Author Archive: Judi Hintz

5.13.2024 Mayor’s Message

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 NEWS & NOTES

5/13/2024

          Hi Everybody,

  • “Educators Appreciation Week” was celebrated last week.  Educators in our school systems include bus drivers, cooks, custodians, coaches, counselors, instructional aides, office staff, paraprofessionals, principals and all educators.  When you see an educator, please say “thank you” as they are helping shape the lives of our youth.  Thank you to all the aforementioned.
  • A fun fact from the “Friday Sports Wrap”.  The last venue in which men’s March Madness was held which was not a “stadium” was …… Kemper Arena in 1988.  Thanks Oly.
  • River flows change, water temperature changes, pumping at Devils Lake and normal maintenance all contribute little differences in our water.  Water may be tinted at times though it will  be safe for your consumption and return to being the best tasting water in North Dakota.
  • Will you please note a couple things at our 24-7 grass and branch dump?  Separate your plastic bags and twine and put them in the container as they plug the compost turner.  Place your refuge in appropriate piles and pile “up” instead of spreading.  Thank you.
  • Last week Missouri River Energy Services (MRES) did a great job hosting its 59th Annual Meeting, thank you to all the MRES folks who made it happen.  Cybersecurity remains a huge threat, be a “human firewall”.
  • The Garrison Dam spillway has a project upcoming, but on the lighter side, we were shown a picture of Mile High Stadium, Arrowhead Stadium and the FARGODOME fitting in the spillway!
  • Clean-up Week begins May 13:  The rotation is SW to SE to NE to NW remembering materials MUST be sorted and piled.  There will be a branch pick-up following Clean-up Week.  For further information, please call 701-845-0314, see the city website or pick up an informational document at City Hall.
  • Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.                                                                                                   
  • “Mothers are like glue. Even When you can’t see them, they are still holding the family together.”   ~ Susan Gale                                                                                  Blessings, Pray, be Grateful and Respectful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

4.16.2024 Commission Minutes

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City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, April 16, 2024



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

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

Member absent: Commissioner Magnuson

Others Present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, and Finance Director Klein

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

RECOGNITION FOR ERIN WOEHL – MAYOR FOR A DAY ESSAY WINNER

ARBOR DAY PROCLAMATION APRIL 26, 2024

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Add Ai. and G. and Amending Resolution 2411.

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

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Commissioner Bishop moved to Approve Minutes from the April 2nd Finance and Commission Meetings and the April 9th Board of Equalization Meeting, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion passed unanimously.

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA

  1. Approve Raffle Permits for:
    1. Valley City Area Chamber of Commerce from 6.15.24, Near the Sheyenne River Foot Bridge
    1. VCPS Music Boosters on 5.6.24 at the HAC – Valley City High School
    1. VCBC Library Foundation on 8.8.24 at the VCBC Public Library
    1. Valley City Barnes County Development Corp on 6.13.2024 on Central Avenue
    1. St Catherine’s Knights of Columbus on 5.22.24 at the Eagles
    1. CHI Health Connect at Home – Fargo on 5.14.24 at the Eagles
    1. John Statema Benefit on 5.18.24 at the Eagles
    1. Fraternal Order of Police James Valley Lodge #4 on 9.18.24 At the VC Police Department
    1. Kiwanis of Valley City on 5.13.24 at the Eagles
  2. Approve Barnes County 4-H Dog Obedience Classes – National Guard Building Rental for 11 Days in April, May, June & July of 2024.
  3. Approve Keppler Services, Inc of Fargo, ND a Contractor License for 2023-24
  4. Approve Gast Construction Company, Inc of Wahpeton, ND a Contractor License for 2023-24 pending payment
  5. Approve Renewal of Contractor License for 2024-2025 for Damon 24/7 LLC, Rocky Ford, CO.
  6. Approve VCHS Prom 2024 to Block Off the Street at the 100 Block of 4th St on 5.4.24 from 5:00PM until 7:30PM.
  7. Approve VCSU-VCAB to Block Off the Street at 2nd Ave SW on 5.1.24 from 7:30PM to 12:30AM.

