Wow, the number of virus cases just keeps climbing! I wish there was something prophetic I could say to help you all understand what is happening with it. The problem seems to be, no one has definite answers as this virus is new. “We are plowing new ground” there is no history. Barnes County is still doing pretty well so keep up your good social distancing efforts.
I had the privilege of meeting with Healthcare and Educational Leaders last week. VCPS and VCSU have teams working diligently to find the safest ways for returning students to the classrooms. A very challenging task. That “new ground is being plowed” many decisions will be tough ones. Please, as a community, let’s be patient, be grateful and be confident decisions will be based on the best information available. A prayer could be appropriate.
While walking Valley City, it appears this will be a “bumper year” for apple production. One danger would appear to be over production and broken trees. All trees require care, pruning can save your Apple Tree and produce more healthy fruit by providing light and air to the fruiting spurs. Remember our NDSU Extension Agent, Randy Grueneich, is a great resource; randy.grueneich@ndsu.eduhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoCcC9Ll5nM
Saturday was, hot, humid and without much breeze. In spite of the aforementioned the 12th Annual Debbie Gabel Cancer Memorial Ride was held. Numerous agencies serving people with cancer have and continue receiving monetary benefits from the event. Thank you Rocky and the Thundering Saints.
In another “heat challenged” event, 16 teams competed in the Wiffle Ball World Series at Bob and Joni Bergan’s, Shane Roberts Field. Chad Bergan, Pat Bresnahan and Trevor Christianson produced a first class event. Tournament Directors presented a $2000.00 check to Andrea Nelson of the Sheyenne Valley Community Foundation, this year’s Hall of Fame Class was introduced, the Hi-Lite Dance Team performed, the AMVETS Color Guard presented the colors, Kensey Knight sang a beautiful rendition of our National Anthem and Minnesota Twin’s Announcer, Dick Bremer shared an introductory message to begin play.
“Oil all the wheels on your wagon, not just the squeaky one” (Cowgirls’ Guide to Life)
The City Commission Meeting began on Tuesday, July 21, 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.
President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.
Members present: Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop,
Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Gulmon.
Others present: City Administrator Crawford (entered at 5:01), City Attorney Martineck, Deputy Auditor Klein, City Assessor Hansen (by Zoom), Building/Fire Inspector Andersen, Public Works Accountant/Manager Jacobson, Fire Chief Magnuson, Police Chief Hatcher, Chad Petersen from KLJ.
Approval of Agenda
Removed N2
Approval of Minutes
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the minutes from July 7, 2020 meeting, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. Motion carried.
Approval of Consent Agenda
Approve Mechanical Contactor License for Laney’s
Inc.
Approve Block off Street Application for the VC
Chamber of Commerce on July 22nd for Crazy Daze.
Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion carried.
Public Comments
There were no public comments.
Ordinance
Approve second and final reading of
Ordinance 1058, an Ordinance Creating Section 20-04.01 to extend City Sales,
Use & Gross Receipts Tax dedicated to Permanent Flood Protection.
Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the second and final
reading of Ordinance No. 1058, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion
passed unanimously.
Approve second and final reading of
Ordinance No. 1062, an ordinance to amend and reenact sections 14-8-07 and
14-08-20 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to penalties for striking
unattended motor vehicle and driving without liability insurance.
Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve the second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1062, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.
Resolution
Approve Resolution
2258, a resolution accepting bid and awarding contract for Permanent Flood
Protection Erosion Mitigation Phase 1 (Woodland Park Riverview Drive). (KLJ Engineer)
Chad Peterson from KLJ stated bids were open last Friday for
project, two bids were received. Low bid
was Strata Corporation out of Grand Forks with a bid of $445,914.96 and
Scherbenske Inc. out of Jamestown at $505,910.00. These bids are under the Engineers estimate
and KLJ recommends awarding the contract to Strata Corporation.
Commissioner
Magnuson moved to approve Resolution No. 2258, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.
The motion passed unanimously.
New Business
Approve
Special Alcohol Beverage Permit for the Valley City Eagles Aerie 2192 on
Central Ave-200 Block for Summer Nights on Central Event on 7/23/2020,
7/30/2020, 8/20/2020 and 8/27/2020.
Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve the Special Alcohol Permit,
seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The
motion passed unanimously.
