Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

10.21.2025 Finance Meeting Minutes

Called to Order

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

Roll Call

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

Other present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Deputy Auditor Johnson, Police Chief Horner

Agenda Items

Overview of the 2024 Audit Report by Brady Martz
Matt Laughlin presented the audit, reporting a clean (unmodified) opinion.

Review Monthly Expenditure Reports
Expenditures were reviewed with no major concerns. Notable items included sanitary sewer relining and service center bills. Everything is tracking as expected.

Quarterly Engineer Report
Engineering costs are in line with the budget. Public Works site engineering is a major component.

Update on Viking Trailer Court
David Wick reported on completed drainage improvements and plans for 2025. A proposed plan from the engineer is expected by December and will report back full project completion is estimated to take at least five years.

Discuss Renewing School Resource Officer Contract
The SRO contract will be renewed for five years with updated school contributions due to inflation. Payment terms will shift to biannual (January and August).

Discuss Master Police Officer Position
A new Master Officer role will replace two sergeant positions, offering advancement opportunities and integrating FTO duties. The change is budget-neutral and supports retention.

Discuss Series F, Red River Valley Water Supply Project
No immediate action required; further discussion will occur later.

Discuss Extension of City Administrator’s Contract
The Commission expressed strong support for Gwen Crawford. Commissioner Erickson inquired if contract could be extended to 2030.

Discuss Bids for Northwest Area Water System Improvements
Three contracts totaling $3.47M were awarded, with a total project cost of $4.3M. The city’s share is $1.7M, with a $500K buy-down. A 2% water rate increase will cover the bond repayment. The Commission agreed to include the alternate bid for removing the National Guard water tower, contingent on cost-share approval.

Discuss Water Tower Surcharge Amount
A $1.90 monthly surcharge was recommended (instead of $2.00) to cover the bond repayment. This will be included in the January billing cycle.

Discuss Status of Phase IV PFP
Final plan review is scheduled for mid-November. Bidding is expected before or after Christmas. Funding is in place.

Discuss Permitting of Concrete Work and Regulation of Stormwater Management
The Commission discussed requiring permits for new concrete work and drainage plans for elevated construction in floodplains. Ordinance updates will be drafted for review.

Department Reports

Sanitation Department Forman Swart reported landfill software goes live Nov. 3. Credit card payments are increasing. Electronic recycling event planned for January.

Water Department Projects are on hold pending final approvals. Lead line inventory submitted.

Electric Department Electrical Superintendent Senf reported no major updates; awaiting foundation work.

Fire Department Fire Chief Magnuson reported they have received $179,850 FEMA grant for bunker gear. Fire Prevention Week was a success.

Police Department Police Chief Horner reported 787 calls for service. Community engagement and active shooter training were highlights.

Street Department Operations Superintendent Klemisch reported hydrant flushing and snow equipment prep underway.

Administration

City Administrator Crawford discussed buyout policy exceptions and long-term planning for floodplain properties.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:45 PM.

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

9.16.2025 Finance Minutes

City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

2:30 PM

Called to Order

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

Roll Call

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

Other present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Deputy Auditor Johnson, Police Chief Horner, City Engineer Petersen, City Engineer Eslinger.

Agenda Items

Review monthly bills/reports. Finance Director Klein reviewed the monthly bills and reports.

Discuss Valley City NW Water Tower. City Engineer Eslinger reviewed the cost options with the project and what the 30 year loan payments would look like. Consensus was the City would do a $500,000 down payment and look at a $2 base fee per meter monthly charge on utility billing.

Review CD Renewal Options. The Commission reviewed CD rate options. Consensus was to renew the rates at Dacotah Bank for 7 months and going forward the Finance Committee will determine CD renewals and report to the City Commission.

Review Settlement Agreement for the 2nd Ave 3rd St. NE Reconstruction Project. Commissioner Bishop moved to add Review Settlement Agreement for the 2nd Ave 3rd St. NE Reconstruction Project to the agenda, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.

Motion passed unanimously.

City Engineer Petersen reviewed the Notice of Intent and change orders with STRATA. The dollar amount paid by the City and NDDOT would not change due to these documents. Consensus was to move forward.

Department Reports

Department Spotlight – New Employees since 1.1.2025

Sanitation Department Forman Swart reported on getting new software for the Transfer Station.

Water Department Water Treatment Superintendent Hesch reported on the lagoon.

Electrical Department Electrical Superintendent Senf reported on progress of current projects.

Fire Department Fire Chief Magnuson reported monthly calls and blighted buildings.

Police Department Police Chief Horner reported monthly calls for service and discussed vehicle purchase in 2026. Commission agreed for the Police Department to purchase the Ford Explorer in 2026. Chief Horner updated the Commission on Back the Blue funds awarded and a potential agreement with ND Department of Health and Human Services to develop the Responsible Tobacco Retailer Training Project.

Street Department Operations Superintendent Klemisch reported on progress of current projects.

Administration

City Administrator Crawford discussed Ordinance changes and PFP Buyouts. Discussed the Preliminary & Design Engineering services for the Exit 292/Loves Access Flex Fund Application. Commissioners agreed to pay 5% of the project, which is a 50/50 cost share with the County for the local 10% share.

Finance Director Klein discussed current CD’s and gave an update on changes made to the budget.

Adjourn – 4:42 PM

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8.19.2025 Finance Minutes

City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

2:30 PM

Called to Order

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

Roll Call

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

Other present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Deputy Auditor Johnson, police Chief Horner.

Agenda Items

Review monthly bills/reports. Finance Director Klein reviewed the monthly bills and reports.

Discuss Rosebud Parking Lot. Discussion was held on the Rosebud Parking Lot issues. Consensus was to go with signage rather than cameras due to cost. 

Discuss Transfer of 832 4th Ave NE to Valley City Public Schools. Discussion was held on the Transfer of 832 4th Ave NE to Valley City Public Schools. Consensus was to approve transfer contingent on keeping Mindy’s garden in place.

Discuss Change Order for Sewer Reline. Discussion was held on the Change Order for the Sewer Reline. Consensus was to allow the City Administrator to approve anything $75,000 and lower. Anything higher will require further Commission approval.

Option Agreement and Easement – State Interoperability Radio Network. Discussion was held on the Option Agreement and Easement for the SIRN tower site on City property in Barnes County.

Discuss additional soil remediation site on a portion of the South half of the Southwest quarter 27-140-58. Discussion was held on the additional soil remediation site. Consensus was to approve the area.

Discuss Valley City Housing Incentive Program. Discussion was held on the Valley City Housing Incentive Program. Consensus was to allow the Incentive Program for new hook ups only.

Discuss Public Safety at City Transfer Station. Discussion was held on creating a waiver for loading woodchips into trailers and use of the tree site.

Department Reports

Department Spotlight – Fire Department & Remaining City Hall Employees

Sanitation Department Forman Swart reported the landfill is still taking in a lot of trees, and gave the numbers for the clean up week back in May.

Electrical Department Electrical Superintendent Senf reported the crew is working South of town and they are still behind schedule.

Fire Department Fire Chief Magnuson reported on dangerous buildings. 

Police Department Police Chief Horner reported that the PD has attended several events in Valley City including Safety in the Park. Health Department is inquiring the VCPD about the ability to contact with us to teach our alcohol server training classes.

Street Department Operations Superintendent Klemisch reported the County Highway Department will be doing their annual bridge inspections next Wednesday. They will also be replacing a culvert on the landfill road sometime in the next month. School crossings were painted last week. The City continues to pick up trees from the summer storms. Sprayed for mosquitos last week. The contractor has arrived to paint the water tower up by the John Deere Building.

Administration

City Attorney Martineck suggested that tobacco and alcohol license violations be enforced more consistently and recommended an ordinance change.

Finance Director Klein discussed late payment fees on public works accounts receivable.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:27PM.

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

7.15.2025 Finance Minutes

Called to Order

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

Roll Call

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

Other present: City Administrator Crawford (via zoom), City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Lt. Rustebakke, Executive Assistant Bodine, Administrative Assistant Hintz, Intern Nord.

New Business

Motion to hold Executive Session for Attorney Consultation to Discuss Main Street Off Sale Alcoholic Beverage License.

Commissioner Bishop moved to open the Executive Session, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Motion passed unanimously.

The executive session began at 2:32 PM and was attended by President Carlsrud,

Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Gulmon, Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop, City

Administrator Crawford via Zoom, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Lt. Rustebakke, Executive Assistant Bodine, Administrative Assistant Hintz, and Intern Nord.

The meeting resumed at 2:46 PM. The media and the members of the public have been

invited to return to the open session.

Agenda Items

Review Commissioner Roles & Responsibilities. City Attorney Martineck presented a PowerPoint.

Review Monthly Expenditures Reports. Finance Director Klein reviewed the monthly reports. 

Review Quarterly Engineer Report. Finance Director Klein reviewed the quarterly reports.      

Review Quarterly Fire Extinguisher Report. Finance Director Klein reviewed the quarterly reports.

Discuss Rosebud Parking Lot. City Administrator Crawford discussed police presence in this area. Commissioners Magnuson and Bishop discussed purchasing security cameras that are tied to the PD. Assistance would be expected covering the costs. Commissioner Magnuson is working on getting quotes. The consensus is to continue with the current procedures.

Discuss Paving Improvement District 131 Protests. City Engineer Peterson discussed additional options with the protest of Project 131. Accept the protest and not do the project at all, losing the Urban Grant Fund ($2.99 million). Accept the protest, find alternative funding to offset the paving special (ie. additional R&R or Prairie Dog) and move forward with the project as presented. Accept the protest, consider alternative special assessment options, move forward with project as presented. Accept the protest, move forward with only the water, sewer and storm sewer improvements, losing the Urban Grant Fund ($2.99 million).

Discuss Policy for Approval of Gaming Site Authorizations. City Attorney Martineck discussed the previous views of the Commission and the need for the policy to move forward regarding out of town organizations.

Discuss Legislative Session Review. City Attorney Martineck reviewed the latest Legislative Session.

Department Reports

Department Spotlight – City Hall

Sanitation Department Supervisor Swart reported that they have taken in close to 2 Million Lbs. of trees and branches since the storm. When bringing trees & branches to the Transfer Station, please haul larger trees, trunks, and branches inside, the Grass Site is for the smaller items.

Electrical Department Electrical Superintendent Senf explained that his Team is playing catch up and staying busy.  He asks that the public look up at your lines to make sure they are clear of trees and branches. After a 3 year wait, the new digger truck has arrived.

Fire Department Fire Chief Magnuson shared that the $190,000 Grant applied for to purchase new bunker gear looks to be approved. There were 36 calls for service for the past month. He also updated the blighted building locations around town being worked on. 

Police Department Lt. Rustebakke updated the Commissioners of the PD’s new hire Cody Perdue. The FTO process has been started. They are now currently fully staffed.

Street Department Operations Supervisor Klemisch and his Team continue to pick up trees and branches. 1 hydrant was broken during the storm and the repair parts are in. They will start patching soon and continue to catch up on everything else since the storm. The 2nd round of tree pickup will start on July 24th, please have your trees and branches on the boulevards. Concrete is starting at the new Service Center site.

Administration

City Administer Crawford gave an update on the soil from the Service Center site. There is more dirt needing decontamination, this was in the preliminary findings and has been accounted for. Water and sewer service line warranty information will go out again this fall. We have had positive reports from those that have needed it.

Finance Director Klein reminded about the budget meetings coming up and they have been put on the calendar.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:36PM.

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

6.17.2025 Finance Minutes

Called to Order

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

Roll Call

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

Member Absent: Commissioner Erickson

Other present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Chief Horner, Administrative Assistant Hintz

Agenda Items

Review Monthly Bills/Reports. Finance Director Klein reviewed the monthly bills and reports.

Discuss Task Order Amendment for Environmental Documentation, Design and Bidding for National Guard Water Tower Demolition Project. City Engineer explained that he had spoken with ND DWR and we can request this as part of a project but there is no guarantee that it will be approved.Discussion was had. Consensus was to move this to the Commission Meeting for a vote.

Discuss Changing our Credit Card Issuer.  Finance Director Klein stated that by going local, we would receive a 2% cash back as well as other features. The Commissioners agreed to move forward with the change. Effective 7.1.25 we will start using the new cards. Effective 8.1.25 the previous credit cards will be cancelled.

Discuss Completing an Electric Rate Study for Valley City. City Administrator Crawford explained that MRES will pay 50% of the study. This will help determine if our current rates are at the correct price and solidify any increases in the future. The Commissioners agreed to move forward.

Discuss Estimate for 12th St & 9th Ave NW. City Engineer Peterson discussed the origin of the request for funding on extending 12th St from 9th Ave NW into their development. This was roughly three years ago and nothing has taken place since. The Developers were going to ask for an extension but their time has expired. They are now asking for funds again for this project. The baseline costs have gone from 685K to 835K, this will include the revised alignment adding a curve in the road to stay out of the rail road right-a-way and adding sidewalks. Total cost to make this work, would be 1.65M. This could be done in phases. Currently looking into options for cost share funding, No action at this time. This will be removed from the Commission meeting.

Discuss Keeping of Chickens in City Limits. The materials were reviewed and discussion was had. The preference of the Commissioners was to consider the request, but will make no changes at this time.

Discuss Overpayment of Snow Disaster Funds from the State. Finance Director explained the error made at the State level and we will be paying back the overage.This was just an FYI.

Discuss Sale of Easement on Farm Land near City Lagoon. City Attorney Martineck talked about the new Inter-operable Radio Tower System that the State has been working on for a few years. This location is the best option for the Tower by Valley City. Allo offered 10K for the easement. Allo will also reach out to the Farmer renting and pay for his crop loss. Commission consensus is agreeable to move forward with this process.

Department Reports

Department Spotlight – Street Department – Part 2

Sanitation Department Supervisor Swart reported on the Electronics Clean-Up weeks. The Residents appreciate us for providing that service. Letters were sent out to certain Residents for some of the remaining items on boulevards that are not picked up by the Crew. The 2020 Peterbilt will have the tag axle put on in Fargo at NW Truck & Trailer who had the lowest bid.

Water Department Water Supervisor Hesch updated the Commissioners on the Low-Level Alarm that alerted him. He had some Divers from the Valley City Fire Department clean the intake screen and they moved the sensor out of the silt and the Alarm ended. Due to the rain, the water usage has been down.

Electrical Department Electrical Superintendent Senf talked about the one outage from last month. The Columbia Grain project was completed. He is looking to order the fiber now for the Service Center due to it being on hand and a good price. Keeping an eye on the soft costs for the project. The plan is to be done boring the south side of town this week.

Fire Department Fire Chief Magnuson reported on the calls for service for the past month and on the blighted buildings around town. He gave updates on the listed locations. 

Police Department Police Chief Horner went over the Calls for Service for the past month. He shared the Trainings and Community events that He and the Officers have been attending. Received funding with City/County Health & CHI Mercy to supply CISM Training for up to 25 Officers and First Responders and then open it up to Residents.

Street Department Operations Supervisor Klemischtalked about the annual inspection from the Department of Agriculture & we passed. Doing a great job of record keeping but will need to start advertising the spraying by means of social media to inform the Residents.Capped the old water service at the Valley Plains site, the street patching was us. Hot mixing around town, spraying for weeds and one spraying for mosquitoes is done.

Administration

City Administer Crawford reported that the New Service Center Ground Work has begun. Update meetings will be held weekly.  They are moving right along, they have however run into quite a bit of cement chunks. We are working to see if the City can haul that out to save on the costs.Cost estimates will be taken care of by Gwen & Brenda.

Finance Director Klein reported that she is working on the current Audit and the 2026 Budget.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:29PM.

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

5.20.2025 Finance Minutes

City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, May 20, 2025

2:30 PM

Called to Order

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

Roll Call

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

Other present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Chief Horner, Administrative Assistant Hintz

Agenda Items

Review Monthly Bills/Reports. Finance Director Klein reviewed the monthly bills and reports.

Discuss Camera Grant. City Administrator Crawford shared with the Commissioners that the original Grant for the Cameras did not cover all of the expenses but there are funds from other Grants that will.

Discuss an Ordinance allowing Chickens in City Limits.  President Carlsrud shared that a number of Citizens have reached out and inquired about raising chickens. The Commissioners have asked City Attorney Martineck to look into what neighboring Cities allow and draft an ordinance for the June 17th meeting.

Review City Mobile Home Park Regulations. City Attorney Martineck will draft an Ordinance about the age, model types, as well as installation allowed and where they are allowed in the City.

Discuss 2025 General Fund Budget Amendment for Transportation Plan. The Commissioners agreed to move forward with this plan.

Discuss Administrative Approval for Changes to Applications on Liquor Licenses. The Commission agreed that notification for these changes is appropriate and Commission approval is not needed.

Review Gaming Site Authorization Regulations. City Attorney Martineck will draft an ordinance for Site Authorizations requiring the Gaming Operator to have ties to Valley City.

Discuss New Renaissance Zone Island. Discussion was had on the Renaissance Zone Authority Board moving forward with a new Island. This will allow more locations for the building of new homes that will qualify for the Renaissance Zone Tax Credits.

Discuss Possible Sale of Lot 3, Block 2, Bjornson Heights Parcel. City Administrator Crawford shared that there is interest in purchasing this piece of property to use for recreation. The Commissioners tabled the discussion until it is determined how much of the property is needed and the planned use of the property. There are concerns for the hill side and road below.

Department Reports

Department Spotlight – Police Department

Sanitation Department Supervisor Swart explained the process for picking up the garbage during Cleanup Week. Three different trucks loading different materials go around and collect the trash. Residents are still able to haul their items to the Transfer Station on May 31st at no cost. June 9th – 13th is Electronic Cleanup Week. During that week, you may take your used Electronics to the Transfer Station and dispose of them for just $ .75 /lb.  

Water Department Water Supervisor Hesch explained that they are using surface water currently and not the aquafer.  

Electrical Department Electrical Superintendent Senf had 1 outage caused by a squirrel since last meeting and that his Team is busy working on projects.  

Fire Department Fire Chief Magnuson reported calls were back up for the month. They have also been busy removing signs around town and issuing notices for blighted or dangerous properties.

Police Department Police Chief Horner shared the calls that his Team has had over the last month. They have been busy with Compliance Checks; Peer Support and Community projects and events. They will be swearing in new Police Officer Chaise Johnson today.

Street Department Operations Supervisor Klemisch’s Team has been busy completing the hydrant flushing around town. Cleanup week was very busy and they plan to pick up sticks & branches the 29th and 30th.

Finance Director Klein informed the Commission that she will be mailing out the budget schedule for July. The Auditors will be coming next week. The City is very happy with the bond rates that it received. 

City Attorney Martineck shared the current job openings for the City; An accountant, a Public Works 1 and a Public Works 2. The Executive Assistant position has been filled.

City Administer Crawford shared that the Employees at Public Works & City Hall have been busy switching desk/office locations. The west door will become locked full time. The North door will become the main entrance. The plan is to have this completed in June. They have been working on Phase 4 – Flood updates, Final information should be coming next week. Bids in July and the process should be completed in 2026.Water tower update: State Water Commission request is ready to go, waiting on the State for the Emergency request. The Water Tower Plan Site is done as well as the Environmental Review. Looking to this fall for a bid date. Completed the base in 2026 and the tower in 2027. Finished the Connie Courtney PFP Buyout. Per confirmation from the State, Valley City can have 2 Islands in their Renaissance Zone Blocks. We will be holding a Public Hearing during the June 17th Commission Meeting. Prior to the meeting. Letters will be mailed to the landowners.

President Carlsrud asked the Engineers to take note of the bid requirements and dates with the changes that were made.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:37PM.

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

4.15.2025 Finance Minutes

City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, April 15, 2025

2:30 PM

Called to Order

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

Roll Call

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

Other present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Chief Horner, Administrative Assistant Hintz

Agenda Items

Add 3 Items to the Agenda.:

            Discuss buyout/lease options for 2018 Loader and Backhoe.

            Discuss Single Family Home Buyer Assistance Program

            Discuss allowing Chickens in City Limits

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Motion passed unanimously.

Review Monthly Bills/Reports. Finance Director Klein reviewed the monthly bills and reports.

Review Quarterly Engineer Report. Finance Director Klein and Engineer Peterson discussed the report and how the projects are separated.

Discuss Loading & Unloading Parking for Businesses on Central. City Administrator Crawford shared an email received regarding a Loading/Unloading Zone for a business on Central. Much discussion was had on the best locations possible, times frames, signage and the current parking situation. The consensus was to educate and possibly add signage to the building.                                    

An update on Water Tower Project was given by Engineer Peterson and Engineer Eslinger discussed the Water Tower Project and where they are at in the project. They will be starting the environmental part shortly with a bench study and then incorporate Geo Technical work into it and then coming up with a base plan. They do not feel that they will have any new updates for a few months. Plans are ready for bid this fall. Commissioner Bishop asked for an update on the leak. Both Engineers reported that they are currently working on the funding.   

Discussion of Love’s Access Drainage continues. They have been working on ideas and do have some rough estimates on possible fixes. A background with Love’s and the original plan for the build was that it included plans for the water flow but due to a gas line were not able to be completed. A concern with fixing the water flow is the cost and who will pay for it. Another concern is traffic flow during the project as well as currently. The consensus is to look into fixing the whole area and not just small fixes.

Department Reports

Department Spotlight – Street Department – Part 1

Sanitation Department Supervisor Swart reported that the Transfer Station will be open Saturdays starting May 3rd. Clean Up week was determined and will be held May 19th – 23rd. You can start setting your items out for pickup after your garbage day the week of the 12th. Yearly Tree branch pickup will be the 29th and 30th.

Electrical Department Electrical Superintendent Senf and his team finished cleaning up at the Winter Show and are now working on the 3Phase project, waiting for an answer on the permit from CP Rail.

Fire Department Fire Chief Magnuson reported calls were down for the month but have been busy as of late. They are getting caught up on the fire extinguishers with the help of a couple local students. He is watching a couple blighted homes and has seen improvements on a few that were already notified.

Police Department Police Chief Horner shared that his Team had 639 Calls in the past month. They have been busy with Compliance Checks; Peer Support and the Taser 10s are out and deployed.

Street Department Operations Supervisor Klemisch’s Team has been busy filling potholes and will be starting crack sealing and flushing hydrants. If you see a pothole, please report it to Public Works so that it can be taken care of. Klemisch also gave an update on the dirt being removed from the new Service Center Site out to the Transfer Station for “farming”. Currently there are three PW1 openings in the Department and it was decided to hire one PW2 and one PW1 instead hoping for some applicants at this new level.

City Administer Crawford shared that the City will be posting for RFQs for a Tree Trimmer, Yard Mowing Service and an Appraiser. The Tree Trimmer and Mowing Service will be used when the City is not able to take care of it. The bill for the service will go to the property owner. Discussion was also had on the “Depot Road’. This road is in need of repair but it is not the City’s road it is privately owned.

Agenda Items Continued

Discuss Public Safety Issues of Viking Trailer Court. Discussion was had on the roads in Viking Trailer Court. This is a hazard as Emergency Vehicles would not be able to drive through. David Wick is working on getting this taken care of. Much of the water has been removed. Some road work has been started to alleviate the problem.

Discuss buyout/lease options for 2018 Loader and Backhoe. Operations Supervisor Klemisch’s shared that the lease is up and the new lease rate would be a substantial increase.  The buyout purchase price was given and determined that was the better route to take. The consensus was to move forward with the buyout. This will be added to the Commission meeting for a vote.

Discuss Single-Family Home Buyer Assistance Program. Attorney Martineck brought up discussion on the proposed Single-Family Home Buyer Assistance Program that the VCBC Development Corporation provided. There are a few issues that need to be discussed prior to moving forward. Under City, it stated Manufactured Homes and that is a very broad description. It must state it very clearly what kind of homes are wanted or not. Another would be the “Buy-Back Clause” and how that would work. The current intent is to issue a mortgage on the home. Another would be, if that happens, would the City get their percentage back? Finally, how will it work in the Renaissance Zone. Finally, what about the Electrical Temp Meter fee.

Discuss allowing Chickens in City Limits. Due to time constraints, this item will be moved to the May 20th Finance Meeting.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:55PM.

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

3.18.2025 Finance Minutes

Called to Order

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

Roll Call

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

Other present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Chief Horner, Administrative Assistant Hintz

Agenda Items

Review Monthly Bills/Reports. Finance Director Klein reviewed the monthly bills and reports.

Discuss Hotel Liquor License. City Attorney Martineck shared with the Commissioners that this is a possibility if needed in the future but there is no request currently. The consensus of Commission was to put this on hold for now.

Discussion Regarding Downtown Property Snow Removal. City Administrator Crawfordshared that this topic was brought up by Commissioner Erickson at the reading of Ordinance 1169 at the last meeting. Crawford feels that more discussion is needed on this topic. If there are changes to be made to the proposed ordinance, they need to be discussed as that Ordinance is scheduled for a third reading at tonight’s commission meeting. Operations Supervisor Klemisch joined via Zoom and explained his concern over the increase in time for snow removal to 48 hours. It is currently set at 24 hours.The consensus of the Commissioners was to leave the time at the 24 hours for snow removal now. Vote on the ordinance as is. Then, in the future, revisit this concern and possibly make a change at that time. There was also discussion on the sidewalk requirements in the Ordinance. Currently the Ordinance reads that a permit from the City is required and that a Contractor must do the work to the required City Specs. Some Residents take it upon themselves to fix their sidewalks, when this occurs, they need to follow the City Guidelines and the City will cover 25% of the cost.  Clint must review the request first, before work begins and then again when the project is completed. Martineck will confirm if a permit is currently required in Code. If changes are needed, this will be discussed at a future meeting. Discussion on boulevards was also discussed.

Discuss Truck Quotes for Replacement Unit. Electrical Superintendent Senf shared the estimates for a new Unit with the Commissioners. Discussion was had on what the estimates covered and included. His request was for approval to purchase the Dodge Ram that included the truck box with the side built-in tool boxes. Senf feels that this will be the most useful and work best for their needs. The consensus of the Commissioners was to move forward with the purchase of the Dodge.

Department Reports

March Highlighted the Electrical Department Employees.

Sanitation Department Supervisor Swart reported the container count is going up steadily. Please recycle if and when possible to keep costs down. E-recycling was a great success. Special thanks to a couple of her Team Members for going above and beyond. They were approved for the Workforce Safety Technology Grant and now they will be installing a Camera out by the scales to view the loads.

Water Department Water Superintendent Hesch talked about the new cameras being installed at the Water Treatment Plant as part of a Department of Justice Grant that was awarded. They are currently doing their own pilot study for surface water and ground water. They are just running river water to test the aquafer levels. When temperatures start to warm up, they will go back to their normal process. They are planning to dredge the silt off next year.

Electrical Department Electrical Superintendent Senf advised that there were no outages for February. The guys have been working on tree removal & clearing the lines. Spending a little time with cleaning up the Winter Show line and removing the platform currently used. Removing a 3phase line near the Fish Hatchery as well.

Fire Department Fire Chief Magnuson shared last months report with only 8 general calls for service however, there were 22 pages of Chief calls. Saturday night is the annual fundraiser for the Fire Department.

Police Department Police Chief Horner explained that they had more calls this past month then previously. They also had the honor of running the torch for Special Olympics and the pleasure of escorting the Hi-Liner Girls Basketball Team out of town on their way to State. Provided ID scanners to the Winter Show Concert and around town during the event.  Compliance Check Training was held here in Valley City on the 4th. This is the first in their series of training throughout the State. Cameras and door fobs have all been updated. Working with the VCSU Communications Class to have social media posts to put out about 2 times a week. A new officer was hired and will begin shortly.

Street Department Operations Supervisor Klemischvia Zoomreported his crews are working on filling potholes and the street sweeper is out and busy. The quotes are back for the repairs at the damaged lift station. Valley Plains site demo will start as soon as it opens up. The cost to fix the soils were figured into the total budget and the dirt will be able to be “farmed: and used elsewhere as needed.

City Administer Crawford shared a topic of parking downtown, and a request for a loading and unloading zone. Crawford asked that the Commissioners think about this and it will be added to the agenda for the April Finance meeting.

City Administrator Crawford asked City Engineer Peterson to discuss upcoming construction projects for the City. The Seal Coat will be going out for bids on Friday. Reline should be going out this week as well. As for the PFP, we are still working on some permits but that will also go out this spring. Planned construction will be in 2025 and 2026. As for 2nd St project, the first step will be to recreate the Improvement Districts. The next step will be to define the Resolution of Necessity and then to define the Benefit to the Properties. That has been discussed and they are using benefit analysis that has been used throughout the State. As for the 2025 funding, we will need to have the final documents submitted to the D.O.T. by the first part of August. The Grant is still available but is slated for 2025 and the funds must be bid and allocated in 2025.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:28PM.

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

2.20.2025 Finance Minutes

Called to Order

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

Roll Call

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

Other present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Chief Horner, Administrative Assistant Hintz

Agenda Items

Review monthly bills/reports. Finance Director Klein reviewed the monthly bills and reports.

Yearly Assessor Review. City Assessor Current gave a thorough review of the 2024 changes in Assessments and how Valley City is following State guidelines. Much discussion was had on this topic. The Commission consensus was to continue with Current and her assessing procedures.

2024 Yearly Review – Valley City Police Department. Chief Horner gave a presentation on all the happenings with the Police Department in 2024. Number and Types of Calls, Community Service and Trainings. 

Discuss the Service Agreement between the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, Behavioral Health Division and the City of Valley City. Police Chief Horner shared that the ND Department of Health and Human Services, Behavioral Health Division has asked the Valley City Police Department to share their procedures for Alcohol Compliance with other Police Departments throughout the State. Two of our Valley City Officers would train and demonstrate in several Regions in North Dakota.  This will be voted on in the Commission Meeting to follow.  

Consider Designating Reserve Funds for Future Building Updates/Remodeling. Finance Director Klein discussed the aging buildings and the need to be proactive in the planning for repairs and upgrades. Proposal was to assign $50,000 from City Funds and $50,000 from Public Works Funds from the 2024 year-end reserves. The consensus on the Commission was to move forward with the designation of funds for future building updates and remodeling.

Request for Quotes for Appraiser for remaining buyout properties. City Administrator Crawford explained that we will be entering Phase 4 of the Flood Protection and there will be a need for an appraiser on buyout properties in upcoming phases. The Commissioner consensus was to move forward with an appraiser as chosen per quotes as done previously.

Department Reports

February Highlights the Police Administrative Department, Dan Bernhardt, and the Water Treatment Plant Employees.

Fire Department

Fire Chief Magnuson shared a review of the January Calls. We have 4 new Graduates from Firefighter 1 and 6 taking the current class. This usually takes about 9 months and there is over 280 hours of just classroom time. On the Dangerous Buildings, there were a couple on the list. 1 letter was mailed regarding maintenance. There was another home that was turned in, but was not a dangerous building but a danger to the person living there. This was turned over to Barnes County Housing. Discussion was had on possibly changing the name of “Dangerous Building” to something else that fits the process better.

Police Department

Police Chief Horner went over the Calls for Service Report for the Police Department. Shared some of the Community Engagements for the month. Animal Control Officer is taking some training on animals and working with them. The Department also made some moveable walls and were able to set up some great training areas in the basement. There was also discussion on using the CAD Program in their vehicle to make responding to calls safer.

Sanitation Department

Operation Supervisor Klemisch reminded to have your garbage out by 7AM., handle to the house and a 3’ clearance all around your container. He also shared the process of “missed” can. Having the cameras on the truck is very beneficial, being able to show the residents what the driver saw as the truck went by. 

Street Department

Operations Supervisor Klemisch shared that we had another successful round of snow removal. Maintenance is done on most pieces of equipment and they have been cleaning and clearing the building. Updating and verifying inventory. Preparing for the Lead Line inventory process. Getting letters ready to send out and set up times to verify the types of lines at the residences. Discussion on 6th Ave NW. The construction project was designed to clear the water and drainage on the public right of way. The project did accomplish that. There is still ice build up on or near that ditch. The ditch and run off are on private property and would need to be taken care of by the property owners themselves.

Agenda Items Continued

Discussion NOI – Soil Conditions SU-CPU-2-990(062) & SU-2-990(063) PCN: 23571 & 23572. Administrator Crawford discussed our proposal a couple weeks ago for Phase 1 and Phase 2 was 110K + LDs. After a few back and forth proposals, the final proposal in the end was LDs for 2023 will be paid, LDs for 2024 will be forgiven, with a final proposal of 140K. This will be voted on at the Commission Meeting to follow.                                                

Standpipe Discussion. There is a leak in the standpipe, losing about5 gallons per minute. There currently is no fix for the pipe at this time. Possibly a shutdown in warmer temperatures to have a dive team take a look. This Standpipe is scheduled to be removed in 2026. The City has been looking into funding to help with the repairs. However, it needs to be decided if we should fix the standpipe or to put in a jockey pump until the new tower is built. They are currently looking at the costs to rent or to buy.  The jockey pump should be able to maintain the water pressures for day to day use with a high-pressure pump taking care of the larger, emergent needs. The Engineers will look into pricing on whether to purchase or rent also, what will be the best fix. They will bring this to the next Commission meeting on March 4th.  

Discuss Hotel Liquor License. Attorney Martineck will research and bring to the March Finance Meeting.

Settlement and release agreement for property damage – 711 5th Ave NW. Damage was done to a heated driveway during the construction project. The city will pay 25% of the replacement cost and the electrical charges for the 3 months of overages until the damage was noticed. This will be voted on at the following Commission Meeting.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:53PM.

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

1.21.2025 Finance Minutes

City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

2:30 PM

Called to Order

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

Roll Call

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

Other present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Police Lieutenant Rustebakke, Administrative Assistant Hintz

Agenda Items

Review monthly bills/reports. Finance Director Klein reviewed the monthly bills and reports.

Review Change Order #1 for Paving Improvement District No. 126. Engineer Peterson reviewed the change order for Paving Improvement District No 126. Each item was discussed.

Discussion on the Annexation of the Oxbow Addition/Woodland Park area into the replat of the Woodland Park. This is the entrance and was not part of the original annexation. The Park Board has been reached out to regarding adding the golf course to the annexation. This does not affect the replat but makes sense to take care of when we are working on the replat. The consensus is to move forward.

Discuss creation of golf course alcoholic beverage license. Discussion took place on creating a new golf course alcoholic beverage license lead by Attorney Martineck. The consensus was to move forward with the license process.

Alternative subdividing and platting procedures. Valley City already has one of the quickest subdivisions and platting processes in the state. Questions came up whether we should have some exemptions to the platting process on the joining of 2 lots, lot split or a lot line adjustment. In those cases, as long as it was per code, it would not need to go to the Boards for approval, the planning administer would approve it would go forward without formal action of either Commission. This will be sent to Planning & Zoning for their view. 

Discuss application process for zoning nonconformities. After some discussion,this item will be sent to Planning & Zoning for their view. 

Discuss Paving Improvement District 130 Protests. A Protest with signatures was received with over 52% of the area protesting. James Jensen, Todd Ingstad and Cory Ravnaas shared their reasoning for the protest. The Commission’s consensus was to accept the protests, start the paving project over with a new paving district and move the official bid date to October.

Department Reports

Sanitation Department

Sanitation Supervisor Swart reported on the Electronic Disposal Week and how well it went. She hopes to have another week later this year. Reminder to have your garbage out by 7AM.

Electric Department

Electrical Superintendent Senf reported that his crew has taken down most of the holiday lighting. He has a couple guys monitoring load management 24/7. Review of last year’s outages showed that the power was on 99.999% of the time. Discussion was had on power to the new light posts. No special circuits will be added.

Fire Department

Fire Chief Magnuson shared a review of 2024’s calls. On dangerous buildings, the building on currently in Viking Trailer Court is in the process and being removed and there is one on Viking Drive that the owner has secured a crew for a spring demolition & removal. Assistant Fire Chief Coit gave a report on the 2024 Fire Extinguisher Service Report and we are up in receivables. He discussed that the more he does with servicing he has less time for inspections. As this is covered in our code, it was discussed and will be brought up at the next Finance Meeting. Coit also gave the 2024 Building Report. Residential builds were up, additions were down. Renovations were also up for the year. Commercial builds were down as well as additions but the renovations were up. New & Institutional builds and additions were both up. Total permits in general were all up.

Police Department

Police Lieutenant Rustebakke went over the Calls for Service Report for the Police Department. There was a compliance check held and 10 of the 14 establishments passed. The annual Fraternal Order of Police Kids & Cops Event was held and the majority of the Department helped. They are currently working an Active Shooter Training with CHI Mercy Hospital. There are several people going through back ground checks for hiring as well as they did hire 1 person who will be starting in February.

Street Department

Operations Supervisor Klemisch (via Zoom) shared that he signed with Pittsburgh Tank & Tower to have the John Deere tower painted this summer. VCSU will be paying a share to put their logo on the tower. He also signed an agreement with Midco Marine & Diving to dive the towers this summer. The Water Crew has been working on the Lead Line Inventory. The Street Crew is working on Christmas Tree pickup and painted the inside of the Pole Shed for housing of the sewer truck when the new shop is built. The Osh Kosh snow blower has been returned.

Administration

City Administrator Crawford discussed the Bills and Legislative Hearings that they will be attending that effect our City and Residents.

Agenda Items Continued

Discussion related to a Single-Family Housing Pilot Program. Jennifer Feist, with the Development Corp. explained the new program. The goals of the program are to increase housing inventory, increase our tax base, increase home ownership and increase population in Valley City and Barnes County. The proposed investments from the City were discussed. Invest $10,000 per new home that meets the program guidelines sourced from City funds, waiver of water and sanitary sewer tap fees including temporary meter charges, approve $118,750 sourced from the City Sales Tax dedicated to economic development, and fund up to six (6) homes initially.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:50PM.