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

ORDINANCE

Approve first reading of Ordinance 1152, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Subsection 7 of Section 4-01-05, and Sections 4-01-01, 4-01-03, 4-01-04, 4-01-06, 4-01-11, 4-01-12, 4-01-24 of the Valley City Municipal Code relating to Sales of Alcoholic Beverages.

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

Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1154 an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Section 17-04-18.1 of the Valley City Municipal Code relating to THC paraphernalia.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve with the changes to match current State Code, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.

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

RESOLUTION

Approve Resolution 2444 a Resolution Approving Plat of Mosquito Meadows Subdivision City of Valley City.

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve with the signed variance for the Septic Tank, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Resolution 2445 a Resolution to Amend the Master Fee Schedule.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve changing the Janitorial Fee to a Deposit when renting the National Guard Building, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Amendment to Resolution 2411, a Resolution Placing Advisory Vote on Ballot of Municipal Election to be held June 11, 2024.

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

 

NEW BUSINESS

Approve Site Authorization Renewals for Valley City Hockey & Figure Skating Club at the Youth Sports Complex, Valley City Town and Country Club and The Captain’s Pub.

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

Approve NW Water Tower Options Engineering Report and Select Preferred Alternative(s). Commissioner Bishop moved to approve options 1A & C3 as recommended, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.

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

Approve VC Fire Dept. to Block Off the Street, 2nd Ave NW from 4th St to 6th St on May 1, 2024, from 7:00AM until 1:00PM.

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

CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

City Administrator Crawford reported that the Winter Show Road Shared Use Path Phase II Project was selected for the TA Funding in the amount of $375,280 for Construction in 2026. Clean-Up Week will now include Electronic Recycling. Valley City Residents or Businesses can take their electronics out to the Transfer Station during Clean-Up Week, they will not be picked up. There will be charge of $.75/lb., cash only. Starting June 1st, there will be a Credit Card Convenience Fee of 3.55% added to all transactions paying with a credit card. To avoid this fee, Residents may use the Auto Pay Method, Check, Cash or Debit Card.

CITY UPDATES & COMMISSION REPORTS

City Attorney Martineck would like to present an Ordinance at the next meeting regarding operating an Ice Cream Truck in Valley City and making the permitting of such a business more cost effective.

City Engineer Peterson shared construction updates on the projects happening around Valley City.

Commissioner Gulmon, Commissioner Erickson and Commissioner Bishop all congratulated Mayor for a Day Woehl on her winning essay titled “Mayor for a Day” and the excellent job that she did today.

Commissioner Bishop thanked the Fire Department and Police Department for all they do for our community.  He also thanked the City Staff.

Mayor for a Day Woehl thanked the Police Department and the Fire Department for the rides she received.

Mayor Carlsrud congratulated Mayor for a Day Woehl and thanked her for all her help. Thank you to her Family for sharing her with us. Reminded all that it is still dry out there, even with the rain, so be careful.

ADJOURN

Meeting was adjourned at 5:49 P.M.

5.6.2024 Mayor’s Message

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 NEWS & NOTES

5/6/2024

          Hello Folks,

  • Green grasses are showing, trees are beginning to leaf out, people are planting flowers and kids are playing outside.  It is a beautiful time of the year.
  • When the addition to our fire hall was constructed, beautiful, glasslike, overhead doors were installed leaving the old solid ones on the original building.  At that point, our volunteer firefighters contributed about $27,000.00 to install the glasslike doors.  This year they were benefactors again as they donated $59,800.00 from their fundraising events to purchase a new “Zodiac Dive Boat” for the department (see attached).  Due to holes and the old boat being small, water rescues were risky for the rescue team and victims.  Thank you for protecting us.
  • Last Friday the city held its “Employee Awards and Appreciation Banquet”.  There were awards, recognized team achievements, door prizes donated by local businesses, games of skill, jocularity and of course good food.  The event organizers produced a program that kept the crowd engaged for the duration.  Commissioners in attendance shared their gratitude for our employees’ everyday work and their willingness to “go the extra mile” for Valley City Citizens.  Thank you everyone.
  • The North Dakota High School Activities Association (NDHSAA) finalized a contract that will provide viewing opportunities for the “tier-one” sports.  With streaming options available from many media outlets, grandmas and grandpas who can’t get to the games can see their grandkids compete in a multitude of activities.  Thank you to the NDHSAA Board, we’re grateful your office is in Valley City.
  • Clean-up Week begins May 13:  Materials MUST be sorted and piled; DO NOT put piles out until after your previous week’s pick-up.  NEW: There will be a branch pick-up (3” diameter and smaller) following Clean-up Week, the time is to be determined.  For further information, please call 701-845-0314, see the city website or pick up a document at City Hall.
  • Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.                                                                                                  
  • “Change is inevitable.  Growth is optional.” ~John Maxwell
  • Blessings, Pray, be Grateful and Respectful,

Dave

Agenda Available

5.6.2024 Commission Agenda

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City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Monday, May 6, 2024
5:00 PM

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Monday, May 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/84721559565 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 847 2155 9565.

Next Resolution No. 2447            Next Ordinance No. 1155

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 April 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 hearing on dangerous building located at 304 3rd St. SE. (City Attorney Martineck)
  3. Approve Special Event Application May – September 2024 Indoor & Outdoor at Straus Mall, A Martinson. (Finance Director Klein) 
  4. Approve Block Off the Street request from Soap Box Derby for 6.1.24.  (Finance Director Klein)
  5. Approve Block Off the Street request Valley City Area Chamber of Commerce for 6.15.24 for Community Days.  (Finance Director Klein)
  6. Approve Block Off the Street request from Valley City Barnes County Development Corporation for 6.13, 7.11, 8.8 & 9.12, 2024 for Summer Nights on Central.  (Finance Director Klein)
  7. Approve the Application for a Parade for the Valley City Area Chamber of Commerce on 6.15.2024 starting at 10AM. (Finance Director Klein)
  8. Approve Raffle Permits for:
  9. Bridge City Cruisers on 6.14.2024 at Stoudt/Miller
  10. Bridge City Cruisers on 6.15.2024 at the Car Show on Main & Central
  11. Red Knights Motorcycle Club ND 1 on 9.15.2024 at the VC Eagles
  12. Approve Applications for Tobacco License Renewal for the following:
    1. Dollar General Store #17856
  13. Approve 2024-2025 Contractor License for Timber Craft Handyman Services of Jamestown, ND
  14. Approve 2024-2025 Renewal Applications for Contractor, Electrician, Plumber and/or Mechanical Contractor License(s) for the following:
    1. Keith’s Heating & Cooling, LLC
    1. Keith’s Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating, Inc
    1. Enterprise Electric, Inc
    1. Bridgetown Builders, Inc
    1. Bob’s Excavating, LLC
    1. East & West Excavating     
    1. Groundworks of MN, LLC
    1. Richard Berg Construction
    1. Rollie’s Remodeling
    1. Home Heating, Plumbing, & A/C, Inc
    1. Hope Electric, Inc
    1. RJ’s Plumbing & Heating, Inc
    1. Grotberg Electric, Inc dba Triton Mechanical
    1. Olaf Anderson Construction, Inc
    1. Energize Electric, LLC
    1. Grotberg Electric, Inc
    1. Hi-Line Electric, Inc
    1. Scherbenske, Inc
    1. ACB Construction
    1. Construction Engineers, Inc
    1. Central Trenching, Inc
    1. Keppler Services, Inc
    1. PCL Construction Services, Inc
    1. Floor to Ceiling Carpentry & Repair
    1. Breland Enterprise, Inc dba American Waterworks
    1. Maple River Electric
    1. Hi-Line Construction Inc
    1. Valley Realty Inc
    1. Differding Electric LLC
    1. Big Dog Construction
    1. Six D Construction
    1. Tim’s Plumbing LLC

