Category Archives: Announcements

2.2.2021 Finance Meeting

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The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at 3:30 PM CT, via Zoom.

Members of the public may view the meeting online https://zoom.us/j/93998991299 or Listen by calling (1-253-215-8782) Webinar ID: 939 9899 1299

Call to Order

Roll Call

Agenda Items

  1. Department reports.
    1. Out of State Travel Requests
  2. Review monthly bills/reports (10 minutes) – (President Carlsrud)

3. Discuss changing the April 20th, 2021 Commission Meeting Date for NDLC training. (Deputy Auditor Klein)

4.  Discuss making whole the negative cash balances in the Water (-95,748) and Street (-136,175) funds.  (PW Manager Jacobson)

5.  Discuss offering a bill credit of $5 for utility customers agreeing to go paperless by providing an email address.  (PW Manager Jacobson)

6.  Discuss Residential Building Permit and Inspection Fees.  (City Administrator Crawford)

7.  Discuss SRO Agreement.  (Police Chief Hatcher)

8. Discuss 2021 vehicle bids.  (Operations Superintendent Klemisch)

9. Discuss Main Street Seal Coat Project.  (Operations Superintendent Klemisch)

Adjourn

1.25.2021 Mayors Message

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Hello Folks,

  • PROGRESS!  COVID numbers are the most favorable they have been in a long time.  You can all be proud of your efforts.  Thank you.  Beware of complacency as it can ruin your good works, so “keep doing what you have been doing”.
  • If you want Covid Vaccinations, visit the City-County Health District website, citycountyhealth.org.  Currently, people 75 and older are eligible.  If you know people who are eligible and using a computer is difficult for them, please help them register, or add their names to the “I’m interested in an extra dose list”, or call CCHD at 845-8518 for help. 
  • We have “paid some dues” with a few tough, long winters recently.  We can be grateful for the wonderful weather with which we have been Blessed so far this winter.  It could certainly get tougher, but we have a lot of good weather “in the bank”. J
  • Speaking of weather, we’ll be having some colder days, but watch for the nicer days so you can get out for some good fresh air.  It smells and feels great!
  • Watch for information on “Love of Local”.  Around $240,000.00 of CARES Funding will be used to provide approximately 23-25% savings for people who purchase Chamber Bucks to be redeemed in Valley City businesses.  * It is a great way to leverage some of your stimulus check.
  •  “A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus.”       (Martin Luther King Jr.)                                                    

Blessings, Pray, Be Safe and Be Kind,

Dave

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

1.05.2021 City Commission Minutes

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Tuesday, January 5th, 2021

5:00 PM

Via Zoom

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 present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Richter, Deputy Auditor Klein, City Assessor Hansen, PW Accountant/Manager Jacobson, Police Chief Hatcher, Chad Petersen from KLJ, Operations Superintendent Klemisch, Gloria Swart, Jennifer Feist, Torrey Morehouse (Trademark Tooling)

Approval of Agenda

Added NB-8 and NB-9

Approval of Minutes

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve the December 15th minutes, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion carried.

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Monthly Reports from the Fire Chief, Building Inspector, Auditor, Municipal Judge and Public Works Accountant.
  2. Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $1,290,121.10         
  3. Approve 2021 Tree Trimming and Removal License for Pine Country Nursery.
  4. Approve 2021 Application to Operate Mobile Home Park for
    • Plecity Mobile Home Park.
    • Viking Drive Estates.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion carried.

Public Comments

There were no public comments.

Ordinance

 1.  Approve First Reading of Ordinance No. 1069, an Ordinance Creating a Perpetual Restrictive Covenant for Structures to be removed in Accordance with the State Water Commission.

City Attorney Martineck stated part of the phase IV of the PFP the City used State dollars to buy out properties which are listed in the Ordinance.  State Water Commission requires us to place convenient on what is built on those properties, how structure have to be built if there placed there.  The property is supposed to remain as open space.

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.  Motion carried.

Resolution

1.  Approve Resolution 2265, a Resolution to sell Real Property at a Private Sale.

City Administrator Crawford stated she had gotten a request at someone purchasing the property on 5th where the house exploded.  This is the first step towards the sale of properties the city owns.

