Text: 4th of July Closures & Garbage Plans overlaid over garbage trucks

Offices & Transfer Station Closures: 4th of July

Office & Transfer Station Closings:

  • Public Works, City Hall & Transfer Station will be closed on Friday, July 3.
  • Transfer Station will be closed on Saturday, July 4.

Garbage Schedule: Week of June 29

  • Friday’s garbage will be picked up on Thursday, July 2.
President Dave Carlsrud

06/22/2020 Mayor’s Message

 COVID-19 & SAFETY

Hi everyone, a few Tid-Bits

  • North Dakota Smart, positive tests are up nationally, in North Dakota and in Barnes County.  “You know the drill” do your best to be safe.
  • If you are contemplating travel out of your local community, please visit the following website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/travel-in-the-us.html.  There are a few easy, common sense questions that may interest you.
  • Celebrate “North Dakota Share the Road Safety Week” (June 21-27) https://www.newsdakota.com/2020/06/19/north-dakota-share-the-road-safety-week-june-21-27/
    • Be safe drivers, avoid distractions like texting and remember pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks
    • Be safe riders, be alert and obey rules of the road
    • Be safe walkers and joggers, wear visible clothing and always FACE traffic, do not walk or run with traffic.  ENJOY
  • “A FRIEND is one of the nicest things to have and one of the nicest things to be.”     (Charlie Brown)

Blessings, Pray and Be Safe,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud

06/23/2020 City Commission Agenda

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at 5:00 PM CT, at City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND. Members of the public are not permitted in the Commission Chambers due to COVID-19 and as allowed in ND Executive Order 2020-16.

Members of the public may view the meeting online (https://zoom.us/j/98694073301?pwd=VjRWZlhVNWJ0QjhvWUFFbDh3WUdvdz09) Password 4tTbXr or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 986 9407 3301 Password 534462

Call To Order
Roll Call
Pledge of Allegiance (Please Stand)
Approval of Agenda

Approval of Minutes

Minutes from June 16, 2020 meeting

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Raffle Permit for D&C Home Improvement

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Carlsrud

New Business

  1. Elect Vice President to City Commission

    Roll Call:          Bishop             Erickson          Gulmon           Magnuson        Carlsrud
  2. Approve Reorganization of Commissioner’s Portfolios
    • Finance
    • PW Streets, Sanitation, Sewer & Water Distribution
    • PW Electric & Water Treatment Plant
    • Police & Fire
    • Building & Grounds

      Roll Call:          Erickson          Gulmon           Magnuson        Bishop             Carlsrud
  3. Appoint and approve Commissioner assignments to additional committees and boards
    • Valley City Planning & Zoning Commission (2 commissioners)
    • Valley City Library Board (1 commissioner)
    • City County Health Board (1 commissioner)
    • Barnes County Planning & Zoning Commission (2 commissioners)
    • Valley City-Barnes County Development Corporation (2 commissioners)
    • Board for Community Service (1 commissioner)

      Roll Call:          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

City Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

06/02/2020 City Commission Minutes

The City Commission Meeting began on Tuesday, June 2, 2020 at 5:00 PM CT, at City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND. Members of the public were not permitted in the Commission Chambers due to COVID-19 and as allowed in ND Executive Order 2020-16.

Members of the public may view the meeting online (https://zoom.us/j/98978843732?pwd=QVpONXRTOEU3Z2tIckd4Zy9RZTI0UT09) Password 5aJ44L or listen by calling (1-669-900-9128) Webinar ID: 989 7884 3732 Password 674864

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:04 PM. President Carlsrud asked for a moment of silence in honor of Fallen Officer Holte from Grand Forks Police Department.

Members present: Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Powell, Commissioner Erickson.

Others present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck. City Auditor Richter, Deputy Auditor Klein, Building/Fire Inspector Andersen, Fire Chief Magnuson, Police Chief Hatcher, Chad Petersen from KLJ.

Oath of Office for City Administrator Gwen Crawford

President Carlsrud administered the Oath of Office for City Administrator Gwen Crawford.

Approval of Agenda – Addition of Consent C.C, E, F; N3; Remove Consent D; Addition of N4

Approval of Minutes

Commissioner Powell moved to approve the minutes from the May 19, 2020 meeting, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. Motion carried.

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Monthly Reports from the Fire Chief, Building Inspector, Auditor, Municipal Judge and Public Works Accountant.
  2. Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $1,009,556.60
  3. Approve Electrician,  Plumber and/or Mechanical Contractor license for
    1. Maple River Electric
    1. On Demand Plumbing
    1. Energize Electric, LLC
  4. Approve Tree Trimming & Removal License for GS Services
  5. Approve Raffle Permit for Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway
  6. Approve Block off the Street Request for VCSU (on Viking Drive SW from 4th Ave SW to 2nd Ave SW)

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.

Public Comments

There were no public comments.