Census 2020 Report (Mayor Carlsrud/Fire Chief Magnuson) Fire Chief Magnuson thanked everybody who has already completed their census also. Valley city is at 70% completed. Census takers will be going door to door only to those who they show have not completed the census. They will observer social distancing and will have a badge for identification. Fire Chief Magnuson encouraged everyone to complete their census if they have not already. The census takes place once every 10 years and is important information used to determine how much money is appropriated for the city and county to use for various projects and departments. For each individual that does not complete the census we will lose approximately $19,000 over 10 years. Mayor Carlsrud added, “If you complete the census before, they won’t come knocking on your door.”
City Administrator’s Report
City Administrator Crawford reported on meeting regarding
the lights in the park. Work was
requested to start this fall. After
discussing with Marshall Senf the lights that were originally chosen matched
the others in the Streetscape project but they direct the light more to the
ground. Marshall recommended the acorn
shaped lights which would emit a brighter glow and also help with safety
concerns. Chad Peterson (KLJ) spoke with
Tyler Jacobsen (VCPR) whose main concern was having glass in the park. The acorn lights are polycarbonate, not
glass, whereas the previous lights were glass so Tyler agreed the acorn lights
would be the best decision. Valley City
Parks and Rec will need to sign a waiver stating the City can start on the
project waiving the assessment notification process.
City Administrator Crawford went on to state she is
continuing to meet with the department heads and discuss concerns and ideas,
some of which have save us money. We
also had a meeting with the company that handles our uniforms and addressed the
concerns we have been having and will continue to monitor that situation.
City Administrator Crawford stated she attended the rescue drill and it was very impressive and thanked them for the invite.
City Updates & Commission Reports
Attorney Martineck reported on the opening for the Operations Superintendent and the City Engineer position. We did receive one internal application for the Operations Superintendent. As long as he meets the minimum requirement we should be able to have that filled within the next week. We received two full applications for the City Engineer position and will be discussing with the Commissioners and City staff on how to move forward with interviews for that position..
Deputy Auditor Klein
reminded of the budget meetings next week.
Public Works Accountant/Manager Jacobson stated on 7/22/2020 it will have been one year since the recycling contract was signed. The original benchmark was set at 700 tons, they surpassed that at 992 tons. This year the benchmark will be set at 800 tons. Along with that as part of the contract, the recycling fee we have collected we passed on $62,760 to aid the recycling effort.
Building/Fire
Inspector Andersen provided an update on the Love’s project stating work is
moving forward. The equipment for the
College is moved in and they are starting to drive pilings. The contractor for the Barnes County Jail was
supposed to stop in for a permit but has not yet. Building/Fire Inspector Andersen thanked
everybody as this will be his last meeting before he retires.
Fire Chief Magnuson the water is extremely high in Valley with a possible crest of 13.5 tomorrow. Cautioned citizens that the river is high and the current is strong recommends with these conditions people avoid being near the river.
Chad Petersen Phase
3 of flood protection, the flood walls have been poured and they’re working on
the caps now. Projecting Phase 3 to be
completed the middle of August.
5th Ave NW, rain has slowed things a little bit but they have been able to continue on the underground work. By the end of the week they should have all the utility work for Phase 1 completed. Completion date for Phase 1 is August 15th, if we get some decent weather things should come together pretty quickly.
Streetscape Phase 2 project, all changes were approved by DOT. Project is currently scheduled for Oct 16th. Final plans for bid openings are due to the DOT by August 7th.
Commissioner Erickson reminded that the grass site west of the Transfer Station is open 24/7. There will also be a curbside tree pick up the last Thursday and Friday in July and the last Thursday and Friday in September. If you need to schedule a pick up call Public Works.
Commissioner Magnuson encouraged everyone to get out and the community events. Crazy Daze Wednesday and the upcoming Summer Nights events. We have also noticed some vandalism on utility boxes. If you see this please call dispatch. Thanked Dave for all he has done.
President Carlsrud gave a shout out to all our city employees being busy with budgets and those in Public Works being busy with all the buyouts we’ve had and mowing. It’s been a real challenge so please be patient, we are trying to catch up. There has been a lot of additional work with the construction, our employees are scrambling and we appreciate all they are doing. Thanked Dave.
The City Commission Meeting began on Tuesday, July 7, 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.
President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.
Members present: Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop,
Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Gulmon.
Others present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, City Auditor Richter, Deputy Auditor Klein, City Assessor Hansen (by Zoom), Building/Fire Inspector Andersen, Public Works Accountant/Manager Jacobson, Fire Chief Magnuson, Police Chief Hatcher, Chad Petersen from KLJ.
Approval of Agenda
Added Ordinance 1062
Remove Resolution 2258
Approval of Minutes
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the minutes from June 23, 2020 meeting, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. Motion carried.
Approval of Consent Agenda
Approve Monthly Reports from the Fire Chief,
Building Inspector, Auditor, Municipal Judge and Public Works Accountant.
Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public
Works in the Amount of $2,458,233.49.
Approve Block off the Street Request for On the
Move “Let’s Walk Valley City” Event on July 20, 2020 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 Pm at
4th Ave NE from 9th St NE to 6th Street NE
Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. Motion carried.
Public Comments
Gary Jacobson had received a concern from a citizen about the monthly water surcharge of $8.24 for multi-unit buildings. Currently the owner pays the consumption cost and each tenants pays the $8.24 surcharge. This charge has been in place for at least 30 years to make sure costs are being distributed to those receiving the benefit. A single family home has a smaller and less expensive meter going into the home where the multi-unit homes have a larger meter which is more expensive to purchase and maintain. If this monthly fee was removed there would need to be an increase to all residents to make up for this decrease in revenue.
Ordinance
Approve second and final reading of
Ordinance No. 1060, an Ordinance Relating to amend and reenact Chapter 5 of
Title 8 and Section 11-05-18 of the Valley City Municipal Code, relating to
mobile vendors and transient merchants.
Attorney Martineck reviewed the ordinance and stated all
recommendations from the Planning and Zoning Board have been adopted in this
version. Commissioner Erickson moved to approve second and final reading of
Ordinance No. 1060, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.
Approve second and final reading of
Ordinance No. 1061, an Ordinance to Adopt and Enact Section 1-01-15 of the
Valley City Municipal Code related to Crime Victim Witness Fee
City Attorney Martineck reported that the City has imposed a
crime victim witness fee in 2017, the section was repealed inadvertently during
the recodification process and this ordinance will re-instate the section. There
has been no change to the ordinance from the first reading. Commissioner Bishop
moved to approve the second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1061, seconded
by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.
Approve first reading of Ordinance 1058, an
Ordinance Creating Section 20-04.01 to extend City Sales, Use & Gross
Receipts Tax dedicated to Permanent Flood Protection.
Attorney Martineck stated this ordinance went to the vote of
the citizens of Valley City in June and passed. Finance Director Richter stated
the purpose of extending the sales tax is to have a revenue source to finance
permanent flood protection through the Bank of North Dakota. These loans have a
30 year term. Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve the first reading of
Ordinance No. 1058, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed
unanimously.
Approve first reading of Ordinance No.
1062, an ordinance to amend and reenact sections 14-8-07 and 14-08-20 of the
Valley City Municipal Code related to penalties for striking unattended motor
vehicle and driving without liability insurance.
Attorney Martineck stated these amendments had previously been discussed by the Commission and need to be updated to be in compliance with NDCC. Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance No. 1062, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.
New Business
Discuss
job title for City Administrator position.
Commissioner Bishop
stated there was discussion at the Finance Meeting regarding changing the title
of City Administrator to City Manager. Commissioner Bishop moved to keep the
title as City Administrator, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Commissioner Gulmon stated the citizens voted
to keep the City Administrator position, it’s time for us all to support this
position and move on in a positive manner. The motion passed unanimously.
Approve
Appointment for the Visitors Committee.
Finance Director
Richter stated this position was advertised in the Times Record. Paige Bjornson
expressed her interest in serving on the Visitors Committee, no other inquiries
were received. Commissioner Gulmon moved to appoint Paige Bjornson to the
Visitors Committee, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.
Approve
Property Tax exemption for Improvements to Residential Building at 905 9th
Ave SE.
City Assessor
Hansen submitted her recommendation to approve the tax exemption at 905 9th
Ave SE for a 25’x 25’ addition that will add an estimated $60,000 of value.
Finance Director Richter reminded the Commission that the tax exemption is only
on the addition and would not affect the current tax revenue from this
property. Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the property tax exemption at
905 9th Ave SE, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.
Approve Assistant Public Works (Operations) Superintendent Position for Succession Planning. Attorney Martineck reviewed the succession plan when Jeff Differding retires. The plan moving forward would be to post the position internally, go through the interview process, and promote the person to assistant operations superintendent with a 5% increase in the employee’s current salary. This person would then have the opportunity to job shadow Jeff and learn the job. Commissioner Erickson moved to move forward with the succession plan of the Public Works Operations Superintendent, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.
City Administrator’s Report
City Administrator Crawford reported on meeting with department heads, banners on central, department head meetings starting this week, opening the transfer station on Saturdays starting July 18th through September, Clean up week is September 14-18, need to work on tree growth in alleyways, and drawing up agreements in writing instead of verbal agreements.
City Updates & Commission Reports
Attorney Martineck reported on the applications for the City
Engineer position and would like to continue posting for another two weeks.
Finance Director Richter welcomed Brandy Johnson, City Hall
Administrative Assistant and Tina Current, Public Works Administrative
Assistant.
Chad Petersen gave a brief overview of the construction
projects – Seal Coat has been completed, continue working on the underground on
5th Avenue NW on track with completion deadlines for Phase I, PFP concrete
flood walls have been completed.
Commissioner Gulmon has met with Finance Director Richter to
review the City’s finances and will continue to do so monthly. Also met with
Jennifer Feist with the VCBC Development Corporation.
Commissioner Bishop welcomed the new police officer and
thanks to all the officers for their work.
President Carlsrud thanked the new police officer for coming to our community and being interested in law enforcement. Thanks to Paige Bjornson for stepping up and serving on the Visitors Committee. City employees are working in the hot weather, be aware of the workers in work zones.
The City Commission Meeting began 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 were not permitted in the Commission Chambers
due to COVID-19 and as allowed in ND Executive Order 2020-16.
President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.
Members present: Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Gulmon.
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.
Approval of Minutes
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the minutes from the June 16, 2020 meeting, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. Motion carried.
Approval of Consent Agenda
Approve Raffle Permit for D&C Home
Improvement
Commissioner Erickson moved to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.
New Business
Elect Vice President
to City Commission
City Auditor Richter reported that Commissioner Magnuson was elected Vice
President by ballot.
Approve
Reorganization of Commissioner’s Portfolios
Portfolio
Board Member
Finance
Commissioner
Gulmon
Public Works: Streets, Sanitation, Sewer,
Water Distribution
Commissioner Erickson
Public Works: Electric & Water
Treatment Plant
President
Carlsrud
Police/Fire
Commissioner
Bishop
Buildings/Grounds
Commissioner Magnuson
Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the portfolios,
seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. The motion passed unanimously.
Appoint and approve
Commissioner assignments to additional committees and boards
Committee/Board
Number of Commissioners Assigned
Board Member
Valley City Planning &
Zoning Commission
2 commissioners
President
Carlsrud Commissioner Bishop
Commissioner Erickson
Valley City Library Board
1 commissioner
Commissioner
Gulmon
City County Health Board
1 commissioner
Commissioner Bishop
President
Carlsrud
Barnes County Planning &
Zoning Commission
2 commissioners
President Carlsrud
Commissioner Bishop
Commissioner
Erickson
Valley City-Barnes County
Development Corporation
2 commissioners
Commissioner Bishop
Commissioner
Gulmon
Board for Community Service
1 commissioner
Commissioner Magnuson
President Carlsrud reported change from Commissioner Bishop will serve on the Planning and Zoning Boards instead of President Carlsrud; President Carlsrud will serve on City County Health instead of Commissioner Bishop. Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve as amended, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.
Consider
de-obligating approximately $350,000 SWC funds for 7th Ave NW Water Main 100
project. Chad Petersen from KLJ that 7th Avenue NW was bid in April 2019
but bids were high. In January 2020, the City Commission reviewed the R&R
fund and determined the project should be deferred to 2021 construction (at
that time, the City Commission was expecting Prairie Dog funding available and
$350,000 grant from SWC for water mains). Since then, the State Water
Commission is looking to de-obligate funds for projects that local government
does not expect to be completed in 2021.Chad Petersen from KLJ does not expect
the City will be able to fund the local share of the project in 2021.
Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the de-obligation,
seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.
Petersen reported that the State Water Commission is looking
for reports on the anticipated reimbursements as well as any carry-over
requests for reimbursement. Commissioner Magnuson asked if this project needs
to wait for Prairie Dog funding. Chad Petersen from KLJ agreed further
discussion is needed to determine funding priorities in future.
The motion passed unanimously.
City Administrator’s Report
City Administrator Crawford continues to meet with city staff and departments
City Updates & Commission Reports
Building/Fire
Inspector Andersen reported the City held a pre-construction meeting with
Love’s.
Fire Chief Magnuson
stated 4th of July will be here soon; sales begin June 27 – July 5.
Don’t shoot until July 1. Census – please complete.
City Attorney
Martineck reported the Assistant Fire Chief position was posted in-house.
The position closes this week. Martineck expects to post the City Engineer
position to post tomorrow; goal to have decision made by end of July.
President Carlsrud thanked elected officials for serving and encouraged members of the public to serve.
The City Commission Meeting began on Tuesday, June 16, 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.
President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.
President Carlsrud presented Commissioner Powell with a plaque for his years of
service to the City Commission (2017-2020). President Carlsrud stated that
tomorrow’s COVID-19 briefing will be the last for the foreseeable future.
Members present: Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop,
Commissioner Powell, Commissioner Erickson.
Others present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, City Auditor Richter, Deputy Auditor Klein, City Assessor Hansen (by Zoom), Building/Fire Inspector Andersen, Fire Chief Magnuson, Police Chief Hatcher, Chad Petersen from KLJ.
Approval of Agenda – Addition of Consent B & C; O2
Approval of Minutes
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the minutes from June 2, 2020 meeting, seconded by Commissioner Powell. Motion carried.
Approval of Consent Agenda
Approve Renewal Application for Cabaret License for F.O.E. Aerie 2192
Approve Tree Trimming & Removal Service License for GS Services
Approve Raffle Permit for SHINE
Commissioner Powell moved to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. Motion carried.
Public Comments
There were no public comments.
Public Hearing
Public Hearing for
Mobile Vendors and Transient Merchants Licensing
President Carlsrud declared the public hearing open. City Attorney
Martineck stated the questions began over a year ago for licensing of mobile
vendors. Martineck drafted an ordinance that addresses door-to-door
solicitation as well as those who setup along boulevards. Planning & Zoning
Commission reviewed and made 5 recommendations. Martineck stated this is the
first reading, a second reading will be held in July in conjunction with a
Resolution to set fees. Martineck clarified that the farmers market is already
exempt by ordinance. Commissioner Powell and Commissioner Bishop discussed
specific agricultural examples that setup in parking lots. City Attorney
Martineck stated Planning & Zoning recommends a ten day window in which
permits are valid. Commissioner Powell requests agricultural products be exempt
from the permitting process. Commissioner Bishop wants the permitting for the
food trucks. City Attorney Martineck confirmed that the sale of food products
door to door will require a transient merchant permit.
City Attorney Martineck stated if the City Commission agrees
with the Planning & Zoning Commission recommendations as well that the
produce stands will be exempt, then he will proceed preparing materials for the
second reading.
Commissioner Magnuson moved to close hearing, seconded by
Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.
Approve first reading
of Ordinance No. 1060, an ordinance to
amend and reenact Chapter 5 of Title 8 and Section 11-05-18 of the Valley City
Municipal Code, relating to mobile vendors and transient merchants.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve first reading of Ordinance No. 1060, seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously.
Ordinance
Approve second and
final 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
City Attorney Martineck stated there were no changes since
the first reading. This ordinance is to annex the access road to Waterfront
Meadows. Commissioner Erickson moved to approve second and final reading of
Ordinance No. 1059, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed
unanimously.
Approve first reading
of Ordinance No. 1061, an Ordinance to Adopt and Enact Section 1-01-15 of the
Valley City Municipal Code related to Crime Victim Witness Fee
City Attorney Martineck reported that the City has imposed a crime victim witness fee in 2017, the section was repealed inadvertently during the recodification process and this ordinance will re-instate the section. Commissioner Powell moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance No. 1061, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.
New Business
Receive the Barnes
County Official Canvassed Abstract and the Certificate of Election from the
Primary Election held on June 9, 2020
City Auditor
Richter provided the report from the election:
City Auditor Richter reported the Ordinance to Extend City Sales, Use and Gross Receipts dedicated to Fund Permanent Flood Protection will be presented at the next meeting for first reading.
Approve 2020 – 2021
Gaming Site Authorizations for the following:
North Dakota Winter Show at North Dakota Winter
Show Event Center
Valley City Eagles Aerie 2192 Fraternal Order of
Eagles at the Eagles; Captain’s Pub; Labor Club; My Bar; City Lights; Tavern 94
City Auditor Richter stated these are annual renewals.
Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Powell. The
motion passed unanimously.
Approve Appointment
for the following committees and terms:
Zoning Board of Adjustment (Variance) – 3
openings, 3 year term
Allen Schuldt
Ken Reid
Jim Wright
Visitors Committee – 3 openings, 4 year term
Bobby Koepplin
Mary Lee Nielson
Vacancy
City Auditor Richter stated the
Zoning Board of Adjustment and Visitors Committee openings are renewed terms –
the openings are not advertised when a member agrees to continue. The vacancy
on the Visitors Committee will be advertised until July 6.
Commissioner Bishop moved to
approve, seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously.
Discuss Urban Road Funding Request for Streetscape Phase II
Chad Petersen
from KLJ stated that bids were opened in April 2020, and the project was over
budget on the local share. Petersen reported a letter was sent requesting the
transfer of $500,000 of Urban Roads funds to this project. Petersen has not
received a response from NDDOT regarding this request. This provides the City
up to an additional $625,000 for the project ($125,000 additional local share) KLJ
will look at the sidewalk improvements to determine what can be deferred and then
present to NDDOT for approval. KLJ is also considering having VCPW install the
lighting in City Park. Petersen stated that with cost savings and additional
funding, this project should be able to move forward. KLJ will resubmit project
plans with the adjustments for Commission approval. KLJ plans to bid project in
October or November 2020.
City Auditor Richter stated the City will need to look at the R&R fund to review timing and priority of projects.
Chad Petersen
from KLJ stated the Change Order #1 is for the lighting on 5th
Avenue NW that will be installed by VCPW with an additional cost for on-site
coordination with the contractor. This change order also allows the contractor
to reclaim the asphalt which is a cost savings to the City. At this point,
savings is 100% to the City as the federal funding cap on the project has
already been met. Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the change order,
seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously.
Chad
Petersen from KLJ reviewed the report which indicated:
Sanitary Sewer Service Connection Saddle Wye Option:Plan note 724-P11 states that sanitary sewer service connections from 13+00 to 29+00 will be connected to existing main by removing a section of the main at the service location and installing a wye by using sewer couplings to connect to the main. After the project was bid KPH proposed using a saddle wye connected directly to the pipe lining for the sanitary services at those locations. The Project Engineer and Valley City Public Works were in agreement that this would be an acceptable alternative. Due to the decrease in labor and material a new price of $1,820.00 EA was agreed upon for the services in these locations. This will result in a deduction of 31 – Sanitary Sewer Service Connections at $2,350. EA and an addition of 31 – Reconnect to Existing Sanitary Sewer Service at $1,820.00 EA. For a net project savings of $16,430. The sanitary sewer service connections from station 29+00 to station 37+00 will be installed per plan and paid for under the original bid item.
Sanitary
Sewer Conflict Structures:
While
installing storm sewer at station 15+10 it was discovered that the joined
sanitary sewer service for house #226 and 236 will conflict with the storm
sewer and be unable to connect to the existing main.
KPH,
Project Engineer, and Valley City Public Works agreed upon installing a
conflict structure on each 24” storm sewer run. The conflict structures result
in a net project cost increase of $10,956.22. As a part of this Change Order,
KPH is also requesting a contract extension of 2 days due to the delay incurred
by the conflict.
Commissioner
Powell moved to approve Change Order #2, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The
motion passed unanimously.
Approve Renewal Applications for the following
Alcoholic Beverage Licenses:
Brockopp Brewing, LLC
The Captains Pub
Chinese Palace
Hi-Line Hospitality, LLC dba City Lights
Dakota Silver, LLC
F.O.E. Aerie 2192
Jimmy’s Pizza
Sabir’s Dining & Lounge
Main Street Off-Sale, LLC dba Tavern 94
The Labor Club
County Bottle Shop, Inc dba the Liquor Locker
Valley City Town & Country Club
VC Developers LLC dba Bridges Bar & Grill
Woodland Lodge LLC dba Woodland Steakhouse
City
Auditor Richter stated application and materials were completed. Police Chief
Hatcher granted a COVID waiver for server training as VCPD has not offered the
class during the closures. Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the renewal
applications, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.
Discuss Renewal Applications for the following Alcoholic Beverage
Licenses:
Mosby LLC dba Boomers Corner Keg
My Bar
The Clubhouse Lounge LLC
City Auditor Richter reported Mosby LLC dba Boomers Corner Keg & My Bar are now in compliance. Police Chief Hatcher inquired if the Clubhouse Lounge LLC needs to have updated signage as it is no longer holds a Club license. City Attorney Martineck has not received a response from the license holder. Martineck did not believe the licensing should not be held up, but that the issue should be raised.
Commissioner
Erickson asked if the Legion is still using the basement. No definitive answer
provided.
Commissioner
Erickson moved to approve the renewal applications, seconded by Commissioner
Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.
Approve Renewal Applications for the following Retail Tobacco
Licenses:
Casey’s General Store #3363 dba Casey’s Retail Company
CHS Inc. dba Dakota Plains Ag (807 Main St)
Dakota Silver, LLC
DG Retail, LLC dba Dollar General Store #17856
Farmers Union Oil Company of Moorhead, MN dba
PetroServe USA #071
Leevers Foods, Inc (424 2nd Ave NE)
Leevers Foods, Inc (148 S Central Ave)
County Bottle Shop, Inc dba the Liquor Locker
Mosby LLC dba Boomers Corner Keg
And
authorize the Auditor’s Office to issue licenses for applicants who meet all
licensing requirements before June 30, 2020
Brothers III
CHS Inc dba Dakota Plains Ag (151 9th
Ave NW)
F.O.E. Aerie 2192
Family Dollar, Inc. dba Family Dollar #27662
Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve renewal applications, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.
City Administrator’s Report
City Administrator Crawford reported she is meeting department
heads and employees.
City Update & Commission Reports
City Auditor Richter reported
Chris George from John Deere has been in contact with Chad Petersen from KLJ,
Jeff Differding for new curb and gutter as well as driveway aprons. They have
requested 25% reduction from R&R fund, at estimated total cost of $30,000
with cap at $7,500. City Auditor Richter reported they had protested the paving
improvement project out previously. Consensus to proceed.
City Auditor Richter
has provided budget working papers to the Department Heads from the general
government funds. Richter has asked for consideration when impacts are known
from COVID-19 and lower oil prices.
Fire Chief Magnuson
thanked Commissioner Powell for his service. Please complete your Census
survey!
Chad Petersen from
KLJ reported PFP Phase III by the Master Lift Station is down to the last
few pours, with staining and veneers to follow. Phase IIA is complete. 5th
Avenue NW progresses well. Seal coat work will be finished; initial sweeping
has occurred with final sweeping to occur this Thursday.
City Auditor Richter
reported there will be a City Commission meeting next Tuesday at 5:00 PM.
City Administrator
Crawford reported the 5th Avenue NE repair will occur and money has
been reallocated from other VCPW capital projects.
Commissioner Erickson
thanked Emma & Ross for service.
Commissioner Powell thanked
employees for work and making things look easy.
Commissioner Bishop
congratulated Dick. Thanked Ross for service.
Commissioner Magnuson
congratulated Mike & Dick. Thanked Ross for service. Looking forward to
Summer Nights on Central; enjoy your community and shop local. Magnuson thanked
Emma for her work.
President Carlsrud stated oil extraction tax is projected to be low. Carlsrud echoed thank yous. Please be cautious while driving. Carlsrud thanked elected officials for participating. 1 of 11 citizens need to participate to fill positions on boards/communities.
The COVID-19 positive tests continue rising in North Dakota though Barnes County, due much to your good efforts, is doing pretty well. As restrictions are relaxed, we are faced with greater freedoms. With greater freedom, we face more decisions. Be “North Dakota Smart”!
The other day I was excited to see a friend and inadvertently shook hands with him; my mistake. That was an unnecessary exposure for each of us. A pleasant “hello” and a smile would have accomplished a sincere greeting. Be careful.
Though some of the soil in our region is too wet, there are a few crops looking nice and some very “plush” pastures. We are Blessed with a plethora of pretty colors again this year, blues, greens, reds and more. “The Most Beautiful City in North Dakota.
The tree foliage at this time is magnificent. Stop, look and enjoy as many are pretty, some are like artwork and some are just plain “majestic”.
A tree can look very nice, but its survival could be in danger. Pruning and trimming are essential!
Google, “Tree Trimming, Why”: “Proper pruning encourages strong growth, increases flower and fruit production, improves plant health, and removes damaged limbs, all which give aesthetic appeal to a tree. Pruning at the right time and in the right way is critical, since it is possible to kill a healthy tree through neglect or over-pruning”.
The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, July 21, 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/93023533399?pwd=NXFUcE9Mc2NXUE5ldmx1akcwMzc2dz09 Password: 1GgA30 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 930 2353 3399 Password 716237
CALL TO ORDER ROLL CALL PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE (PLEASE STAND) APPROVAL OF AGENDA APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Minutes from July 7, 2020 meeting
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approve Mechanical Contractor License for Laney’s Inc. B. Approve Block off Street Application for the VC Chamber of Commerce on July 22nd for Crazy Daze. Roll Call: Gulmon Bishop Magnuson Erickson Carlsrud
PUBLIC COMMENTS
During the COVID-19 emergency, members of the public may request to make a public comment regarding city business by contacting City Hall (701) 845-1700 by 12 NOON on the day of the meeting to make arrangements. 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.
ORDINANCE
Approve second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1058, an Ordinance Creating Section 20-04.01 to Extend City Sales, Use & Gross Receipts Tax dedicated to Permanent Flood Protection (City Attorney Martineck) Roll Call: Bishop Erickson Gulmon Magnuson Carlsrud
Approve second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1062, an ordinance to amend and reenact sections 14-08-07 and 14-08-20 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to penalties for striking unattended motor vehicle and driving without liability insurance. (City Attorney Martineck) Roll Call: Magnuson Bishop Erickson Gulmon Carlsrud
RESOLUTION
Approve Resolution No. 2258, a resolution accepting bid and awarding contract for Permanent Flood Protection Erosion Mitigation Phase 1 (Woodland Park Riverview Drive). (KLJ Engineer) Roll Call: Erickson Gulmon Bishop Magnuson Carlsrud
NEW BUSINESS
Approve Special Alcohol Beverage Permit for the Valley City Eagles Aerie 2192 on Central Avenue-200 Block for Summer Nights on Central Event on 7/23/2020, 7/30/2020, 8/20/2020 and 8/27/2020. (Finance Director Richter) Roll Call: Magnuson Erickson Gulmon Bishop Carlsrud
Approve quote for Storm Sewer Inlet Repair at 8th Ave SW/Main Street. (KLJ Engineer) Roll Call: Bishop Erickson Gulmon Magnuson Carlsrud
Census 2020 Report (Mayor Carlsrud/Fire Chief Magnuson)
CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT CITY UPDATES &COMMISSION REPORTS ADJOURN
Well, we
know the COVID-19 “stuff” is blowing up around the country with a new surge as
predicted by those “in-the-know”.
We had a fantastic
virus-testing event last Wednesday at the Winter Show and well over 500 people came.
Sadly, only the first 500 could be tested.
Our City County Health Department, the National Guard and other
volunteers organized and executed a very efficient plan. The local Salvation Army crew furnished water
and snacks for the workers. THANKS
EVERYONE J
The North
Dakota COVID-19numbers reported from July 11th are quite high. Hospitalizations are the highest since the
inception of the epidemic L. Again, YOU KNOW THE DRILL, please be diligent
with your social distancing.
Do you know
we have a Municipally Owned Electric Power Company? We belong to Missouri River Energy Services
(MRES), which affords us some of the best electrical rates around and
approximately 84% is “green energy”.
Thanks to our city leaders of the time who had the foresight to contract
with Western Area Power Administration (WAPA), approximately 73% of our
electric power is from hydropower J
Remember “Census
2020”; BE COUNTED! The Money generated
for our cities, counties and states is critical for the services to which we
have become accustomed. Thank you.
The words that soak into your ears are whispered …. Not
yelled.” (A
Cowboy’s Guide to Life)
Valley City Public Works will spray for mosquitoes beginning on Wednesday, July 8, at approximately 8 pm, and into the morning of Thursday, July 9th, weather permitting.
Parents are advised to keep children and pets out of the streets and away from the spray machines. Motorists are urged to use caution when traveling in the area of the operation.
If there are any questions, please feel free to call Public Works at 845-0380.