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson           Gulmon            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

Ordinance

  1. Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1153, an ordinance to amend and reenact subsection 1 of section 11-05-18 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to ice cream trucks. (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Gulmon            Magnuson        Erickson           Bishop              Carlsrud

  • Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1154, an ordinance to amend and reenact section 17-04-18.1 of the Valley City Municipal Code relating to THC paraphernalia. (City Attorney Martineck)

 Roll Call:         Bishop              Gulmon            Magnuson        Erickson      Carlsrud

 

Resolution

  1. Approve Resolution 2446 a Resolution to Sell Real Property at Public Sale. (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Erickson           Bishop              Gulmon            Magnuson            Carlsrud

New Business

NB1.    Consider & Approve Roundtable request for funds. (VCBC Development Corporation Jennifer Feist)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson           Gulmon            Bishop              Carlsrud

NB2.    Accept grant award for 2026 Transportation Alternatives (TA) Grant for the Wintershow Road Shared Use Path – Phase 2 Project for construction in 2026. Project was awarded funding of $375,280. (City Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:          Gulmon            Magnuson        Erickson           Bishop              Carlsrud

NB3.    Approve extension of alcoholic beverage licenses, and renewal date. (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Bishop              Gulmon            Magnuson        Erickson            Carlsrud

NB4.    Authorize City Administrator to negotiate planning and design phase contract with CMAR (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Erickson           Bishop              Gulmon            Magnuson            Carlsrud

NB5.    Approve Memorandum of Understanding Sheyenne River Water Trail Maintenance and Management – Water Trail Advisory Committee (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson           Gulmon            Bishop              Carlsrud

NB6.    Approve Site Authorization for Valley Twisters Gymnastics Club for 7.1.2024 – 6.30.2025 at Tavern 94 (Finance Director Klein)

Roll Call:          Gulmon            Magnuson        Erickson           Bishop              Carlsrud

NB7.    Approve Site Authorization for Valley City Baseball Org. for 7.1.2024 – 6.30.2024 at Brockopp Brewery, The Clubhouse and City Lights Supper Club. (Finance Director Klein)

Roll Call:          Bishop              Gulmon            Magnuson        Erickson            Carlsrud

NB8.    Approve Application from Hi-Line Hospitality dba City Lights Supper Club Lounge for a Special Alcohol Beverage Event Permit to be held Thursday, May 9th, 2024, at the VCSU Student Center Cafeteria. (Finance Director Klein)

Roll Call:          Erickson           Bishop              Gulmon            Magnuson            Carlsrud

Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn

Agenda Available

5.6.2024 Finance Agenda

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City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Monday, May 6, 2024

2:30 PM

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

Members of the public may view the meeting online https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86172769500 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 861 7276 9500

Call to Order

Roll Call

Agenda items

  1. Department reports.
    1. Sanitation Department
      1. Residential Container Count & Update on Clean Up Week
    1. Water Department
    1. Electric Department
    1. Fire Department/Dangerous Buildings
    1. Police Department
    1. Street Department
    1. Administration
  2. Discuss Valley City Barnes County Public Library Loan Approval. (Finance Director Klein)
  3. Discuss the rotation of Board Members to the Valley City Barnes County Public Library Board of Directors. (Commissioner Magnuson)
  4. Update on RRWSP (Red River Water Supply Project) (President Carlsrud)
  5. WAPA (Western Area Power Administration) (President Carlsrud)
  6. Consideration of additional FTE (Full Time Employee) – (President Carlsrud)
  7. Update on NW Industrial Land for sale – (Commissioner Gulmon, Commissioner Bishop, City Administrator Crawford)
  8. Discuss the Memorandum of Understanding – Water Trail Advisory Committee – (City Administrator Crawford))
  9. Discuss Purchase of Body Cameras, Tasers and In-car Cameras for the Police Department (Chief Horner)
  10. Update on Viking Trailer Court. (City Administrator Crawford)

