REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
October 19, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, October 19, 2020, at 6:00 pm in the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Potratz (via telephone), Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent - Post.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Potratz, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 10/5/20, the claims list of 10/6/20 - 10/19/20 and the September 2020 financial reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon recommendation from the Fayette Fire Department, the Fayette Ambulance Service and Mayor Wenthe, moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to appoint D'Andre Brown to the Fayette Fire Department and to appoint Arianna Rausch to the Fayette Ambulance Service. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council he attended the online Alliant Energy Leadership Roundtable discussion on 10/15 and worked with First State Bank on some automatic payroll changes. McGrane advised he has submitted the application and supporting documentation for the Iowa COVID-19 Government Relief Fund to potentially receive up to 50% of payroll costs for public safety employees (Police and Ambulance) for the months of August and September. The sidewalk around the Freedom Rock is being completed now. The wiring for the lighting has been completed and the lights will be installed once the sidewalk is finished. Fayette County Economic & Tourism Director Mallory Hanson is working on a quote from RC&D to help us work on a sign/kiosk for the Freedom Rock. Hanson has received information from Allamakee Clayton Electric Cooperative on a possible cost-sharing program we may be able to apply for to help with costs on the sign/kiosk.
Police Chief Davis advised the council the toy drive is currently going on. Davis received a compliment regarding Officer Nicole Ball. The department was selected to house another intern from Hawkeye Community College again. The intern would start in January. The background check and paperwork has started for the intern process. Davis reminded the council that the intern only shadows the officers and is on Hawkeye Community Colleges' insurance.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2020-15. McGrane advised he had the city attorney review the agreement. McGrane also presented the council with Speer Financial's engagment letter and estimated timeline for the Bond Issuance for the Water Street project. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to approve Resolution 2020-15, authorizing an agreement for professional services with Fehr Graham Engineering and Environmental. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Fayette Ambulance Service meeting minutes from 8/4/20 and 9/30/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss financial transfers for FY17 Water Improvement Capital Project, FY17 Sewer Lining Project and CDBG Downtown Project. McGrane explained some of the options on where the city could transfer the money and requested some guidance for a Resolution that would be drafted and presented at a future meeting. The council suggested the funds to cover the CDBG Downtown Project should be split 50/50 from the Water and Sewer fund. No formal action was taken.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to discuss 606 W. Water Street. McGrane and Wenthe updated the council on the old Fayette County Tourism house and the log cabin. They advised there is much needed cleaning needed in the house. The counil suggested contact Roger Post to look at the roof at the log cabin to see if he can patch for the winter at a low cost and have some UIU students help clean out the tourism house at a low cost. McGrane suggested there may be some desks, filing cabinets and furniture the city may be able to post online to sell at a low cost. McGrane and Wenthe will move forward from the guidance they received from the council. No formal action was taken.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to discuss partial pay estimate number 1 to The Restyling Specialists for CDGB Rehabilitation project at 507 S. Main Street in the amount of $21,825. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve partial pay estimate number 1 to The Restyling Specialists for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 507 S. Main Street in the amount of $21,825. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to go into Closed Session per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i). Roll call, all ayes, motion carried. Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to open regular session. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Tenney, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:55 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
October 5, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, October 5, 2020, at 6:00 pm in the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz (via telephone at 6:01), Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle (arrived at 6:01). Absent - none
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 9/21/20 and the claims list of 9/22/20 - 10/5/20. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to amend the agenda to move item 6A to the end of the meeting and approve the agenda as amended. All ayes, motion carried. Potratz and Wulfekuhle joined the meeting at this time.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s recommendation, moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to appoint Jeff Butikofer to the Fayette Tree Board for a 3 year term, expiring 12/31/23. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised the council on the Fayette Owner Occupied Rehabilitation projects and where they currently stand. The city of Fayette has an opening for one more resident to apply for the program. They may contact City Hall or Upper Explorerland for more information. The North Fayette Valley (NFV) Superintendent sent a newsletter out explaining the NFV Spark program is a high school elective course focused on project-based learning. If there are any community ideas for the program to let Wenthe or the NFV high school know.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council Public Works Director Hildebrand and him participated in the IMWCA Workers Compensation site visit on 9/24.