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion carried.

New Business

1. Approve Transformer Purchase Request.

Electrical Superintendent Senf presented quotes earlier.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  Motion carried.

2. Approve Economic Development Contract.

Jennifer Feist requested approval for the presented agreement which is actually in place until December 31, 2029.  This agreement allows us to go through every 2 years to make sure the contract reflects what we’re doing.  Added was the addition of the Retention and Recruiting Coordinator.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion carried.

3.  Approve Procurement Committee Final Report – 6th Street Engineering.

City Attorney Martineck stated the city is scheduled to do a street reconstruction, water main replacement and a partial sanitary sewer replacement in 2022.  Due to the project qualifies for State Water funding we went out for an RFQ.  We received qualifications from 4 engineering firms.  We went through the interview process and ranked the firms.  KLJ/Moore ended up being the firms with the top priority so the committee is recommending the city hire them to do the preliminary engineering on this project.     

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Erickson-nay    Magnuson-aye  Bishop-nay      Gulmon-aye     Carlsrud-aye    Motion carried.

4.  Receive Payment In Lieu of Taxes request for Trademark Tooling and Schedule date for a Public Hearing.

Finance Director Richter stated he is looking for a 10 year PILOT. The schedule is included in packet.  Whatever decision is made will be contingent on receiving the lease agreement. 

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion carried.

5. Approve Valley City CARES Business Assistance Program.

Commissioner Gulmonstated the committee that consisted of himself, Commissioner Magnuson, City Administrator Crawford, Finance Director Richter and PW Accountant Jacobsen           met to discuss ways to help businesses within the city during these difficult times.  The proposal is to leverage $200,000 in CARES dollars for Chamber Bucks and receive a 25% benefit.  There are some exclusions such as medical, dental, RXD, bills.  The sales could begin on February 6th and would continue until out.  The Chamber Bucks would be open to all businesses, not just Chamber members.  If we committed $200,000 and another $12,000 for expenses and waive the     remainder of the beer licenses for 2021 totaling $21,000.  The total CARES expenditure would be         $233,000. 

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion carried.

6.  Approve Updates to Covid 19 Cares Act Relief Fund.

Finance Director Richterreported on the changes for the revenues we’ve received and the expenditures to date.  We’re estimating $91,000 for the December CARES revenue.  Prior to the Prairie Dog money we used $150,000 for Streetscape II.  Now that we have Prairie Dog funds which lightens up the load for R&R.  We would request to take the $150,000 extra out of the R&R instead of the CARES freeing up more of those funds for other items.  The other item for $100,000 is for property tax reductions that our citizens did get, not intentionally, but they did. The mill levy was calculated differently this year than prior years and the city ended up with a 4 mill reduction than what was expected.  The next item is the bars and restaurants Covid relief but that’s where the $233,000 would go leaving us with $28,000 in our CARES relief fund.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.  Motion carried.

7.  Approve Amendment to the City Emergency Order.

President Carlsrud stated the Governor has changed his order again.  Requesting to amend the Emergency Order to follow the State order so it doesn’t need to be addressed every time.  If there is something that we don’t agree with we can address those items.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. Motion Carried.

8.  Approve Moving Forward with the 7th Ave NW Reconstruction and 2nd Ave NE Reconstruction Projects for 2021 Construction.

City Administrator Crawford stated this is a project that was started in 2019 but it is shovel ready.  One of the reasons it was put off was due to funding.  PW feels that due to it being shovel ready and other chain events happen from this that this project is what we need to move forward with.  It replaces storm sewer, water mains and will help with fire protection.  We would need a contract amendment to help with updated costs. 

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.  Motion carried.

9.  Discuss City Engineer.

Commissioner Bishop stated if we have a City Engineer and they are also bidding project, who is going to hold them accountable?

Commissioner Bishop motioned if KLJ wanted to the City Engineer they can’t bid on projects.  If they want to bid they resign as City Engineer, Commissioner Erickson seconded that motion.

Magnuson-nay Bishop-aye       Gulmon-nay     Erickson-aye    Carlsrud-nay    Motion failed

City Administrators Report

City Administrator Crawford stated she had been investigating lots of things.  Working with PW to get a plan together on what they think are most critical action items and then speak with the engineers.  We have now sent out reviews to the department heads and those will take place on the actual anniversaries of the employees so they aren’t all done at once. 

 

City Updates & Commission Reports

Police Chief Hatcher updated that he was working on the new policy manual.  Anybody that lives on the snow emergency routes, please make sure your cars are removed when snowing.

Commissioner Gulmon thanked the Commission for the support with the new Business Assistance program. Thanks to Kay and the Chamber for the background work and the work going forward to get this ready.  Thanks to Gary, Gwen and Avis for the collaboration, I think this program will make a difference. 

Commissioner Erickson thanks the City crew for their work.  Also a gentlemen thanked the fire department for not destroying many more equipment than they had to when they put out his fire.

Commissioner Bishop thanked the Fire Department, they’ve been out a lot lately.  Also thanks to the Police Department.

Commissioner Magnuson thanked the Commission for their leadership abilities for helping the city grow.

President Carlsrud thanked all of our employees.  The first trip through a snow event is something.  As citizens we have to remember they can clear our streets pretty fast after a snow event but please drive for the conditions.

Meeting was adjourned at 6:02 PM

1.5.2021 Finance Meeting

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Tuesday, January 5th, 2021

2:30 PM

Via Zoom


Called To Order

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

Roll Call

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

Others present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Richter, Deputy Auditor Klein, Public Works Accountant/Manager Jacobson, City Assessor Hansen, Police Chief Hatcher, Chad Petersen from KLJ, Operations Superintendent Klemisch, Fire Chief Magnuson (3:30), Gloria Swart (3:30)

1.  Commission Topics

            b. Discuss Incentives to Newly Built Homes Outside the Renaissance Zone. 

            Discussion took place around incentives for bringing people to Valley City.

            a. Discuss City Engineer.

            Discussion took place regarding the City Engineer position.

2.  Department Reports:

            Electrical Superintendent Senf reported there were 3 outages for this month, 2 squirrels and 1          primary jumper.  We were at 99.99996% for the year, 40 total outages, and 43 hours out of power       for about 1700 customers.  Over half were animal related.  There was also discussion about putting        lights on the walk bridge.  Cost estimate would be about $2500 per side and         recommended only doing            the one side due to the cost and since the other side is only seen by the Elks building and would like to    do them so they are year round lights, not just for Christmas.  Would also like to improve the          Christmas decorations throughout town.  We also received 5 quotes back for the transformers.              Looking for approval for the lowest bids on the 9 transforms shown in the quote.  $65,000 was  previously budgeted for a Bobcat.  They no longer make the model we were looking to purchase.            Bobcat found us one in Iowa for under budget so that is on order along with attachments, still under          budget.

 Operations Superintendent Klemisch reported he was happy with the work the guys did after the     first storm.  We had some new people doing new things, so thanks to them for all their hard work.            Made it through the holiday garbage schedule with limited bodies so thanks to those employees.  The      ND Department of Equality found additional funding to continue the waste water testing through            January, maybe through the summer depending on the funding.  RDO was out to do some             maintenance on the motor grader and found a larger in the differential so we will be getting a loaner in         town will the other one is serviced.

 Gloria Swart reported that the cardboard dumpster is working great.  The new garbage truck is going to Fargo Thursday for servicing.  We made it through the holidays without to many hiccups.

Fire Chief Magnuson reported fire extinguisher services have been great.  Geotech was out drilling holes        where the addition will hopefully go.  Those results were sent to the foundation people and it     sounds   like within the next 2 weeks we should get results from that.  We are starting to get back to training while still practicing social distancing.  Most of our team have had the first dose of the vaccine.       By the time we go back to training they should have had their second dose.  Fire Chief    Magnuson stated he is training to be able to administer the rapid Covid tests so his team will be able to            rapid test before drill.    

