Category Archives: Announcements

11.27.2023 Mayor’s Message

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 NEWS & NOTES

11/27/2023

  • Hi Everybody,
  • I hope you all had a Blessed Thanksgiving weekend with your family and friends.
  • Scams have become more prevalent recently.  Earlier, scams were predominantly through phone, mail & e-mail, but now texting has been included.  That I am an “older” person, I am a target regularly receiving “Phishing” attacks.  The scammers will pose as your bank, a hospital, IRS, as one of your relatives or friends!  If you are contacted through one of the aforementioned mediums and you aren’t sure, DO NOT open!  Delete it and/or contact someone you know who is knowledgeable & can provide guidance for you.  
  • Having 2nd Avenue NE open again is pretty handy and the new look around Leevers is really attractive.  Please be careful around the edges of the parking lot, STAY OFF the newly seeded grass.  Thank you.
  • Small Business Saturday was a busy day in Valley City.  The “Light Parade” took place at 6:00 followed by the “Lighting Ceremony” and hot chocolate in Veterans Park.  Thanks to everyone who made the “day” happen and to all the people who came out in the beautiful “crisp” evening.  
  • Thank you to our Electrical Department for expanding and “tweaking” our Christmas lighting.  There are new decorative light hangings illuminating over Main Street East and West.  The “Selfie Wreath” is also new and located in Veterans Park ….. great photo opportunities.  Please enjoy.
  • Former Division II North Central Conference schools, University of North Dakota, North Dakota State University, South Dakota State University and University of South Dakota currently play football in the Division I Missouri Valley Conference.  All four made the NCAA FCS Championship Play-offs.  It is quite an achievement, congratulations to all.
  • Friday evening was the Firemen’s Dance Fundraiser.  Thank you to all who made it a successful event.
  • Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.                     
  • “Perhaps no custom reveals our character as a Nation so clearly as our celebration of Thanksgiving Day.”                       ~ Ronald Reagan                   

                                                  Blessings, Pray, be Grateful and Respectful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud

11.7.2023 Commission Minutes

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City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, November 7th, 2023


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

ROLL CALL

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

Member Absent: Commissioner Bishop

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

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Add New Business Item 6. Approve Contract for Public Auction Services.

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

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve the minutes from the October 17, 2023 Commission Meeting, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion passed unanimously.

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA

Approve Contractor License for Dirt Dynamics, Fargo ND

Approve Raffle for Sheyenne Valley Friends of Animals, December 15, 2023 at Handy Hardware

Approve Raffle for ND Hereford Assn, December 2, 2023 at the ND Winter Show Building

Approve Parade for VC Area Chamber of Commerce Parade of Lights, November 25, 2023 at 6pm

Approve Block off the Street Application for the VC Area Chamber of Commerce Parade of Lights, November 25, 2023 from 2pm until 9pm, Event is from 4pm until 9pm

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

ORDINANCE

Second and Final Reading of Ordinance No 1145, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Section 5-03-11 of the VCMC related to disposition of owner-surrendered animals. There are no changes to the Ordinance.

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

Second and Final Reading of Ordinance No 1146, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Sections 15-05-01 and 15-05-04 of the VCMC related to use of City Dumpsters. There are no changes to the Ordinance.

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

RESOLUTION

Resolution 2427, A Resolution Declaring Sufficiency of Protest for Paving Improvement District No. 128. Finance Director Klein reported that we did not receive any protests on this project. A NW Reconstruction for 2024 map was included in the materials. An Informational Meeting was held on October 16, 2023 with no attendees. Protests were due on November 6th and we did not receive any protests.

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

Resolution 2428, A Resolution Approving Final Plans, Specifications, and Estimate of Probable Costs and Authorizing Engineer to Advertise for Bids for Paving Improvement District No. 128, Watermain Improvement District No. 105, Sanitary Sewer Improvement District No. 69. City Engineer Petersen shared that this project is scheduled to be bid through the NDDOT on November 17th. The total estimated construction cost is approximately 4 million dollars. We did receive approximately 2.63 million dollars from Urban Grant Funds through the NDDOT. We will be requesting approximately 550 thousand dollars of funds through the Department of Water Resource for the water main replacement portion of the project. The Final Plans & Specs are on file at City Hall.  

