Category Archives: City Commission

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

2.6.2024 Commission Minutes

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City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, February 6, 2024


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

Members present: President Carlsrud, Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Magnuson

Others: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Administrative Assistant Hintz.

Members Absent: Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Gulmon

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Lead by Cub Scout Pack 562

OATH OF OFFICE FOR SERGEANT KNIGHT

GIVING HEARTS DAY FEBRUARY 8, 2024, PROCLAMATION

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Add items:

i. Sons of the American Legion, Raffle on 2.11.24 at the Valley City Eagles Club

NB10. Approve Special Alcohol Beverage Event Permit for Valley City FOE Aerie 2192 for    March 6-10, 2024 ND Winter Show.

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

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Commissioner Magnuson moved to Approve Minutes from the January 16, 2024 Commission Meeting, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  Motion passed unanimously.

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA

Approve Monthly Reports from the Fire Chief/Building Inspector, Electric Department, Finance Director, Sanitation Supervisor, Police Chief, and Street Department Supervisor.

Approve Raffle Application for:

  1. Ducks Unlimited Barnes County Chapter, Raffle (Gun) on 3.22.24 at the VC Eagles Club
    1. Valley City JO Volleyball, Raffle & Raffle Boards on 2.10.24 at the VC Eagles Club
    1. Sheyenne Valley Friends of Animals, Raffle on 3.30.24 at VC Eagles Club
    1. CHS Inc – Dakota Plains Ag, Raffle on 3.27.24 at CHS Inc – Dakota Plains Ag
    1. VCSU Trap Club, Raffle on 4.25.24 at Valley City State University
    1. Valley City Fire Department, Raffle on 3.23.2024 at Valley City Eagles Club
    1. Noah Gurrola Astorga Benefit, Raffles on 2.23.24 at Valley City Eagles Club
    1. ND Skill USA, VC ND Chapter, Raffle on 4.5.24 at the Sheyenne Valley Area Career & Tech Center
    1. Sons of the American Legion, Raffle on 2.11.24 at the Valley City Eagles Club

Approve Application for Carr’s Tree Service, Inc for a 2024 Tree Trimming & Removal License

Approve Public Hearing for Dangerous Building at 340 3rd St SE

Approve Cancellation of Public Hearing for Captain’s Pub Alcoholic Beverage License

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

ORDINANCE

ORD 1147 Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance No 1147, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Sections 12-02-02, 12-02-3, 12-02-06, 12-02-08 Related to Junk, Junk Vehicles, and Abandoned Vehicles on Public Property.

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

RESOLUTION

RES 2440 A Resolution Approving Engineers Report & Directing Preparation of Detailed Plans, Specifications & Estimates of Probable Cost for Paving Improvement District No. 129.

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

RES 2441 A Resolution Declaring Necessity for Paving Improvement District No. 129.

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

NEW BUSINESS

Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $1,618,408.

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

Authorize Farm Lease next to landfill to be re-leased and go out for bids.

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

Approve City Buyout of 616 Main S East for $50,000.

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

Approve Agreement with NDDOT for Long-Term Temporary Highway Closure through December 31, 2025.

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

Approval of concurrence of project IM-NHU-2-094(159)290, PCN 22228 with local share estimated to be $83,806.06.

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

Accept appointment of architectural firm EAPC for design of public works service center.

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

Approve architectural services contract with EAPC for design of public works service center.

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

BEK Connect Service 5-Year Renewal Agreement.

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

Approval for Mayor to sign FEMA recertification form.

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

Approve Special Alcohol Beverage Event Permit for Valley City FOE Aerie 2192 for March 6-10, 2024 ND Winter Show.

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

CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

City Administrator Crawford shared that the Teams are working on finishing up some End-of-Year items as well as preparing for the new construction season. She did note that there has been work on cleaning up some of the addresses for properties that have more than one living quarter involved. If one property has one building with two separate living quarters currently, they are correcting this to one house number at one address with a suite number or letter for each unit. This is a Team process and we are working with the Barnes County,  911 and the Post Office.

Finance Director Klein gave an update on tax revenue for November.

City Assessor Current reported that the State of ND has changed the due date for the Homestead Credit to March 31, 2024.

Mayor Carlsrud thanked all the city staff for all their work on the clean-up around town. A special thanks to Cub Scout Pack 562 and their representatives.

Adjourn

Meeting was adjourned at 5:34 PM.