2.  Review monthly bills/reports.

Finance Director Richter reported $1.3 million in bills for the month.  $365,000 in projects such as PFP or Infrastructure projects.  There was also a 3rd payroll issued in December which is a little over $100,000.  That puts us under the $1 million for operations.  For revenue coming in we had a good month.  We received the Prairie Dog funds which was about $2.5 million and we received November Cares for the salaries which was a little over $91,000.  We also received a little over $300,000 for reimbursement from the State Water Commission.

3.  Review proposed Public Works Capital and Operating Budgets for FY21.

            Public Works Manager Jacobson explained the breakdown of the capital budget and     summarized the operations budget.

4.  Discuss Mobile Home Park Ordinance.

            City Administrator Crawford reported that the way the Ordinance is worded an annual application is not needed, they do still have to turn in the fees.  Looking at the properties the           biggest issue we saw was Viking MHP.  The roads are beyond the city’s standards.  Per the           Ordinance we will send a notice and inform them of the penalties.  It states if nothing happens           after that a Class B Misdemeanor is issued.

            City Attorney Martineck stated that is one way to do it.  Another way is to have it so if they      aren’t in compliance their license isn’t renewed, another option is to add administrative penalties   to the ordinance. 

            City Administrator Crawford recommends amending the ordinance so it states an application   must be turned in annually and add any other changes they feel necessary. 

            Consensus was to send a letter regarding the streets.

5.  Discuss Prairie Dog Funding and Options.

            City Administrator Crawford stated in 2019 there was a plan put together for the funds and that            was when we thought it was going to be $3.5 million, it was actually $2.5 million.  We only have        the streetscape project in 2021 so the 7th Ave NW and 2nd Ave NE could be completed.  This     project is shovel ready as it was supposed to be completed in 2019 but due to circumstances it            was put on hold.  On the project a large portion cannot be assessed so this would be a good option for the funds and using part of the R&R funds.  We would have to update the bid package.  The          storm sewer would be replaced all the way and the water main would be from 2nd SW to 2nd NW      and the alley between 2nd and 3rd up to 4th St.

            Clint Klemisch added that the big thing with the water main is that it’s 4 inch cast iron and the   minimum for fire protection is 6 inch, we would go with 8 inch.  The 2nd Ave sanitary reline     project-when they went to do that they weren’t table to reline 2 blocks because of the way it’s    angled into the manhole.  There’s a lot of difficulty cleaning that right now and there are some           blockages there which is why this is a priority.

            Consensus is to move to Commission agenda for action.

6.  Discuss Curb Stop to Main Ownership.

            City Administrator Crawford stated in most cities in ND has a rule that the city owns the curb stop to the main.  In 2014 a policy was made to change that the homeowner owns it and that was      entered into the Ordinances in 2016.  This will be an issue whenever there are pipes that freeze.

            Commissioner Erickson stated he thought the reasoning this was done was due to some new     homes that were built with the mains not being buried deep enough and that was because of the         homeowners decision. Due to this they put it back on the homeowner.

            City Administrator Crawford stated in the ordinance is says that the main has to be buried 7-8 feet so anything less than that shouldn’t have been allowed.

            Consensus is that the city should own curb stop to main and change the ordinance.

7.  Discuss Valley City CARES Business Assistance Program.

            Commissioner Gulmon stated the committee that consisted of himself, Commissioner    Magnuson, City Administrator Crawford, Finance Director Richter and PW Accountant Jacobsen met to discuss ways to help businesses within the city during these difficult times.  The proposal            is to leverage $200,000 in CARES dollars for Chamber Bucks and receive a 25% benefit.  There          are some exclusions such as medical, dental, RXD, bills.  The sales could begin on February 6th           and would continue until out.  The Chamber Bucks would be open to all businesses, not just       Chamber members.  If we committed $200,000 and another $12,000 for expenses and waive the        remainder of the beer licenses for 2021 totaling $21,000.  The total CARES expenditure would be             $233,000. 

8.  Review Covid 19 Cares Act Relief Fund.

 Finance Director Richter reported on the changes for the revenues we’ve received and the  expenditures to date.  We estimating $91,000 for the December CARES revenue.  Prior to the Prairie Dog money we used $150,000 for Streetscape II.  Now that we have Prairie Dog funds, that lightens up the load for R&R find and we would request to take the $150,000 extra for that out of the R&R instead of the CARES freeing up more of those funds for other items.  The other  item for $100,000 is for property tax reductions that our citizens did get, not intentionally, but      they did. The mill levy was calculated differently this year than prior years and the city ended up         with a 4 mill reduction than what was expected.  The next item is the bars and restaurants Covid          relief but that’s where the $233,000 would go leaving us with $28,000 in our CARES relief fund.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at ­4:45 PM.

1.19.2021 Mayor’s Message

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Hi Everyone,

  • I am thankful for another week of nicer than average January weather.  Be careful for the ice when walking or driving and if you have ice on sidewalks, please spread some “grit” so your mail carrier can have some traction.
  • Governor Burgum elected to let the State Face Mask Mandate expire.  Reflecting, the COVID began on the coasts, worked its way to the mid-states and north.  It took quite awhile for it to reach North Dakota though it arrived with fervor.  We battled it with “North Dakota Smart”, washing hands and social distancing.  We slowed it, but eventually the virus over-ran us and we had the highest numbers in the USA.  Now we have battled and brought numbers down.  The only difference from when we didn’t control it until now seems to be the masking.  Data shows masking works and now there is a more contagious strain coming.  That said, I believe it is imperative for us to “Wash Hands and Mask-up when we can’t Social Distance”.  Those mitigations will be meaningful for us, and those around us until the vaccinations catch up.
  • Good News:  VCPS and VCSU represent approximately 3,000 people counting students and employees have had only miniscule “on campus” positives due to masking.
  • “You can’t unsay a cruel word.”  (A Cowboy Guide to Life)                                                   

Blessings, Pray, Be Safe and Be Kind,

Dave

Holiday Closure & Garbage Plan

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Transfer Station and Public Works Office will be Closed Jan 18th in observance of Martin Luther King Jr’s Birthday.  Monday’s garbage route will be picked up Tuesday. Tuesday route will be picked up on Wednesday. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday’s garbage will follow the regular pick-up schedule.

1.11.2021 Mayor’s Message

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Hello Folks,

  • Wow, what a nice January and it looks like we have some more days of nice weather.  Keeping in mind there are winter conditions, get outside and enjoy the fresh air.
  • Last Tuesday Governor Burgum presented the “State of the State Address” kicking off the 2021-2023 Legislative Biennium. 
  • Our “Valley City Team” is busy preparing funding request presentations for but not limited to, water, sewer, street, dam and permanent flood protection projects.  This biennium will be challenging as the last year of oil production and prices were below projections.  There will be many tough decisions facing our legislators so they will need our support.
  • Your City Commission passed a program to stimulate local sales.  When it is implemented, individuals can purchase up to $625 worth of Chamber Bucks for only $500.  That is a 25% discount with which you can shop Valley City stores.  The program will be funded with $200,000 from the CARES ACT.  Be watching for more complete information.
  • Kindness, it costs nothing, but means everything.  (Kindness Quotes for Kids)
  • A COVID note, while our numbers are pretty good right now, there are a number of areas in our nation where numbers are “blowing up”.  To increase our chances against the virus, get vaccinated, mask-up, wash your hands and social distance.
  • Fun facts from your Valley City Municipal Utilities Dept. in 2020, our electricity was “on” 99.99996% of the time.  Thank you to all who contributed.

 “There is no limit to the amount of good you can do if you don’t care who gets the credit.”                (Ronald Reagan, 40th US President)                                                   

Blessings, Pray, Be Safe and Be Kind,

Dave

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

12.15.2020 Commission Meeting 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 present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Richter, City Assessor Hansen, PW Accountant/Manager Jacobson, Police Chief Hatcher, Chad Petersen from KLJ

Approval of Agenda

Added New Business 9

Approval of Minutes

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the December 1st minutes, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion carried.

Approval of Consent Agenda

A.  Approve 2021 Permit to Sell L.P Gas for

            1.  CHS Inc. dba Dakota Plains Ag

            2.  Petro Serve USA #071

B.  Approve 2021 Tree Trimming and Removal License for Ross’ Tree Service.

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.  Motion carried.