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

Resolution 2429, A Resolution Approving Urban Limits Boundary for City of Valley City. City Engineer Petersen reported this is a paper trail catch up as you previously approved the Urban Limits Boundary at the last Commission meeting. The NDDOT requires this in the form of a Resolution so requesting the approval of this Resolution for the Urban Limits Boundary as per the map.

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

Resolution 2430, A Resolution Approving Use of Construction Management At-risk Delivery Method for New Public Works Service Center. City Administrator Crawford is asking for approval of the use of Construction Management At-risk Delivery Method for the New Public Works Service Center that will go along with them being the General Contractor and also the way to help with the process to go get all the bids, instead you go through this process and they get all the fees together and end up with 1 rate.

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

NEW BUSINESS

Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $ $2,405,467.61. Finance Director Klein reviewed the October Expenditures.

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

Approve Preliminary & Design Engineering Task Order for Project No. UGP-2-990(068), PCN 24181-2025 Urban Grant Reconstruction Project. City Engineer Petersen reminded the Commissioners that the City was awarded 2.99 million dollars in Urban Grant Funds for the reconstruction of 2nd ST N from 3rd Ave NW to 4th Ave NE as well as 3rd Ave NE from Main ST to 2nd St. We requested that this project be programmed for planned delivery August of 2024. In reviewing other projects adjacent to the project corridor, specifically along the 4th Ave NE. You may recall that we have had several watermain breaks in the area. As this was a high priority for Public Works to get that watermain replaced we requested to the DOT that they add 4th Ave NE & 1 additional block of 2nd St NE to the project. The request before you are the preliminary design and engineering for the described project. A proposed bid opening in November of 2024 for anticipated construction in 2025. They will do the survey now through the spring, get the environmental documentation, cultural work and the public involvement done over the winter months. Design Engineering will be done from the Spring through August of 2024 time frame. This will be bid through the NDDOT possibly next November.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. Roll Cal Vote: Commissioner Gulmon – Aye, Commissioner Magnuson – Aye, Commissioner Erickson – No,

President Carlsrud – Aye. Motion Carried.        

Approve RFQ for Architect for Pre-Design Services for the Service Center. City Administrator Crawford asked, as required by Century Code, we have to approve an RFQ for the Architect for Pre-Design Services for the Service Center.

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

Approve MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) with VCSU for Emergency Management. There were no changes to the Memorandum, just a new signature was needed so must again be approved by the Commission.

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

Approve MOU with VCSU for Campus Safety. There were no changes to this Memorandum, just a new signature was needed so must again be approved by the Commission.

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

Approve Contract for Public Auction Services. City Administrator Crawford shared this has to do with the extra items the different departments throughout the City had. There will be an online auction, with the details being printed twice in the newspaper, then the online auction will be held. The smaller items will be sold the first week, there will be a set date, and larger items, some with reserves, will be the second date. The other piece to this is that the Auction Service is responsible for all the advertising, listing, photos and descriptions. There will also be a time that the Public will be able to walk through and see the items.

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

CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

City Administrator Crawford started off with the Construction Project on 2nd Ave NE. Basically they will continue working on the project this week and next. If the weather holds out, they hope to have the sidewalks completed, signs installed and other things completed. The goal would be to have it ready to go by the end next week, so November 18th. There are still items that need to be checked on but will update after the next construction meeting. Check social media and the website for the latest update. On Wednesday, November 15th City Administrator Crawford will be representing the midsize cities at a Committee Hearing on Retirement in Bismarck. Also, continuing to work on a lot of grants. There are some new Transportation Grants that we will be working on for the 2025 projects. There are also some Electrical Grants that just came up so working on getting them completed.

Finance Director Klein shared that every November we send the annual installment for Special Assessments to the County. If you have any questions on the special assessments come to the Auditors Office at City Hall. Please do not reach out to the County. You will also find a list of remaining balances of special Assessments at ValleyCity.US.

City Assessor Current updated the Commissioners on what she has been working on. About 320 homes were visited and reviewed this summer. A lot of people have been in the office inquiring about the Homestead Credit with 39 new people signing up.  Valley City has over 167 people currently signed up. The State reimburses us for the credit. Houses are still selling well, there were 72 sales this year. Prices seem to be staying high, but sales have slowed.

Commissioner Gulmon shared the Financial report through the end of September. Very positive report with revenues outpacing expenses in both the General Government and Public Works. Sales Tax is down 1.5% compared to the numbers from last year. Food & Beverages Tax is up 7.5% over last year. The Occupancy Tax is up 11% compared to last year

Mayor Carlsrud thanked all the city employees for their work especially with the change in season and all that comes with that. If you have not been to the Vo-Tech Center, go up and take a tour. They do some amazing things there. Please Thank a Veteran this weekend and a “Special Thank you” to our Veterans. Be careful to all the Deer Hunters out there as well. Enjoy the weekend.

ADJOURN

Meeting was adjourned at 5:27 P.M.

11.20.2023 Mayor’s Message

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 NEWS & NOTES

11/20/2023

  • Hello Folks,
  • This is a time to give thanks for: Blessings we sometimes take for granted, all those who are in our lives and bountiful harvests to name a few.  I hope you all have a Blessed Thanksgiving with family and friends.
  • Thank you to our Electrical Department and all involved with placing our city’s Christmas Lighting.  Central Avenue lighting is amazing with more coming on Main.  There are numerous sites for photo ops throughout the downtown, check’m out & enjoy.
  • Friday the 24th is the VALLEY CITY FIREFIGHTERS BENEFIT DANCE FUNDRAISER at the Eagles Club with music by “Karma”.  It is a free will donation event. 
  • SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY, showcasing our local businesses, is this Saturday along with the Chamber’s Light Parade and a Christmas Lighting Ceremony in Veterans Park.  Make it a day to be uptown enjoying people and the holiday spirit.  
  • With the sun being lower in the sky, darkness comes early.  PLEASE wear Hi-Viz reflective clothing and walk or jog facing traffic.  There are so many distracted drivers, you’ll be safer if you wear Hi-Viz reflective clothing/vests and are facing oncoming traffic.  
  • The Behavioral Health Coalition met last week with special guest Dr. Nizar Wehbe, North Dakota State Health Officer.  Dr. Wehbe was gracious in listening to the needs and concerns of Barnes County Citizens, schools and healthcare organizations.  Addictions to vaping, tobacco, alcohol and various other drugs were discussed.  Availability of suitable housing is also a growing concern in our immediate area and statewide.
  • Last week Sue and I attended the VCPS production of Frozen.  The talented young people made the event delightfully entertaining.  Thank you to all who made it happen.
  • Last week’s VCHS “Friday Flyer” shared some benefits of exercise: weight control, cardio, less stress & diabetes control to name a few.  A little exercise goes a long way.  Think about it.
  • Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.                     
  • “Give thanks for a little, and you will find a lot.”                       ~ Hausa Proverb                   

                                                  Blessings, Pray, be Grateful and Respectful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud

Agenda Available

11.21.2023 Commission Agenda

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Tuesday, November 21st, 2023
5:00 PM

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, November 21st, 2023, 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/87278342798 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID:  872 7834 2798.

Call To Order

Roll Call

Pledge of Allegiance (please stand)

Oath of Office for Police Officer Brian Hager

Proclamation for small business Saturday

November 25, 2023, is being Proclaimed as Small Business Saturday. Support small businesses and merchants on Small Business Saturday and to Shop Small throughout the year.

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

 

Approval of Minutes

Approve Minutes from the November 7th, 2023, Finance and Commission Meetings.

Roll Call:          Gulmon            Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Raffle Permit Application for the Following:
    1. Education Foundation for VCPS 11.30.2023 at the HAC
    1. Student Chapter of the Wildlife Society 2.13.2024 VCSU
    1. VCSU American Fisheries Society Student Subunit 2.13.2024 at Rhoades Science Center
    1. Valley City State University Foundation 12.1.2023 at the Eagles
  2. Approve 2023-2024 Contractor License Application for Robert Gibb & Sons, Fargo ND

 Roll Call:         Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          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

 

Resolution

            R1. RES 2431 A Resolution Amending Infrastructure Renewal and Replacement Fees. (Public Works Accountant Jacobson)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Carlsrud

New Business

N1.      Consideration for Appropriating Back the Blue Funds (Chief Horner)

Roll Call:          Erickson          Gulmon           Magnuson        Bishop             Carlsrud

N2.      Approve Salary Schedule Amendment to Include Water Plant Operator III with B23 Classification. (Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:          Gulmon            Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

N3.      Appoint Construction Management At-Risk Selection Committee. (Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Carlsrud

