the Commission of the City’s obligation to maintain roads on the urban road system as stipulated. Petersen stated that with document b, the City is agreeing to these terms for the 5th Avenue NW project.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the NDDOT program documents, seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously.
Consider Amendment [for KLJ to] Prepare the SRF Facility Plan for Paving Improvement District No. 119 & 119B (7th Avenue NW & 2nd Avenue NE), in an amount not to exceed $8,500
Chad Petersen from KLJ reviewed SRF Facility Plan requirements. The loan program allows the City to obtain financing at 2% through the State Revolving Fund program versus the private market at 3.5% to 4% which is a cost savings of $350,000 to $400,000 for a 20 year loan. Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the amendment, seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously.
Approve Special Alcohol Event Permit for Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 2192 at North Dakota Winter Show for Cattleman’s Auction on December 6, 2019
Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the special alcohol event permit, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.
Approve recommendation to end Flood Emergency Declaration
City Administrator Schelkoph provided background on the flood event stating that this is the first time the City has reached 15’ since 2011. Viking Bridge was closed. Schelkoph thanked City crews for their work to protect the City to 16’ river levels. Schelkoph recommended ending the Flood Emergency Declaration since the river is 12’ or below and the lake is at/near pool elevation. Commissioner Powell moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.
City Administrator Schelkoph reminded citizens that Valley City Public Works is delivering 2 LED bulbs and a reusable tote to customers.
City Auditor Richter stated the City is filing a preliminary damage report with Barnes County Emergency Manager Sue Lloyd. The City will need to wait to see if Barnes County is included in the federal declaration. Richter stated a Complete Count Task Force has been established to raise awareness for the 2020 Census.
Building Inspector Andersen reminded the public that Veterans Day is coming up. Please support veterans.
Commissioner Erickson thanked City crews for work during flood protection.
Commissioner Bishop thanked VCFD & VCPD for their efforts.
President Carlsrud encouraged support of Access for All program. Carlsrud stated the City enjoys some of the best residential rates in the state due to public power. Calrsurd encouraged participation in the 2020 Census.
Meeting was adjourned at 5:37 P.M.
5:00 PM
Minutes from November 19, 2019 meeting
Roll Call: Magnuson Powell Bishop Erickson Carlsrud
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.
3:30 PM
The City of Valley City has openings effective November 16, 2019 for:
Renaissance Zone Authority Board – balance of 3 year term ending June 30, 2022, 1 opening.
Please submit your name, address and phone number on paper to the Valley City Auditor’s Office, PO Box 390, Valley City, or etufte@valleycity.us if you are interested by December 2, 2019, 5 p.m.
Office & Transfer Station Closings:
Garbage Schedule: Week of November 11
Minutes from November 5, 2019 meeting
Roll Call Magnuson Powell Erickson Bishop Carlsrud
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.
Tuesday, October 15, 2019
President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.
Members present: Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Powell, Commissioner Erickson.
Others present: City Administrator Schelkoph, City Attorney Martineck, City Auditor Richter, City Assessor Hansen, Building Inspector Andersen, Fire Chief Magnuson, Police Chief Hatcher, Chad Petersen from KLJ.
Commissioner Powell moved to approve minutes from October 1, 2019 meeting, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. Motion carried.
Commissioner Erickson moved to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.
Final Public Hearing for Community Development Block Grant for After School Latch Key Program dba TL Childcare
President Carlsrud declared the public hearing open. There were no comments. Commissioner Bishop moved to close the hearing, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.
Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance No. 1051, an Ordinance to Adopt the Valley City Municipal Code and Repeal all Ordinances Previously Adopted with Certain Exceptions
City Attorney Martineck stated the intent is to repeal Ordinances adopted prior to May 1, 2014 with certain exceptions prescribed in the Ordinance. The second reading includes language to keep Floodplain Ordinance. Commissioner Bishop moved to approve Ordinance No. 1051, seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously.
Receive 2019 Tree Report from City ForesterWillis Wagar presented the 2019 Tree Report. There were 96 trees with Dutch Elm – 75% have been removed. Twenty-three (23) trees were marked for other issues. City Administrator Schelkoph & President Carlsrud thanked Mr. Wagar for his four years of service as the city forester.
Approve Appointment of 2020 City Forester and 2020 Contract in the amount of $7,400
City Administrator Schelkoph introduced Bob Anderson to the City Commission as the next city forester and recommended approval of the contract. Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the appointment and contract for Bob Anderson as City Forester, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.
Approve Property Tax Exemption for Improvements to 1337 6th Ave NE
City Assessor Hansen recommends approval of the application. Commissioner Powell moved to approve the property tax exemption, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.
Consider paying for elevator repairs at Elks Building
City Administrator Schelkoph reported May 15th, the pump station for Permanent Flood Protection Phase II Pump Station on Main Street, the sluice gate was closed. During a large rain event, the pumps stopped working, and the streets flooded and then the Elks Building. The pumps are not made for summer time rains, so the gate needs to be left open. On August 5, maintenance work was going on. Again, the Elks Building flooded. Other rain events occurred during the summer, with no issues at the Elks Building. The gate valve needs to remain open. NDIRF is reviewing the case. The elevator system has needed significant repairs. City Administrator Schelkoph requested approval of $90,991 for elevator repairs at the Elks Building with the final cost share to be determined and may include the City, KLJ and Reiner Contracting.
Schelkoph reported cut outs have been added near the City Park footbridge that should help the street drain by the Elks Building.
Commissioner Bishop asked to recuse himself. Commissioner Magnuson moved to have Commissioner Bishop recuse himself, seconded by Commissioner Powell. Motion carried.
Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve paying for elevator repairs at the Elks Building in the amount of $90,991; seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously.
City Administrator Schelkoph reported at 11:00 AM, the City Commission declared a flood emergency. The City is preparing for 16’ flood. The City is setting up pumps and flood protection for low areas. The City will prepare to have freeboard at 17.5 to 18’. The City is asking for the State to help with clay levies, with 3’ expected in areas. By Thursday, 3500 cfs output is expected at the dam. If citizens observe any issues, they can call 845-0380.
Building Inspector Dave Andersen asked public to stay away from the river. Thanked Mr. Wagar for his work.
Fire Chief Magnuson reported a good turnout for VCFD Open House. Magnuson also asked people to please keep kids and pets away from river.
Police Chief Hatcher asked for support at blood drive.
Chad Petersen from KLJ stated streetlights have been installed for Streetscape. Traffic signals are blinking red for the next week. If temperatures warm up to 45 degrees, will paint roadway markings.
KLJ is addressing flood event issues at Bettins Lift Station and Master Lift Station as construction is ongoing.
Commissioner Erickson thanked street crew for work in snow event.
Commissioner Powell echoed comment support.
President Carlsrud asked citizens to watch out for city crews preparing for flood. A ribbon cutting will be held on October 23 for the Streetscape project. Employee and commission training has been occurring.
Meeting was adjourned at 5:33 PM.
Dave Carlsrud, President of the
City of Valley City Commission
Attested to by:
Avis Richter, City Auditor
City of Valley City