Public Hearing

Public Hearing for Annexation of Auditor’s Lot Number 1 of the NE1/4 of the SW ¼ of Section 27, Township 140, Range 58, Barnes County, ND
City Attorney Martineck reported that the Waterfront Meadows project includes this new annexation request for the roadway access to the new subdivision. President Carlsrud declared the public hearing open. There were no public comments. Commissioner Magnuson moved to close the hearing; seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve first reading of Ordinance No. 1059, an Ordinance Relating to the Annexation of Territory described as Auditor’s Lot Number 1 of the NE1/4 of the SW ¼ of Section 27, Township 140, Range 58, Barnes County, ND

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance No. 1059, seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously.

Ordinance

Approve second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1056, an Ordinance Repealing Section 2-04-03 of V.C.M.C., relating to residency requirements of appointive officers and employees of city

City Attorney Martineck reported there were no changes to the ordinance since the first reading. The purpose of the ordinance is to repeal/remove the 15 minute residency requirement for all city employees.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve Ordinance No. 1056, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.

Resolution

Approve Resolution No. 2257, a Resolution Approving Final Plans and Specifications for Permanent Flood Protection Erosion Mitigation Phase 1 (Woodland Park and Riverview Drive) and Authorizing Engineer to Advertise for Bids

Chad Petersen from KLJ stated he will incorporate the comments from the Finance Meeting into the final plans with 80% cost share from the State Water Commission; 20% local share. Permits are in place except for the USACE permit and once it is obtained, advertising for bids will occur.

Commissioner Bishop inquired if they foresee any issues with the permit. Petersen stated it was submitted end of 2019 and revised copy submitted February 2020. Petersen confirmed construction is expected to begin this year.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve Resolution No. 2257, seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously.

New Business

Approve request for $15,000 (from city sales tax dedicated to economic development) to assist with VC Smart Restart Campaign

Jennifer Feist (Development Corporation) appeared by Zoom in conjunction with Mary Lee Nielsen, CVB and Kay Vinje, Chamber. The groups are working on campaigns to assist local businesses and encourage people to do business locally. Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the request, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve purchase of (2) 300KVA 480/277 Padmount Transformers from Resco in the amount of $13,592.00

President Carlsrud reported one pump is going to pump station and one will be a backup. Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the purchase, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve 2020 – 2021 Gaming Site Authorization for Valley Twisters Gymnastics Inc at Bridges Bar & Grill

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve the Gaming Site Authorization, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.

Authorize Public Works to credit commercial garbage accounts for entities affected by COVID-19 pandemic

City Auditor Richter reported this was discussed during the Finance Meeting. Public Works Accountant Jacobson and Lead Accounting Clerk Kiefert reviewed the commercial garbage accounts and identified the businesses with the most impact from COVID-19. The credit for pickup fees for each business is based on the number of pickups scheduled per week and the size of the dumpster(s). The credits will total between $2,000 and $3,000.

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

City Administrator’s Report

City Administrator Crawford reported on the first two days on the job.

City Updates & Commission Reports

City Auditor Richter welcomed City Administrator Crawford to the City.

Chad Petersen from KLJ reported Permanent Flood Protection Phase III floodwalls continue to be poured near the Master Lift Station. Permanent Flood Protection Phase IIA seeding will occur. Startup meeting for pump went well. 5th Avenue NW project continues with storm sewer work. Seal Coat Project will start middle of next week.

Commissioner Erickson welcomed Gwen.

Commissioner Powell welcomed Gwen. Thanks Scott & VCFD for efforts to respond to a gas leak.

Commissioner Bishop thanked VCPD officers for their work.

Commissioner Magnuson thanked VCPD officers for their work; welcomed Gwen. Commissioner Magnuson stated summer time is here and that the broken road is for walkable /biking travel.  Magnuson asked the public to watch out for kids on the streets.

President Carlsrud thanked city employees. Keep COVID-19 important. Thanked peace officers for their work and efforts.

Adjourn

Adjourned at 5:35 PM.

Board Opening for Visitors Committee

The City of Valley City has the following opening effective July 1 for:

Visitors Committee – One position, 4 year term.

Please submit your name, address and phone number on paper to the Valley City Auditor’s Office, PO Box 390, Valley City, or bklein@valleycity.us if you are interested by July 6, 2020, 5 p.m.

COVID-19 Briefing Wednesday at 5:30 PM with City of Valley City and City County Health District logos

06/17/2020 COVID-19 Briefing

City of Valley City Hosting COVID-19 Response Briefing on June 17

Speakers will include:

  • Theresa Will – Administrator for City-County Health District
  • Dr. James Buhr – M.D. and Health Officer for City-County Health District
  • Gwen Crawford – City Administrator for Valley City
  • Dave Carlsrud – Valley City Mayor

WHAT: Each organization will provide updates and information pertaining to recent developments in the COVID-19 community response. All officials will be available following the briefing for questions from media partners.