N4.      Accept Project No. SU-CVD-2-990(061), PCN 23233-12th St N/8th Ave SW – Mill & Overlay/Turn Lane Improvements. (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Carlsrud

N5.      Accept Project No. UGP-2-999(051), PCN 22280-Main Street/Central Ave Urban Grant Project. (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Erickson          Gulmon           Magnuson        Bishop             Carlsrud

N6.      Approve Amendment to Task Order for Preliminary Engineering for NW Water Tower Study (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Gulmon            Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

N7.      Approve Design Engineering Task Order for 2024 Seal Coat Improvements (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Carlsrud

N8.      Approve Design Engineering Task Order for 2024 Sanitary Sewer Point Repair/Manhole Replacement Project (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Carlsrud

N9.      Approve Preliminary & Design Engineering Task Order for Project No. TAU-2-990(066), PCN 23917 – Winter Show Road Shared-Use Path (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Erickson          Gulmon           Magnuson        Bishop             Carlsrud

N10.    Approve 2024 Board Meeting Schedule.  (Finance Director Klein)

Roll Call:          Gulmon            Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

City Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn

11.13.2023 Mayor’s Message

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 NEWS & NOTES

11/13/2023

  • Hello Everybody,
  • Thank you to the Chamber team and its Members for facilitating “Save a Buck, Spend Some Doe” over the weekend.  It was fun seeing the people uptown visiting, smiling and shopping.
  • The Barnes County Food Pantry needs your help as many Barnes County people are in need of assistance.  Currently, the need for food is pressuring the amount of food in stock.  Donations of food or money can be delivered to the Barnes County Senior Center.  Please help.
  • Recycle for more reasons than our environment as Valley City’s costs for hauling our garbage to a landfill will be seeing significant increases.   That said, please recycle all eligible material, especially cardboard, to minimize costs. 
  • Saturday the VCSU Football Vikings hosted Waldorf University.  It was a beautiful day we sometimes don’t see in November, with some clouds and splashes of sunlight that still provided a bit of warmth though only about 37 degrees.
  • Thank you to all the high school and university students who competed in the fall activities.  Years from now, you’ll be glad you did.
  • Please remember having a pet is a responsibility and picking up its fecal matter is up to all of us ……. We can do better.
  • In case you find yourself feeling “bummed” too often, help is available, use it.  Getting help is a sign of strength and you will be able to enjoy life again.  There are many Blessings out there yet to be realized.
  • We thanked Veterans on Veterans Day, consider thanking them all year!
  • Valley City Garbage Service:  Please bag and tie materials placed in the containers to keep yours clean.  Be sure to place your container with the handle toward the house so the truck can empty it for you.
  • Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.                     
  • “Gratitude and attitude are not challenges; they are choices.”                    ~ Robert Braathe, Country Living                    

                                                  Blessings, Pray, be Grateful and Respectful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud

11.6.2023 Mayor’s Message

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 NEWS & NOTES

11/6/2023

  • Hi Folks,
  • November 11th, 2023 Veterans Day will be observed.  On Veterans Day we honor those who made the choice to place themselves in harms way while ensuring our freedoms.  Regardless of their branch of service, where duty takes them, whether they served in conflict or peacetime, all who wear this country’s uniform know liberty comes at immense costs.  How about taking a minute to say “thank you” to a veteran?
  • This is an exciting time as fall activities are culminating seasons with Championship meets, games and matches.  Check your favorite school’s calendar so you can follow its progress.  Enjoy!
  • It is also an exciting time for deer hunters as the gun season, which is almost a state holiday, opens Friday the 10th!  As Del Tibke use to say, “Obey the rules and enjoy the great outdoors”.
  • North Dakota League of Cities (NDLC) Executive Director, Matt Gardner, wrote about some highlights from the NDLC’s Annual Conference.  A couple points he felt to be important were engaging constituents in the NDLC Mission, networking and activities along with achieving a work-life balance.  It is as important, sometimes more so, to schedule “you time” like you would schedule any other meeting; think about it.  Thanks for all you folks do Matt.
  • Information received last week shows Valley City’s Municipal Power Supply is 89% carbon-free and 73% renewable.  Working towards “green”, Missouri River Energy Services (MRES) has reduced its carbon intensity by about 52% during the last 20 years.
  • “Save a Buck, Spend Some Doe”; visit Chamber Member Stores to find the “buck figurines” and an opportunity to win one of five $100.00 Chamber Buck prizes.  Want more? Email: chamber@valleycitychamber.com.
  • Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.                     
  • “When wealth is lost, nothing is lost; when health is lost, something is lost; when character is lost; all is lost.”                    ~ Billy Graham                     

                                                  Blessings, Pray, be Grateful and Respectful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud

Agenda Available

11.7.2023 Commission Agenda

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City Commission Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, November 7, 2023
5:00 PM

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, November 7, 2023 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/81167754418 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID:  811 6775 4418.

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 October 17, 2023 Commission Meetings.

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Contractor License for Dirt Dynamics, Fargo ND
  2. Approve Raffle for Sheyenne Valley Friends of Animals, 12/15/2023 at Handy Hardware
  3. Approve Raffle for ND Hereford Assn, 12/2/2023 at the ND Winter Show Building
  4. Approve Parade for VC Area Chamber of Commerce Parade of Lights, 11/25/2023 @ 6pm
  5. Approve Block off the Street Application for the VC Area Chamber of Commerce Parade of Lights, 11/25/2023 from 2pm until 9pm, Event is from 4pm until 9pm

Roll Call:          Gulmon            Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

Public Comments

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

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

Public Hearing

Ordinance

  1. Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance No 1145, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Section 5-03-11 of the VCMC related to disposition of owner-surrendered animals.  (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Carlsrud

  •  Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance No 1146, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Sections 15-05-01 and 15-05-04 of the VCMC related to use of City Dumpsters.  (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Carlsrud

Resolution

R1.   RES 2427   A Resolution Declaring Sufficiency of Protest for Paving Improvement District No. 128 (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Erickson          Gulmon           Magnuson        Bishop             Carlsrud

R2.   RES 2428    A Resolution Approving Final Plans, Specifications, and Estimate of Probable Costs and Authorizing Engineer to Advertise for Bids for Paving Improvement District No. 128, Watermain Improvement District No. 105, Sanitary Sewer Improvement District No. 69. (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Gulmon            Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

R3.   RES 2429   A Resolution Approving Urban Limits Boundary for City of Valley City. (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Carlsrud

R4.   RES 2430   A Resolution Approving Use of Construction Management At-risk Delivery Method for New Public Works Service Center. (City Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Carlsrud

New Business

NB1.   Approve Preliminary & Design Engineering Task Order for Project No. UGP-2-990(068), PCN 24181-2025 Urban Grant Reconstruction Project. (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Erickson          Gulmon           Magnuson        Bishop             Carlsrud

NB2.   Approve RFQ for Architect for Pre-Design Services. (City Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:          Gulmon            Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

NB3.   Approve MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) with VCSU for Emergency Management. (City Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Carlsrud

NB4.    Approve MOU with VCSU for Campus Safety. (City Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Carlsrud

City Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn

10.30.2023 Mayor’s Message

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 NEWS & NOTES

10/30/2023

  • Hi Everybody,
  • I hope you all had fruitful & safe weekends.  Usually I have been better prepared for snow, but this year I was still thinking leaf pick up and lawn mowing when the snow ambushed me!
  • Tuesday is Halloween.  Though the weather forecast isn’t the best, there will be people out “Trick or Treating” and driving around so please everyone, be extra careful.
  • Thank you to Missouri River Energy Services (MRES) for bringing an Area Meeting for North Dakota Municipal Power Cities to Valley City last week.  A team of MRES Employees shared information concerning reliable, clean energy, cybersecurity, legislative issues, finance, member services and more.
  • At the federal legislative level, power transmission and permitting are important issues for us.  With wind, solar and other new power generation, more transmission line are needed as they are the “highways” to our homes and businesses.  Transmission is expensive though a good investment to offset some power costs.  One plan for transmission construction in our region is estimated to be about $10.3 Billion!
  • Financially MRES is healthy and maintains an Aa2 Moody Investors Service bond rating which also helps keep our power rates competitive.  The MRES Customer Service Team is continually researching grants along with providing scholarships and rebates.  Research “Bright Energy Solutions” at                                            https://www.brightenergysolutions.com/  
  • Happy 120th birthday to the Valley City – Barnes County Library and the Carnegie Library Building.  Thank you to all the people who have contributed to the wellbeing of both library and building.  Please see: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3f0MEmxAhM4
  • When shopping, be sure to visit Chamber Member Stores to find the “buck figurines” and the opportunity to win one of five $100.00 Chamber Buck prizes.  For more information, email chamber@valleycitychamber.com.
  • Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.                     
  • “The best sermons are lived, not preached.”    ~ Western Quotes                     

                                                  Blessings, Pray, be Grateful and Respectful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

10.3.2023 Commission Minutes

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CALL TO ORDER

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

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

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

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Move N1 and Oath of Office. Add N6. And N7.

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

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve the minutes from the September 18, 2023, Commission Meeting and the September 26, 2023, Special Meeting Commission Meeting, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion passed unanimously.

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA

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

Approve 2023-2024 Application for Contractor License for Allstar Construction Residential Operating Company, LLC. Contingent on Insurance Certificate listing Valley City as certificate holder. 

Approve 2023-2024 Renewal Application for Contractor License for Scherbenske Inc.

Approve Raffle Application for St. Catherines School Fall Auction on November 11, 2023 at the Valley City Eagles.

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

NEW BUSINESS

Appoint Chief of Police Nicholas Horner.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. Roll Call Vote:

Erickson – Nay   Bishop – Aye    Magnuson – Aye    Gulmon – Aye    Carlsrud – Aye

OATH OF OFFICE

President Carlsrud swore in Nicholas Horner as Police Chief.

PUBLIC HEARING

Public Hearing Regarding Special Assessment Projects:

Paving Improvement District No 123, Water Main Improvement District No 102, Sanitary Sewer Improvement District No 66 – 6 St NW Reconstruction

Paving Improvement District No 124 – 12 St N Mill & Overlay

Paving Improvement District No 122 – East Main St Seal Coat

President Carlsrud declared the public hearing open.

There were no protests.

Commissioner Magnuson motioned to close the public hearing, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Special Assessments as recommended by the Special Assessment Commission for Paving Improvement District No 123, Water Main Improvement District No 102, Sanitary Sewer Improvement District No 66, Paving Improvement District No 124, and Paving Improvement District No 122.

Commissioner Bishop motioned to approve assessments as presented, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.

ORDINANCE

Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1141, an Ordinance Adopting the 2024 City Budget.

Finance Director Klein reviewed the updated value of a mill computed by the county which is $22,546.00. Increased the amount levied for the Library by $1000.00, new amount for the Library is $181,600.00. Total amount levied is $1,735,000.00.

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

Approve First Reading of Ordinance No. 1142, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Section 1-01-16 of the Valley City Municipal Code Relating to Purchasing. City Attorney Martineckstated that this policy needs to be put into code to have the force of law backing it. By putting our policy into code, it allows Valley City to continue to do what we are already doing.

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

Approve First Reading of Ordinance No 1143, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Section 4-01-01 of the Valley City Municipal Code Relating to Owners of Premises Licensed for Retail Sale of Alcoholic Beverages. City Attorney Martineck explained that the definition of “Owner” should be removed from code. There is no reason to have it defined.

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

Approve First Reading of Ordinance No 1144, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Section 14-35-12 of the Valley City Municipal Code Relating to Enforcement of Parking Tickets. City Attorney Martineck discussed the changes to the current Parking Ticket Enforcement and the proposed changes in this Ordinance.  

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

RESOLUTION

Approve Resolution 2420, A Resolution Approving Engineers Report and Directing Preparation of Detailed Plans Specification and Estimate of Probable Costs for Paving Improvement District No. 128, Watermain Improvement District No. 105 and Sanitary Improvement District No. 69. Engineer Petersen reported that this is the resolution part of the project for Special Assessments.  Commissioner Erickson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Resolution 2421, A Resolution Declaring Necessity of Improvements in Paving Improvement District No. 128. Engineer Petersen reported that this will start the 30-day protest period of the project. There will be a public informational meeting held during this period.

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

NEW BUSINESS

Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $1,862,579.66.

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

Approve Site Authorization for ND Wildlife Federation at the VC Eagles on April 6,2024.

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

Approve First Addendum to Landfill Use Agreement with VC.

Public Works/Account Manager Jacobson reported on the Landfill Use Agreement with Fargo. This will extend our current agreement while we work through this search.

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

Approve Cost-Share Agreement with the Department of Water Resources Consolidating Permanent Flood Protection Projects. Finance Director Klein explained that this is just a consolidation of the current projects.

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

Approve Change Orders for 2nd Ave NE/3rd St NE Reconstruction Project # SU-CRP-CPU-2-990(062). City Administrator Crawford discussed the change orders for this project. The electric utility manholes that needed to be replaced, these funds, $24,630.00, will come out of the Electric Fund. $13,770.00 for the drainage modifications near the Police Department. The current drainage needed to be corrected and joined into the storm sewer system. The final change orders for $18,602.00 are the vaults found in the sidewalk area by the ARC.

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

Approve Change Order No. 2 for Consolidated Sewer & Water District No. 59.

City Administrator Crawford shared that after receiving more information on the project we are looking at decreasing 12 days of LDs and approving the change orders for $11,016.97.

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

CITY ADMINSTRATOR REPORT

Congratulations to the Electric Department who received the 2023 WattStar Award at the MRES Conference for their Christmas Tree Lighting and Celebration in Valley City.  Mr. Wick reported that there is progress in the area at Viking Court, the contractor should complete the installation in 2 – 3 weeks once all the supplies are available. An update was given on the street project happening on 2 Ave NE.

CITY ATTORNEY REPORT

With the appointment of Chief Horner and another Officer leaving, the Valley City Police Department is now down 2 Officers and will be hiring. ChiefHorner will be covering shifts until the positions are filled.

CITY UPDATES & COMMISSION REPORTS

Fire Chief Magnuson wanted to remind all that Fire Prevention Week starts on October 8. Please check your smoke detectors and remember to Thank a Fire Fighter or First Responder for all that they do as well as their Families and Employers. Battle of the Badges will be taking place October 10 and 11 at Stoudt/Miller. Donate and vote Team Fire!

Police Chief Horner wants to remind all to be safe and alert as people are out and about trying to enjoy this last bit of nice weather. Battle of the Badges, donate and vote Team Law!

Engineer Petersen updated on the project currently taking place on 2nd Ave NE.

Engineer Eslinger reported that they did receive a signed contract from the Department of Environmental Quality for the water service line inventory. Moore will be working on that inventory.

Commissioner Gulmon gave a short review of the financials through August 31.  Sales tax is down compared to 2022.

Commissioner Bishop welcomed Nick and sent thanks to all the Fire fighters.

Commissioner Magnuson congratulated Nick and gave a thank you to the committee that gave their time to interview and find our new Police Chief.

President Carlsrud again welcomed and Congratulated Nick. Gave a thank you to those that served on the search committee for all your time. To all of the Employees thank you and proud of the work you do. Thank you to the Commissioners for their time.

ADJOURN

Meeting was adjourned at 4:44 PM.

10.23.2023 Mayor’s Message

Posted on by

 NEWS & NOTES

10/23/2023

  • Hello Folks,
  • Congratulations to Dale Sather from our Valley City Public Works (VCPW).  At the North Dakota Water & Pollution Control Conference, Dale received the American Public Works Association’s “Outstanding Individual in Public Works Award”.  It was fun that Gabe Schell, from Valley City & now Bismarck, presented Dale’s award.
  • Halloween is near & there will be “Trick or Treaters” on the streets, please be careful.  There will be “Trunk or Treat” type events also.  Check media outlets for specifics.
  • Good news on construction.  You undoubtably noticed 2nd Avenue NE has some blacktop and it is certainly nice being rid of the dust around there.  Progress, thank you.
  • Summers in the city are busy with construction projects, budgeting, O&M, securing project funding and the like.  Thank you to all our city employees for going the “extra mile” during these extra busy times.  Please say “Thank you” to a city employee.
  • Thank you to our Valley City Police Department (VCPD) and all who work keeping us safe.  With these changing times, being a police officer is even more challenging than in the past.  Please say “Thank you” to a police officer.
  • Thank you to our Valley City Fire Department (VCFD), all the volunteers and their families who bring it all together providing fire protection and other emergency services.  Please say “Thank you” to a firefighter.
  • Thank you to the team of clergy in our area who provide comfort and spiritual guidance to so many in times of need.  Please say “Thank you” to a clergy person.
  • Thank you to our City & County Commissioners who arrange time in their lives to serve our community, county and you citizens.  Please say “thank you” to City & County Commissioners.
  • Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.                     
  • “Don’t give up on your dreams or your dreams will give up on you.”    ~ John Wooden                     

                                                  Blessings, Pray, be Grateful and Respectful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud