City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

2:30 PM

Called to Order

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 2:30 PM.

Roll Call

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

Member absent: Commissioner Gulmon

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

Commission Topics

President Carlsrud started the discussion on the current logos used by the City. It was a consensus of the Commissioners to move ahead using the City of Valley City logo for all departments. Department name can be listed beneath the logo. We will not be replacing all the current logos, but as we purchase new or repair, the logo will be updated. 

Department Reports

Sanitation Department

Sanitation Supervisor Swart went over the Container Count Report as well as shared the process for when you believe that your container was missed. Please remember to wait until 3:00 before calling in to Public Works and reporting. Reminder, please do not park in front of the large business dumpsters.

Water Department

Water Superintendent Hesch reported on the great news that in the 20 samples sent into the State for Lead & Copper testing, there was no lead found! He also reported that water usage is down from the previous years.  

Electric Department

Electrical Superintendent Senf reported only 2 outages last month. His Crew is very busy with upgrading elevator services.

Fire Department

Fire Chief Magnuson went over his Calls for Service Report. There were 12 calls. The trucks have all passed pumper testing with the ladder truck needing one minor repair. Discussion was had on the current alarm system, back up & repeaters.  

Police Department

Police Chief Horner went over his Calls for Service Report. There were 670 calls. Gearing up for the school year and the SRO is taking some evacuation training. There were two openings in the department, 1 applicant will be in training this fall with another applicant in the process to possibly train this fall if the paperwork gets completed.

Street Department

Operations Supervisor Klemisch shared that the annual Master Lift Station cleaning is complete and the NDDEQ annual inspection of the sanitary systems is done and complements were given. The well on 6^th Ave NE & 8^th St NE was capped.

Administration

Administrator Crawford asked Public Works Accountant Jacobson to discuss the purchase of two garbage trucks from the City of Jamestown and then we would turn around and lease the trucks to Valley Recycling. We currently have two other lease agreements with Valley Recycling. The Commissioners consensus was to go ahead with this purchase.

Finance Director Klein shared the information she received from the Bank of ND on the Service Center Loans. She also stated that there will be Special Assessment Notices going in the mail for the week of the 9^th on the reconstruction project happening on 3^rd and 2^nd.

New Items

Finance Director Klein shared with the Commissioners that they will need to designate prior to the end of 2024, with a motion, how they plan to use the ARPA Funds. It was decided that the funds should be used towards Public Works salaries in 2025. This will be added to the 9.17.2024 Commission Meeting Agenda.

City Assessor Current reported on the 2024 Assessments, her processes for valuations, and if the Commissioners would be interested in hiring the Vangaard Company to come in and do a city-wide assessment. No decision will be made until after the voting in November. Current will ask a few more questions of Vangaard and bring her answers back to the Commissioners. She also shared that the Primary Resident Tax credit for $500.00 for 2024 will be available for next year as well.

City Administrator Crawford shared information on the changes to the requirements for the Renaissance Zone, longer terms and higher amounts. Crawford let the Commissioners know that they have an option to add and change Islands in the Zone. She will put together a proposal for the next meeting.

Commissioner Erickson, City Administrator Crawford, Electrical Superintendent Senf and Operations Supervisor Klemisch shared the latest plans for the new Service Center. They explained the needs of the departments and the layout plan. They shared a list of items that could be removed to save some funds but only a couple of these items were not necessities. The consensus of the Commissioners was to not hold back to save now only to need an item next year. Build to the needs of those departments now. The plan is to keep the project under $15 Million.

VCBCDC Jennifer Feist discussed the need for natural gas on the south side of interstate and the cost associated with getting it there. She asked the Commission for $200K out of Sales Tax Funds designated for economic development to put towards the project.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:57 PM.

City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, August 6, 2024

2:30 PM

Called to Order

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 2:30 PM.

Roll Call

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

Member absent: Commissioner Gulmon

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

Commission Topics

Discuss the RRWSP (Red River Water Supply Project) President Carlsrud gave an update on the project and discussed two possible changes. One, sending water down the James River instead of a pipe and the ability to now go around wet lands instead of under them. They also need to figure out how they will share the charges with those buying water.

Department Reports

Sanitation Department

Sanitation Supervisor Swart went over the Container Count Report, it is up for the month. She reported on a squirrel problem as they are chewing through lids. Please bag your garbage or store in your garage or shed if possible. Scents deter the squirrels as well. Woodchips are currently available at the Transfer Station.

Water Department

Water Superintendent Hesch reported that the water usage between June and July has not changed. Lead & Copper sampling of water has been completed and mailed to Bismarck for testing. This sampling is done every three years.

Electric Department

Administrator Crawford shared Corey Bucks report as he was called away. There were two outages, both from squirrels. Lighting on Secarse has been installed, bases will be installed after the hydro-seeding is completed.  Valley View URD project, all conduit and wiring are installed starting from the cut over from overhead to underground on the house services. Construction is beginning this week on upgrading SCADA to fiber at each sanitary, storm, water booster, and electrical substation.

Police Department

Police Chief Horner reported that the new patrol vehicle is ready for service. Gearing up for the school year and prepping for the SRO duties. There are two opening in the department with interviews scheduled for this week. Parking by the HAC was discussed with the changes from the latest construction project.

Fire Department

Fire Chief Magnuson went over his Calls for Service Report. There were 10 calls along with one mutual aid call. The Crew was very professional and did an awesome job. The trucks have been serviced and passed testing. On the Dangerous Building topic, they are currently working on two buildings that will be torn down.

Street Department

Operations Supervisor Klemisch said that the crew has been doing a lot of hot mixing.  Working on concrete asphalt transitions and curb lines as well. The July tree campaign went well this year. Next week they will be gearing up to paint school crossings and crosswalks. The NDDEQ will be coming to do their yearly sanitary inspections.  Update on the water nodes, there are about 140 already changed out with another 80 on the list to be completed. Operations Supervisor Klemisch shared the new Alley Paving/Reconstruct process with the Commissioners. There was some discussion and once completed, this will be posted to the website for Residents to utilize.

Administration

Administrator Crawford asked Commissioner Erickson to weigh in on the new service center project. The preliminary estimates show an increase in costs from where the previous estimate was. To move forward, they are asking for a larger authorized amount.

New Items

Discuss Settlement Proposal in the amount of $50,000 for Paving Improvement District 125, Watermain 103, Sanitary 67 and Storm Sewer Improvement District 54. Administer Crawford discussed the project and explained the NOI (Notice of Intent) from Strata Corporation on behalf of subcontractor Sellin Brothers, Inc.

Discuss Preliminary Plan Layouts for Project No. UGP-2-990(068) & SU-CPU-2-990(069) – 2^nd St N, 3^rd Ave NE & 4th Ave NE. Discussion was held on alternatives for the businesses affected by this project.

Discussion was held on the Recycling Contract – Parties agree to continue with current recycling contract but going month to month. On the Dumpster Rent to Own Agreement that was to be finished this year with a balloon payment due. Could we set up a new rent to own agreement with payments going towards the balance of the balloon payment? If the Recycling Contract is ended, then the remaining balance would be due. The consensus of the Commissioners is to go ahead with the new agreement.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:27 PM.

City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, July 2, 2024

2:30 PM

Called to Order

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 2:30 PM.

Roll Call

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

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

Guest present: Greg Bischoff, James Jensen

Commission Topics

Discuss the RRWSP (Red River Water Supply Project) President Carlsrud and the Commissioners had discussion on the RRWSP and the consensus of the Commissioners is to communicate with the RRWSP that the City of Valley City would like to move forward with 1 and 1.

Department Reports

Sanitation Department

Sanitation Supervisor Swart went over the Container Count Report as well as how smoothly pick up has been going.

Water Department

Water Superintendent Hesch shared that the meter change will be happening soon and that the measurement of usage concerning backflow should be more precise.

Electric Department

Electrical Superintendent Senf discussed the 8 outages in the past month, 5 due to squirrels.

Fire Department

Fire Chief Magnuson shared the news that 8 Trainees will graduate from the First Responder Course.

Police Department

Police Lieutenant Rustebakke reported that the Animal Control & Chief Vehicles had Emergency Lights installed.

Street Department

Operations Supervisor Klemisch said that the hot mix is again available so they have been busy with that and the Lagoon Discharge is complete.  

New Items

The Quarterly Engineering Report was given by Finance Director Klein. We are currently sitting at 30% utilized so far this year.

City Attorney Martineck brought up discussion on City Mobile Home Regulations and Limits on a Newly Sited Home. The Commission asked Martineck to prepare an Ordinance using the year 1980 as a guideline.

Discussion on the current Master Fee Schedule and the changes that need to be added from Public Works, Street, Building Inspector and more. This will be updated and presented as a Resolution at the July 16, 2024, Commission Meeting.

Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) was discussed by City Attorney Martineck and will be added to the Employee Policy.

Lieutenant Rustebakke brought forth two estimates for Body Cams and In-Car Cameras from Axon Enterprises, Inc and Motorola. The Commissioners questioned the differences in the Company’s Products as well as the Estimates. The consensus of the Commissioners is to see movement forward but first check on the Grant Amounts with Chief Horner. Administrator Crawford agreed but would like this to be a 2025 purchase.

A Clean Up Week Debriefing was held and a few items were brought up for discussion. Building materials and Blocks/Pavers being the largest issues. The Commissioners asked for those involved to come back with yardage recommendations for next year’s Clean-Up Week. Possibly add these items to the information sheet available.

The current Recycling Contract is up for renewal. City Administrator Crawford will discuss with Valley Recycling and renew for 1 year if agreed. The Dumpster Lease is also due.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:55 PM.

City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, April 2nd, 2024

3:30 PM

Called to Order

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

Roll Call

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

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

Commission Topics

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

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

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

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

Department Reports

Sanitation Department

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

Water Department

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

Electric Department

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

Fire Department

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

Police Department

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

Street Department

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

Administration

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

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

Review monthly bills/reports

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

Quarterly Engineer Report

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

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

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

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

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

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

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:46 PM.

City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, March 5, 2024

2:30 PM

Called to Order

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

Roll Call

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

Others present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Deputy Auditor Johnson, Administrative Assistant Hintz

New Items

Red River Water Supply Project

Guest Greg Bischoff, Barnes County’s Representative on the Garrison Diversion Board, shared an update on the Red River Water Supply Project.  A project to supply emergency water to central & eastern North Dakota during times of water scarcity so as to protect public health, ensure economic vitality and provide environmental benefits in the river systems.

NW Industrial Park

Discuss selling city owned lots in NW Industrial Park. Commissioner Bishop asked Jennifer Feist with the VCBC Development Corp to discuss the use of the land in the NW Industrial Park for Non-Primary Sector purposes. In the interest of development & putting that land in the hands of the private sector, the VCBCDC feels it is a good idea.

Clean-Up Week

Sanitation Supervisor Swart started the discussion on Clean-Up Week tentatively set for May 13–18, 2024. Swart shared a few ideas and changes that may need to be made due to the number of Trucks currently in the fleet. The consensus of the Commissioners was to continue as is by renting a truck to assist with pick up. Educating the Citizens of Valley City on what can and cannot be disposed of, as well as how to separate their piles of garbage for a more efficient clean-up. Citizens not following the guidelines set forth will not have their trash picked up.  

Department Reports

Sanitation Department

Sanitation Supervisor Swart reminded all not to put your garbage container on a snow bank, that they need 3’ of clearance around the container, your handles should face the house & it must be out for pick-up by 7:00AM.  

Electric Department

Electrical Superintendent Senf reported that his team is staying busy with Service Orders, Lights & Trees. They are working on their gateway issues and getting this cleared up.

Fire Department

Fire Chief Magnuson reported on their Calls for Service. Magnuson & Coit are currently working on some nuisance items, letters were mailed out prior to the recent snow storm. The boat is about completely ready, then on to the preparations for the pick-up. Looking for alternate locations for Fire Equipment parking this summer during the construction project. The Ariel is an issue. Hydrants, whether City owned or Privately owned, must be fixed and can not just be shut off. Private hydrants must be tested yearly. Looking into an ordinance for this issue. Magnuson shared that the Department is involved in the Chili Cook-Off at the Winter Show this year. They are also working on their yearly fundraiser being held March 23^rd.

Police Department

Chief Horner shared that his Department is working with the Sheriff’s Office and the Highway Patrol Department to have extra enforcement during the ND Winter Show. The Department is applying for grants to assist in the purchase of Cameras for inside & outside the Police Department to cover a few blind spots and to update the current door security system. They are also waiting to hear on a grant they applied for to purchase body cameras. There are currently 3 open positions that they are trying to fill.

Street Department

Operations Supervisor Klemisch reported on the snowstorm & the clean-up that followed. Ben Lokken passed the Treatment 4 License Exam so now is a Certified Level 4 Operator which is the highest level in North Dakota and the level of our Valley City Water Plant.

Administration

City Administrator Crawford shared that on March 23, 2024 there will be a walk through with AE2S at the Water Plant to give us an over all game plan for future projects and maintenance.

Review monthly bills/reports

Deputy Auditor Johnson reported expenditures in the amount of $1,399,702. for the month.

New Items Continued

Discuss Amendments to Alcoholic Beverage License Code. City Attorney Martineck discussed:

1. License fees – Streamline the fees
   1. New license for professional services businesses – Need a new class of license
   1. New license for entertainment facilities – Need a new class of license
   1. Guidelines for special event permits – No specifications for precautions
   1. Lookback period for violations – Possibly change title and change to 2 years
   1. Dates for renewal – Currently from July 1 to June 30. State is due January 1
   1. Administrative hearing procedures – Need to clarify the procedures process
   1. Server training certificates – New process to track these certificates

Discuss Commissioner Responsibilities Including Appointment of City Officials. City Attorney Martineck shared that the initial discussion on this topic was held in December so he is bringing it back for further discussion and direction. An Ordinance will be put together to clarify who should be appointed officer. In Code it states the Mayor is the Chief Executive Officer of the City. When you have a City Manager or City Administrator system, most of the Chief Executive Officer’s powers transfer to the City Administrator. The executive officer is the person who has the power to execute the laws and the City Commission is the Legislative Body that makes the laws. Martineck suggested, for the balance of powers, leave the Mayor as the Chief Executive Officer in Code and add those powers will be suspended during the period of having a City Administrator or a City Manager.

Review Recommended Changes to Valley City Urban Functional Classification System for Submittal to NDDOT for Review and Consideration. City Engineer reviewed the information and the submission is due onto the ND Department of Transportation by April 1, 2024.

Discussion on the Junk Ordinance for Main Street. Commissioner Magnuson started discussion on what, if anything, can be done about the locations along main street as it relates to junk. An ordinance can be drawn up regarding this topic but it will affect all citizens. Currently this is handled on a case by case process.

Discussion Regarding a Change to Paving Project 125 (2^nd Ave NE/3^rd St NE/4^th St NE/3^rd Ave NE) in regards to Parking for the Fire Hall. Administrator Crawford shared the quotes for concrete vs. recycled asphalt to include additional parking for the Fire Department during the project this summer. Her recommendation is to move forward with the additional parking but requiring the Firemen to abide by the current parking guidelines.  The consensus of the Commission is to move ahead with the recycled asphalt option for now.

SLWA Quick Start Guide Update President Carlsrud and Commissioner Erickson informed the Commission on the Service Line Warranties of America program. They explained the relationship between the two entities and gave an overview of program being offered. It was also stated that the repairs will be done by Licensed Contractors with the City of Valley City. This program is intended to give Valley City Residents an option for their service lines.

Discuss Finance Meeting Times. President Carlsrud brought up discussion on the times for the Finance meeting and how they seem to need adjusting monthly. It was decided that the Agenda will be reviewed the on Thursday afternoon the week prior and a time set.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:57 PM.

City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

3:30 PM

Called to Order

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

Roll Call

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

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

Members absent: Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Gulmon

Department Reports

Sanitation Department

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

Electric Department

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

Street Department

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

Administration

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

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

Police Department

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

Review monthly bills/reports

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

New Items

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

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:54 PM.

City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Thursday, January 4, 2024

2:30 PM

Called to Order

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 2:30 PM.

Roll Call

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

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

Department Reports

Police Department

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

Sanitation Department

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

Street Department

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

New Items

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

Water Department

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

Electric Department

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

Fire Department

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

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

New Items Continued

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

Administration

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

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

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

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:32 PM.

City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, December 5, 2023

2:30 PM

Called to Order

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 2:30 PM.

Roll Call

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

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

Department Reports

Sanitation Department

Sanitation Supervisor Swart discussed picking up garbage racks that remain around town. She reminded us that the Truck needs at least 3’ clearance around the containers. Swart shared information about Saturday openings for the Landfill and what hours seem to be the best to be open. 9AM to Noon seems to be the busiest times. Swart then brought up the extra garbage that citizens have around Christmas, and it was decided to have free drop off of up to 100lbs per Residence from December 26 to December 29. Citizens can take their garbage, minus the recycled cardboard, to the Transfer Station.

Electric Department

Electrical Superintendent Senf shared there were 4 outages in the past month due to squirrels. The Department is busy with trimming trees, hanging switches and will be working on the underground connection to John Deere. The quotes for the sale of the used transformer came in and the best proposal was for $20,000. and they will load and haul the piece taking on all the liability.

Fire Department

Fire Chief Magnuson reviewed the Calls for Service Report. Numbers were down from the previous month with 10 regular and 10 after hour calls. Magnuson filled the Commissioners in on the new rescue boat that was purchased with some insurance claim funds and the remaining amount was covered with funds raised by the Firemen.

Street Department

Operations Supervisor Klemisch talked about the culvert that was replaced by the Rainbow Bridge as well as a water main break in the SW part of town. Thank you to Barnes Rural Water for some of the materials. His team also replaced the guardrail near 6^th & Viking.

Administration

City Administrator Crawford gave an update on 2^nd Ave lighting. Everything is ready as soon as the actual poles come in but do to timing and weather, this will be completed in the spring of 2024.

Review monthly bills/reports

Finance Director Klein reported expenditures in the amount of $1,485,229 for the month.

Commission Duties Review

Attorney Martineck gave a Power Point Presentation on the Duties of Commissioners.

Review cost of Special Meetings

Finance Director Klein shared the cost and time involved with having a Special Commission Meeting. Attorney Martineck will draw up a Resolution for approval on a future agenda, charging $25.00 for a requested Special Meeting. This Resolution will include a change to the Master Fee Schedule.

Appointment of Department Heads and Police Officers

Discussion was had on the current Appointment of Department Heads and Police Officers. Attorney Martineck referred to code which states that the City Administrator should be appointing these positions. The Commissioners requested, for the time being, Police Officers be appointed by the City Administrator and not need Commissioner Approval. The current Code will be reviewed, and an ordinance will be drafted as to the actual titles needing Commission approval and the actual titles that can be appointed by the City Administrator.

Review 10 Year Valley City Infrastructure Plan

Administrator Crawford reviewed the 10 Year Valley City Infrastructure Plan. This plan gives the transparency to determine if we have the monies for future projects and make sure that we know exactly which projects the monies budgeted go to. This plan covers the estimated projected funds needed for future projects and maintenance in all City Departments and how the monies will need to be budgeted. 

Year to Date Building Permit Report and Power Point Presentation of Recent Home Sale Comparisons

Assessor Current shared a Year-to-Date Building Permit Report from Michael Blevins. Current also shared a Power Point Demonstration on the sales of houses and how the values have increased in the past couple of years.

Discuss Public Works 2024 Proposed Budget

Public Works Accountant Jacobson discussed the Public Works 2024 Proposed Budget.

Discuss PW Water Rate increase

Public Works Accountant Jacobson explained the need for the Public Works Water rate increase.

Discuss PW South Side Sewer rate increase

Public Works Accountant Jacobson explained the reasoning for the South Side Sewer rate increase.

Discuss PW Credit Card Fees

Public Works Accountant Jacobson shared a spreadsheet on Credit Card Fees and what it costs the City to offer this payment option to the Citizens. Those fees continue to rise for the City. Discussion was had on these fees and if the fee should be passed along to those using this service.  The City does offer 3 ways to pay with no fees being charged.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:37 PM.