WHEN: Wednesday, June 17 at 5:30pm

WHERE: City of Valley City – City Hall, 254 2nd Ave NE, Valley City, ND 58072

The briefing is closed the public to honor social distancing. Members of the public can view live on City-County Health’s Facebook page, KOVC 1490 AM, BEK Channel 26 and CSI Cable 68.

Bob Anderson photo

Introducing 2020 City Forester & Forestry Reminders

Bob Anderson serves as the City Forester for the City of Valley City. The City has a part-time forester during the months of May through September to enforce ordinances and identify diseased trees.

“I am looking forward to working with you to keep our trees in Valley City both beautiful and safe.  I am also a resource for you if you have any tree questions,” says Anderson.

Here is a short list of things you can do to make our Dutch Elm Disease prevention program successful:

  • Quick removal of diseased elms from the urban forest once they have been identified for Dutch Elm Disease.
  • Quick disposal of elm wood and stumps (elm bark beetles live under the bark, and a few logs stacked in someone’s backyard can jeopardize healthy elms within a couple blocks).
  • Notify the City Forester if you would like me to inspect your tree or are concerned a tree might have Dutch Elm Disease.

Here is a short list of things you can do to keep our trees safe:

  • Keep your trees trimmed so there is 8’ of clearance above sidewalks.
  • If you think a tree poses a public hazard, please notify the City Forester and he will inspect it.
  • Please refer to Section 8-06-16 of the City Code before planting trees near streets and sidewalks.  The City also has a handout of suggested tree species to plant.
President Dave Carlsrud

06/15/2020 Mayor’s Message

COVID-19 & NOTES

  • Recently the Corona Virus positives were being identified at a rate of 22 – 42 per day. Due to Blessings and a good job of social distancing, Barnes County is still holding at nine positives so keep up your good efforts.
  • Saturday I had the honor of watching Captain Matt Nielson’s Guard Retirement Ceremony on Zoom. It was a heart-warming time with family, friends, and a number of fellow guard members. Family support is essential for a member of a household to serve. That said, congratulations Annette, Matt and family for your many years of service and support to our country.
  • Thank you for investing in Valley City.
  • City Hall’s doors will be open beginning Monday though social distancing will be required. Please do as much as of your business as you can through phone, e-mail, direct pay and the like.
  • We have had a great number of Dutch Elm Diseased trees this year.  Please remove them as soon as you are able to slow the spread.  Thank you for your efforts everyone.
  • City Crews and construction crews are working diligently in our community.  Please be alert and be careful when you are driving.
  • “There are moments in life when you miss some people so much that you want to pick them from your dreams and HUG them for real.” (Charlie Brown)

Blessings, Pray and Be Safe,

Dave Carlsrud

City of Valley City logo with word "announcement"

City facilities reopen on June 15 for essential business

City facilities will reopen to the public for essential business beginning on Monday June 15 as follows.  Please respect social distancing at all times.

City Hall/Public Works Offices

Doors will be open Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.  Cash, check and credit/debit cards will be accepted on site for Public Works payments.  Cash and check will be accepted on site for all other payments. 

COVID-19 safety measures:  Utility customers are encouraged to consider payment options that do not require an onsite visit such as auto-pay, dropboxes, or payments by phone or mail.  Call Valley City Public Works at 701-845-0380 for more information.

For assistance with general government matters, Valley City residents, visitors, and vendors are encouraged to call 701-845-1700 to speak with city officials or to request an appointment prior to stopping at City Hall or Public Works offices.  Information and forms are also readily available at www.valleycity.us.

Guests will be asked to remain in designated waiting areas while being assisted or prior to scheduled appointments.  Hand sanitizer is available throughout City Hall and Public Works.  Employees and guests may wear masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19. 

City meetings will remain closed to the general public due to space limitations, as authorized by Governor’s Executive Order 2020-16.  Instructions to access specific meetings by electronic means will be posted on the meeting agendas.  Public comments regarding city business will be accepted in writing any time, or during meetings by phone or Zoom.

Transfer Station

Gates will be open Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.  Cash or check will be accepted on site. 

COVID-19 safety measures:  Customers are encouraged to call Valley City Public Works at 701-845-0380 to set up a credit or debit charge account prior to visiting the Transfer Station.  Staff will not be able to assist customers with the unloading of materials.  Employees and guests may wear masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Police Department/Municipal Court

Doors will be open Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.  Fingerprinting and notary services will resume on Monday June 15.

COVID-19 safety measures: Citizens are encouraged to initiate police reports by calling 701-845-3110.  Records may be requested by calling 701-845-3110 or emailing asuhr@valleycity.us.

Municipal Court is held every other Tuesday at 9:30 AM.  All sessions of court will be held by phone until further notice.  To appear, call 701-845-8150 and enter conference ID: 981089.  For additional questions contact the Clerk of Court at 701-845-3110.

For information regarding other city facilities, please call 701-845-1700.