The following video is the recording of the Commission Meeting held on March 18, 2025 . The meeting begins at approximately 10:15 into the recording.
Category Archives: Announcements
2.20.2025 Commission Minutes
City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota
Thursday, February 20, 2025
President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.
Members present: President Carlsrud, Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Gulmon, Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop
Others: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Police Chief Horner and Administrative Assistant Hintz
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Add to the Agenda New Business Items: N9. Approve Maintenance Certification for Urban Federal Aid Project.
Correct the Wording on Ordinance 1169 and 1170
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.
Motion passed unanimously.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
- Approve Minutes from the 2.4.2025 Commission Meeting.
- Approve the Site Authorization request for:
Valley City Hockey and Figure Skating Club at North 9 Bar and Grille
- Approve the Raffle Permit requests for:
St. Catherine’s School at St Catherine’s School on 5.19.2025
ND Skills USA, Valley City ND Chapter at Sheyenne Valley Area Career and Tech Center on 4.14.25
Valley City Fire Department at the Eagles on 3.22.2025
- Approve 2024-25 Contractor License for:
Your Home Improvement Company LLC
Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.
ORDINANCE
Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1169, an ordinance to amend and reenact Title 7, create and enact title 7.1, and repeal chapter 15-06 and section 17-04-23 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to use of the public rights of way.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.
Motion passed unanimously.
Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1170, an ordinance to amend and reenact chapter 11-08 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to zoning nonconformities.
Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.
Motion passed unanimously.
NEW BUSINESS
Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $1,645,050.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.
Motion passed unanimously.
Valley City Christian School abatement application.City Assessor Current explained that the abatement request is from Valley City Christian School for 3 months of 2023 and all of 2024. The proper paperwork was not filled out to receive the proper exemption at the time. They do have a 501C3.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the abatement in the amount of $1184.54, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.
Motion passed unanimously.
Approve Service Agreement with ND Department of Health and Human Services, Behavioral Health Division and the City of Valley City.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.
Motion passed unanimously.
Approve settlement on Soil Conditions SU-CPU-2-990(062) & SU-2-990(063) PCN: 23571 & 23572. City Administrator Crawford reported the current agreement is for $140,000.00 plus the charge of LDs for 2023, with the LDs for 2024 being forgiven.Engineer Peterson reminded all that the amount will also include the prime contractor markup of 10%.
Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.
Motion passed unanimously.
Approve Final Review and Acceptance of Paving District 126, Sanitary District 68, Storm Sewer District 55 and Water Main District 104 – Phase 2 NW Storm Sewer. Engineer Peterson reported that all work was completed last fall per the contract requirements. This was reviewed by the City Administrator and Public Works last week. This is the final review and acceptance, as well as the final pay estimate. A final review of the seeding will happen this spring.
Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.
Motion passed unanimously.
Approve Extension of the Alcohol License start date for Casa Mexico Restaurant.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the extension of 60 days, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.
Motion passed unanimously.
Approve sale of detached garage – flood buyout – 823 2nd St NE.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.
Motion passed unanimously.
Approve Settlement and Release Agreement for Property Damage – 711 5th Ave NW.
Commissioner Erickson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.
Motion passed unanimously.
Approve Maintenance Certification for Urban Federal Aid Project. Agreement for Cost participation completed annually.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.
Motion passed unanimously.
CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
City Administrator Crawford shared the Capitol Connections Event that was held in Bismarck this past week. This event covered many discussions on the bills that are being presented in Bismarck and how they will affect our City. She urged Citizens to reach out the Legislators and Representatives on any of the bills and share your feelings.
Public Works Accountant Jacobson share the news that the City will not be charged as much for their power from MRES as previously anticipated. Our rates dropped from 5600 kwh to 4500 kwh.
Commissioner Gulmon reported from the Finance Committee that our revenues have exceeded expenses for 2024. The City is in a good sound financial position.
Commissioner Erickson gave a shout out to Gloria Swart for her assistance in obtaining a grant for the Pilot program which dropped our cost down substantially.
Commissioner Bishop gave a shout out to our Police and Fire Departments for all that they do to protect our city no matter the weather. They are doing an excellent job.
Mayor Carlsrud reiterated the good news from Public Works Accountant Jacobson. Thanks to all of our people who are spending time out in this cold and wishing you safety.
ADJOURN
Meeting was adjourned at 5:35 P.M.
3.17.2025 Mayor’s Message
Hi Everybody,
- Hopefully you took pleasure in last week’s beautiful weather and nice weather is again forecast. *The First Day of Spring, also the Vernal Equinox, is March 20, enjoy!
- Trivia: March 12 of 1894, Coca-Cola was first served in a glass bottle.
- Last week, Valley City’s George Gaukler died. From my view, George was a hard-working, intelligent business man who was kind, giving and loved Valley City. The housing developments, apartment complexes and certainly the Gaukler Family Wellness Center are identifiable projects for which he is noted. What many of us do not know are all the people, businesses and charities to which George was a financial benefactor allowing them so many opportunities to be successful. Thank you George, you will be missed.
- Fecal matter, especially “dog poop” can be dangerous due to the presence of bacteria and parasites which can cause illness in humans and animals. For the safety of all, please pick-up poop in your yard and always carry a “poopie bag” when walking your pet. Thank you for your efforts.
- The North Dakota High School Activities Association (NDHSAA) crowned Class AA Basketball Champions, West Fargo Horace in the girls’ and Bismarck Century in the boys’. The other “team” on the floor for all games is the game officials. It is a big “feather in one’s cap” to be selected as a tournament official, like basketball teams, officials compete for tournaments. Thanks to all of you officials who “Enter the Arena” and compete.
- * That officiating was just mentioned, why not give officiating a try? It’s an opportunity to “give back” to sports and kids you love. Call the (NDHSAA) at 701-845-3953 for information.
- Some MRES Board topics last week concerned, power supply resources, transmission projects and distribution maintenance services. With the onset of data centers, generating enough electric power to adequately serve our needs is a huge challenge.
- Thank you to all who provide and proof material for this column.
- “Most folk are as happy as they make up their minds to be.” ~ Abraham Lincoln
Blessings, Pray, be Respectful and Grateful,
Dave
Dave Carlsrud
3.18.2025 Commission Meeting
The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 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/89301646417 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID:8930164 6417.
CALL TO ORDER
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE (PLEASE STAND)
APPROVAL OF AGENDA (ROLL CALL VOTE NEEDED WHEN CHANGES MADE TO THE AGENDA)
- Approve Minutes from the 3.4.2025 Commission Meeting.
- Approve Raffle for Valley City High School DECA on April 23, 2025 at Valley City High School.
Roll Call: Gulmon Bishop Magnuson 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.
- 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.
1. Third and Final Reading of Ordinance 1169, an ordinance to amend and reenact Title 7, create and enact title 7.1, and repeal chapter 15-06 and section 17-04-23 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to use of the public rights of way. (City Attorney Martineck)
Roll Call: Magnuson Erickson Gulmon Bishop Carlsrud
1. Approve Resolution 2474, a Resolution Creating Paving Improvement District No. 130. (City Engineer)
Roll Call: Erickson Gulmon Bishop Magnuson Carlsrud
NEW BUSINESS
N1. Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $1,573,274.00. Roll Call: Bishop Magnuson Erickson Gulmon Carlsrud
NB2. Hear and Determine Sufficiency of Written Protests and Approve Annexation as Described in Resolution 2473. (City Attorney Martineck)
Roll Call: Gulmon Bishop Magnuson Erickson Carlsrud
CITY UPDATES & COMMISSION REPORTS
ADJOURN
3.18.2025 Finance Agenda
The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 at 2:30 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/85935395937 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 859 3539 5937
CALL TO ORDER
- Review monthly bills/reports (Finance Director Klein)
- Discuss Hotel Liquor License. (City Attorney Martineck)
- Discuss Truck quotes for Replacement Unit (Electrical Superintendent Senf)
- Discussion Regarding Downtown Property Snow Removal. (City Administrator Crawford)
DEPARTMENT REPORTS. (3:30PM)
Department Spotlight – Electric Department
- Sanitation Department
- Water Department
- Electric Department
- Fire Department/Dangerous Buildings
- Police Department
- Street Department
- Administration
Building Permit Report Court Report
ADJOURN
3.3.2025 Mayor’s Message
Hi Everybody,
- Wednesday the 88th North Dakota Winter Show kicks off with various events throughout the rest of the week. With FREE admission you will have access to music, food, crafts, Cowboy Church and many displays. Numerous ticketed events like PRC Rodeo performances, ranch rodeo and horse pulls to name a few. The weather forecast is extremely good for the week so get out and enjoy the Winter Show and the nice weather.
- To enhance your mental health; relax to reduce stress, continue learning, invest time in nature, connect with others (call someone) and get quality rest. Blessings.
- This week, March 3-7, Valley City’s Jefferson Elementary School is celebrating “Kindness Week”. Themes to be commemorated daily throughout the week are “Sportsmanship Day”, “Brighten the World With Kindness Day”, “Be a Hero Day”, “Be Uniquely Kind Day” and end the week with “Self Love Day”.
- The 69th North Dakota Legislative Session is ongoing. You can track bills of interest at: https://ndlegis.gov/legislative-bill-tracking-system. If you have questions or comments, you are encouraged to contact your District 24 Legislators.
- March is “National Nutrition Month”. While nutrition is important for all, we older folks will benefit greatly as well. We require fewer calories now though nutrient rich foods are extremely important for us. A protein rich diet can help reduce the loss of muscle and strength! Check with your doctor, City County Health, Barnes County Extension Office or the Valley City Barnes County Library for ideas that could work for you.
- “Without referees, it is just a scrimmage”! Give back to the sports you love, become an official. Officiating is like playing and coaching, you get to “compete”. Contact the North Dakota High School Activities Association (NDHSAA) at 701-845-3953.
- Thank you to all who provide and proof material for this column.
- “People will generally accept facts as truth only if the facts agree with what they already believe.” ~ Andy Rooney
Blessings, Pray, be Respectful and Grateful,
Dave
Dave Carlsrud
2.4.2025 Commission Minutes
City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota
Tuesday, February 4, 2025
President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.
Members present: President Carlsrud, Commissioner Gulmon, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Magnuson
Others: City Administrator Crawford via Zoom, City Attorney Martineck, Deputy Auditor Johnson, Police Chief Horner
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
No Changes.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Approve Minutes from the January 21, 2025, Finance and Commission Meeting Minutes.
Approve the Raffle Permit requests for:
Harvest for Hunger Campaign at CHS Dakota Plains Ag on 3.28.2025
Sanford Valley City Clinic at The Reserve at Woodland on 2.7.2025
Ducks Unlimited Barnes County Chapter at Valley City Eagles Club on 3.15.2025
Approve 2024-25 Contractor License for:
Pine Country Landscaping & Nursery, Valley City ND
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.
Motion passed unanimously.
ORDINANCE
Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1168, an ordinance to amend and reenact subsection 1 of
section 4-01-03 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to new alcoholic beverage license for
private golf courses.
Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.
Motion passed unanimously.
RESOLUTION
Approve Resolution 2473, A Resolution to Annex Territory. The annexation on the Bjornson Golf Course and surrounding area.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.
Roll Call: Bishop – Aye, Magnuson – Aye, Erickson – Aye, Gulmon – Abstain, Carlsrud – Aye.
Motion Passed.
NEW BUSINESS
Approve Letter of Intent for Barnes County Multi Hazard Mitigation Plan. County and State require a yearly renewal to show our intent to continue to work with them.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.
Motion passed unanimously.
Approve Task Order for Valley City NW Water Tower: Environmental Documentation & Final Design.
Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.
Roll Call Vote: Gulmon – Aye, Bishop – Aye, Magnuson – Aye, Erickson – Nay, Carlsrud – Aye.
Motion Passed.
Approve Task Order for Final Design for Hyland Park Estates Water, Sanitary Sewer, Storm Sewer and Paving Improvements.
Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.
Roll Call Vote: Bishop – Aye, Magnuson – Aye, Erickson – Nay, Gulmon – Aye, Carlsrud – Aye.
Motion Passed.
Approve the 2025 Contract for Custodial Maintenance Services. K&S was significantly lower then the other two quotes.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.
Motion passed unanimously.
CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
City Administrator Crawford shared that Fargo has approved the Landfill Extension Agreement with Valley City. The other item discussed was a leak in the standpipe. The team is aware and currently working on the situation.
Police Chief Horner explained “Holes” training which was brought up at the last Commission Meeting. The training is about the Juvenile Court System & its processes as well as Community Service. This is taught by the School Resource Officer.
Mayor Carlsrud thanked all the Employees for working out in this weather, battling the winds and cold temperatures. Please be safe. Also thank you to our Commissioners for serving, you are greatly appreciated.
ADJOURN
Meeting was adjourned at 5:21 P.M.
3.4.2025 Commission Agenda
City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota
Tuesday, March 4, 2024
5:00 PM
The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 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/88970721414 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 889 7072 1414.
Call To Order
Roll Call
Pledge of Allegiance (please stand)
Approval of Agenda (Roll Call Vote needed when changes made to the Agenda)
Roll Call: Erickson Gulmon Bishop Magnuson Carlsrud
Approval of Consent Agenda
- Approve Minutes from the 2.14.2024 Special Commission Meeting and the 2.20.2025 Finance and Commission Meetings.
- Approve the Site Authorization request for:
Update – Valley City Hockey and Figure Skating Club at North 9 Bar and Grille
C. Approve the Raffle Permit Request:
VCSU Foundation/VCSU Scholarship Auction Fundraiser on 4.11 at the Eagles
Disabled American Veterans Drawing at the Eagles, 1 Day Each Month 7/2025 – 6/2026
Sheyenne Valley Friends of Animals on 4.19 at the Eagles
Mary Jones Benefit on 5.3 at the Eagles
D. Approve 2024-25 Contractor License for:
Roger Koble Contracting Valley City
Roll Call: Gulmon Bishop Magnuson Erickson 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
- Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1169, an ordinance to amend and reenact Title 7, create and enact title 7.1, and repeal chapter 15-06 and section 17-04-23 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to use of the public rights of way. (City Attorney Martineck)
Roll Call: Bishop Magnuson Erickson Gulmon Carlsrud
2. Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1170, an ordinance to amend and reenact chapter 11-08 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to zoning nonconformities. (City Attorney Martineck)
Roll Call: Magnuson Erickson Gulmon Bishop Carlsrud
New Business
N1. Approve the Valley City-Barnes County Development Corporation request of $45,000 to increase childcare capacity with funds sourced from the City Sales Tax dedicated to economic development. (VCBCDC Feist)
Roll Call: Erickson Gulmon Bishop Magnuson Carlsrud
N2. Approve revision to allocation of funds for “Back the Blue” grant money. (Police Chief Horner)
Roll Call: Gulmon Bishop Magnuson Erickson Carlsrud
N3. Approve ND DWR Pre-Construction Cost Share Application for Preliminary and Design Engineering for Northwest Standpipe – Emergency Repairs. (City Engineer)
Roll Call: Bishop Magnuson Erickson Gulmon Carlsrud
N4. Approve GMP Amendment to McGough’s Contract for the Valley City Public Works Building to be completed by Olaf Anderson in the amount of 1,635,532 for the Pre-Engineered Metal Building (PEMB). (City Administrator Crawford)
Roll Call: Magnuson Erickson Gulmon Bishop Carlsrud
N5. Approve Settlement Agreement for Damage to Garage Door – 1416 East Main Street. (City Attorney Martineck)
Roll Call: Erickson Gulmon Bishop Magnuson Carlsrud
City Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn
2.24.2025 Mayor’s Message
NEWS & NOTES
2/24/2025
Hello Folks,
- FINALLY, a nice break in the weather! We have endured a tough stretch, kudos to all of you.
- Thank you to all the city, county and state employees who work outdoors keeping roads passable, water and sewers flowing along with a plethora of other tasks as well.
- Last week we attended “Capitol Connections” in Bismarck where a number of state associations gathered. The North Dakota League of Cities (NDLC), the North Dakota Association of Counties (NDACo), the North Dakota School Boards Association (NDSBA), the North Dakota Township Officers Association (NDTOA) and the North Dakota Recreation and Parks Association (NDRPA) were present. That there were over 1,000 bills introduced this year, it was an opportune time to network and collaborate on bills affecting the groups. A number of our legislators and governor graciously made time to address the group and answer some tough questions concerning numerous bills. Thank you to the organizers, legislators and other presenters, it was an invaluable event.
- A North Dakota personality about whom you may enjoy reading is Darin Erstad of Jamestown High School, University of Nebraska Football & Baseball and Los Angeles Angels. Google “Darin Erstad” and enjoy.
- Thank you to Deb Birgen with Missouri River Energy Services (MRES) who drove from Sioux Falls solely to testify in Bismarck at the ND Legislature supporting Valley City and all North Dakota Municipal Power Communities.
- The North Dakota High School Activities Association’s (NDHSAA) State Wrestling was held at the FargoDome over the weekend. It is great event in a wonderful venue where you can easily watch wrestling to your heart’s content and for us old timers to re-hash “old war stories”. Some stories may be somewhat embellished …… imagine that!
- Thank you to all who provide and proof material for this column.
- “Once you have wrestled, everything else in life is easy.” ~ Dan Gable
Blessings, Pray, be Respectful and Grateful,
Dave
Dave Carlsrud
2.17.2025 Mayor’s Message
NEWS & NOTES
2/17/2025
Hi Everyone,
- It has been quite a cold spell recently though it appears to be mellowing as the week goes forward. “Hang in there”!
- Last week a number of our city employees exercised their culinary skills in their 3rd Annual Soup-er Bowl Event. There was a good number of contest entries and all were of superior taste! This year’s “selectee” was the Valley City Fire Department’s (VCFD) Cheeseburger Soup. Congratulations to the VCFD and thank you to all who competed.
- Will you please carry a garbage box/bag in your car/pickup to hold garbage (cigarette butts too) until you can dispose of it in a proper receptacle? Thank you.
- We are into the winter sports season tournaments already! Tournaments are exciting and lots of fun though usually only the game winners advance which bring sudden ends to seasons. As parents and spectators, it can be “hard”, so be good examples of sportsmanship for your children. “One person practicing sportsmanship is far better than a hundred teaching it”. ~ Knute Rockne
- With all that is happening in the world today, consider praying to the God of your choice that good will overcome evil.
- We are under a National Energy Emergency declaration. The order emphasizes the need to enhance the nation’s power grid for addressing fuel shortages, increasing energy demands and the impacts of extreme weather events. (Sam McDonald, Kanner & Associates) Thank you Sam.
- Dickey County is housing a data center just west of Ellendale. Some of the A.I. facilities there will be a 175,000 sq. ft building, 400,000-gallon diesel tanks, nine diesel generators and will need over 800 megawatts of power. That is really big stuff with more to come!
- It was reported at our last Missouri River Energy Services (MRES) that the “whole electrical grid” is scrambling to secure adequate electric power due to growing demand.
- Thank you to all who provide and proof material for this column.
- “Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” ~ The Special Olympics Motto recited by Special Olympians at competitions.
Blessings, Pray, be Respectful and Grateful,
Dave
Dave Carlsrud