Police Chief Davis advised the council an update on the current city ordinance violations that are scheduled for court. The Fayette Police Dept. (FPD) started their toy drive for this year. They will be accepting new toys at the FPD and donors will receive a unique FPD patch while supplies last.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss Ordinance 511. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 511, amending Section 3, Permit Process, to Chapter 162, Solar Energy Systems, to the Fayette City Code, by removing the part of having the Planning and Zoning Commission approving the request. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 9/9/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to approve the Fayette Planning and Zoning Commission meeting minutes from 9/24/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to discuss and consider allowing Nick Serra and Tereasa Lenius to install a solar energy system at 301 E. State St. Serra was at the meeting to answer questions. They will have about 10 panels installed. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve Serra and Lenius to install a solar energy system and solar panels as presented on their property located at 301 E. State St. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider allowing Dennis and Arlene Vandersee to install a solar energy system at 802 Washington St. The Vandersee's were present at the meeting to answer questions. They will have about 54 panels installed. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve Dennis and Arlene Vandersee to install a solar energy system and solar panels as presented on their property located at 802 Washington St. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and approve the purchase of a new ambulance from LifeLine Emergency Vehicles in an amount not to exceed $225,000. Ambulance Crew Chief Roger Post provided a written statement stating the ambulance crew has approved the purchase of a new ambulance at a special meeting on 9/30/20. A quote was provided in the amount of $216,274 and they could receive up to $24,000 for 735-2 as a trade-in. Chief Post advised there may still be minor changes to the quote with additional features. McGrane recommended approving the purchase not to exceed $225,000. The Ambulance Crew is looking to use the $216,197 in their city savings account and may use some of their CD's or fundraiser money to cover anything over that amount. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to approve the purchase of a new ambulance from LifeLine Emergency Vehicles in an amount not to exceed $225,000 and using the Ambulance Service savings. Nathan Post abstained, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss and consider promoting door-to-door trick-or-treating on Saturday, October 31, 2020. McGrane provided Halloween 2020 COVID-19 guidance from the Iowa Department of Public Health as well as what some area communities are doing for Halloween. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve promoting door-to-door trick-or-treating in Fayette scheduled for Saturday, October 31, 2020, from 2:30PM to 4:30PM as well as safety precautions due to COVID-19. Anyone interested in participating should turn on their porch light during the event. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the final report from Larry Webb on the PFC. James Lee Memorial Bench Fund. Webb provided a report stating the $930.73 left in the bank account for the PFC. James Lee Memorial Bench Fund was donated to the City of Fayette to help pay for the lighting of the bench and the Freedom Rock. Mr. and Mrs. Larry Webb also donated $69.27 to make it an even $1,000 donation. Webb thanked the city for allowing him to honor Jim Lee and his family with the memorial. No action was taken.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2020-14. McGrane explained this is a Resolution the city must pass if we decide to apply for reimbursement of funds from the Iowa COVID-19 Government Relief Fund. McGrane explained he will need to continue to research and make sure we have enough expenditures to make it worth the city's time and effort to apply for the reimbursements. Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve Resolution 2020-14, requesting reimbursement from the Iowa COVID-19 Government Relief Fund. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss the Fiscal Year 2020 City Examination. Rachelle Thompson, CPA, PLLC, provided a booklet to each council member that provided her independent accountant's report on applying agreed-upon procedures for the period of July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2020. McGrane presented further explanations for the detailed recommendations. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to accept the Fiscal Year 2020 City Examination from Rachelle Thompson, CPA, PLLC. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the reconstruction and repair project of Water Street. Jon Biederman from Fehr Graham was present to discuss the engineering expenses and the project. Biederman will provide an agreement for their engineering services at the next council meeting. McGrane provided three General Obligation Capital Loan options that were prepared by Speer Financial. The options included a $995,000 borrowing size, a $165,000 borrowing size and a $500,000 borrowing size for the $1,000,000 estimated project cost. McGrane explained the options and advised the council may also request other examples if they so choose. McGrane advised the city currently has a bonding capacity of $1,531,747. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to continue to move forward with the process of a General Obligation Capital Loan in the amount of $500,000. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Wulfekuhle, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:57 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
September 21, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, September 21, 2020, at 6:00 pm in the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent - Potratz
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 9/8/20, the claims list of 9/9/20 - 9/21/20, the August 2020 financial reports and the renewal of the Class C Beer Permit, Class B Wine Permit and Sunday Sales for Dollar General/Dogencorp,LLC. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of August 31, 2020: Total August Receipts: $128,391.58 (General $45,010.72; Streets $14,763.26; Employee Benefits $286.27; Local Option Sales Tax $9,330.63; TIF $13.33; Revolving Loan $231.56; Bolger $356.47; Library Fund $6.47; Water $23,528.38; Water T&A $2,850; Sewer $27,609.20; Water/Sewer Capital $3,901.29; Storm Water $504). Total August Disbursements: $135,786.95 (General $69,377.80; 9 S. Main $814.46; Streets $7,312.45; Employee Benefits $9,150.01; CDBG $20,642.91; Revolving Loan $132.03; Bolger $1,674; Water $9,515.08; Water T&A $377.70; Sewer $16,790.51). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $3,803,286.27.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to amend the agenda so item 6B states the second reading of Ordinance 511 instead of the first reading and approve the agenda as amended. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor advised the Freedom Rock revealing went well and the city is still seeking donations at City Hall.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council he submitted the Street Financial Report on 9/9/20 and attended online presentations for the Iowa League of Cities Annual Conference 9/16-9/18. McGrane has finished providing all the necessary information to the auditor and the council should be seeing her report soon. McGrane has been working with Larry Webb and closed the James Lee Memorial Bank account with the remainder of the money being transferred to the City of Fayette for a donation toward the Freedom Rock. The Freedom Rock "Revealing" was well attended on 9/18 and was livestreamed on Facebook. McGrane advised the Fayette County Economic Development and Tourism Director is working with the Iowa DOT on getting a sign placed along HWY 150 about the Freedom Rock.
Police Chief Davis advised the council the drive-in movie went very well last weekend with about 45 cars in attendance. The car computer installation is complete and the car cameras were also installed.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the reconstruction and repair of Water Street. McGrane provided a proposal for design and construction engineering services from Fehr Graham for the Water Street improvements project. McGrane reached out to the cities financial advisor and they will provide more financial information/options at a later date. No action was taken.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to discuss Ordinance 511. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the second reading of Ordinance 511, amending Section 3, Permit Process, to Chapter 162, Solar Energy Systems, to the Fayette City Code, by removing the part of having the Planning and Zoning Commission approve the request. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss allowing Brian Stepp to paint the watermelon sculpture. McGrane advised Mr. Stepp contacted city hall inquiring if his sister and him could repaint the Stepp watermelon sculpture. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to have it painted after moving the watermelon sculpture to a new location at the Fayette community garden. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss approving the proposal from Kluesner Construction, Inc. for asphalt repairs. Kluesner provided an estimate of $1,775 to repair the asphalt at six locations around Fayette. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the proposal from Kluesner Construction, Inc. for asphalt repairs in the amount of $1,775. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2020-13. Davis advised the city attorney has already reveiwed the service agreement. Once we approve the service agreement, then OptoTraffic, LLC, will start building our custom-made camera. Davis advised there are still more steps to take before the speed cameras will be set-up, this is just part of the process. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve Resolution 2020-13, authorizing a service agreement by and between the city of Fayette, Iowa, and OptoTraffic, LLC. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tucker, to discuss researching Homes for Iowa through the Iowa Prison Industries and using low to moderate income finances. McGrane provided the council with more information about Homes for Iowa. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve starting the process to research Homes for Iowa. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss a proclamation to recognize National Clean Energy Week, September 21 through the 25. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve a proclamation to recognize National Clean Energy Week, September 21-25 of 2020. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Tucker, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:47 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
September 8, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Tuesday, September 8, 2020, at 6:02 pm in the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Pro-Tem Potratz presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent - none
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 8/17/20, the claims list of 8/18/20 - 9/8/20 and the Outstanding Obligations Disclosure Statement for Fiscal Year 2020. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council he worked with the city auditor as she worked on the FY2020 city exam, sent all the necessary information to the IMWCA workers compensation auditor via email, attended the Fayette County Economic Development and Tourism meeting, completed the annual Outstanding Debt/Obligations report and the Street Financial report, completed and mailed out the annual GASB 77 Chapter 403 disclosure letters over the last few weeks. McGrane added he has started switching over to electronically saving all the accounting software paperwork to the server and this will help cut back on paper and ink/toner costs. McGrane explained the presidential memorandum allowing the deferral of the employee portion of Social Security taxes and explained if any council members or city employees have concerns or are interested to contact McGrane.
Police Chief Davis advised the council it cost just over $1,000 to install all 3 police patrol computers, well under the $4,500 as expected. Two in-car camera systems will be installed this week.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Fayette Streets and Sidewalks Committee meeting minutes from 8/3/2020. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 8/12/2020 and the Directors reports from 8/12/2020 and 9/9/2020. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss allowing the Fayette Community Church to have outdoor audio until approximately 10PM at Cardinal Park on 9/12/2020. Pastor Andy Sayer was present to answer questions. The event is free and open to the public. If there is inclement weather, the event may get cancelled or postponed. Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve allowing the Fayette Community Church to have outdoor audio until approximatley 10PM on 9/12/2020. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve allowing the Wulfekuhle's to have outdoor music until midnight on 10/10/2020. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss selling the Stepp watermelon sculpture to Brian Stepp for $100. The council agreed the sculpture is a part of Fayette's history and they would like to keep it on display, possibly in the Open Air Market Park. They agreed if the city would ever decide to get rid of the sculpture, it should be offered to a Stepp family member first. McGrane advised Mr. Stepp did mention he may decide to get back into the melon business in the future. The council advised if he does, or has any other reason to use the Stepp watermelon sculpture, to come back to the council and they may reconsider his request. No action was taken.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the Fayette Ambulance Service starting the process in purchasing a new ambulance. McGrane and council member Post updated the council on the status of the older ambulance and some of the features that were being considered in a new ambulance. McGrane explained the Ambulance Service has been saving for years for a new ambulance and they currently have $216,197.29 in their savings as well as CD's in the amounts of $20,000 and $5,773.24. McGrane advised if they decide to purchase a new ambulance in this fiscal year, we may need to do a budget amendment. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to allow the Fayette Ambulance Service to start the process in purchasing a new ambulance. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss approving the purchase of a rear blade from Bodensteiner Implement in the amount of $2,200. This is a budgeted item. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the purchase of a rear blade from Bodensteiner Implement in the amount of $2,200. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss approving the purchase of a tractor and mower from P&K Midwest, Inc. in the amount of $27,927. This is also a budgeted item. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the purchase of a tractor and mower from P&K Midwest, Inc. in the amount of $27,927. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss donating $2,000 toward a match requirement for the Iowa Finance Authority funding application for the Northeast Iowa Regional Housing Trust Fund. McGrane provided information about the fund. The city contributed $2,000 in 2019 as well as donated to this project in 2013, 2012 and 2011. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve donating $2,000 toward a match requirement for the Iowa Finance Authority funding application for the Northeast Iowa Regional Housing Trust Fund and have the money come out of the LMI Fund, and if the city cannot use that fund, to have it come out of the Bolger Fund. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Ordinance 511. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the first reading of Ordinance 511, amending Section 3, Permit Process, to Chapter 162, Solar Energy Systems, to the Fayette City Code, by removing the part of having the Planning and Zoning Commission approve the request. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2020-12. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve Resolution 2020-12, accepting the Street Financial Report for fiscal year 2020. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Tucker, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:50 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 17, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, August 17, 2020, at 6:00 pm in the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post (via cell phone), Potratz, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent - none
Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 8/3/20, the claims list of 8/4/20 - 8/17/20 and the July 2020 financial reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of July 31, 2020: Total July Receipts: $98,031.31 (General $18,870.99; Streets $22,495.59; Employee Benefits $1,261.49; Local Option Sales Tax $8,650.80; TIF $41.16; CDBG LMI Housing $1,398; Revolving Loan $231.55; Bolger $762.95; Library Fund $8.07; Water $16,057.06; Water T&A $1,350; Sewer $22,711.04; Water/Sewer Capital $3,670.61; Storm Water $522). Total July Disbursements: $164,450.24 (General $73,708.25; 9 S. Main $116.82; Streets $12,450.26; Employee Benefits $26,327.96; Water $22,361.90; Water T&A $1,018.38; Sewer $28,466.67). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $3,810,775.94.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented and adding item 8G, discussion on outdoor music at 201 S. Main St. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon the Fayette EMS/Ambulance Service and Mayor Wenthe’s recommendation, moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to appoint Alex Greene to the Fayette EMS/Ambulance Service. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane was not present at the meeting but submitted a written report informing the council that he has attended a National League of Cities & Colleges webinar, a presentation from gWorks on their Asset Management software, a Fayette County Economic Development & Tourism online meeting, a Planning & Zoning Commission meeting, and a Homes for Iowa webinar in the last couple weeks. McGrane completed the annual Wellmark recredentialing for the Fayette Ambulance Service and shared that City Hall is getting busier now assisting people with utility accounts as they are returning for college. McGrane will be finishing the annual Outstanding/Debt Report, assisting with the IMWCA audit and the FY2020 city exam and starting the annual Street Finance Report over the next couple weeks.