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

2.6.2024 Finance Minutes

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City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

3:30 PM

Called to Order

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

Roll Call

Members present: President Carlsrud, Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Erickson,

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

Members absent: Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Gulmon

Department Reports

Sanitation Department

Sanitation Supervisor Swart shared that the automated truck has both arms working after repairs. Cost per ton comparisons were discussed between hauling to Jamestown @ $87.91/ton & Fargo @ $92.42/ton. Communication on the total tonnage that both locations are able to handle will need to happen.

Electric Department

Cory Buck reported that outages were down for the month of January. Work continues on the purple lights, the pole inventory for Century Link, and updating the meter reading infrastructure. All Christmas decorations have been taken down & stored. Still cleaning up from the Ice Storm. Branches that are hanging over lines will be taken care of by the City if reported, branches hanging over streets and boulevards are the responsibility of the homeowners.

Street Department

Operations Supervisor Klemisch reported on an issue this morning at the master lift. This is now online using back-up until the new transfer switch arrives. Tree count from the Ice Storm was reported. In the residential areas, 158 tandem loads of branches were removed. In addition, 50 more tandem loads were taken out from clean-up on city lots. Currently working on potholes and drainage areas.

Administration

City Administrator Crawford discussed the possibility of a Lead Line Repair Ordinance. As we move forward working on our inventory, do we want to look at asking the home owner to replace the lead lines on the Customer owned side.

City Attorney explained the consent agenda at the Commission meeting contains a request for a Public Hearing to be held on a Dangerous Building at 340 3rd St SE.

Police Department

Police Chief Horner presented a Power Point presentation on the 2023 Annual Report for the Police Department. He also updated on the current application process.

Review monthly bills/reports

Finance Director Klein reported expenditures in the amount of $1,618,408 for the month.

New Items

  1. City Attorney Martineck and Parking/Animal Control Officer Johnson discussed the current ordinance regarding livestock in city limits and a few changes to wording that they would suggest.
  2. VCSU would like to change the location for the Recycling Containers. The area by the Parks and Rec Maintenance building may be a possible location and Klemisch will research.
  3. City Administrator Crawford reviewed the BEK Connect Service Renewal. Discussion on the proposed savings and reasoning for the changes was explained and was given a recommendation to pass at the Commission meeting.
  4. City Attorney Martineck gave an overview of the current process on Dangerous Buildings Process.  City Administrator Crawford and Fire Chief Magnuson shared some ideas for changes that may make this process more streamlined. Magnuson would like to see standards set and then look to changes in the future for rentals and working with the Health Department.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:54 PM.

Agenda Available

2.20.2024 Commission Agenda

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City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, February 20, 2024
5:00 PM

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at 5:00 PM CT, at the City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND.

The meeting is also available to view online https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87582109714 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID:  875 8210 9714.

Call To Order

Roll Call

Pledge of Allegiance (please stand)

Approval of Agenda

(Roll Call Vote needed when changes made to the Agenda)

 

Approval of Minutes

Approve Minutes from the 2.6.24 Finance & Commission Meetings, the 2.10.24 Special Commission Meeting and the 2.12.24 Special Commission Meeting.

Approval of Consent Agenda

Public Comments

Attorney General’s “A Citizen’s Guide to North Dakota Open Records & Open Meetings Laws” *A member of the public does not have the right to speak to the governing body at an open meeting.  The public is only entitled to see and hear what happens at a meeting, and to record or broadcast those observations.

  • No personal attacks to persons present or not
  • No inflammatory language used during time that you have the platform
  • 5-minute maximum or as directed by the chair
  • Thank you for participating in City Government.

Public Hearing

Ordinance

Ord 1148 An ordinance to amend and reenact sections 5-01-01 and 5-01-02, and create and enact section 5-01-00.1, related to possession of animals. (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Magnuson         Erickson           Bishop              Gulmon            Carlsrud

Resolution

New Business

  1. Approve Task Order for Construction Engineering for the 2nd Ave NW/3rd St NW/4th St N Reconstruction Project [NDDOT Project Number UGP-2-990(067), PCN 23951]. (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Erickson           Bishop              Gulmon            Magnuson            Carlsrud

  • Approve NDDOT Urban Roads Project Submittal List for Fiscal Year 2025-2028. (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Bishop              Gulmon           Magnuson         Erickson            Carlsrud

3.    Consider repeal of Resolution 2411 pertaining to advisory vote on flavored e-liquids and e-cigarettes

Roll Call:          Gulmon            Magnuson         Erickson           Bishop              Carlsrud

City Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn

Agenda Available

2.12.2024 Special Commission Agenda

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Special City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Monday, February 12, 2024
12:00 PM

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Monday, February 12, 2024, at 12:00 PM CT, at City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND.