Adjourn

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

4.9.2024 Board of Equalization Minutes

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2024 Board of Equalization Proceedings

April 9, 2024

4:00 PM City Hall

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

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

Finance Director Klein read North Dakota Century Code sections 57-11-01, 03 and 07 pertaining to the duties of the Board of Equalization.

President Carlsrud declared the hearing open at 4:00 P.M. City Assessor Current reported the changes in property values within the city for 2024.  An overall summary was read and submitted. No property owners were present for requests and there were no written requests received in the Auditor’s Department.

PROPERTY TYPECERTIFIED VALUES 2023PROJECTED TOTALS 2024$ CHANGE% CHANGE
Residential land$41,712,300$41,836,650$124,350.30%
Residential structure$255,521,200$275,418,200$19,897,0007.79%
Grand Total residential$297,233,500$317,254,850$20,021,3506.74%
     
Commercial Land$41,504,150$41,698,250$194,1000.47%
Commercial Structure$139,308,332$148,217,981$8,909,6496.4 %
Grand total Commercial$180,812,482$189,916,231$9,103,7495.03%
     
agricultural land$105,700$101,500($4,200)-3.97%
GRAND TOTAL agricultural land$105,700$101,500($4,200)-3.97%
     
TOTAL MARKET VALUE$478,151,682$507,272,581$29,120,8996.09%

City Assessor Current stated 78 Notices of Increase were sent out.  No property owners contacted City Assessor Current regarding the notice of increase for 2024.

Commissioner Bishop moved to close the hearing, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. The motion passed unanimously.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the assessment book as prepared by the City Assessor, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. The motion passed unanimously.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:17 p.m.

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

4.2.2024 Finance Minutes

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City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, April 2nd, 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 Bishop, Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Gulmon.

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

Commission Topics

City Administrator Crawford discussed changing the process and timeline for the Financial Reports. Having the report due at the mid-month meeting will allow the team more time to prepare and share a more up to date report. Joy Kiefert, Lead Accounting Clerk and Brandy Johnson, Deputy Auditor spoke as well on the change. Commissioner Gulmon recommended the Commissioners accept the change.

Commissioner Gulmon raised the topic of the NW Industrial Property to sell for non-primary usage. A list of topics was in the material package that will need to be discussed and answers determined before proceeding with the sale of the property.

Commissioner Magnuson asked the question, “What is the goal of the City, growing our City and future developments?” Commissioners shared their views.

City Administrator Crawford proposed new times for the Finance Commission meetings. It was decided that all Finance meetings will be scheduled to start at 2:30PM monthly and adjusted as needed. Commission meetings will remain at 5:00PM.

Department Reports

Sanitation Department

Sanitation Supervisor Swart reminded all that garbage container handles should face the house and there should be 3 feet of clearance around your container. The Residential Can Count Report is now included in the materials packet for the Commissioners to review.  Swart also explained the “Clean-Up” week poster and how it breaks down the sorting of materials, the dates, possible charges and where non-collected items may be taken for disposal or recycling.

Water Department

Water Superintendent Hesch informed all that the 2023 Water Quality Report has been printed in the Newspaper and posted to the City’s Website & Social Media. Hesch also reported on the water loss project. The Water Treatment Plant will be switching out a flow meter that measures the water flowing from the plant to the towers. The current meter does not account for the water that is back flowing into the plant when the heat pumps are shut down. The new meter will measure flow both ways. Busy with maintenance, replacing seals.