Police Chief Davis advised the council updates on nuisance abatements.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the Fayette Planning and Zoning Commission meeting minutes from 8/6/2020. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Potratz, to discuss the Upper Iowa University (UIU) decals on the Fayette Police Departments (FPD) vehicles. The FPD has 3 police vehicles and one vehicle was paid for by UIU as part of their contract for security services with the City of Fayette. The vehicle paid for by UIU has a decal stating "Serving Upper Iowa University" on both sides of the vehicle. The 2020 Chevy Tahoe police vehicle has a decal stating "Proudly Serving Upper Iowa University" on both sides and the back of the vehicle. The third police vehicle does not have any UIU decals. Pictures were presented to the council to show the decals. After discussion, no action taken.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to discuss allowing Andrew and Elissa Wenthe to install a solar energy system near the 300 block of Jones St. (Parcel ID 1128200025). The Fayette Planning and Zoning Commission recommended allowing the Wenthe's install the solar energy system and solar panels. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve allowing Andrew and Elissa Wenthe to install a solar energy system and solar panels as presented on their property located behind the residence in the 300 block of Jones Street. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to discuss revising the City Code Chapter 162 Solar Energy Systems. The majority of the Planning and Zoning Commission recommend the council revise the city code to make it easier for residents to install ground mounted solar panels on their property. A few recommended revisions were presented. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to change the City Code Chapter 162 Solar Energy Systems to require council approval on solar projects that are ground mounted and Board of Adjustment approval if a variance is needed as well as clarifiying ground mounted solar panels will be considered as structures. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to discuss approving $4,500 for installation of police patrol computers. Chief Davis advised the council that he was originally planning on installing the computers himself but realized it is more intricate than what he had anticipated. He reached out to Racom who provided him a quote. Davis advised he does have the money budgeted because he was able to purchase some of the equipment last fiscal year because he was under budget. Moved Potratz, seconded Tenney, to approve spending up to $4,500 for installation of police patrol computers. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to discuss partial pay estimate number 3 and final payment to Kruse "N' Bries Construction for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 112 Mechanic Street in the amount of $5,108. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve partial pay estimate number 3 and final payment to Kruse "N' Bries Construction for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 112 Mechanic Street in the amount of $5,108. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss lead hazard reduction activities homeowner relocation costs of $1,251 to Jeff and Hillaree Childs. Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve the lead hazard reduction activities homeowner relocation costs of $1,251 to Jeff and Hillaree Childs All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to discuss a tent and outdoor music on the vacant lot at 201 S. Main St. on October 10, 2020 for a wedding. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve outdoor music from 4:00 p.m. to midnight at 201 S. Main St. on October 10, 2020. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:27 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 3, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, August 3, 2020, at 6:00 pm in the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent - none
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 7/20/20 and the claims list of 7/21/20 - 8/3/20. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised that last Monday Chief Davis and him visited Gary Goodell's property at 101 King Street and not much progress was made on cleaning up the property. Fines did start as of Friday, July 31, 2020. Chief Davis reminded the council members of the abatement process and fines. Davis advised Goodell will appear in court and a judge will make a decision on the next steps. Recently a judge granted 14 extra days for another nuisance abatement in town.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that he attended a few online National League of Cities webinars in reference to the Senators final CARES (coronavirus) package bill and encouraging them to include financial assistance to local governments. McGrane sent a letter to both Iowa Senators. McGrane advised Fayette received $2,984.55 from the previous CARES package and that all went to offset costs for the Fayette Ambulance Service. McGrane roughly estimated the city should have received an additional $16,026 in revenue for the months of April and May 2020 from fees for Water, Sewer, Storm Water, Landfill, Recycling and Yard Waste. The revenue would have mostly come from Upper Iowa University (UIU) and UIU students who had moved back to their permanent residence after UIU stopped having on-campus classes due to COVID-19. McGrane also stressed that the city of Fayette's US Census response rate is below 50% and if Fayette doesn't get a good population in the Census, it will drastically decrease the amount of funding Fayette receives from a variety of revenue sources, including Road Use Tax and Local Option Sales Tax.
McGrane advised the council the Fayette Lions Club made their final payment to the city after they borrowed $22,500 in 2005 to donate towards the construction of the Fayette Sports Complex. McGrane participated in a gWorks (cities accounting software) update and survey call and learned gWorks will be expanding their services for cities. He will continue to monitor the services and recommend any useful ones to the council.
Police Chief Davis advised the council we received the new police vehicle.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to discuss repairing W. Water Street. McGrane presented a spreadsheet to the council that included the cities finances for the Streets, Water, Sewer, Storm Water and Water/Sewer Capital Fund. It included budgeted expenditures and revenues as well as estimated project costs. The council requested McGrane gather more information about borrowing money for part of the project and present at a future meeting. No action was taken.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the third and final reading of Ordinance 510. Cory Kuzyk with Optotraffic, LLC, will be present immediately following the meeting to answer any questions. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 510, amending the Fayette City Code Chapter 63, Speed Regulations, adding section 63.13, automatic traffic enforcement. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to discuss the Fayette Ambulance Service meeting minutes from 6/3/20. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Fayette Ambulance Service meeting minutes from 6/3/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Fayette Tree Board meeting minutes from 7/1/20. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:51 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
July 20, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, July 20, 2020, at 6:00 pm in the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent - none
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 7/6/20, the claims list of 7/7/20 - 7/20/20 and the June 2020 financial reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of June 30, 2020: Total June Receipts: $129,306.80 (General $10,787.76; Streets $8,007.58; Employee Benefits $1,025.88; Local Option Sales Tax [LOST] $8,650.79; TIF $31.19; CDBG LMI Housing $10,816; Revolving Loan $44.68; Bolger $150.85; Library Fund $39.55; Water $24,889.09; Water T&A $2,100; Sewer $29,081.96; Sewer Project $29,360.75; Water/Sewer Capital $3,705.72; Storm Water $615). Total June Disbursements: $154,701.13 (General $66,748.53; 9 S. Main $91.80; Streets $5,492.43; Employee Benefits $7,424.11; TIF $42,565.32; CDBG LMI Housing $1,397.98; Revolving Loan $98.42; Bolger $5,805; Water $8,862.25; Water T&A $2,600.21; Sewer $13,615.08). Transfers in: General $45,405.33; Street $58,134.75; Bolger $7,585.96, Capital Project-Tower $10,000; Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: General $15,000; LOST $101,209.04; TIF $4,917; Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $3,876,572.26.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request, moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to reappoint Andrea Scott, Andrew Sayer and Zenda Lau to the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees for six year terms. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe provided an update on the status of the Fayette Owner Occupied Rehabilitation Projects (CDBG Rehab project).
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council the end of the fiscal year finances are completed. McGrane worked with Paul Skrade on completing the Bird Friendly application and submitted it on 7/8/20. Emma Biederman, a North Fayette Valley High School student, has volunteered a few afternoons at city hall with archiving articles and scanning in documents. The bench in memory of Jeanne Africa is now installed at Klocks Island Park.
Police Chief Davis advised the council the majority of his time has been dealing with some bigger cases so weekly reports have not went out yet but will be coming soon.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss the second reading of Ordinance 510. The council asked if they needed more clarification in the ordinance about the warnings, especially for people speeding 1 to 5 miles per hour over the speed limit. It was clarified that the council may provide more clarification as far as warnings are concerned when a contract is negotiated with a company to install and issue the citations. Davis is planning on having a company representative at the next council meeting to assist with questions and concerns. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve the second reading of Ordinance 510, amending the Fayette City Code Chapter 63, Speed Regulations, adding section 63.13, automatic traffic enforcement. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss purchasing Cyber Liability Insurance at $500 per year. McGrane had provided more information about the insurance including examples of claims the insurance would cover. Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to purchase the Cyber Liability Insurance for $500 per year. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 6/10/2020 and 7/8/2020 and the Directors Report from 7/8/2020. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to discuss a notice to abate nuisance with Gary Goodell, owner of 101 King Street. Goodell was present to address the council and advised he is getting rid of things in his yard. Chief Davis advised he has had his ten days and the next step would be fines. The council mentioned that Goodell is picking up new items and bringing them back to his property which is not helping. Goodell stated his vehicle was out of service for awhile so it delayed his clean-up efforts. Goodell asked the council for a couple more weeks to get his property cleaned up. Chief Davis explained to Goodell everything outside in his yard and in his bushes would need to be cleaned up. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve an extension of 7 days and then Mayor Wenthe and Chief Davis will visit the property and determine if significant progress has been made, if not, fines would be implemented starting on Tuesday, 7/28/2020. Post, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle - ayes; Potratz - nay. Motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to discuss Resolution 2020-11. McGrane explained all the transferred funds for fiscal year (FY) 2019-20. Transferring the following amounts from Local Option Sales Tax to the following funds: $27,693.75 to Recreation; $2,668.96 to the Bolger fund for the final payment of the Recreation Trail loan the Recreation Board borrowed; $17,711.58 to Police; $53,134.75 to Streets/Road Use Tax (RUT). Transferring $5,000 from Yard Waste to Streets/RUT for street sweeper replacement; $2,000 from the General Fund to Streets for mowing the cell tower property; $4,917 from TIF to the Bolger Fund for Decker/Ideal TIF agreement; $114,906 from Sewer to the Sewer Fund; $10,000 from the General Fund to the Capital Project-Tower Fund. The following amounts will be transferred into the departments savings accounts for future capital equipment replacement and purchases: $59,071.33 Ambulance; $15,137.39 Fire; $1,765.22 Park; $9,107.49 P&A; $4,882.19 Library; $13,539.51 Police; $12,454.88 Recreation. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve Resolution 2020-11: Transferring funds for FY 2019-20. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss partial pay estimate number 2 to Kruse "N" Bries Construction for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 112 Mechanic Street in the amount of $20,214. Wenthe reminded the council this will be reimbursed to the city through the CDBG LMI Housing grant. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve partial pay estimate number 2 to Kruse "N" Bries Construction for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 112 Mechanic Street in the amount of $20,214. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss having fireworks on September 12, 2020. The Watermelon Days committee has decided not to hold the town celebration this year due to the increase cases of COVID-19 in our area. McGrane contacted the company the city contracts with for the fireworks display and they are willing to let us out of our current contract at no cost. The Watermelon Days committee would like to request the council add the donation they would normally spend on fireworks this year to next year's donation to help make next year's event even bigger. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve providing the $2500 to Watermelon Days to use next year in addition to the $2500 normally donated and the Watermelon Days committee may ask the council for approval on what they decide to spend the extra money on for next year. Post, Potratz, Tucker and Wulfekuhle - ayes; Tenney abstained. Motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss a proclamation to recognize American Wind Week, August 9 through the 15. Power Up Iowa has requested the city to issue a proclamation to help support, raise awareness and educate Iowans about what renewables can do for our environment and our economy. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve a proclamation to recognize American Wind Week, August 9-15 of 2020. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:49 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
July 6, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, July 6, 2020, at 6:00 pm in the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Potratz, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent - Post
Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 6/15/20 and the claims list of 6/16/20 - 7/6/20. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe updated the council on hiring Jon Kullen on 6/29/20 as a part-time, seasonal employee to assist the Public Works department over the summer. He will work through 8/17/20 for 21 hours a week.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council he is still finishing up on end of the fiscal year items. McGrane assisted the Mayor and Public Works Director Hildebrand with scheduling interviews and attended an Iowa Dept. of Revenue zoom meeting on 6/26/20. McGrane advised the council that Boike's paid off their high utility bill that they were granted permission to make payments on. The council requested an updated utility delinquent report at a future meeting.
Police Chief Davis advised the council they have been busy the last week. Today was police officer Nicole Ball's first day working for the City of Fayette.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and approve the Fayette Board of Adjustment meeting minutes from 6/16/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tenney, to discuss and approve the Fayette Planning and Zoning Commission meeting minutes from 6/30/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss allowing Upper Iowa University (UIU) to install solar panels on their property located near the 600 block of Wadena Road. Kent Kraus and Todd Linquist with Eagle Point Solar and Jesse Pleggenkuhle with UIU was in attendance to present the plans and answer questions. Pleggenkuhle advised UIU may possibly place rock around all the solar panels otherwise they'd be mowing around them. Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve allowing UIU to install solar panels as presented on their property located near the 600 block of Wadena Road. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Potratz, to discuss allowing Tricia Whittle to place a bench at Klock's Island Park in memory of Jeanne Africa. McGrane explained that Tricia met with Hildebrand and him to discuss the best location of the bench. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to grant Tricia Whittle permission to install a bench at Klock's Island Park in memory of Jeanne Africa. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to discuss Adam Hildebrand's salary increase in FY2021. Jerry Hildebrand, Public Works Director, updated the council on justifying the reason why Adam deserves to raise up the wage scale from #10 to #9. Hildebrand advised Adam has been in charge of the paperwork, documenting and installing/repairing the radio transmitters for the water meters. The council inquired if an updated job description was needed. It was discussed if this would be considered another normal job duty as new equipment and software continues to be purchased in all city departments or if this was something that a new certification would be needed. It was mentioned there was no special certification needed to work with the radio transmitters. Concerns were discussed about when an employee should receive a step increase on the wage scale. In recent years, employees only received step increases if a new certification was received or a promotion took place. It was expressed the great job Adam has done for the city. Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the normal annual years of service increase but to not approve the step increase from scale #10 to #9. Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle - ayes; Potratz - nay. Motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss adding to the existing trail to connect to Lovers Lane. McGrane updated the council on the poll results and the other option provided by Nate Post, by adding to the trail from the hotel parking. Jon Biederman with Fehr Graham was present to discuss the estimates. A preliminary estimate to add to the existing trail along the south side of HWY 93 to Lovers Lane would be around $56,917 or $39,353 to add to the existing trail along the north side of HWY 93 to Lovers Lane. The estimate would be for an 8 feet wide asphalt trail or a 5 feet wide cement trail. There is a utility pole on the north side that Biederman could find out if it could be moved. Biederman estimated between $30,000-$40,000 to move the water line on the south side of HWY 93 if the council decided to go with a cement trail. It was discussed where would the funding come from. Grants would need to be investigated. Biederman advised the DNR REAP grant is a possibility as well as a community foundation or state grant. The council mentioned funding could also come from the Bolger fund or the Park fund. The council would be willing to start investigating funding/grant options and come back to the council with ideas. No action was taken.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss repairing W. Water Street between HWY 150 and S. Main Street. Biederman provided a preliminary estimate and reconstruction narrative and discussed it with the council. Biederman advised the existing road on Water St. was replaced around 1995 and usually the estimate is to replace within 15 to 20 years. Core samples were taken in a few places along Water St. and every one showed 3 inches of asphalt. Today, a minimum thickness for a residential street is 4 inches, however, Biederman would recommend a 5 inch thickness since this road gets a lot of truck and tractor traffic. The eastbound lane or southside of W. Water St. shows more wear and tear probably because of grain hauling traffic. The curb and gutter is in fair to good condition so they would only repair the bad sections which would roughly be 20% of the length. They would add subdrain tile along both sides of the road which wasn't done before. A new 6 inch water main would be installed to replace the 4 inch line. The water line is now required to be 10 feet away from sanitary sewer lines, so that would be moved. They would add a new city sewer line to the blocks that currently do not have them. They are assuming the storm sewers are in good shape. They would install some larger storm sewer lines in a few spots. They would reconstruct and upgrade the sidewalks to make them ADA accessible. Biederman advised an estimated time frame for a project like this would be about 3 months. Wenthe advised the city does have bonding capacity and McGrane will provide more financials at a future meeting. Biederman advised the ideal time to bid for a project like this would be in January to get the best prices. The estimated contract amount for the project was $771,180. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to continue the process on reconstructing W. Water Street and provide finance options to the council. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2020-10. Hildebrand advised he just started offering property owners who do not have a separate curb stop the option of the city capping the water line so the property owner does not have to pay a minimum utility bill if no one is residing/operating out of the premise. Since it does require some expenses and time for a city worker to cap and uncap the line, Hildebrand recommends we add a fee for this service. Moved Potratz, seconded Tenney, to approve Resolution 2020-10, a Resolution adding a $50 fee to cap and a $50 fee to uncap a water line. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to discuss the first reading of Ordinance 510. Chief Davis explained this is the first step of the process of implementing automatic traffic enforcement cameras along HWY 150 in the city limits of Fayette. Davis advised this is the same ordinance that Oelwein, West Union, Maynard, Clermont and other Fayette County cities that are considering this program and initiative are passing to make everything uniform countywide. The ordinance was reviewed by the city attorney. Davis advised when the program starts, there will probably be a 3 month warning period for everyone. The council would like clarification if the new code allows for warnings being issued instead of only fines. Davis advised he will have the company he believes the council should contract with to attend the next council meeting. Moved Potratz, seconded Tenney, to approve the first reading of Ordinance 510, amending the Fayette City Code Chapter 63, Speed Regulations, adding section 63.13, automatic traffic enforcement. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to discuss purchasing cyber liability insurance at $500 per year. McGrane updated the council on the price increases for Access Systems and explained a little of the cyber liability insurance. Wenthe requested McGrane gather some examples of claims the insurance would cover and provide at a future meeting. No action was taken.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:25 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
June 15, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, June 15, 2020, at 6:00 pm at the Fayette Community Library and via conference call/online meeting using www.freeconferencecall.com due to COVID-19, per Iowa Code 21.8, pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding. The public was also able to access the meeting with basic directions posted on the council agenda and on the city of Fayette’s website, www.fayetteiowa.com.
Roll call: Present - Council members Potratz, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle; Absent - Post.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 6/1/20, the claims list of 6/2/20 - 6/15/20, the May 2020 financial reports and correspondence from the Iowa League of Cities. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of May 31, 2020: Total May Receipts: $168,181.85 (General $80,005.71; Streets $12,630.08; Employee Benefits $17,529.13; Local Option Sales Tax $8,650.79; TIF $778.96; Revolving Loan $44.19; Bolger $144.52; Library Fund $.45; Water $17,991; Water T&A $600; Sewer $25,151.78; Water/Sewer Capital $4,087.26; Storm Water $567.98). Total May Disbursements: $159,794.18 (General $28,889.18; 9 S. Main $119.68; Streets $6,853.66; Employee Benefits $8,530.24; CDBG LMI Housing $6,413; Water $8,837.39; Water T&A $1,326.44; Sewer $12,250.49; Sewer Fund $86,574.10). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $3,988,634.99.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon the Fayette EMS/Ambulance Service and Mayor Wenthe’s recommendation, moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to appoint Sean Chopard to the Fayette EMS/Ambulance Service. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe informed the council he looked at the damage that was done to Station Road from the heavy rains with Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand. Hildebrand will consult with Fayette County to work on repairs.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council the Freedom Rock is tentatively scheduled to be painted between 9/2 - 9/13/2020. Sharon Orr is still accepting donations for the Rock and they can be dropped off at City Hall. Upper Iowa University (UIU) announced they are having students return to the classrooms on 8/31/2020.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider awarding a CPA firm to perform the City's required annual examination for the year ending June 30, 2020. McGrane advised he followed up and contacted Rachelle Thompson. Thompson has worked on other city exams by herself including the cities of Sumner, Denver, Grundy Center and others. Thompson advised she hires an outside firm to review her exams when she's finished. McGrane spoke with a few cities who had previously hired Thompson and they were pleased with her work. McGrane updated his Recommendation Evaluation Criteria based on the information. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to award Rachelle K. Thompson, CPA, PLLC, to perform the City's annual examination for the year ending June 30, 2020. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss continual preparations for the city during coronavirus/COVID-19. Wenthe and McGrane provided an update on the developments, proclamations and changes since the last council meeting. McGrane advised there are no more delinquent utility accounts from the last few months during COVID-19. No action was taken.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the Fayette Ambulance Service/EMS meeting minutes from 3/4/20, the Fayette Public Safety meeting minutes from 3/24/20, the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes and Directors report from 5/13/20, the Fayette Tree Board meeting minutes from 6/3/20 and the Fayette Recreation Board meeting minutes from 6/4/20. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to approve the Fayette Ambulance Service/EMS meeting minutes from 3/4/20, the Fayette Public Safety meeting minutes from 3/24/20, the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes and Directors report from 5/13/20, the Fayette Tree Board meeting minutes from 6/3/20 and the Fayette Recreation Board meeting minutes from 6/4/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider the notice to abate nuisance with Glen Smith. Smith was present and advised he has three properties (203 E. State St., 309 E. Water St. and 400 E. Water St.) that he received notices on and he is helping a family member with their notice for 305 Jones St. He has made some progress cleaning up the properties, but requests more time from the council because 10 days was not enough time. Chief Ben Davis confirmed that Smith has made progress on the properties. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to grant Glen Smith 21 days, until July 6th, to clean up all the properties. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss scheduling a public hearing for the conveyance at the cost of perparation of an easement allowing UIU to install solar panels upon the city property located at 615 Wadena Road. Jesse Pleggenkuhle was present representing UIU and briefly walked through plans that were presented to the council. Council members discussed if they let UIU use the city land for solar panels, then the city wouldn't be able to use the land for any future city structures or projects. Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to table. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to discuss adding to the existing trail to connect to Lovers Lane. Jon Biederman had suggested an idea of having a trail or sidewalk connecting the recreation trail at the bridge near Klock's Island Park to Lover's Lane because people must walk on HWY 93 in that area. Jerry Hildebrand believed there was sidewalk in that section years ago. Hildebrand also advised the city should look into moving the water main in that area. The council requested reaching out to the community to find out if there was interest and if community members would use a trail/sidewalk in that area. The council requested gathering cost estimates for placing a sidewalk, a bike trail, and just a gravel path in that area so they could compare costs. The council requested to obtain a cost estimate on moving the water main in that area as well. No action was taken.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to discuss the property at 606 W. Water Street. McGrane advised he met with the Fayette County Tourism Board on 6/5 to finish the paperwork for turning the property over to the city. McGrane delivered the deed to the Fayette County Recorder's Office on 6/9. McGrane advised Dan Boberg advised the American Legion may be interested in the flag pole on the property. Sharon Orr also advised she would be interested in the flag pole to be placed by the Freedom Rock. McGrane wanted the council to start thinking on what they want to do with the property and to advise him on any direction to take. The council would like to start investigating what it would take to move the cabin to another location. The council would also like to schedule a time for the council to tour the house and cabin. No action was taken.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss hiring Nicole Ball as a Fayette police officer. Councilman Post provided a written statement to the council recommending Nicole Ball for the position because he sat in on all the interviews. Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to hire Nicole Ball as a full-time Fayette police officer and placing Ball on the current wage scale #10, which is an hourly wage of $17.88. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss granting the Fayette Cardinal Alumni permission to have live music outside during the All Cardinal Reunion. Wulfekuhle advised the music would be at the Open Air Market Park from 7PM to 10PM. Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Fayette Cardinal Alumni to have live music outdoors during their reunion on July 18, 2020, but not to exceed past 10 pm. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss approving Tim and Nancy Wulfekuhle's demolition incentive. Wulfekuhle's had provided all the necessary information to qualify for the incentive for the property located at 405 E. Water Street. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the demolition incentive for the Wulfekuhle's as presented, reimbursing $5,000. All ayes, Wulfekuhle abstained, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss choosing an insurance company. McGrane explained that he has been working with Kelly & Miller Insurance to obtain insurance quotes for the cities insurance. The insurance estimates were as follows: Continental Western (CW) $27,520/year; ICAP $27,870/year; and Employers Mutual (EMC) $28,663/year. Lyle Miller with Kelly & Miller Insurance provided information and his recommendation of staying with CW since the city has been with them for over 20 years and we've been satisfied. Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to award Continental Western with the city's insurance. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss approving annual partnership dues for the Fayette County Economic Development and Tourism. McGrane provided the council with the May 2020 letter and update from Mallory Hanson, the Fayette County Economic Development & Tourism Director. Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve the annual partnership dues for the Fayette County Economic Development and Tourism for FY2021 in the amount of $1,514.55. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:14 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
June 1, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, June 1, 2020, at 6:00 pm at the Fayette Community Library and via conference call/online meeting using www.freeconferencecall.com due to COVID-19, per Iowa Code 21.8, pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding. The public was also able to access the meeting with basic directions posted on the council agenda and on the city of Fayette’s website, www.fayetteiowa.com.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 5/18/20, the claims list of 5/19/20 - 6/1/20 and the Class C Liquor License with Catering Privilege and Sunday Sales for Upper Iowa University/Aramark. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe informed the council the deed has been delivered to the Fayette County Tourism President for the donation of the property at 606 W. Water Street. Wenthe also advised restrictions are being lifted and the Fayette Show and Shine Car Show, Music in the Park and sand volleyball are able to move forward and be held.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council on the variety of things he's been working on, updated them on an upcoming Board of Adjustment (BOA) meeting and explained the BOA process.
Police Chief Davis updated the council on the hiring process for a new police officer and advised the department has been working on nuisance abatements around town.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss and consider awarding a CPA firm to perform the City's required annual examination for the year ending June 30, 2020. After discussion, the council requested McGrane to contact one of the firms to get some questions answered and check on some references. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to table. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tucker, to discuss continual preparations for the city during coronavirus/COVID-19. Wenthe and McGrane provided an update on the developments, proclamations and changes since the last council meeting. The restrooms at Klock's Island Park were opened on 5/21/20. Plexiglass was installed in the window at City Hall. City Hall and the Police Department opened back up to public walk-ins on 6/1/20. The library will continue to take steps to reopen to public walk-ins but they will continue to offer curbside pickup. McGrane advised there are approximately 7 delinquent utility accounts and recommended a process to take as we transition back to turning water off due to non-payment of utility accounts. The process included notifying the customers at least a week prior to turning the water off and giving the customers an option to come to a city council meeting if that wasn't enough time for them pay the past due amount in full. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to have City Hall communicate with customers who have delinquent utility accounts and inform them that their past due amounts need to be paid by June 12, 2020, to resume shutting water off to delinquent accounts starting June 15, 2020, and if a customer needs more time to advise McGrane to be placed on the next council agenda. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the Fayette Ambulance Service/EMS meeting minutes from 2/5/20. Council members requested that minutes be turned in on a more timely basis. Wenthe advised he will discuss that with the Ambulance Service. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to approve the Fayette Ambulance Service/EMS meeting minutes from 2/5/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tucker, to discuss hiring a seasonal/part-time employee for recreation and/or mowing. After discussion, it was requested that McGrane work with Public Works Director Hildebrand on drafting an advertisement for a part-time seasonal position to assist with mowing and trimming at a salary of $10 per hour and to advertise around town, on the cities website and social media. No action was taken.
There being no further business, moved Wulfekuhle, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:49 pm.