Members of the public may view the meeting online https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86525183855 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 865 2518 3855

Call To Order
Roll Call

New Business

  1. Approve Sam Hill Benefit Raffle on 2.17.24 at the Valley City Eagles Club.

Adjourn

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

1.16.2024 Commission Minutes

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City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, January 16, 2024



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

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

Others: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Administrative Assistant Hintz.

Members Absent: Commissioner Magnuson

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

PROCLAMATION

The week of January 28 through February 3, 2024, was proclaimed as Catholic Schools Week.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Remove the Public Hearing regarding Ordinance Violations by the Captain’s Pub.

Remove Item B. on the Consent Agenda, Tree Trimming & Removal License Application for Strom Tree Service Inc. 

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

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Commissioner Bishop moved to Approve the Minutes from the January 4, 2024, Finance and Commission Meetings, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  Motion passed unanimously.

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA

Approve Local Permit Application for a Raffle for Sanford Clinic of Valley City on February 2, 2024, at Valley City Town & Country Club.

Approve Application for Use of National Guard Building. Schindler Events. Mar 7 – 10, 2024.

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

RESOLUTION

RES 2438 A Resolution Regarding Participation in Funding for a Bureau of Reclamation WaterSMART Grant Project. Grubb, project manager with AE2S discussed the Grant provided by the Bureau of Reclamation and shared that it is geared towards Energy & Water Sustainability. A very common application under this grant program is Water Meter Improvements.  Working with the Team here in Valley City they determined that a project to replace 600 Water Nodes would be a good candidate for this grant and assist Valley City in the funding of the replacements with 50% cost share funding.  The total cost estimate for the project is $101,304.

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

RES 2439 A Resolution Creating Paving Improvement District No. 129. City Engineer Petersen explained that this project is a combination of project corridors that were sealed in the past 7 to 10 years that have been over laid or reconstructed.  All projects on the map except the 6th St Project and the 5th Ave NW Project are identified as Projects that would not be Special Assessed.

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

ORDINANCE

ORD 1147 Approved First Reading of Ordinance 1147, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Sections 12-02-02. 12-02-03, 12-02-06, and 12-02-08 Related to Junk. Junk Vehicles and Abandoned Vehicles on Public Property. City Attorney Martineck shared that this Ordinance will not change the process for junk vehicles on private property but adds a provision if a vehicle is red tagged for being a junk vehicle or an unregistered vehicle on the public right of way or public parking lot. There would now be some enforcement and the vehicle can be ticketed or towed if the issue is not taken care of.

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

NEW BUSINESS

Approve Task Order Master Services Agreement with AE2S. Approve the master service task order agreement between the City of Valley City and the Engineering firm AE2S.

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

Approve Task Order No. 1 – Valley City General Engineering Services with AE2S. Grubb shared that this is for Instrumentation & Controls work needed as well as other items at the Water Treatment Plant. This is not an exclusive Agreement. It is for $5000 per year for 3 years but the City will only be billed for what is actually used.

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

Approve Task Order No. 2 – Valley City WaterSMART Grant Application with AE2S. Grubb explained that this Task Order is for the more specific effort of the Grant Application process that was approved with Resolution 2438. With this order the City will now have the template and editable form to pursue future grants.

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

Consider the Visitor’s Committee Recommendation to Approve the Image Enhancement Grant for Arc of Barnes County Thrift E Shop up to $7500. The Visitor’s Committee recommends approval of this Grant. These funds come through sales tax dollars collected.  

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

Approve Depositories for City Funds which meet the Pledge of Securities Requirement. 

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

Approve Amendment to City Engineering Agreement and Task Order. City Engineer Petersen explained that this Agreement & Task Order is for the City Engineering Agreement between the City of Valley City and KLJ Engineering. This is to extend the 3-year term that expired on the previous agreement on 12.31.2023. This amendment is to extend the agreement for an additional 3 years to 1.1.2027.This does include an increase from $87,000. to $90,000. per year. This is a “not to exceed” amount.The agreement also includes Moore Engineering as a subcontractor.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.

Roll Call Vote: Bishop – Aye, Gulmon – Aye, Erickson – Nay, Carlsrud – Aye, Motion Approved.

Accept Main Street Outlet Vault Project. City Engineer Petersen shared that this is the Storm Sewer Discharge Vault on Main Street down by the Elks building. Work was completed in the September timeframe but just had the final closeout and inspection with Public Works.

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

Discussion on the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality – Water Service Line Inventory. City Engineer Eslinger explained this project has three components: historical records revue, customer survey and a sample site plan. He handed out a flyer and postcard sample that will be sent to the residents of Valley City explaining that there is a Water Site Inventory Revue happening. This Survey will be starting in February and will require a response by Valley City Residents about what their water lines are made of. Education of Residents about the survey will be very important.  

CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

City Administrator Crawford gave an update on the Ice Storm Disaster Declaration and that the City is working feverishly at collecting the proper paperwork which is due 1.17.2024. David Wick has reached out and reported that he was not aware of the notifications for some of the properties and that he is working on getting that cleaned up. He will be working with Fire Chief Magnuson. Currently there are several projects that the City is working on in preparation for this summer. On the RFQ preliminary piece we are interviewing the three finalists to select the architect for the Public Service Center.

Commissioner Bishop explained that when he receives an anonymous letter in the mail it goes straight to the shredder. If you sign your letter, he would be more then willing to sit down and discuss your concerns. 

Mayor Carlsrud thanked all the city employees for their work during the Ice Storm. He was complimented by a colleague on how well the City of Valley City handled the Storm. Reminder, during these cold spells, try not run extra appliances and to be mindful during peak electrical usage times.

ADJOURN

Meeting was adjourned at 5:53 P.M.

2.6.2024 Commission Agenda

Posted on by

City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, February 6, 2024
5:00 PM

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, February 6, 2024 at 5:00 PM CT, at the City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND.

The meeting is also available to view online https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82268349183 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID:  822 6834 9183.

Call To Order

Roll Call

Pledge of Allegiance (please stand)

Lead by Cub Scout Pack 562.

Oath of Office for Sergeant Knight

GIVING HEARTS DAY FEBRUARY 8, 2024, PROCLAMATION

Approval of Agenda

(Roll Call Vote needed when changes made to the Agenda) Lead by Cub Scout Pack 562

Approval of Minutes

Approve Minutes from the January 16, 2024, Commission Meeting.

 

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Monthly Reports from the Fire Chief, Electrical Superintendent, Building Inspector Finance Director and Municipal Judge.
  2. Approve Raffle Application For;
    1. Ducks Unlimited Barnes County Chapter, Raffle (Gun) on 3.22.24 at the VC Eagles Club
    1. Valley City JO Volleyball, Raffle & Raffle Boards on 2.10.24 at the VC Eagles Club
    1. Sheyenne Valley Friends of Animals, Raffle on 3.30.24 at VC Eagles Club
    1. CHS Inc – Dakota Plains Ag, Raffle on 3.27.24 at CHS Inc – Dakota Plains Ag
    1. VCSU Trap Club, Raffle on 4.25.24 at Valley City State University
    1. Valley City Fire Department, Raffle on 3.23.2024 at Valley City Eagles Club
    1. Noah Gurrola Astorga Benefit, Raffles on 2.23.24 at Valley City Eagles Club
    1. ND Skill USA, VC ND Chapter, Raffle on 4.5.24 at the Sheyenne Valley Area Career & Tech Center
  3. Approve Application for Carr’s Tree Service, Inc for a 2024 Tree Trimming & Removal License
  4. Approve Public Hearing for Dangerous Building at 340 3rd St SE
  5. Approve Cancellation of Public Hearing for Captain’s Pub Alcoholic Beverage License

Roll Call:          Magnuson         Erickson           Bishop              Gulmon            Carlsrud

Public Comments

Attorney General’s “A Citizen’s Guide to North Dakota Open Records & Open Meetings Laws” *A member of the public does not have the right to speak to the governing body at an open meeting.  The public is only entitled to see and hear what happens at a meeting, and to record or broadcast those observations.

  • No personal attacks to persons present or not
  • No inflammatory language used during time that you have the platform
  • 5-minute maximum or as directed by the chair
  • Thank you for participating in City Government.

Public Hearing

Ordinance

ORD 1147 Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance No 1147, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Sections 12-02-02, 12-02-3, 12-02-06, 12-02-08 Related to Junk, Junk Vehicles, and Abandoned Vehicles on Public Property. (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Erickson           Bishop              Gulmon            Magnuson        Carlsrud

Resolution

RES 2440 A Resolution Approving Engineers Report & Directing Preparation of Detailed Plans, Specifications & Estimates of Probable Cost for Paving Improvement District No. 129. (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Bishop              Gulmon            Magnuson        Erickson           Carlsrud

RES 2441 A Resolution Declaring Necessity for Paving Improvement District No. 129. (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Gulmon            Magnuson        Erickson           Bishop              Carlsrud

New Business

NB1.  Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $1,618,408. (Finance Director Klein)

Roll Call:          Erickson           Bishop              Gulmon            Magnuson        Carlsrud

NB2. Authorize Farm Lease next to landfill to be re-leased and go out for bids (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Magnuson         Erickson           Bishop              Gulmon            Carlsrud

NB3. Approve City Buyout of 616 Main S East for $50,000. (City Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:          Erickson           Bishop              Gulmon            Magnuson        Carlsrud

NB4. Approve Agreement with NDDOT for Long-Term Temporary Highway Closure through December 31, 2025 (Finance Director Klein)

Roll Call:          Bishop              Gulmon            Magnuson        Erickson           Carlsrud

NB5. Approval of concurrence of project IM-NHU-2-094(159)290, PCN 22228 with local share estimated to be $83,806.06. (City Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:          Gulmon            Magnuson        Erickson           Bishop              Carlsrud

NB6. Accept recommendation for appointment of architectural firm for design of public works service center (City Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:          Magnuson         Erickson           Bishop              Gulmon            Carlsrud

NB7. Approve architectural services contract for design of public works service center

 (City Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:          Erickson           Bishop              Gulmon            Magnuson        Carlsrud

NB8. BEK Connect Service 5-Year Renewal Agreement. (City Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:          Bishop              Gulmon            Magnuson        Erickson           Carlsrud

NB9. Approval for Mayor to sign FEMA recertification form.  (City Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:          Gulmon            Magnuson        Erickson           Bishop              Carlsrud

CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

CITY UPDATES & COMMISSION REPORTS

ADJOURN

2.6.2024 Finance Agenda

Posted on by

City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

3:30 PM

 The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, February 6, 2024 at 3:30 PM CT, at the City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND. 

Members of the public may view the meeting online https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84004509659 or listen

by calling (1.346. 248.7799) Webinar ID: 840 0450 9659.

Call to Order

Roll Call

Agenda items

  1. Department reports.
    1. Sanitation Department
    1. Water Department
    1. Electric Department
    1. Fire Department/Dangerous Buildings
    1. Police Department
      1. 2023 Annual Report
    1. Street Department
      1. Tree Count
    1. Administration
      1. 2023 Yearly Municipal Court Statement
  2. Review monthly bills/reports (10 minutes) – (Finance Director Klein)
  3. Discuss keeping livestock in city limits (Attorney Carl Martineck)
  4. Change of Location for VCSU Recycling Containers (City Administrator Crawford)
  5. BEK Connect Service Discussion – Renewal (City Administrator Crawford)
  6. Discussion regarding Dangerous Building Policy/Procedures (City Administrator Crawford)

Adjourn

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

1.4.2024 Commission Minutes

Posted on by

City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Thursday, January 5, 2024



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

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

Others: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Administrative Assistant Hintz.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Add N5. Approve Motion to Ratify and Extend the Winter Storm Disaster Declaration.

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

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve the minutes from the December 19, 2023, Commission Meeting, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion passed unanimously.

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA

Approve Monthly Reports from the Fire Chief, Electrical Superintendent, Building Inspector and Finance Director.

Approve Gaming Site Authorization for ND Chapters of Delta Waterfowl Inc on February 24, 2024, at the Eagles.

Approve Renewal Application for 2024 Tree Trimming and Removal Service Renewals for Kieffer Tree, LLC.                      

Commissioner Bishop moved to remove Item B. Approve 2024 Application to Operate Mobile Home Park Renewal for Viking Drive Estates and add to New Business as Item N6, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion passed unanimously.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve the Consent Agenda as amended, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion passed unanimously.

PUBLIC HEARING

Public Hearing on Dangerous Building located at 1318 9 St SW.

President Carlsrud Declared the Public Hearing Open.

Sarah Hanson spoke on the Property and requested an Extension until May 31, 2024.

Commissioner Magnuson motioned to Close the Public Hearing, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. Motion passed unanimously.

Commissioner Erickson moved to Table the Hearing on this Topic Indefinitely, Seconded by Bishop. Motion passed unanimously.

NEW BUSINESS

Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $2,488,773.

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

Consider Appointing Joe Tykwinski to Replace Joe Faure on the Valley City Planning & Zoning Commission.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve Appointing Joe Tykwinski to a New Term on the Valley City Planning & Zoning Commission as the Extra Territorial Position from 2024 to 2028, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. Motion passed unanimously.

Approve updates to Employee Policy Manual.

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

Approve Gaming Site Authorization: Fraternal Order of Eagles Arie 2192 for Jimmy’s Pizza Location beginning January 4, 2024.

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

Approve Motion to Ratify the Winter Storm Disaster Declaration and Extend until Rescinded.

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

Approve 2024 Application to Operate Mobile Home Park Renewal for Viking Drive Estates.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve as stated, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.

Commissioner Bishop moved to amend the motion to: Approve license on condition that on or before April 15, David Wick provides plan and budget for repair of mobile home park drainage and road project, and must commence plan no later than May 7, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. Amendment Carried.

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

CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

City Administrator Crawford started with a thank you to the City, every Department & every Employee who helped in any way with the Ice Storm Emergency. Amazing to watch these Teams come together for their town. Thank you to the Local Radio & News Paper for sharing the information and helping to get the information out to the Public. Please know that this cleanup is a work in progress and that it will take time.  Please be patient. Note, if you missed getting your branches to the boulevard before the City cleaned your area, they are not going back through. You will need to haul your branches to the site. Please continue to call in if you see a tree down in the street or on an electric line, an electric line down, a streetlight is out or any other hazard, even after hours.

Finance Director Klein shared that City Hall has Election Packets ready for any person interested in running for City Office. Elections will be held in June 2024. Any Candidate may start circulating petitions for signatures as of January 1, 2024.

City Assessor Current wanted to remind all about the 2024 Property Tax Credit for your Primary Residence. It is a simple online process, but you can also stop in the Office, and she will assist you with completing the application. With in the first 48 hours, over 10,000 people applied.

Commissioner Gulmon updated all on the Financial Budgets that seem to be on track for staying in budget for 2023. Overall, it looks to have been a good year.

Commissioner Bishop thanked all for their help during the Ice Storm.

President Carlsrud wanted to remind all who are hauling their branches out to try and keep them in piles and not so spread out, try keeping an area clear for safe driving in and out. Thank you to all the Departments and Staff for keeping the City going during the Ice Storm. As Residents, we are blessed to have such dedicated Crews working for us.

Adjourn

Meeting was adjourned at 5:28 PM.

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

1.4.2024 Finance Minutes

Posted on by

City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Thursday, January 4, 2024

2:30 PM

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, Commissioner Gulmon.

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

Department Reports

Police Department

Police Chief Horner discussed the 2024 Budget for the year and changes that he will be making. The Department is down two positions so working on applicants to fill those positions. Researching Discipline Matrixes to see if one would be a fit for this size of Department. This would also mean putting together a Committee of Officers to make the Matrix with what they feel is needed and enforceable for the entire Department. 

Sanitation Department

Sanitation Supervisor Swart was not present. Operations Supervisor Klemisch shared that anyone taking trees or branches to the drop site try to pile them together instead of scatter throughout. 30 people used the “Free Christmas Week” garbage drop off that was offered by the City. Good thing we limited to 100 pounds as some did try to bring more. The automated truck is down to 1 arm at this time but able to keep up. It is being used while waiting for the repairs. All garbage pickup is up to date. Shutting down alley pickup on Valley Avenue for the winter due to conditions.

Street Department

Operations Supervisor Klemisch stated that his Team was out every day during the Ice Storm Event, both Sanders & the Motor Grader out daily, at times even more equipment. Focus in the first 24 hours was on the Emergency Routes and Hills. Downtown was taken care of Thursday morning. They have now entered the Residential Areas.

New Items

  1. Salt/Sand Discussion –Operations Supervisor Klemisch reported on the amounts of Sand/Salt that was used for this one event & then added in the amount that was sold to local Businesses as well. He is keeping an eye on the amount that was used and then what he feels will be needed for the remainder of the Winter. Rates, delivery fees and a possible cap on the amount of Sand/Salt sold were discussed.
  2. Finance Director Klein reported expenditures in the amount of $2,488,773 for the month.
  3. Monthly Engineer Report. Finance Director Klein shared that we did come in under budget for the year of 2023. The Current contract did expire. The City will need to draw up a new contract and both KLJ & Moore Engineering will need to agree and sign off if we wish to continue.  Recommendations from Staff are to continue as is.
  4. Viking Drive Estates Mobile Home Park License Renewal 2024 Discussion – City Administrator Crawford spoke with David Wick and discussed the budget & plan for the Viking Drive Estates. Crawford recommends that we approve until 4/15/2024 and must have a budget and plan into the City to continue after that date.  
  5. Discuss updates to the Employee Policy Manual. City Attorney Martineck emailed the red line copy to the Commissioners. Discussion was held on a few of the changes such as On-Call or a Second Job. The changes were approved and recommended by the Employee Committee.

Water Department

Water Superintendent Hesch shared how the power outages effected the Water Plant. Concentrating on maintenance items as approaching the equipment being over 10 years old. These repairs and maintenance do take quite a bit of time with a shutdown to machines and dry time before work can begin. The lead time on parts are weeks out. As the equipment ages, there will be more repairs and maintenance in the future. Discontinued the Data Contract with GE and went with a different route for the data. This saved substantial funds.

Electric Department

Electrical Superintendent Senf reported that his Team has been busy cleaning up after the Ice Storm and getting the Electricity going for the City. His Team will need to go back to locations and verify & correct the quick fixes and make sure that everyone has reliable power resources. Missouri River Energy Services will be out doing infrared scans to verify any weak spots so they may be taken care of. Tree branches near lines will also need to be removed. Electrical Superintendent Senf also explained the Western Area Power Association’s power outage lines were sagging and drawing the lines down, this caused a static line to touch a transmission line causing it to short out. They were having relay issue at the substation, so they needed to send a crew from Fargo to come out and rectify the relay issue and power was restored. This happened again a couple days later. Our Team was able to fix the line and restore service. There are 2 Drone Operators that will be getting licensed on the Team. The drones were instrumental in finding the breaks. We will be looking into a new afterhours answering service as Cass County will no longer be taking calls after June 30, 2024.

Fire Department

Fire Chief Magnuson shared the Year in Review for 2023. Calls were way up from previous years. There were several calls during the Ice Storm and all Departments worked so well together. Dangerous Building Report was discussed and the process to clean up dangerous buildings and piles of rubbish that are in yards in the City. Fines were discussed to help with the process.

Fire Extinguisher Report was much higher than last year. Expenses should be less in the future with the changes made to the Master Fee Schedule on charges.

New Items Continued

  • Tree Branch Pick-up & Removal – Operations Supervisor Klemisch reported that currently they are using 2 payloaders & 3 tandems in the cleanup process for the Ice Storm Tree Branch removal. We started the Residential pick up today just on the South side of Interstate. As of 2:00PM 13 loads were hauled out and the Crew just made it to Winter Show Road. This would be about ½ of the SE Section. This is at least a month-long process. People will need to be patient and know that the City is trying. Be aware that they will not be going back to areas that branches were already picked up. They are also not raking up small sticks and branches. You would need to take your branches out to the site if you missed the pickup in your area.
  • Apprenticeship Opportunity with North Dakota Rural Water – City Administrator Crawford explained that Valley City was approached to become one of the City’s that would take on apprenticeships. This means that the City would hire a person while they are registered as Student at Bismarck State College in the Water Plant or Distribution Field of studies. The student would work for the City while attending classes and completing their college courses. The benefit to the student would be Employment and on the job training to assist with their Water Plant curriculum. The benefit to the City would be to fill open positions that we currently have and, in the fields, where we are needing bodies.

Administration

Public Works Accountant Jacobson discussed the possible reimbursements for the Ice Storm Declaration and what we are keeping track of this time. All labor, pay rate & benefits and truck usage, repairs & work that have to do with the Ice Storm. He is keeping track daily on a spreadsheet. Currently he is at about $80,000 worth of expenses we have paid out. His best guess is that FEMA will reimburse for about $52,000.

Finance Director Klein updated the Commissioners that payment was received on the items that were sold at auction for $31,640. Currently she is working on a loan with the Bank of ND on the Northwest Reconstruction Project that will be happening this year. This is the Special Assessment part of the project. We are getting a rate of 2% on $425,000. We will not start drawing on the loan until this fall and we will have a resolution brought before the Commission prior to drawing. Finance Director Klein shared that in an email regarding tax distribution to the Commissioners she explained that the City received an extra highway distribution payment in the amount of $113,000. She has also been working with the new outside Auditors.

City Attorney Martineck discussed The Captain’s Pub as it was voted on at the last Commission meeting to have a Public Hearing. The Hearing is scheduled for January 16, 2024. The Captain’s Pub has hired a Lawyer, but he has not responded to any correspondence that was sent his direction. The License Holder did try to call today but had to leave a voicemail. There are witnesses subpoenaed for this hearing. There is a more formal process to follow to suspend a license. Martineck will be working with Mayor Carlsrud on this process. Hoping that a resolution will be reached prior to the Public Hearing but if needed, it is on the calendar.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:32 PM.

Agenda Available

1.16.2024 Commission Agenda

Posted on by

 City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, January 16, 2024
5:00 PM

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at 5:00 PM CT, at the City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND.

The meeting is also available to view online https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85391735021 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID:  853 9173 5021.

Call To Order

Roll Call

Pledge of Allegiance (please stand)

Catholic Schools Week Proclamation

The week of January 28 through February 3, 2024 to be proclaimed Catholic Schools Week

 

Approval of Agenda (roll call vote needed when changes made to the agenda)

Approval of Minutes

Approve Minutes from the January 4, 2024, Finance and Commission Meetings.

 

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Local Permit Application for a Raffle for Sanford Clinic of Valley City on February 2, 2024, at Valley City Town & Country Club.
  2. Approve 2024 Tree Trimming & Removal License for Strom Tree Service Inc of Grand Forks.
  3. Approve Application for Use of National Guard Building. Schindler Events. Mar 7 – 10, 2024.

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Magnuson        Erickson          Bishop             Carlsrud

Public Comments

Attorney General’s “A Citizen’s Guide to North Dakota Open Records & Open Meetings Laws” *A member of the public does not have the right to speak to the governing body at an open meeting.  The public is only entitled to see and hear what happens at a meeting, and to record or broadcast those observations.

  • No personal attacks to persons present or not
  • No inflammatory language used during time that you have the platform
  • 5-minute maximum or as directed by the chair
  • Thank you for participating in City Government.

Public Hearing

PH1.    Public Hearing regarding Ordinance Violations by the Captain’s Pub.

Declare Public Hearing Open

            Motion to Close Hearing

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Bishop             Gulmon           Carlsrud

Approve order of Action on the Captain’s Pub.

Roll Call:          Erickson          Bishop             Gulmon            Magnuson        Carlsrud

Resolution

Res 2438 A Resolution Regarding Participation in Funding for a Bureau of Reclamation WaterSMART Grant Project. (AE2S)

Roll Call:          Bishop             Gulmon          Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

Res 2439 A Resolution Creating Paving Improvement District No. 129. (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Magnuson        Erickson          Bishop             Carlsrud

Ordinance

Ord 1147 An Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Sections 12-02-02, 12-02-3, 12-02-06, 12-02-08 Related to Junk, Junk Vehicles, and Abandoned Vehicles on Public Property. (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Bishop             Gulmon           Carlsrud

New Business

  1. Task Order Master Services Agreement (three-year term) (AE2S)

Roll Call:          Erickson          Bishop             Gulmon            Magnuson        Carlsrud

  • Task Order No. 1 – Valley City General Engineering Services ($15,000 NTE) (AE2S)

Roll Call:          Bishop             Gulmon          Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

  • Task Order No. 2 – Valley City WaterSMART Grant Application ($12,500 NTE) (AE2S)

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Magnuson        Erickson          Bishop             Carlsrud

  • Consider Visitor’s Committee Recommendation to Approve the Image Enhancement Grant for Arc of Barnes County Thrift E Shop in the amount up to $7,500.  (Finance Director Klein)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Bishop             Gulmon           Carlsrud

  • Approve depositories for City funds which meet the pledge of securities requirement. (Finance Director Klein)

Roll Call:          Erickson          Bishop             Gulmon            Magnuson        Carlsrud

  • Approve Amendment to City Engineering Agreement and Task Order. (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Bishop             Gulmon          Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

  • Accept Main Street Outlet Vault Project. (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Magnuson        Erickson          Bishop             Carlsrud

  • Discuss NDDEQ – Water Service Line Inventory (WSLI) (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Bishop             Gulmon           Carlsrud

City Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn