REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
March 20, 2023
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, March 20, 2023, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Scott, Tenney and Tucker.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 3/6/23, the claims list of 3/4/23-3/17/23 and the September 2022 and October 2022 financial reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of September 30, 2022: Total September Receipts: $205,059.59 (General $96,683.01; 9 S. Main $15; Road Use Tax (RUT) $20,038.35; Employee Benefits $15,460.93; LOST $12,416.28; Revolving Loan $239.44; Bolger $836.80; Library Fund $230.79; Debt $534.20; Water $27,164.69; Water T&A $150; Sewer $26,550.43; Water/Sewer Capital $4,169.86; Storm Water $569.81). Total September Disbursements: $167,896.45 (General $59,089.40; RUT $9,639.46; Employee Benefits $14,892.11; CDBG Grant LMI $52; Bolger $200; Library Fund $1,929.90; Homes for Iowa $43,120.22; Water $15,813.93; Water T&A $1,050; Sewer $22,109.43). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,304,429.50.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of October 31, 2022: Total October Receipts: $313,268.76 (General $143,966.06; RUT $14,808.98; Employee Benefits $52,555.28; LOST $7,808.48; TIF $14,977.36; Revolving Loan $242.92; Bolger $798.52; Library Fund $285.34; Debt $1,902.79; Water $33,724.09; Water T&A $450; Sewer $35,937.89; Water/Sewer Capital $5,190.86; Storm Water $620.19). Total October Disbursements: $149,681.17 (General $57,005; RUT $10,506.06; Employee Benefits $8,104.09; Homes for Iowa $2,906.25; Water $24,897.83; Water T&A $708.09; Sewer $45,553.85). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,468,096.38.
Citizen Comments: Scott Bowen from Fayette, advised he had been told the Fayette Ambulance Service only has about 8 volunteers that are active on the service. Bowen advised there are other distinct differences between the Fayette Fire Department and the Fayette Ambulance Service when comparing the two, including testing requirements. Bowen also expressed his concerns with the outdated equipment and gear at the fire department.
Kevin Lehs from Fayette, expressed his concerns about the councils actions in regards to the fire department. Lehs advised the department not only responds to fire calls but also are dispatched to accidents, gas leaks, and active shooter calls. The fire department is supported by volunteers that feel strong about the organization and are a good team that is well trained and perform their duties safely. Lehs advised when there are distractions, teams are unable to stay 100% focused and safety can be compromised. Lehs is concerned the decisions the council are making are causing a liability to the city.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood informed the council the North Fayette Valley Superintendent has provided some of the information the city has requested in regards to the Fayette Elementary school and he will review it.
Upon recommendation from the City Administrator/Clerk to appoint Janell Scott as the Fayette City Treasurer for a 2-year term, expiring 12/31/2024, moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve appointing Janell Scott as the Fayette City Treasurer for a 2-year term, expiring 12/31/2024. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon recommendation from the Fayette Fire Department to appoint Stacey Meyer and Scott Bowen to the Fayette Fire Department, moved Scott, seconded Post, to appoint Stacey Meyer and Scott Bowen to the Fayette Fire Department. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon recommendation from the Fayette Fire Department to reappoint Jason Rohde as Fayette Fire Chief for 2023, moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve reappointing Jason Rohde as Fayette Fire Chief for 2023. Ayes - Potratz and Tucker; Nays - Post, Scott and Tenney; motion failed.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the budget process and the N. Main Street project. McGrane explained we received all the new recreational trail signs that will be put up later this spring with the help of Upper Iowa University (UIU) staff and students. Public Works Director Hildebrand will check with UIU to see if they have any posts we can use. The city was not awarded the Fayette County Community Foundation grant to help fund the Fayette-Volga River recreation trail.
Police Chief Davis updated the council on a recent police call. The police are working with the city attorney's office on issuing citations for nuisance abatement. The department also just completed a volunteer project last week.
Public Works Director Hildebrand advised the council one of the water wells was repaired today.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 517. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 518. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve City Administrator McGrane to hire a company to perform asbestos testing for the two condemned homes without exceeding $4,000. All ayes, motion carried.
McGrane provided updates to the current certificate of deposits (CD's) and interest rates. McGrane did reach out to the department supervisors and they recommended the council re-invest their CD's at the higher interest rates. Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to approve the City Administrator to invest $250,000 of the RUT fund into a 9 month CD at Northeast Security Bank (NSB) at 4.6%, to re-invest Bolger CD#84 in the amount of $254,406.23 at Farmers Savings Bank in Arlington for 17 months at 4.8%, and to re-invest the following CD's at NSB at 4.6%: Flooding Sports Complex for 9 months, Bolger #81 for 9 months, Bolger #82 for 12 months, Bolger #83 for 12 months, Sewer for 12 months, Water for 9 months, Fire for 9 months, Ambulance #95 for 9 months, Ambulance #49 for 12 months and the Library for 12 months, and if any of the CD's from the departments were from donations, then the interest rate should roll back into the CD and accrue. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to acknowledge receipt of the Fayette Finance Committee meeting minutes from 3/14/23. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to acknowledge receipt of the Fayette Fire Department meeting minutes from 3/7/23 and Fayette Safety meeting minutes from 3/15/23. All ayes, motion carried.
Maggie Burger with Speer Financial, Inc. spoke to the council via telephone in reference to the receipt of bids for the General Obligation Capital Loan Notes, Series 2023. Burger provided information and explained that three bids were received earlier in the day. The three bids included: Bankers' Bank, Madison, Wisconsin - 3.4883%; D.A. Davidson & Co., Denver, Colorado - 4.3883%; and Northland Securities, Inc., Minneapolis, Minnesota - 4.3994%. Burger advised in her opinion, the bid of Bankers' Bank, Madison, Wisconsin, is the best bid and is favorable to the city and should be accepted. Burger recommended the Notes be awarded to Bankers' Bank at a price of $398,900 at a true interest rate of 3.4883%.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve Resolution 2023-18, directing the sale of $400,000 (or $398,900 per terms of offering) General Obligation Capital Loan Notes, Series 2023. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve Resolution 2023-19, approving the agreement between the city of Fayette, Iowa, and Fehr Graham Engineering to provide professional services for the Fayette Volga River multi-use trail surfacing. Roll call, Ayes - Scott, Tenney and Tucker; Nays - Post and Potratz; motion carried.
McGrane and Hildebrand advised the council to defer the monthly reimbursement for cell phone charges Resolution. No formal action was taken.
Moved Scott, seconded Tucker, to defer Resolution 2023-21, employee salaries, to the Personnel Committee for further review. All ayes, motion carried.
Chief Davis advised the current tasers were purchased about 5 years ago and he is having concerns with the current body cameras. Davis provided a quote from Axon Enterprise, Inc. for approximately $10,234.17 per year for 5 years for new, updated tasers and body cameras for all the officers. The agreement includes online data storage for all the video, which would save the officers time and make it convenient to share the video with the city and county attorneys. If we went into an agreement, there would be a wait on the body cameras, but we would not be charged until we received them. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the purchase agreement with Axon Enterprise, Inc. for new police body cameras and tasers as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve suspending the rules and extend the council meeting by the time required to complete business. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the reimbursement to Scott Luchsinger for the Sidewalk Program incentive. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve the reimbursement to Crawford Creations for the Marketing incentive for $526.13. All ayes, motion carried.
McGrane highlighted some of the items in the fiscal year 2024 (FY24) proposed budget estimate the Finance Committee is recommending. Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve directing the City Administrator to publish the Budget Estimate and setting a Public Hearing for April 17, 2023, at 6PM in the Fayette Community Library on the FY24 Budget Estimate. All ayes, motion carried.
McGrane explained the findings and recommendations that were in the fiscal year 2022 (FY22) city examination. Moved Potratz, seconded Scott, to acknowledge receipt of the FY22 city examination. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to go into closed session per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(j) to discuss the purchase or sale of particular real estate only where premature disclosure could be reasonably expected to increase the price the City would have to pay for that property or reduce the price the City would receive that property. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to open regular session. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 8:51 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
March 6, 2023
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, March 6, 2023, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Scott (joined at 6:09pm via telephone because out of town), Tenney and Tucker.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 2/20/23 and the claims list of 2/18/23-3/3/23. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Citizen Comments: Elizabeth Meyer (Fayette fire volunteer) of Fayette, expressed her concerns that she felt the city council has not tried to work together with the Fire Department and get input. Meyer advised not one council member has taken initiative or stopped to talk to the fire volunteers to communicate or to show they care. Meyer advised that the mayor had drove by and it appeared he was taken notes as the volunteers were working on the fire trucks. She felt it was suspicious and the fire volunteers feel unsupported.
Scott Bowen of Fayette advised his concerns with the new ordinance letting the mayor assign a new fire chief if the council doesn't agree with the fire department. Bowen feels the mayor or the council does not know the structure of the department or all the education required for a firefighter. Bowen believes the fire department only has one firefighter qualified to be chief and encouraged the council to vote no for the new ordinance.
Bridget Fox (Fayette fire volunteer) of Randalia advised the mayor ignored the township trustees concerns and requests that were expressed at a recent budget meeting. Fox said she has heard that there were personnel issues with Fire Chief Jason Rohde. Fox advised if there is a personnel issue with Chief Jason Rohde, there has been no documentation of the issues provided to Rohde. Fox mentioned the council indicated they wanted a meeting with the fire department but not one member has reached out to set up a meeting.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood advised the 2023 WMT Tractorcade will be in Fayette County this summer and will be traveling through the city of Fayette on June 13. Wood, Davis, Tenney and McGrane met with Upper Iowa University (UIU) representatives to discuss a new law enforcement contract between the city of Fayette and UIU. Wood, Tucker and McGrane met with the North Fayette Valley Superintendent and School Board President to discuss the future of the Fayette Elementary school.
Upon recommendation from the Fayette Fire Department to reappoint Jason Rohde as Fayette Fire Chief for 2023, moved Post, seconded Tucker, to suspend the Robert's Rules of Order rules and allow discussion prior to the vote. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried. Post asked the Fayette fire volunteers present if there were any new ways to recruit members that has been done. Bridget Fox advised they have 2 people ready to volunteer. Post asked if any more ideas for recruitment has been done. Fayette Fire Chief Jason Rohde advised he spoke to 5 people in the last year, 3 had conflicts and the other 2 are considering. Post researched recruitment ideas and shared a few, including placing yard signs throughout town, applying for a SAFER (Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response) grant, having an open house during Fire Prevention week, having a coffee with a firefighter event and utilizing social media. Fox advised they send out flyers for the annual Fire Dept. spaghetti supper fundraiser and include recruitment information. The department is also planning on having information and applications available at the supper this year. Rohde advised about 9 years ago he took a retention and recruiting class and feels recruiting college students does not help the department because they train them and then they leave for other departments. Fox advised the college students also frequently have school and sporting conflicts as well as curfews. Scott Bowen advised the current UIU student enrollment is mostly made up of student athletes that do not have the time to commit. Post advised the Fayette Ambulance Service currently has a UIU football player and UIU baseball player on the service. Post advised a public safety meeting was held about two or three years ago with this same recruitment conversation and quite a few ideas were presented but it doesn't appear that any suggestions were followed through. Tucker advised she is interested in leadership development and training and there has to be ways for someone to step up on the department if Rohde is not available. Tucker has been in a situation where she had to wait for a long time for the fire department to arrive. Susan Scott provided more suggestions including brochures to hand out at the supper fundraiser and talking to people waiting in line. There was no motion by the council to reappoint Rohde.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the N. Main Street/Old Hwy 150 project. McGrane advised grants and state/federal funding for projects like our N. Main Street project is difficult to receive. Fayette County received funding through the federal appropriation and a safety plan grant to assist them and surrounding counties with their large street project they will be completing over the next year. McGrane attended multiple meetings including the UIU law enforcement agreement meeting, Fayette Elementary school meeting, Fayette County Economic Development & Tourism Executive meeting, Tower Genius phone conference meeting, a Community Project Funding webinar, and an Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act webinar. McGrane assisted Tucker with the BOOST program application and Tucker submitted it by the due date.
Public Works Director Hildebrand advised the council the paperwork for the wells was submitted and we are waiting for the Iowa DNR to continue with the process.
This being the time and place posted for a public hearing on the authorization of a Loan Agreement and the issuance of Notes to evidence the obligation of the City thereunder, not to exceed $500,000 General Obligation Capital Loan Notes, Mayor Wood opened the hearing and asked for comments. There being no comments, Wood closed the hearing.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve Resolution 2023-15, instituting proceedings to take additional action for the issuance of not to exceed $500,000 General Obligation Capital Loan Notes. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve Resolution 2023-16, approving electronic bidding procedures and Distribution of Preliminary Official Statement for $400,000 General Obligation Capital Loan Notes, Series 2023, for ten years. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tenney, to approve the second reading of Ordinance 517, amending Chapter 35, Fire Department, Section 6. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve the second reading of Ordinance 518, amending Chapter 36, Ambulance Service, Section 3. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Andrew Wenthe with UIU provided a letter to the city indicating the UIU Board of Trustees will need to deed over the property to the city, so the trail to Volga Recreation area can be completed. Fayette County Conservation Director Rod Marlatt provided a Resolution from the Fayette County Board of Supervisors dated 11-22-2010 supporting the recreational trail from Fayette to Volga River Recreation Area and meeting minutes from the Fayette County Conservation Board dated 12-1-2010 supporting the Resolution from the Fayette County Board of Supervisors. Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve getting bids for completing the trail with an 8 foot wide concrete or asphalt surfacing. Roll call, Ayes - Potratz, Scott, Tenney and Tucker, Nay - Post, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve Resolution 2023-17, accepting the agreement between the city of Fayette, Iowa, and Fehr Graham Engineering and Environmental to provide professional services for the Liquid Chlorination permit application for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve endorsing the Turkey River Safari project by approving a site for the 2023 Safari scavenger hunt include the Fayette Trail located at the Open Air Market park. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve removing Patricia Potratz and adding Nathan Post to all the city of Fayette bank accounts and safe deposit box. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to approve requiring two city employees and/or city officials that are named on the city bank accounts be present and sign the withdrawal slip for all cash withdrawals from any of the city bank accounts. All ayes, motion carried.
McGrane provided an updated list of all the city's certificate of deposits (CD's) as well as some area financial institutions CD interest rates. McGrane recommends the council review them and at the next council meeting decide if they would like to take out the CD's and reinvest in new CD's with higher interest rates. No formal action was taken.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 7:32 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
February 20, 2023
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, February 20, 2023, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Scott, Tenney, and Tucker.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, approve the regular meeting minutes of 2/6/23 with the amendment of correcting the date in the first paragraph to Monday, February 6, 2023. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tenney, to approve the claims list of 2/4/23-2/17/23. All ayes, motion carried.
Citizen Comments: Jason Rohde (Fayette Fire Chief) of Randalia, inquired why the recommendation by the Fayette Fire Department for the appointment of the Fayette Fire Chief was not on the current city council agenda. McGrane advised the Fayette Fire Department meeting minutes with the recommendation were dropped off at city hall past the deadline for the city council agenda. McGrane explained sometimes he is able to get meeting minutes added to the council agendas if they come in late.
Scott Bowen of Fayette advised the council the recommendation for the Fayette Fire Chief should be automatically placed under old business on the city council agenda.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood informed the council he spoke with Jeff Bradley about his vacant commercial building in downtown Fayette and the possibility of getting a dentist in there. Wood has researched some incentives for dentists and would like to work on getting a possible incentive drafted for Fayette.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the budget and that SF 181 passed the House and the Governor should be signing it soon. This legislation will alter the residential rollback for the budget we are working on, fiscal year 2024. This will also extend the city budget certification date to 4/30/23 because we will need to wait for updated property valuations from the county auditor. McGrane recommended postponing the Finance Committee meeting scheduled for 2/21/23 until a later date due to this delay. McGrane advised he has not had any recent interest in the new Homes for Iowa home and explained the process for awarding the sidewalk and marketing incentives.
Public Works Director Hildebrand explained that one of the city wells has been down and he made repairs on the other well. Hildebrand advised he is moving forward with transitioning over to liquid chlorine versus gas sooner than planned because of the repairs that are needed.
This being the time and place posted for a public hearing on the proposed contract documents and estimated costs for improvement of reconstruction of a portion of the North Main Street (Old Highway 150 North) and grading of shoulders, Mayor Wood opened the hearing and asked for comments. Jon Biederman, Senior Project Manager with Fehr Graham Engineering and Environmental, advised on February 16, 2023, five (5) bids were opened and read and prices for both alternatives were excellent. The opinion of probable cost and bid totals were as follows (Base Bid = BB; Alternate 1 is for PCC = Alt1; Alternate 2 is for Asphalt = Alt2): Engineer's Estimate $941,002 (BB+Alt1), $1,020,608 (BB+Alt2); Wicks Construction, Inc. $710,035.75 (BB+Alt1), no bid for BB+Alt2; Rock N Load/Upper Iowa Erosion Control $733,445.75 (BB+Alt1), $722,273.75 (BB+Alt2); Bacon Concrete LLC $767,655 (BB+Alt1), $835,021.75 (BB+Alt2); Skyline Construction, Inc. $909,075.81 (BB+Alt1), $855,329.26 (BB+Alt2); Tschiggfrie Exc. Co. $960,413.86 (BB+Alt1), $898,243.86 (BB+Alt2). Fehr Graham recommended the city award the Base Bid and Alternate 1 (PCC) to the low bid, Wick's Construction Inc. of Decorah, Iowa. There being no further comments, Wood closed the hearing.
Moved Post, seconded Potratz, to approve Resolution 2023-10, making award of contract for the North Main Street (Old Highway 150 North) improvements project to Wick's Construction of Decorah, Iowa. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
This being the time and place posted for a public hearing on the fiscal year 2024 proposed property tax levy, Mayor Wood opened the hearing and asked for comments. McGrane explained the purpose for the proposed tax levy. There being no further comments, Wood closed the hearing.
Moved Scott, seconded Tenney, to approve Resolution 2023-11, adopting the proposed property tax levy for fiscal year 2024. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve the receipt of the Finance Committee meeting minutes from 2/7/23 and 2/13/23. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to accept the receipt of the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 12/14/22 and 1/11/23, the Fayette Fire Department meeting minutes from 2/14/23 and the Fayette Safety Committee meeting minutes from 2/15/23. All ayes, motion carried.
Jon Biederman provided a spreadsheet with a list of signs needing replaced or added to the recreation trails throughout the city of Fayette and out to the Volga State Recreation park. Tucker advised she may have some Upper Iowa University (UIU) students interested in assisting with installing the signs in April. The council discussed if the city should move forward with completing the paved portion of the trail or not. McGrane provided a few financial options to fund the project using local option sales tax and hotel/motel tax revenue. The engineer's preliminary opinion of costs to complete the trail range between approximately $245,652.72 and $371,649.53, depending on the width of the trail and by using asphalt instead of concrete. Tucker also applied for a grant to help fund the project and we will find out in March if we are awarded funds. The council would like to wait until UIU confirms they are able to transfer the land over to the city before moving forward. Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve purchasing the suggested trail signs in the amount not to exceed $2500 plus shipping and handling. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tenney, to approve the first reading of Ordinance 517, amending Chapter 35, Fire Department, Section 6. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve the first reading of Ordinance 518, amending Chapter 36, Ambulance Service, Section 3. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
McGrane advised even though the cost of the N. Main Street improvements project came in less than originally estimated, he left the not to exceed loan amount at $500,000. McGrane explained that means the council may borrow any amount up to $500,000. Hildebrand recommended the council only finance about half of the total project, as originally planned, to keep some funds available for future expenses and projects. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve Resolution 2023-12, fixing date for a meeting on the proposition to authorize a Loan Agreement and the issuance of Notes to evidence the obligations of the City thereunder. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve Resolution 2023-13, accepting the cell tower lease review and consulting services agreement between the city of Fayette, Iowa, and Tower Genius LLC. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
McGrane advised he was anticipating on presenting the third amendment to the real estate lease agreement to the council but the contract is still being reviewed. Moved Post, seconded Scott, to table Resolution 2023-14, accepting the third amendment to real estate lease agreement between the city of Fayette, Iowa, and Alltel Corporation D/B/A Verizon Wireless, until the contract is completely reviewed. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 7:40 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
February 6, 2023
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, January 16, 2023, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Scott (arrived at 6:01 pm), and Tucker; Absent - Tenney.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 1/16/23, the special council meeting minutes of 1/30/23 and the claims list of 1/14/23-2/3/23. All ayes, motion carried.
Citizen Comments: Jason Rohde (Fayette Fire Chief) of Randalia, commented in response to the fire department staffing numbers that was mentioned in the last "From the Mayor's Desk" communication that was sent out, Rohde shared some facts that he had looked up. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, there are 1.1 million firefighters in the United States, which includes full-time, volunteer, paid volunteers, and support staff. This equates to 0.4% of the population. For the 2027 population, it would calculate out to 5 Fayette firefighters for the size of our town. The AFPA chart that Rohde found showed the number of volunteers per thousand residents: 1986 it was 8 per thousand and in 2020 it has dropped to 5.5 per thousand. With the population of Fayette, that would equal 6 members. Rohde advised 50% of the firefighters in the country are between the ages of 30 and 49. According to the 2000 census the population of Fayette between the age group of 25 to 44 years old was 18.6%. In 2010 that percentage dropped to 12.7% with the population of Fayette going out. Rohde advised he was unable to find the 2020 statistics. Since Rohde's ten years as Fayette Fire Chief there has been 6 members that have left the fire department that still reside in this area. Three members left due to age and physical limitations, two left because of work requirements and one was removed due to an issue with alcohol. The most important number Rohde mentioned was zero (0), that is the number of calls that the Fayette fire department has failed to respond to in the last ten years.
Randy Streeter of Fayette commented that the Fayette Fire Chief has been really good in this area. He knows his trucks if there is a breakdown then he knows how to repair them. If he is unable to then he researches to find the problem and gets them repaired. He knows the area very well, so if the firefighters have problems finding the area, he will tell them what roads to take to get there the fastest. He has been a really good chief.
Council member Scott wanted to follow up with some statistical data that she has found. Fayette has about 23 volunteers on the ambulance crew. Scott believes that the Iowa Fire Department Census (IFDC) showed it was updated as of January 3, 2023, and she was unsure how accurate the information was. According to the IFDC, supposedly the following cities had these number of fire department members: Hawkeye-19, West Union-29, Sumner-30, Arlington-18, Postville-25, Elgin-22, Clermont-24, Strawberry Point-26, Fredericksburg-24, Tripoli-24, Hazleton-18, Maynard-23, and Fayette was reporting 16, so that is why she is unsure how updated the information is. Hawkeye has about half the population Fayette has, as well as Elgin and Arlington, and Fredericksburg, Hazleton and Maynard have a smaller population than Fayette.
Jason Rohde of Randalia followed up with Scott's comments by indicating some of the cities Scott mentioned have their fire and emergency medical service (EMS) departments together and they are not separate departments like the city of Fayette.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood advised that he sent a written report to the council members. Wood received a request from Fayette County Supervisor Lehman to meet with him to communicate more about the proposed Fayette County Dispatch Contract. Wood plans on meeting with Lehman in the near future.
Upon Mayor Wood’s request, moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve appointing Arielle Engler and Samantha Streeter to the Fayette Ambulance Service. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that the next regular council meeting will be on Monday, February 20, 2023, at 6PM, instead of Tuesday, February 21, 2023. McGrane updated the council on the Old HWY 150/N. Main Street project. McGrane commented that 1099's and W2's went out by the due date and that he attended multiple meetings over the last few weeks including a meeting with our local legislators to discuss priorities of the Fayette County Economic Development & Tourism board. The solar panels at the well were turned on and are operational. Fayette City Hall and the Library will be closed on Monday, February 20 for Presidents Day. McGrane also discussed some options on providing online access to city Resolutions for the council members.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 516, amending chapter 55, Animal Protection and Control, section 16. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
McGrane provided information he received from the cities of Oelwein and Conrad on how they handled demolitions of condemned properties. Oelwein has recently utilized an engineer to assist with the bid process. Fehr Graham would be available to assist the city. McGrane will gather more information on how the city addresses asbestos for the condemned properties and report back to the council. No formal action was taken.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to accept the Personnel Committee meeting minutes of 1/26/23, Finance Committee meeting minutes of 1/30/23 and Finance Committee meeting minutes of 2/2/23. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tucker, to acknowledge the receipt of the Fayette Tree Board 2023 Comprehensive Tree Plan Draft, Fayette Ambulance Service meeting minutes of 1/4/23 and Fayette Ambulance Service meeting minutes of 2/1/23. All ayes, motion carried.
McGrane had provided a draft of Ordinance 517, amending chapter 35, Fire Department, section 6, that was recommended by the city attorney and mayor. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to send draft Ordinance 517 to the Fayette Fire Department to review and provide feedback to the city council. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve Resolution 2023-05, establishing city employee salaries, effective February 5, 2023. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve Resolution 2023-06, accepting and authorizing the donation from the Minnie Miller Trust monies designated for the Fayette Ambulance Service. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve Resolution 2023-07, revising and updating the job descriptions and titles for the Assistant Public Works Director and City Maintenance Worker. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve Resolution 2023-08, amending the city personnel policy, section 1 Organization Chart/Chain of Command, section 2.3 Compensatory Time and Section 2.19a Residency Requirement. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Potratz, to approve Resolution 2023-09, authorizing the mayor and city administrator to deliver to the Fayette County Commissioner of Elections a request to submit the question of changing the Fayette mayor terms from a two (2) year term to a four (4) year term to the qualified electors of the city of Fayette, Iowa, on the November 7, 2023, ballot. Roll call, aye - Post, Potratz and Tucker, nay - Scott, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to hire a consultant to review the police department and any other departments as necessary and to have the city attorney and council member Nathan Post be the point of contact for the consultant. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to set a public hearing for Monday, February 20, 2023, at 6PM on the proposed contract documents and estimated costs for improvement of reconstruction of a portion of North Main Street and grading of shoulders. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Potratz, to set a public hearing for Monday, February 20, 2023, at 6PM on the fiscal year 2024 proposed property tax levy. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 7:44 pm.
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
January 30, 2023
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, January 30, 2023, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding.
Roll call: Present – Council members Post, Potratz, Scott, Tenney and Tucker.
Moved Scott, seconded Potratz, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to go into closed session pursuant to Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(c) to discuss strategy with counsel in matters that are presently in litigation or where litigation is imminent where its disclosure would be likely to prejudice or disadvantage the position of the governmental body in that litigation. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tenney, to open special session. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to direct city attorney Dillon to move forward with the proposed agreement and bring back a final settlement document to the city council. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to adjourn the meeting at 6:46 pm. All ayes, motion carried.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
January 16, 2023
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, January 16, 2023, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Scott, Tenney and Tucker.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 1/3/23 and the claims list of 12/31/22-1/13/23. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Scott, seconded Post, to suspend the Robert's Rules of Order rules and allow a comment to be made prior to the vote. Wood advised this motion requires a two-thirds (2/3) affirmative majority vote. All members voted aye, the motion was carried. Scott advised the city council wants to address a rumor that some of the members have heard and that is the council is not closing the Fayette Fire Department. The council has no interest in losing our fire department and would like to see our fire department grow. There is a concern about low volunteer numbers and the lack of growth on the department.
Upon recommendation from the Fayette Fire Department to reappoint Jason Rohde as Fayette Fire Chief for 2023, there was no motion by the council to reappoint Rohde.
Upon Mayor Wood’s request, moved Scott, seconded Potratz, to approve appointing Patrick Doran to the Fayette Parks and Recreation Board for a 3-year term ending 2/1/2026. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council the updated timeline for the N. Main Street reconstruction project and that an informational meeting was held on 1/12/23 for residents along the project. McGrane advised the Fayette Ambulance Service received a donation of $348,344.20 from the Minnie Lee Miller Unified Credit Trust and per the city auditor and city attorney's request, the donation was deposited into the city's account and earmarked for the Fayette Ambulance Service. A "For Sale" sign is now up at the Homes for Iowa house. The solar panels at the library, city hall, fire department and pre-treatment plant have been turned on.
Police Chief Davis advised the council that he should have the 2022 annual report at the next council meeting.
Public Works Director Hildebrand informed the council that Municipal Pipe and Tool will be in town this week jet cleaning some of the sewer lines.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve the second reading of Ordinance 516, amending Fayette City Code Chapter 55, Animal Protection and Control, Section 16. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to approve the receipt of the Fayette Ambulance Service meeting minutes from 11/2/22 and 12/6/22 and the Fayette Fire Department meeting minutes from 1/3/23. All ayes, motion carried.
The Fayette Fire Department's constitution and by-laws with suggested changes were presented to the council for the council to start reviewing. The council was encouraged to send McGrane suggested edits for him to gather and provide at a future meeting as well as have the city attorney review. No formal action was taken.
Wood updated the council on the status of the two condemned properties in Fayette. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve seeking bids for the demolition of the two condemned properties in Fayette. All ayes, motion carried.
The Fayette County Economic Development and Tourism Director Mallory Hanson reached out to McGrane and shared information about the Iowa Economic Development Authority Rural BOOST Program. Tucker briefly updated the council on the program. Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve having Tucker apply for the Iowa Economic Development Rural Boost Program. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tenney, to approve setting the letting date for February 16, 2023, for the North Main Street Reconstruction Project. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 6:38 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
January 3, 2023
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Tuesday, January 3, 2023, at 6:04 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Scott, Tenney (via telephone due to a family emergency) and Tucker. Absent - Potratz.
Moved Post, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 12/19/22, the claims list of 12/17/22-12/30/22 and the July 2022 and August 2022 financial reports Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of July 31, 2022: Total July Receipts: $109,316.43 (General $25,902.74; 9 S. Main $600; Streets $13,626.20; Employee Benefits $2,248.69; LOST $10,794.03; Revolving Loan $234.10; Bolger $69.75; Library Fund $25.73; Debt $479.90; Water $22,393.26; Water T&A $1,350; Sewer $26,819.17; Water/Sewer Capital $4,182.86; Storm Water $590). Total July Disbursements: $178,744.69 (General $83,774.91; Streets $11,832.51; Employee Benefits $24,832.21; Bolger $1,158.09; Library Fund $964.95; Homes for Iowa $3,000; Water $21,301.05; Water T&A $865; Sewer $31,015.97). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,138,866.28.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of August 31, 2022: Total August Receipts: $317,289.12 (General $32,173.13; Streets $13,151.80; Employee Benefits $305.93; LOST $9,599.75; Hotel/Motel $20,031.42; CDBG Grant $78,034; Revolving Loan $238.22; Bolger $41.07; Library Fund $47.14; Debt $10.56; American Rescue $107,731.28; Water $24,033.06; Water T&A $2,250; Sewer $24,765.85; Water/Sewer Capital $4,273.91; Storm Water $602). Total August Disbursements: $189,440.81 (General $40,442.97; 9 S. Main $556; Streets $6,761.19; Employee Benefits $7,272.06; Bolger $89,700; Library Fund $964.95; Homes for Iowa $14,870.56; Water $12,026.43; Water T&A $900; Sewer $15,946.65). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,267,212.74.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to amend the agenda by switching the order by rearranging 8A, discussion and consideration on completing the multi-use recreation trail to Volga Recreation Area, with 8B, discussion and consideration in accepting the third amendment to real estate lease agreement with the cell tower site, and approve the agenda as amended. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood informed the council he spoke with City Attorney Dillon regarding the 2 condemned properties (on E. Water St. and W. Clark St.). Dillon will be reaching out to the property owners and continuing the process on the homes. Wood has also communicated with Police Chief Davis to address nuisance abatement properties in town.
Upon Mayor Wood’s request, moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve the following council committee appointments and representatives: Finance - Scott (Chair), Post, Tenney; Personnel - Post (Chair), Potratz, Tucker; Public Safety - Tenney (Chair), Post, Scott; Public Works - Potratz (Chair), Scott, Tucker; Economic Development - Tucker (Chair), Potratz, Tenney; Mayor Pro-Tem - Nathan Post; Fayette County E-911 Board Representatives - Benjamin Davis (Primary), Kris McGrane (Alternate); Fayette County Emergency Management Representatives - Mayor Wood (Primary), Patricia Potratz (Alternate). All ayes, motion carried.
Upon recommendation from the Fayette Fire Department to reappoint Jason Rohde as Fayette Fire Chief for 2023, there was no motion by the council to reappoint Rohde. Wood informed the council that according to the Fayette Fire Department Constitution and By-Laws, Article IV, Election of Officers, Section 4, states "Upon refusal of the governing body to appoint the chief recommended by the fire department, the office shall be declared vacant and another election on the next regular meeting night will be held. In this event, the previous chief or his assistant shall hold office until an appointment has been made."
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the city solar panel project indicating some of the panels should be turned on very soon. McGrane advised the city will be holding an information meeting on Thursday, 1/12/23, at 6PM for residents/property owners along Old HWY 150/N. Main St. to inform them about the street reconstructing project. McGrane also provided an estimated timeline for the project prepared by Fehr Graham Engineering. McGrane met with Jon Biederman with Fehr Graham on 12/21 to discuss the trail, Old HWY 150/N. Main St. and sewer lining projects. The Fayette Fire Department included a list of responses from 6/22/22-12/20/22.
Police Chief Davis advised the council about 277 toys were donated from citizens for the 5th annual Toy Drive. The toys were provided to Riverview Center and Helping Services for Youth & Families for them to provide to children in our area that were affected by domestic/sexual assault.
Wood and McGrane updated the council on the real estate lease agreement negotiations with the cell tower site. An amendment was presented but McGrane advised it did not include the correct information that was negotiated, so they will continue to negotiate. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to utilize Tower Genius with their "Advanced Option" to provide further guidance and review the contract once it is drafted by the cell tower site. All ayes, motion carried.
Jon Biederman was present to discuss the preliminary opinion of probable costs to complete the Fayette-Volga River Multi-Use Trail Surfacing project. The preliminary costs ranged from approximately $248,103 to $355,518, depending on a variety of options, such as using HMA (asphalt) or PCC (concrete) and paving an 8-foot wide or 10-foot wide trail. Tucker submitted an application for the Fayette County Community Foundation Grant in hopes to receive up to $10,000 for the project. Other donations and grants are currently being sought after to help fund the project. After discussion, it was the consensus of the council to continue to move forward with researching the project costs and funding to complete the trail. No formal action was taken.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to accept the Fayette Fire Department meeting minutes from 12/6/22. All ayes, motion carried.
Public Works Director Adam Hildebrand informed the council that the city's snowplow will need replaced soon and if the city orders a new one before March 2023, we could save approximately $20,000 due to cost increases. If we order the new snowplow now, the city would probably not receive it until sometime in 2024. McGrane provided financials for the Street/Road Use Tax fund and future estimated revenues. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the purchase of a 2023 Ford F-750 Snowplow and Sander from Don's Truck Sales in the amount up to $157,360. All ayes, motion carried.
Chief Davis advised the council he had the City Attorney assist him in updating the Fayette City Code, Chapter 55, Animal Protection and Control, Section 16, to include more items such as allowing the police to transport animals to a veterinarian or boarding facility and requiring proof of vaccination records prior to releasing animals. Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve the first reading of Ordinance 516, amending Fayette City Code Chapter 55, Animal Protection and Control, Section 16. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Scott, seconded Tucker, to continue the regular council meeting until all agenda items are concluded since we are past the 2 hour time limit. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Scott, to approve Resolution 2023-01, supporting naming the stretch of Highway 150 from West Union to Vinton "Sergeant Jim Smith Memorial Highway". Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve Resolution 2023-02, adopting the new home and new commercial construction incentive program from January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2023. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve Resolution 2023-03, adopting a commercial business marketing incentive from January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2023. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 8:31 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
December 19, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, December 19, 2022, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Scott (arrived at 6:01), Tenney and Tucker.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 12/5/22, the claims list of 12/3/22-12/16/22 and the Iowa Retail Permit Application for Cigarette/Tobacco/Nicotine/Vapor for The Pumper. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood advised the council that he would like to work on changing the terms of the Mayor from 2 years to 4 years. The process is similar to changing the city council terms like the council had recently done. Wood found out that the citizen petition to change the terms must have a minimum of approximately 22 Fayette citizen names on the petition. Wood provided an update on the cell tower contract negotiations that McGrane and him have been working on. Wood believes we are finished with negotiations and the council should see a contract early next year. Wood would also like the council to start considering an increase to the compensation for city council members.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane provided a Bond Issuance timeline draft for the Old HWY 150/N. Main St. project. NEIA Community Action will help the city promote the new Homes for Iowa home that is for sale. McGrane spoke with Fayette County Conservation Director Rod Marlatt and he would like to see the recreational trail to Volga completed, as well. Fayette city hall and the library will be closed on Monday, 12/26/22, Tuesday, 12/27/22 and Monday, 1/2/23, for the holidays. The next regular council meeting will be on Tuesday, 1/3/23.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve Resolution 2022-46, adopting a contract for services between the city of Fayette, Iowa, and Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission requesting assistance in administering the city of Fayette's Revolving Loan Fund. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Potratz, to accept the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 8/10/22, 9/14/22, 10/12/22 and 11/9/22. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve Resolution 2022-47, updating Resolution 2005-13 setting spending limits for city employees for budgeted and non-budgeted items. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 6:54 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
December 5, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, December 5, 2022, at 6:03 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Scott, Tenney and Tucker. Absent - Post and Potratz.
Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 11/21/22 and the claims list of 11/19/22-12/2/22. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood advised the council he met with North Fayette Valley (NFV) School Superintendent Joe Griffith to gather more information about the possibility of closing the Fayette Elementary School. Wood attended the public comment meeting by the NFV school board in West Union on 11/30/22. The next NFV public comment meeting will be this Wednesday, 12/7/22, in Fayette and encouraged the council members to attend.
Upon recommendation from Mayor Wood, moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to appoint Adam Hildebrand to the Fayette Parks and Recreation Board and the Fayette Tree Board as the ex officio member. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the solar panel project. City hall, the water tower, the water well and fire station all passed inspection and the Certificate of Completion will be submitted to Alliant Energy and they have up to 31 business days to give approval to turn on the solar array. The pre-treatment plant and library are waiting for an inverter to come in before the can complete that part of the project. City hall and the library will be closed for the holidays on 12/26/22, 12/27/22 and 1/2/23.
Police Chief Davis was not present; however, he provided a written update to the Mayor to pass along to the council to help promote the Fayette P.D. toy drive.
Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to approve Resolution 2022-37, adopting the rules of procedure governing the conduct of business of the city council. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to continue to move forward with taking out a GO Loan for $500,000 over 13 years for the N. Main Street project. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to acknowledge receipt of the Fayette County Economic Development and Tourism Annual Report and the Fayette Tree Board meeting minutes from 8/15/22 & 9/19/22. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to approve hiring Dylan Larson as a full-time Public Works Technician at an hourly wage of $20.5264. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve hiring Leslie Scott Luchsinger as a part-time, seasonal Public Works employee at an hourly wage of $18.00. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve purchasing a 2022 Ford F150 from Wilbur Ford Sales in the amount of $31,200 out of the Streets, Water and Sewer funds. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve moving forward using the American Rescue Plan Act funds on a CIPP lining project. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the General and Technical Administration services from Simmering Cory & Iowa Codification in the amount of $12,081 for the CDBG Rehabilitation Project. All ayes, motion carried.
Discussion on Resolution 2022-46, adopting a contract for services between the city of Fayette, Iowa and Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission requesting assistance in administering the city of Fayette's Revolving Loan Fund. No formal action was taken.
Discussion on the North Fayette Valley School District discussions on continuing the use of the Fayette Elementary School. No formal action was taken.
Discussion on completing the recreation trail to Volga Recreation Area. No formal action was taken.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 8:03 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
November 21, 2022
Prior to this meeting, at 5:05 pm, the council held a work session to discuss Resolution 2022-37, adopting the rules of procedure governing the conduct of business of the city council, and to discuss other regular council meeting agenda items. The work session adjourned at 5:55 pm.
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, November 21, 2022, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Scott, Post and Potratz. Absent - Tenney and Tucker.
Moved Potratz, seconded Scott, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 11/7/22, claims list of 11/5/22-11/18/22, renewal of the Class C Retail Alcohol License for Down Town Lounge, approval of the Annual Financial Report for Fiscal Year 2022 and approval of the Street Financial Report for Fiscal Year 2022. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Potratz, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood updated the council on correspondence he had received.
Moved Potratz, seconded Scott, to reappoint David Runyon and Janette Garcia to the Fayette Tree Board for 3-year terms expiring on 12/31/2025. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that the open house on the Homes for Iowa (HFI) home on 11/10 went very well. Information on the home is on the city's website and social media for anyone interested in purchasing the home. Eagle Point Solar has been working on the electrical for the solar panels. McGrane worked with the accounting software company to address corrections before he completed the Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Annual Finance Report, the FY 2022 Street Financial Report and the FY 2022 Annual Urban Renewal Report. McGrane attended the Library Board meeting on 11/9 and the Iowa League of Cities Budget Workshop on 11/15.
Police Chief Davis advised the council that the annual Fayette P.D. toy drive has started.
Moved Post, seconded Scott, to approve reimbursing Roland and Magda Vazquez for actual costs of replacing plants in the amount not to exceed $145 out of the Water Street Improvement Fund after the plants are replaced and receipts are turned in to City Hall. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve Resolution 2022-36, adopting Council and Mayor Communications with City Staff and Employees. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There was no discussion on Resolution 2022-37 because the council would like to see the updated draft at the next meeting. No formal action was taken.
The council discussed how to finance the N. Main Street Improvements project. McGrane will work with Maggie Burger and provide updated spreadsheets for the next meeting. No formal action was taken.
Moved Post, seconded Potratz, to approve carrying over 8.6 hours of Adam Hildebrand's vacation time from November into December 2022. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Scott, seconded Post, to approve purchasing an AV20D Root Grapple and accessories from P&K Midwest, not to exceed a total of $6,000, out of the Street Fund. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Scott, to approve the final payment of $12,600 to Heartland Asphalt, Inc. for the Water Street Improvements project. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Scott, seconded Potratz, to approve and adopt the Annual Urban Renewal Report for Fiscal Year 2022. All ayes, motion carried.
The council discussed Resolution 2022-44, adopting a Slip-Resistant Footwear Policy as part of the General Safety Manual. After discussion, the council decided to wait and possibly discuss the Resolution in the future after more information about the slip-resistant footwear. No formal action was taken.
The council discussed purchasing slip-resistant footwear for employees and applying for the IMWCA Safety Study Grant. After discussion, the council recommended purchasing a few pairs of the footwear to make sure they are beneficial. No formal action was taken.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve Resolution 2022-45, approving an agreement for Professional Services and Scope of Services with Fehr Graham Engineering for scanning old city plans and maps. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 7:06 pm.