Public Comments

There were no public comments.

New Business

1.  Approve 2021 Application to Operate Mobile Home Park for 

            a. Rockwater LLC

            b. Richard Plecity Trailer Court  (City Administrator Crawford)

City Administrator Crawford stated she and Lance inspected a few of the mobile home parks and there’s a little bit of junk but nothing that wouldn’t be handled a different way.  Richard Plecity Park only has 3 spots open but are licensed through the state to have 5 so we will keep them at that.  These parks are okay.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  Motion carried.

2.  Discuss 2021 Application to Operate Mobile Home Park for Viking Drive Estates. (City Administrator Crawford)

City Administrator Crawford said there were some problems with the garbage trucks because of the pavement heaving.  We are looking into what needs to be done.  First step is speaking with the owners and what needs to be improved.  It is in the application that the park has to be up to the city’s standards.  If we can wait on approving it we would like to so we can discuss further.

Consensus was made to postpone until next meeting.

3.  Approve Public Works Capital and Operating budgets for FY21.  (PW Manager Jacobson)

PW Manager Jacobson stated in total we are pretty much the same as last year.  For the electrical department we are requesting a reduction of about 1% due to less consumption.  For the water department we are asking in total for an increase of about 3.7% mainly due to increasing the maintenance on the mains and the depreciation on some new equipment.  For the sewer we are going down 2.4% which is mainly transferring labor and associated benefits to the water department.  Garbage we are increase 1.8% for the recycling subsidy.  Street department we are going up 1.2% due to payroll increase.  Total the budget compared to current year we are going down $7000.  We are falling within the range we like to keep everything so we are not looking at any type of increase for this year.

For the capital budget we are asking for $1.6 million.  Some of the major projects are $260,000 for the master lift upgrade, $100,000 new Service Center and cold storage building and an item that was approved back in 2018 $260,000 and the rest of the smaller projects which total up to the $1.6 million.

Commissioner Bishop motioned to approve the Public Works capital operating budget for 2021, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion carried.

4.  Review and Award bids for 2021 Vehicle Purchase.  (Police Chief Hatcher)

Police Chief Hatcher stated he received bids from the three local manufacturers to replace the red 2007 Ford 500 vehicle.  The lowest bid is Miller Motors with a 2021 Dodge Durango at $26,329.  That is budgeted into the 2021 year and will be delivered then.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion carried.

5.  Approve Engineering Committee Recommendations.  (Commissioner Gulmon)

Commissioner Gulmon stated the committee met with KLJ and Moore to discuss services and costs.  The committee recommends moving forward with KLJ/Moore for the City Engineering services.

Commissioner Bishop expressed his concerns that this nothing is changing and when this process started it was to have an individual that is separate from a firm.

Commissioner Erickson stated we were going to find an engineer that would not bid on the projects while they were the city engineer and we are not doing that right now.

President Carlsrud questioned if quality control and conflict of interest were discussed.

Commissioner Gulmon stated that he did not think they did but as stated previously all these professional firms have ethical standards to meet to uphold their licensing.  Over the years KLJ has been doing projects and if there would have been ethical issues they would have been brought up.  He also stated that we are getting enhanced services, two professional companies that can bring a lot of expertise and background to the community with planning and zoning, future growth opportunities, I think we’re getting a lot more.

Commissioner Gulmon motioned to enter into a contract with KLJ/Moore for engineering services and we continue to utilize Mike Blevins from Midwest Inspection Services for building inspections, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Bishop-nay      Gulmon-aye     Erickson-nay    Magnuson-aye  Carlsrud-aye     Motion carried.

6.  Approve the NDDOT Urban Roads Project Submittal List for Fiscal Year 2022-2025 (KLJ)

Chad Petersen from KLJ presented a list of projects that are currently programmed through the NDDOT along with a location map.  There are three projects listed in 2021, due to some delays and challenges with the drainage project, that will be moved out to the 2022 fiscal year.  Also for 2022 is the slide area.  The mill and overlay project on west main and the frontage road can be planned to be moved to the 2023 season due to the work on the slide repair and drainage area may impact the work on the mill and overlay project.  At a previous meeting we talked about turn lanes for Petro, those were not included with that project.  Investigating different opportunities to fund that project we found we could make it eligible through the Urban Road program as a new project.  The recommendation is to modify the scope of work for 12th Street North to expand the project to 8th Ave and Winter Show Road for those turn lanes.  It increases the cost of the project by about $50,000 with about $40,000 being funded through Urban Road program.  Also programmed in 2022 is the 6th Street NW project and in 2023 there are two reconstruction projects planned on 5th St NW and 3rd Street NE.  Both are prioritized on the Urban Roads program due to replace water mains.  In 2024 the city was able to secure funding through the Highway Safety Improvement Program on behalf of the Parks and Rec for flashing beacons at the crosswalk from Gaukler to the Bubble and from 4th St SW by the Rec Center to provide a safe crossing.  It is recommended that these projects are approved for the 2022-2025 fiscal year.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion Carried.

7.  Approve City Administrator’s Review.  (President Carlsrud)

President Carlsrud stated he had sent out about 14 requests for information and about 10 returned.  His recommendation is to move forward as contracted.

Commissioner Gulmon stated in the 6 months Gwen has been here she has done a great job.  She has provided great leadership skills, empowers and supports staff which has improved morale she is very dedicated to success of staff and community and takes a common sense approach. She also does a lot of back ground work. We are fortunate to have her.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  Motion carried.

8.  Consider Emergency Orders 2020-02.4 and 2020-05.3 re extension of City COVID Plan.  (President Carlsrud)

President Carlsrud stated last month we extended and amended our emergency order to coincide with the state and Governor’s declaration and I propose we do that again.

City Attorney Martineck added the governor’s order was extended until the 8th and the health department order for the mask mandate was extended until the 18th.  As of right now the city’s order includes both the mask mandate and the large event regulations which goes until January 8th.  At that point we can see if that is extended again by the state, if not I anticipate we would just extend the mask mandate until the 18th at that time.

President Carlsrud stated at this time his proposal is to move forward and stay in concert with the state.

Commissioner Erickson asked if we had to go along with the state.

President Carlsrud responded that it is easier when there is one set of rules.

City Attorney Martineck stated if the city did not have a local order the state order would still apply.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Carlsrud.

Gulmon-aye                 Erickson-nay                Magnuson-aye              Bishop-aye       Carlsrud-aye

9.  Approve Quote for Light Fixtures for the 2021 6th Street Reconstruction Project.  (Electrical Superintendent Senf)

Electrical Superintendent Senf stated he would like to keep them looking same.  They still have the fixtures, the bases changed but isn’t noticeable, I would like to order them.

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.  Motion carried.

City Administrator’s Report

City Administrator Crawford stated there are several things being worked on one being the pole counts. This is supposed to be done annually but has not been done for several years.  We have given Century Link our counts and are waiting to hear back from them.  There is also supposed to be a fee paid to the City annually but it looks like 2005 was the last time it was paid.

Metal is not to be dropped off at the recycling   center.  It is across the road from the landfill.

There were some issues figuring out occupancy for some of the buildings.  Next year when they do building inspection of fire inspection we will be adding the occupancy to our report.

City Updates & Commission Reports

City Attorney Martineck stated bids were requested for the land by the lagoons and the Transfer Station.  One bid was received and we entered into a contract with that person.  We previously were getting $25/acre but with the bidding process we were able to get $63.41/acre.

An RFQ was sent out for the 6th Street project.  Four qualification statements were received and interviews were held last week.  We will prepare a report and present that at the next meeting. 

Finance Director Richter stated this is the last meeting of 2020 and we will be working on closing the books and start working towards the 2020 audit.  We have the field work scheduled the end of March and Gary has the inventory scheduled and he can report on that.

City Assessor Hanson wishes everyone Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

PW Manager Jacobson stated the inventory count is scheduled for January 6th.  Also, kudos to everyone in the office.  Earlier this week our merchandise accounts receivable has always had aging balances.  As of this week anything over a month old is zero.

Commissioner Magnuson stated the VCFD was filling food baskets tonight for those in need.

Police Chief Hatcher stated they were continuing to shop for the Santa Cops for Kids and hopefully delivering those the next week.

Chad Petersen from KLJ wished everyone a happy and safe holiday.  Also thanked everyone for the opportunities they’ve had working with the city this past year and look forward to it for 2021.

Commissioner Gulmon wanted to let the community know that the city is in a strong financial position.  We were able to maintain the mill levy for 2021 and have strong cash reserves.  Also, you may have seen Fargo and Grand Forks have been addressing certain restaurants that have been affected due to COVID.  After hearing that and visiting with Mayor Carlsrud and City Administrator Crawford, maybe we should set up a committee to see if there is something we can do to help some of these businesses that were affected.

Commissioner Erickson thanks the Public Works and all involved in the budgeting.  There is discussion that they may put out recycling drops at the new Handy Hardware.  Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Commissioner Bishop wished everyone a safe and happy new year.  If you see the VCPD or VCFD wish them a happy holiday season as a lot of them will be working as we enjoy time with family.

Commissioner Magnuson wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New.  Also would like to see a committee formed to help out these local businesses.

President Carlsrud stated they do have some information out on what could be done to help the local businesses and we have some information coming back to us.  Shout out to recycle.  There is a lot of cardboard this time of year and it’s really important to recycle that.  Thanks to Valley City and the greater Barnes County area.  In the 30 days the order was in place our numbers have went way down.  Our Public Works folks have been getting extra work done all over town with the fall we’ve had.  Appreciate the city crew too as they work on closing the year and beginning a new one. Thanks to the Commissioners for serving, it’s important to give back to the community. 

Meeting was adjourned at 6:09 PM

1.3.2021 Mayor’s Message

Posted on by

Hi Everybody.

  • Happy New Year, 2020 is in the rear view mirror! 
  • A few Blessings are; nice weather, lower COVID numbers and COVID Vaccines that look like they will be affective.  We can be grateful.
  • Welcome back students.  Classes resume at VCPS January 4th and VCSU January 11th.  You are still having face-to-face schooling because of your diligent battling of COVID to date. Congratulations to all.
  • High School Seniors, remember to complete scholarship forms for financial aid.  Whether you are going to a two-year or four-year school there are scholarships available. If you spend a couple hours preparing a form and get $250, you were paid $125 per hour!  When completing multiple forms, some information may be copied and pasted. Every year there are scholarship dollars going unclaimed so “take a shot”.
  • The other day on National News a doctor encouraged people to keep their decorative lighting up longer.  He said lights are positive for lifting our spirits.  If yours are still up, please consider leaving them a bit longer.  Maybe it will be your place that makes a difference for someone.
  • COVID numbers are down because you are doing good jobs with preventive measures.  Congratulations and continue doing the right things.

“And freedom is what America means to the world.”       (Audie Murphy, American Soldier)                                                   

Blessings, Pray, Be Safe and Be Kind,

Dave

1.5.2021 Finance Agenda

Posted on by

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, January 5th, 2021 at 2:30 PM CT, via Zoom

Members of the public may view the meeting online

https://zoom.us/j/95839797557 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 958 3979 7557

Call to Order

Roll Call

Agenda items

  1.  Commission Topics

            a. Discuss City Engineer. (Commissioner Bishop and Commissioner Erickson)

            b. Discuss Incentives to Newly Built Homes Outside the Renaissance Zone.        (Commissioner Magnuson)

  •  Department reports.
    • Out of State Travel Requests.
  • Review monthly bills/reports (10 minutes) – (President Carlsrud)
  • Discuss Mobile Home Park Ordinance.  (City Administrator Crawford)
  • Discuss Prairie Dog Funding & Options.  (City Administrator Crawford and Operations Superintendent Klemisch)
  • Discuss Curb stop to Main Ownership.  (City Administrator Crawford)
  • Discuss the Valley City CARES Business Assistance Program.  (Commissioner Gulmon and Commissioner Magnuson)
  • Review Covid 19 Cares Act Relief Fund.  (Finance Director Richter)

Adjourn