Electric Department

Electrical Superintendent Senf reported on the outages for last month, there were 3. Working on trimming trees and will soon start work on the underground project.

Fire Department

Fire Chief Magnuson went over his monthly run sheet. 17 calls for service last month. Currently working on some nuisance items and getting them cleaned up. Working on the Dangerous Buildings, a few of the asbestos reports are now completed. Going to add a couple garages to the list. The boat is completely ready to go, just need water.  Fire Fighter 1 Class is going with 16 participants. There is also a First Responder Class currently in process.

Police Department

Police Chief Horner reported on the Grants for Body Cams, working on another Grant in April for Security around the building. The Team has been busy. Due to an increase in School Bus passing violations, they have increased their presence near the school zones. Horner also displayed the “Moto-Shot” demo. It is used to train Officers on shooting at a moving target. They have reached out to other departments and agencies to give them a chance to use it as well. Currently they are assessing their body cam & car systems but are looking at what it will need to fix or replace. Andrea Suhr did put her resignation in after 24 years of service with the department. They will be posting for that position.

Street Department

Operations Supervisor Klemisch shared that the County will be doing some soil boring & sampling by the Viking Bridge. Ben Lokken is now fully certified as an Operator 4 having passed his last 2 tests. Congratulations. They will be starting crack sealing in the next week or so. Doing some street and curb painting. Flushing of hydrants. Looking at getting into a couple alleys as they dry up. This led to a discussion on alleys and what it will take for repairs and clean-up as this is an on-going issue every year.

Administration

City Attorney Martineck discussed a piece of property that was deeded to the Jewett’s back in 1999. This deed was never recorded. The Jewett’s have been paying the taxes since 1999. They are now selling this property so Martineck is recommending a Quit Claim of this property over to Joan Jewett to clear this matter. Commissioners agree with the recommendation. City Attorney Martineck talked about the incapacity of our Municipal Judge and we do not have a clear date of his return. He informed Commission, if needed, has the authority to appoint an interim Municipal Judge. Currently, cases are being scheduled into May to buy time. Steps are being taken to find options should this become necessary.

Finance Director Klein reviewed the bid openings for the Seal Coat Project for this summer. The Engineers estimate is listed on the spreadsheet and is much less than even the lowest bid. City Engineer Peterson and Finance Director Klein recommend rejecting the current bids and take some time to look at other options to reduce the costs.

Review monthly bills/reports

Finance Director Klein reported expenditures in the amount of $2,144,801 for the month.

Quarterly Engineer Report

Total Budgeted for the year is $90,000. For the first quarter, general engineering is at $12,324. and planning is at $8,338. We are at a good place for the first quarter.

Discuss the rental of the National Guard Building. Should we be charging a deposit prior to renting instead of a possible janitorial fee after an event has taken place.  Rate and deposit ideas will be brought to the next meeting for more discussion.

Discussion on putting the house at 446 8th Ave NE up for bids for removal. A person reached out wanting to buy the home and move it to a different location. The Asbestos test came back with asbestos in the ceiling.Regardless of the decision, will asbestos need to be mitigated?  It was decided to start the process to sell the house if possible.

City Administrator Crawford read a note from David Wick regarding the items that need to be taken care of at Viking Trailer Court as well as a timeline.  They will continue to work on the needed repairs.

There was also discussion on the construction projects and how they will affect different road closures for this summer’s community events. The Chamber has already been made aware and are working with the City on alternate plans.

City Engineer Peterson shared the plan for the upcoming Secarse, 6th Ave, 6th St & 7th St project.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:46 PM.

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

4.2.2024 Commission Minutes

Posted on by

City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, April 2, 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

CITY GOVERNMENT WEEK PROCLAMATION

The Week of April 1 – 5, 2024 to be Proclaimed City Government Week

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Add B. e. to the Consent Agenda. S.H.I.N.E. Raffle for 4.13.2024. Remove Resolution from Agenda. Add NB2. Reject Bids for Paving Improvement District No. 129. and NB3. Approve Tourism Grant Application for Valley City Barnes County Development Corporation, Valley City Tourism and Valley City Chambers as Recommended by the Visitor Committee.

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

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the minutes from the March 18, 2024 Commission Meeting, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion passed unanimously.

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA

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

B. Approve Raffle Permits for:

      a. Disabled American Veterans from 7.11.24 – 6.12.25, 2nd Thursdays at the VC Eagles

b. Barnes County Wildlife Federation on 11.1.24, 11.25.24 & 4.5.25 at the VC Eagles

c. VCSU Foundation on 4.26.24 at the VC Eagles

d. Education Foundation for VCPS on 4.18.2024 at the HAC

e. S.H.I.N.E on 4.13.2024 at the HAC

C. Approve PCL Construction Services, Inc of Edina, MN a Contractor License for 2023-2024

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

PUBLIC COMMENTS

ORDINANCE

Ord 1151 Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1151 an ordinance to amend and reenact sections 2-01-01, 2-01-02, 2-01-03, 2-04-01, 2-04-06, and 8-06-04 of the Valley City Municipal Code relating to duties of city officials.

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

NEW BUSINESS

NB1. Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $2,144,801.

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

NB2. Reject Bids for Paving Improvement District No. 129.

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

NB3. Approve Tourism Grant Application for Valley City Barnes County Development Corporation, Valley City Tourism and Valley City Chambers in the amount of $3000. for the Living Local App as Recommended by the Visitor Committee.

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

CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

City Engineer Peterson discussed the Construction Projects that are coming up very soon. In the past two weeks there have been 2 pre-construction meetings. Paving Improvement District 126. That is the Secarse Drive, 6th Ave NW & 6th St NW and 7th St NW project. Starting Monday, April 8th they will be working on Secarse and later in the week they will be starting on 6th St NW & 7th St NW. There will be a Public Informational Meeting on Thursday, April 4th at 5:15PM in the Commission Chambers. A pre-construction meeting was held this morning for the Urban Grant Project for 2nd Ave NW, 3rd St NW & 4th St N. They are looking at starting the week of April 15th. We are looking at having an Information Meeting early next week for the Businesses & Residents involved.  The third project is Phase 2 of last years project for 3rd St NE & 3rd Ave NE. There is not a firm start date as of today.

City Administrator Crawford shared that the mailing for the Service Line Warranty would be going out today. Starting in May, there will be a credit card service fee added to people that are using credit cards to pay for their bill. There are other ways to pay and not be subjected to a fee: Auto Pay, Pay by Check, Pay by Cash, or Pay by Debit card with Pin here in the Office.

Finance Director Klein shared that the Election Petitions are due to City Hall before April 8th at 4:00PM. We are not able to accept any Petitions after that time. The Audit starts next week so it will be a busy time in the Finance Department.

City Assessor Current reported that the Equalization Meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 9th at 4:00PM.

Police Chief Horner wanted to remind all that with the warmer weather, more people will be out and about. Please be alert when driving. Reminder: All traffic must stop. Do not pass a school bus if the stop arm is out & lights are flashing

Commissioner Gulmon shared that we had a record high in sales tax for the first month of 2024. He also recognized Mayor Carlsrud, City Administrator Crawford, Finance Director Klein and Deputy Auditor Johnson were presented with Leadership Awards at the ND League of Cities Spring Training Conference.

Commissioner Erickson wanted to remind all that your Garbage container handles should face the house and there should be a 3-foot clearance around the container. Clean-up Week will be May 13-18. All materials must be sorted as required or they will not be picked up. If you have questions please call Public Works or the Landfill.

Mayor Carlsrud reiterated that the piles of materials must be sorted appropriately or they will not be picked up. Do not set materials out prior to that week. Thanked all the city employees for their work every day & especially during our busy seasons. Thank you to the Commissioners for serving.

ADJOURN

Meeting was adjourned at 5:26 P.M.

4.29.2024 Mayor’s Message

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NEWS & NOTES

4/29/2024

Greetings Everybody,

  • Did you know ours is a “Critical Access Hospital” and is nationally ranked for quality care?  Recently, on different days, a friend of mind and I needed emergency care at CHI and we both experienced quality, compassionate care.  We are fortunate to have CHI Mercy Health Hospital. Thank you to the team.
  • Congratulations to Wes Anderson who recently received “The Daughters of Colonial Wars Teacher Award”.  The award exemplifies and encourages patriotism, interest in our American History and Heritage.  Thanks for all you do Wes.
  • Construction is underway in several areas of town …… of course, cuz it is summer or almost summer!  There are numerous areas where construction is taking place, some due to need and some by design.  The projects are “phased” so the amount of time businesses are inconvenienced is minimized. 
  • Many of you may have favorite businesses you frequent that may be affected by construction.  The contractors and engineers are partnering to provide temporary access to these businesses throughout the construction process, so give a little extra effort and support those who have been serving you.
  • Last week the “Young Professionals Network” sponsored a “Speed Networking” event at VCSU.   Students were afforded opportunities to expand their comfort zones and enhance their people skills related to networking.  For you who are wondering, the format is similar to speed dating. 
  • Over the weekend we celebrated an event with family and one with some “veteran” sports officials.  Take time to contact old friends, it may make your day.
  • Clean-up Week begins May 13:  Materials be MUST sorted and piled; DO NOT put piles out until after your previous week’s pick-up.  NEW: There will be a branch pick-up (3” diameter and smaller) following Clean-up Week, the time is to be determined.  For further information, please call 701-845-0314.
  • Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.                                                                                                   
  • “Happiness sneaks in through the door you didn’t know you left open.”       ~ John Barrymore                                                                                   Blessings, Pray, be Grateful and Respectful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud

4.22.2024 Mayor’s Message

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 NEWS & NOTES

4/22/2024

  • Hi Everybody,
  • Erin Woehl served as our Mayor for a Day last week.  She did a great job and having her family there supporting her was a blast.  Thanks to staff who put the whole event together.
  • Arbor Day 2024 is April 27th & my brother’s birthday.  Our City Forester, Bob Anderson, will host a tree planting ceremony Friday the 26th, 2:00 just west of the Rosebud.  Take good care of trees in your community and plant a tree of your own too.
  • Think of family, friends or someone who may be having a tough time.  Make their day, call, text or e-mail letting them know you are thinking of them.
  • Do you remember delivering “May Baskets” when you were a kid?  It is the tradition of leaving a May Basket on someone’s door anonymously, ringing the door bell and running to avoid being identified?  Ah, those were the days.
  • The sun is getting higher in the sky and temperatures will be warmer.  You may want to check your air conditioner to make sure it is ready to keep you comfortable. 🙂
  • April is Earth Month and Monday the 22nd Earth Day is celebrated.  Like our homes, we have a responsibility to take care of our earth to provide continued healthy living.  Recycling, putting garbage in appropriate receptacles, keep our water clean and working towards green energy with reliability.  It is important these be year round commitments, not just April!
  • Last week we hosted a Red River Water Supply Project (RRWSP) meeting at our Fire Hall.  Administrators of the project shared routes of the pipeline, construction updates, federal and state cost shares and how Valley City and the area may benefit.  Stay tuned.
  • Clean-up Week:  Materials be MUST sorted into piles & DO NOT put piles out until after your previous week’s pick-up.  For further              information, please call 701-845-0314.
  • Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.                                                                                                   
  • “When someone is hurting, dare to help them heal.”                  ~ Steve Maraboli    
  • Blessings, Pray, be Grateful and Respectful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud