REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
June 7, 2021
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, June 7, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at 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 6:02), Tenney (via telephone), Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 5/17/21, the claims list of 5/16/21 - 5/28/21, correspondence and approval to renew the Class C Liquor License with catering privilege & Sunday sales for Upper Iowa University/Aramark. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Potratz, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request and the recommendation of the Fayette Ambulance Service, moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to appoint Joel Koehn to the Fayette Ambulance Service. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request, moved Potratz, seconded Post, to reappoint Susan Scott to the Fayette Recreation Board for a 3-year term. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane was not at the meeting but provided a written report that included information about the Iowa Legislation passing a bill to phase out the backfill. Fayette will be an 8-year phase out. Legislation also implemented a tax credit for persons over 70 and who earn less than 250% of the federal poverty level which will result in fewer tax dollars for cities. McGrane advised he met with a representative with Rural Development/US Department of Agriculture (RD/USDA) and Upper Explorerland to discuss the Revolving Loan Fund Grant (RLF) that will expire on 6/12/21. It was recommended by the RD/USDA that McGrane submit a written request to ask for another one-year extension of the grant, so he did. Brian Stepp will take the Stepp Watermelon sculpture that was donated to the city from the previous Fayette Tourism board with a $10 donation.
Police Chief Davis informed the council that the Fayette police department will be conducting a special enforcement June 9-12, 2021. Fayette will be joining Iowa's statewide Traffic Fatality Reduction Task Force in an effort to reduce deaths on Iowa roadways. Davis updated the council on a nuisance abatement issue. City of Fayette was awarded the Governor Traffic Safety Bureau grant of $8,000.00 for traffic related equipment.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to discuss Ordinance 513, third and final reading. Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 513, amending Chapter 63, Speed Regulations, to the Fayette City Code by changing section 1.7, Failure to Timely Pay or Appeal. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and approve the Fayette Ambulance Service meeting minutes from 10/7/2020, 12/2/2020, 2/3/2021, 3/3/2021 and 4/7/2021. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and approve the Fayette Board of Adjustment meeting minutes from 5/24/2021. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to discuss and approve Partial Pay Estimate Number 1 to Dave's Home Improvement for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 500 W. Clark Street in the amount of $7,650. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve Partial Pay Estimate Number 1 to Dave's Home Improvement for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 500 W. Clark Street in the amount of $7,650.
There being no further business, moved Wulfekuhle, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:20 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
May 17, 2021
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, May 17, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library and via conference call/online 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 able to attend the meeting in person or via conference call/online 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 Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 5/3/21, the claims list of 5/1/21 - 5/15/21, correspondence and the April 2021 financial reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of April 30, 2021: Total April Receipts: $237,039.70 (General $77,340.51; Streets $36,431.46; Employee Benefits $36,469.46; Local Option Sales Tax $7,988.25; TIF $15,195.60; Revolving Loan $231.44; Bolger $4,950.15; Library Fund $7.89; Water $22,410.93; Water T&A $300; Sewer $30,778.30; Water/Sewer Capital $4,382.87; Storm Water $552.84). Total April Disbursements: $119,769.60 (General $51,862.75; 9 S. Main $101.78; Streets $8,299.18; Employee Benefits $8,470.93; TIF LMI $1,500; CDBG $1,824.38; Revolving Loan $53.59; Bolger $126.69; Water Street Project $10,620.34; Water $14,360.83; Water T&A $98.42; Sewer $22,450.71). Transfers in: FY17 Water Impr Project $25,000; Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Water $25,000; Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,859,669.97.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised we had the first supervisor meeting on 5/10/21. McGrane and Wenthe met with Eagle Point Solar to continue to gather information to present to the city council about installing solar panels. The Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation training was held on 5/12/21. A recording was made of the training to show other employees and volunteers who were unable to attend.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request, moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to reappoint John Winke to the Fayette Community Library Board to finish out the term of James Tenney. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request and the recommendation of the Fayette Ambulance Service, moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to appoint ZiYuam Li Clil and Barry Koehn to the Fayette Ambulance Service. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane included nomination paperwork for the up-coming election. McGrane placed the forms and information about the election on the city's website. McGrane advised the contractors ran into a lot of rock when digging for the new sanitary sewer line on W. Water Street. There will be additional costs as they will need to purchase more fill. McGrane assisted the Community Garden with purchasing a new recycled plastic community bulletin board for the Community Garden. Alexis, the city's marketing intern, completed his internship. He was able to design a handful of graphics/pictures for social media, designed a flyer to market 9 S. Main Street office space, designed a flyer for city incentives for new businesses and as well as other things. McGrane will soon start the process of converting to our new online payment company. City hall and the library will be closed on Monday, May 31 for Memorial Day.
Police Chief Davis informed the council that Officer Josh Barker graduates from the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy on Friday, May 21. The new body cameras are operational now and Davis donated the old body cameras to another police department. The department started the summer ordinance sweeps around town and have placed door hangers for residents not home.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss and consider moving the watermelon sculpture or selling the sculpture to Brian Stepp for $100. McGrane had advised last year Brain Stepp inquired about purchasing the sculpture from the city however the council decided to keep it and move it to the Fayette Community Garden. After evaluating the sculpture more closely, it is made of fiber glass and has aged quite a bit. McGrane advised there is concern that if it's moved it could easily be broken if anyone would sit on it or messes with it too much. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to donate the Stepp watermelon sculpture to Brian Stepp for $10. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss discuss Ordinance 513, second reading. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve the second reading of Ordinance 513, amending Chapter 63, Speed Regulations, to the Fayette City Code by changing section 1.7, Failure to Timely Pay or Appeal. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider requesting that the imposition of a local sales and service tax be put on the November 2, 2021 ballot. McGrane had done a little research to provide some options of what the local option sales tax (L.O.S.T.) could be used for and recommended the council choose 100% to be used for any lawful purpose, for community betterment or for property tax relief. This would give the future councils more flexibility on how to spend the money as future projects and expenses arise. The council also recommended McGrane draft a Resolution for placing the hotel/motel tax and staggered city council terms on the November 2, 2021 ballot for the citizens to vote on. McGrane will research and draft the ordinances and present them at a future council meeting.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to discuss and consider can donations. McGrane provided a list of options and schedule on where the Fayette can donations could go, including April-Main Street Matters, May-Community Garden, June-Watermelon Days, July-Fire Department, August-Ambulance and September-Police. Council members also suggested a month for holiday decorations, the food shelf, the library and recreation. McGrane will reach out to Jim Opperman with the suggestions.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to discuss and approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 4/14/21 and 5/12/21, the Fayette Tree Board meeting minutes from 5/12/21 and the Fayette County Economic Development and Tourism letter from May of 2021. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to discuss and consider accepting the rental agreement between the City of Fayette and The Visual Element to lease 9 S. Main Street. Amanda Pasket was present to briefly explain her business. Pasket is hoping to move in as soon as possible. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve accepting the rental agreement between the city of Fayette and The Visual Element to lease 9 S. Main Street. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Potratz, to go into closed session per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(c). Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to open regular session. Roll call, all ayes, motions carried. No action was taken.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:07 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
May 3, 2021
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, May 3, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library and via conference call/online 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 able to attend the meeting in person or via conference call/online 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 (via telephone), Tenney and Tucker. Absent - Wulfekuhle.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 4/19/21, the claims list of 4/17/21 - 4/30/21 and the March 2021 financial reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of March 31, 2021: Total March Receipts: $133,453.14 (General $24,925.26; Streets $6,261.26; Employee Benefits $2,373.66; Local Option Sales Tax $15,976.46; TIF $14,549.72; Revolving Loan $231.93; Bolger $4,848.10; Library Fund $181; Water $23,702.26; Water T&A $600; Sewer $34,478.96; Water/Sewer Capital $4,695.53; Storm Water $629). Total March Disbursements: $102,598.93 (General $28,313.25; 9 S. Main $535.80; Streets $9,292.11; Employee Benefits $9,500.28; CDBG $591.17; Revolving Loan $64.15; Bolger $104.07; Water Street Project $28,702.55; Water $9,229.27; Water T&A $51.58; Sewer $16,214.70). Transfers in: CDBG Downtown Project $30,468.04; FY17 Water Impr Project $79,495.86; FY17 Sewer Lining Project $43,841.80; Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Water $94,729.88; Sewer $68,651.32. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,742,226.28.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request, moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to reappoint Sue Runyon to the Fayette Board of Adjustment for a five year term and Mark Danker to the Fayette Planning and Zoning Commission for a five year term. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised the discrimination, harassment and retaliation training is scheduled for all employees and volunteers to attend in May. The training will be recorded for those unable to attend so they may watch it at a later date. Wenthe will start meeting monthly with the city supervisors to help open communication channels between departments. The first supervisor meeting is scheduled for May 10.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council about the American Rescue Plan that President Biden signed to help cities and their communities recover from the fiscal impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Fayette is estimated to receive $200,000 and McGrane explained the council will need to start discussing on how to spend it because it can only be used for specific things. The W. Water Street improvements project has officially started, and part of the road closed on 4/29. McGrane attended the Iowa Municipal Finance Office Association conference on 4/22 and 4/23. Fayette spring clean-up is scheduled for 5/12.
Police Chief Davis advised the motorcycle that was seized about two years ago is now officially the cities due to a forfeiture and the department will soon sell it. The dept. should know soon if we are granted the Governor Traffic Safety Bureaus grant. There is one more week of warnings for the speed cameras before citations will be issued.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss and receive a donation from Jim Opperman from the can drive. Opperman was present and advised he made a verbal agreement with Nancy Wulfekuhle to have a can redemption drop off site on her property along the alley at 201 S. Main Street. Opperman and some of his helpers would manage the site to make sure it doesn't get out of hand and keep it clean. Most of the money would be donated to the city and other community organizations, such as for the Police, Fire, EMS, Watermelon Days, Community Garden and Main Street Flowers. He presented the first check to the city for $205.13 to be used for the Main Street Flowers. The council discussed drafting a monthly schedule designated to certain organizations for receiving the donations. Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to accept the contribution and to continue to use the proceeds to benefit Fayette organizations and fundraisers. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss and consider donating $500 to the Community Garden and allow a community board to be installed. Andrea Scott was present and explained the garden would like to place a community board at the garden to help communicate with volunteers and anyone interested in the produce. Scott found some boards that costs around $650. The council discussed moving one of the boards from the recreational trails over but it was unsure what kind of shape they are in. Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to approve donating up to $500 out of the Bolger Fund to the Community Garden for the purchase of a community board and to look into moving a community board from the trail to the Garden at 4 S. Main Street, if that works better and to consult with Andrea Scott to make the final decision. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss Ordinance 513, first reading. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the first reading of Ordinance 512, amending Chapter 63, Speed Regulations, to the Fayette City Code by changing section 1.7, Failure to Timely Pay or Appeal. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss and consider hiring Austin Hall as a part-time/reserve police officer at an hourly wage of $15. Davis explained that Hall would take the Reserve modules and would work for the city part-time. The modules cost just under $1,000 and the total cost would be about $300 for uniforms. Hall would work this summer and help with coverage next fall when Officers Ball and Hake are away at the police academy. Moved Post, seconded Potratz, to approve hiring Austin Hall as a part-time, reserve police officer at an hourly wage of $15. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss and consider purchasing new body cameras for the police department for approximately $2,800. Davis explained that he has some body cameras that need repairs, and they are four years old and outdated. It is an upgrade from the older ones. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve purchasing new body cameras from Pro-Vision for $2,676 out of the police budget. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss partial pay estimate number 1 to Heartland Asphalt, Inc. for the Water Street Improvements project. Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve partial pay estimate 1 to Heartland Asphalt, Inc. for the Water Street Improvements project in the amount of $1,140. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss and consider requesting that the imposition of a local sales and service tax be put on the November 2, 2021 ballot. McGrane explained this is a request from the Fayette County Auditor to try and pass the local option sales and service tax this fall, giving us an extra year if it doesn't pass. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to request that the imposition of a local sales and service tax be put on the November 2, 2021 ballot. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:52 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
April 19, 2021
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, April 19, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library and via conference call/online 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 able to attend the meeting in person or via conference call/online 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 (via telephone), Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 4/5/21 and the claims list of 4/3/21 - 4/16/21. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to amend the agenda so item 6B states Ordinance 512 is the third and final reading and not the second reading and to approve the amended agenda. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised Patty Reisinger, a representative from the Bird Friendly Iowa Steering Committee, was at the meeting to present the award, signs and flag to the City of Fayette for becoming a Bird Friendly Iowa community. Fayette is the sixth city in Iowa to receive this award. Jake Dale, an Upper Iowa University (UIU) student, and Paul Skrade, an UIU professor, worked on this as a project for Dale's Master's program. Fayette officially became a Bird Friendly Iowa community in 2020, but due to COVID-19 restrictions, this presentation was postponed. Wenthe thanked Dale, Skrade and Reisinger for all their help to make Fayette a Bird Friendly Iowa community.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that the Public Works Dept. (PW) took down the old "Fayette Tourism Sign" at the 606 W. Water Street property. McGrane is still busy working on the multiple projects and accounting software changes due the new employee health insurance plan and the bank change. McGrane attended the Recreation Board meeting on 4/5 to answer questions. PW Director Jerry Hildebrand and McGrane attended the Water St. Project Preconstruction/Contractor meeting on 4/6. Police Chief Ben Davis and McGrane met with the events coordinators at Maple Crest Campus on 4/7 about their upcoming events. Amy Tucker and McGrane assisted the UIU volunteers with cleaning Cardinal Park sports complex on 4/14. Deputy Clerk Nancy Creery and McGrane attended a short online training for JUS, the city's utility billing software, on 4/16. McGrane advised it is starting to get busy with building permits, fences and zoning questions. McGrane updated the cities website to make it more user-friendly for people to get the permit applications and information from the city code. McGrane has been working with the Marketing Intern and will soon have a nice flyer to help promote Fayette's business incentives.
Police Chief Davis provided an updated on the new speed cameras. Davis explained the city is still in a time period where only warnings are being issued. Anyone with questions may contact Davis. Davis received compliments about the traffic starting to slow down on HWY 150. Fayette PD assisted with State Trooper Jim Smith's funeral.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to Resolution 2021-15. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Potratz, to adopt and approve Resolution 2021-15, the Radius Global Solutions LLC contract for services. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to discuss and adopt Ordinance 512, third and final reading. Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 512, amending Chapter 160, Flood Plain Regulations, to the Fayette City Code by amending provisions pertaining to Floodplain Management. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss and approve the Fayette County Economic Development and Tourism Quarterly Report from January through March of 2021. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 3/10/21. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to discuss and consider donating $1500 to the Fayette County Ag Society for the 2021 Fayette County Fair. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve donating $1500 to the Fayette County Ag Society for the carnival at the 2021 Fayette County Fair. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Wulfekuhle, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:18 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
April 5, 2021
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, April 5, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library and via conference call/online 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 able to attend the meeting in person or via conference call/online 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 (via telephone), Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent - Post.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 3/15/21, the claims list of 3/13/21 - 4/2/21 and the February 2021 Financial Reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of February 28, 2021: Total February Receipts: $645,227.71 (General $52,159.79; Streets $12,157.46; Employee Benefits $613.30; CDBG $35,069; Revolving Loan $231.09; Bolger $106.61; Library Fund $1.05; Water Street Project $496,490; Water $17,568.04; Sewer $26,414.97; Water/Sewer Capital $3,861.40; Storm Water $555). Total February Disbursements: $111,691.81 (General $29,484.48; 9 S. Main $918.53; Streets $9,530.79; Employee Benefits $11,376.33; CDBG $1,057.33; Revolving Loan $181.93; Bolger $32.38; Water Street Project $31,976.89; Water $13,603.62; Sewer $13,529.53). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,710,983.64.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe read and signed a proclamation recognizing the month of April as Sexual Assault Awareness month. Wenthe also advised on Thursday Scott Pharmacy, Fayette County Public Health and Upper Iowa University (UIU) will be hosting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic from 9AM to 6:30PM and administering the Johnson and Johnson vaccine. Anyone interested in receiving the vaccination should contact Scott Pharmacy.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised he has been very busy working on multiple projects and business items, including the Water Street Improvements Project, the CDBG Housing Rehab Grant, Homes for Iowa application, the remodeling of 9 S. Main Street, continuing to work on the employee health insurance plan change, to name a few. The flooring at 9 S. Main Street was completed on 4/2. The Homes for Iowa application was completed and submitted on 3/31/21. The FY22 Budget was completed, submitted and approved by the Fayette County Auditor. The Deputy Clerk and McGrane have been working with Northeast Security Bank getting all the city accounts, payroll and online banking setup since they switched from First State Bank. McGrane had the annual Access System IT/Security meeting and overall the city is very protected. McGrane attended a training on 3/30.
Police Chief Davis informed the council that Officer Ball will be returning to work this week. The Cedar Rapids Gazette will be working with Davis on a story about the firearm cameras the Fayette Police Department recently received. A nuisance abatement issue was brought up for the police to follow up on. Davis advised the new traffic enforcement signs were delivered to the local Department of Transportation (DOT). Once the DOT installs the signs, the cameras will be ready to be up and running.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and adopt Ordinance 512, second reading. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to approve the second reading of Ordinance 512, amending Chapter 160, Flood Plain Regulations, to the Fayette City Code by amending provisions pertaining to Floodplain Management. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2021-9. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to adopt and approve Resolution 2021-9, adding a Light Duty for Non-Work-Related/Temporary Disabilities section in the Personnel Policy. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2021-16. Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to adopt and approve Resolution 2021-16, updating the Health Insurance section in the Personnel Policy. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to discuss and approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 2/10/21. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss allowing UIU to have outdoor music until 11PM on April 30, 2021. Jake Bass with UIU provided information about the outdoor music event for students and the public to attend at Grace Meyer Square on campus. Two music groups will perform and food trucks will be available. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve allowing UIU to have outdoor music until 11PM on 4/30/2021. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss closing the 100 block of E. State Street during the dates and times of the Fayette Show & Shine Car Shows. Steve Landry, a Fayette Recreation (Rec) Board member, was present and advised the Rec Board would like to provide entertainment for adults and children during the Car Shows. The Rec Board is looking at hiring some musicians to play music during this time, also. For the safety of adults and children, they would like to close off the 100-blk of E. State St. for easy pedestrian crossing. Landry advised they will not utilize any space in front of the garage doors of the Fire Station in case the fire trucks need to get out. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to approve closing the 100-blk of E. State St. from 5:30PM to 9PM on the 3rd Thursday of the month starting in May until Sept. of 2021 during the Fayette Show and Shine Car Shows. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss purchasing new garbage receptacles from Kay Park Recreation. Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand was present and advised the two garbage receptacles at Cardinal Park need replaced. Hildebrand advised these are nonbudgeted items. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to purchase two new garbage receptacles from Kay Park Recreation and using money from the Parks Department in the amount of $928. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss moving forward with hiring a part-time employee for the Public Works Department to help with summer work. Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to move forward with hiring a part-time employee for the Public Works Department. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2021-17. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to adopt and approve Resolution 2021-17, approving transferring of funds. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:47 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
March 15, 2021
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, March 15, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library and via conference call/online 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 able to attend the meeting via conference call/online 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 (via telephone), Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent - Post.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 3/1/21 and the claims list of 2/27/21 - 3/12/21. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised the council around 800 COVID-19 vaccinations were administered at the clinic at Upper Iowa University (UIU) last Thursday. Anyone who was not able to make it to the Fayette Fire Department's Spaghetti Supper, they may still mail in donations.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that Alexis Jian Liew from UIU will be the new marketing intern for the City of Fayette. He starts on 3/15/21 and will work until the beginning of May. Alexis will be assisting with the website, social media and other marketing projects. Crawford Creations, another new business, opened on 3/12. The business is located in the old Fayette Hardware Store. McGrane attended the Personnel Committee meeting on 3/1 and the Fayette County Economic Development & Tourism Executive meeting on 3/4. He has been in contact with local state representatives in reference to some bills that are being considered that could hurt revenues for Iowa cities. McGrane has also spent quite a bit of time working on the Water Street reconstruction project and the necessary changes for the new employee health insurance plan.
Police Chief Davis told the council that Officer Josh Barker has started the academy. Officer Nicole Ball is planning to return to work the beginning of April. Davis has been working on some grants, including one for AED/Defibrillators.
This being the time and place published for a public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2022 Estimated Budget, Mayor Wenthe opened the hearing and asked for comments. There being no comments, Mayor Wenthe closed the hearing.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to adopt Resolution 2021-13, approving the FY2022 Budget and Certification of Taxes. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss applying for a Homes for Iowa house. Rachelle Howe with Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission (UERPC) was present via telephone to talk about the program and answer questions. Howe advised they are prison built homes valued between $150,000-$200,000. The city of Oelwein has had one delivered and is expecting another one later this year. The buyer of the new home would need to fall into the low to moderate income (LMI) level. Howe explained UERPC is currently working on a new homebuyer program that may help people at 80% LMI to receive assistance for a downpayment. The council agreed to continue to move forward with the project, as previously approved. No action was taken.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to discuss Resolution 2021-9. McGrane updated the council on his communication with the city attorney and received some guidance on redrafting the Resolution. McGrane will present the updated Resolution at the next council meeting. No action was taken.
Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and approve the Fayette Recreation Board meeting minutes from 2/8/21. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to discuss and approve the Fayette Personnel Committee meeting minutes from 3/1/21. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss and consider moving forward with a grant for the story-time tour walk. Library Director Annette Butikofer was present and described the program and grant. Butikofer will be working with other Library Directors within Fayette county, however, the City of Fayette would be the administer of the grant. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to grant Annette Butikofer permission to apply for a grant and have the City Administrator/Clerk assist with managing the finances of the grant and to provide a location along the recreation trail or city park for the Storywalk. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider accepting the quote for $5,406.56 from Hydro Klean for repairing the manhole at King and Water streets. McGrane explained this is part of the W. Water Street Improvements project. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to accept the quote from Hydro Klean in the amount of $5,406.56 to repair/replace the manhole at King and Water Street. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2021-14. McGrane explained since the last council meeting, Advantage Computer is now only working with one online payment vendor, PACE. McGrane researched both companies, PSN & PACE, however, Advantage Computer advised PSN continued to raise prices on their customers and they decided not to recommend them anymore. McGrane did advise that PACE was the least expensive of the two vendors. Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to adopt and approve Resolution 2021-14, approving Pace Agreements and Applications. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss Resolution 2021-15. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to table until the city attorney finishes reviewing the contract from Radius Global Solutions LLC. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss Ordinance 512, first reading. Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the first reading of Ordinance 512, amending Chapter 160, Flood Plain Regulations, to the Fayette City Code by amending provisions pertaining to Floodplain Management. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Wulfekuhle, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:39 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
March 1, 2021
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, March 1, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library and via conference call/online 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 able to attend the meeting via conference call/online 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, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent - Potratz.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 2/16/21, the claims list of 2/13/21 - 2/26/21 and the January 2021 financial reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of January 31, 2021: Total January Receipts: $121,742.53 (General $33,862.42; Streets $15,940.46; Employee Benefits $8,137.39; Local Option Sales Tax $9,494.53; TIF $210.47; CDBG $5,145; Revolving Loan $231.25; Bolger $1,101.58; Library Fund $0.21; Water $17,257.61; Water T&A $900; Sewer $25,269.73; Water/Sewer Capital $3,610.88; Storm Water $581). Total January Disbursements: $94,847.14 (General $46,356.32; 9 S. Main $349.74; Streets $6,866.02; Employee Benefits $3,980.40; TIF LMI $2,000; CDBG $79.69; Revolving Loan $31.11; Bolger $68.29; Water St $12,452.25; Water $10,266.34; Water T&A $600; Sewer $11,796.98). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; TIF LMI $49,535; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50; TIF $49,535. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,178,275.63.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that the NE Iowa Business Network is working with Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission (UERPC) to host two Housing Summits. If anyone is interested in attending, let McGrane know and he can get them registered. McGrane is continuing to research online payment vendors to switch over due to our current vendor no longer working with the utility billing software. McGrane attended the Homes for Iowa open house in Oelwein on 2/25. McGrane has spent quite a bit of time researching and setting up the new employee health insurance plan changes. Police Chief Davis and McGrane have been working together to keep the speed camera process moving forward. McGrane has also been working with Mallory Hanson on applying for an Alliant Energy grant to assist with the Freedom Rock interactive sign and other additions.
Police Chief Davis advised the council he filed a recommendation letter to have Officer Ball attend the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy in the fall of 2021. Officers are required to complete the academy within one year of employment but due to Ball's pregnancy, Davis filed the extension request giving Ball more time. Officer Barker will start the academy this month. Davis advised he found a company that offers video and lights for weapons. He had budgeted to purchase lights for the officers weapons in FY22's budget; however, he may have a better deal with the video and lights. He will continue to research the product.
This being the time and place published for a public hearing on the Water Street Improvements Project #20-897, Mayor Wenthe opened the hearing and asked for comments. There being no other comments, Mayor Wenthe closed the hearing.
Council member Potratz arrived at the meeting (via telephone) at approximately 6:10 pm.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider closing off the 100 block of S. Main Street for the Fayette Show and Shine Car Shows. Concern about parking for some businesses in the block was discussed. It was decided that communication should go out to the businesses with concerns and Lloyd Carnicle to try and find a good solution. Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve closing the 100 block of S. Main Street from 5:30PM to 9PM on the 3rd Thursday of the month starting in May until September 2021 for the Fayette Show and Shine Car Shows. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekhle, to discuss applying for a Homes for Iowa house. McGrane provided information including the city of Oelwein's current costs for their Homes for Iowa home and the applications/required paperwork to reserve a home. McGrane advised the city is estimated to receive between $100,000 and $160,500 of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds that must be spent on low to moderate income (LMI) projects. This would qualify for those funds. McGrane contacted the city's TIF attorney and received approval that the city could use funds from another fund and "pay-back" that fund each year from the TIF LMI funds we receive each year. There were concerns about the location of where the home would be placed and costs. It was discussed that the city could move forward to get on the waiting list for a home and worst case scenario is we back out and lose our $1500 deposit. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve having the City Administrator work with Upper Explorerland to complete and submit an application for a Homes for Iowa home. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2021-10. Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to adopt Resolution 2021-10, approving Advantage Administrators Business Associate Contract and HIPPA privacy policy. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss Resolution 2021-11. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to adopt Resolution 2021-11, approving the transferring of funds for Fiscal Year 2020-2021. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2021-12. Jon Biederman with Fehr Graham was present to go through the bids and answer questions. On February 26, 2021, five bids were opened and read for construction of the W. Water Street improvements project. The opinion of probable cost and bid totals were as follows: Heartland Asphalt, Inc. $738,039.45 (Base Bid), $11,385.85 (Alternate 1), $11,476.90 (Alternate 2); Baker Enterprise, Inc. $811,151.75 (Base Bid), $17,731 (Alternate 1), $18,919 (Alternate 2); JB Holland Construction $855,970.90 (Base Bid), $15,231 (Alternate 1), $15,054 (Alternate 2); Tschiggfrie Excavating, Co. $1,045,692.10 (Base Bid), $16,378.40 (Alternate 1), $16,665.60 (Alternate 2); Pirc-Tobin Construction, Inc. $1,043,151.25 (Base Bid), $25,310.50 (Alternate 1), $28,977 (Alternate 2). Fehr Graham Engineering recommended the City award the base bid construction contract for the project to Heartland Asphalt, Inc. per their proposal. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to adopt Resolution 2021-12 awarding of contract for the 2021 W. Water Street improvements project to Heartland Asphalt, Inc. of Mason City, Iowa, in the amount of $738,039.45 base bid and $11,385.85 alternate 1. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss Ordinance 512. McGrane advised Ken Bouma with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources reached out to the city to advise of changes that must be implemented to the Flood Plain Management section of the City Code by May 18, 2021. Bouma reviewed Fayette's current code and made the suggested updates. The consensus of the council was to review the changes and discuss them at the next city council meeting. No action was taken.
There being no further business, moved Post, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:57 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
February 16, 2021
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Tuesday, February 16, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library and via conference call/online 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 able to attend the meeting via conference call/online 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 (via telephone), Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent - Post.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 2/1/21 and the claims list of 1/30/21 - 2/12/21. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe updated the council on the Fayette CDBG HSG Owner-Occupied Program. Two homes are completed, one home is currently being worked on, a contractor was recently awarded the project to another home and an application is being processed for the last home.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the 9 S. Main Street remodeling project. Magnuson is completed with taking down the wallpaper and painting. McGrane advised the city's utility billing software company (Jayhawk Utility Billing) will soon no longer be working with the online payment software company (Convenient Payments). They have provided McGrane with companies they currently work with and McGrane has started researching the companies. McGrane attended the Finance meetings on 2/3 & 2/10, the CDBG Housing Rehab bid opening on 2/8 and the Recreation Board meeting on 2/8. McGrane also completed all the necessary paperwork for the $500,000 GO Note for the Water Street reconstruction project and we are expecting to receive the money on 2/17. McGrane noted he has also spent quite a bit of time working on the paperwork and changes necessary to switch the employee's health insurance coverage over to the new plan. McGrane plans on attending the Homes for Iowa open house in Oelwein on 2/25 and the bid opening for the Water Street reconstruction project on 2/26.
Police Chief Davis advised another COVID-19 vaccination event was held on 2/12 and the next one is scheduled for 2/26. The speed cameras are up and we are waiting for permission from the Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT) to get the notification signs up. Once we receive permission, the signs will go up and we will start the warning process.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and receive an update on the Water Street Reconstruction project. Jon Biederman with Fehr Graham was present to update the council. Biederman went through a few of the important project details including: replacing more curb that is in poor condition; adding fiber to the asphalt which is supposed to add 50% to the life of the road; explained the storm sewer pipe being replaced with a larger diameter to help with future expansion of the storm drainage system; explained the trail expansions at Cardinal Park as alternatives, meaning the city doesn't have to accept this part of the project if they do not want to; explained the traffic control during the project; explained the expansion of the sanitary sewer lines; and explained the replacement of the water lines to a 6 inch. Biederman also provided a final opinion of probable cost of $915,731. This is higher than the first estimate mostly because of replacing more curbs and upgrading the storm water drainage system. Bids will be opened a week from Friday.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to discuss and approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 1/13/21. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss and approve the Fayette Finance Committee meeting minutes from 2/3/21. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and approve the Fayette Housing Committee Hannigan bid opening from 2/8/21. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to discuss and approve the Fayette Public Safety meeting minutes from 2/8/21. Discussion included an update on the firemen physicals and the goal was to have them completed by 3/1/21. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to discuss and approve the Fayette Finance Committee meeting minutes from 2/10/21. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2021-9. McGrane advised he drafted a Resolution in case the council wanted to get something approved immediately and that the draft could be changed. After discussion, it was recommended to be referred to the Personnel committee for further research and to run the subject by our city attorney for additional ideas. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to refer to the Personnel Committee adding a maternity leave and parental leave to the Personnel Policy. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider adopting the final proposed FY 2022 budget estimate. McGrane provided the FY2022 Budget, FY2022 Budget at a Glance report and Administrator's Budget Report to the council. Wenthe and McGrane highlighted a few of the budgeted items. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to adopt the final proposed FY 2022 budget estimate. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to consider directing the City Administrator/Clerk to publish the budget estimate and setting a public hearing for March 15, 2021, at 6PM in the Fayette Community Library on the FY 2022 budget estimate. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:13 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
February 1, 2021
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, February 1, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library and via conference call/online 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 able to attend the meeting via conference call/online 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 (via telephone), Potratz, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 1/19/21, the claims list of 1/16/21 - 1/29/21 and the December 2020 Financial Reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of December 31, 2020: Total December Receipts: $116,502.42 (General $29,720.06; Streets $16,866.72; Employee Benefits $1,382.36; Local Option Sales Tax $9,494.53; TIF $14.08; Revolving Loan $231.58; Bolger $636.11; Library Fund $41.35; Water $19,087.97; Water T&A $600; Sewer $28,821.61; FY17 Sewer Lining $5,000; Water/Sewer Capital $4,047.05; Storm Water $559). Total December Disbursements: $146,622.95 (General $61,113.44; 9 S. Main $96.10; Streets $11,422.34; Employee Benefits $10,555.49; CDBG $13,651.10; Revolving Loan $118.19; Bolger $725.68; Water St $4,689.47; Water $13,256.77; Water T&A $150; Sewer $16,298.61; Sewer Fund $14,545.76). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,150,625.80.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s recommendation, moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to appoint Jordan Franken to the Fayette Recreation Board for a 2 year term, expiring 2/1/23. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the remodeling progress at the 9 S. Main Street office space. McGrane had Dennis Vandersee remove two electric floor heaters that were no longer working. Diversity Coatings started leveling the floor on 1/28. Kane Magnuson started painting/removing wallpaper on 2/1. McGrane and Public Works Director Hildebrand attended an informational meeting for the construction/designing of the Freedom Rock kiosk on 1/25. Eric Willis, the cities Employee Benefits Consultant, attended an employee health insurance meeting on 1/26 to explain one of the new health insurance plan options and answer questions. On 1/28 was a public information meeting for those living on/near W. Water Street that will be impacted by the reconstruction project. McGrane finished the W2's and 1099's. McGrane reminded the council the next meeting will be on Tuesday, 2/16 because city offices will be closed on 2/15 for President's Day.
Police Chief Davis advised the council the Fayette Police Department's (FPD) policies have been approved and we have received certification with the Department of Justice for 3 years to receive federal grants. The FPD assisted the Fayette County Public Health (FCPH) on 1/28 when they held its first COVID-19 vaccination clinic at Upper Iowa University (UIU) to complete Phase 1A. The next vaccination clinic at UIU is scheduled for 2/12 and is for Phase 1B. The FCPH will reach out to those eligible for the vaccination at the clinic. The FPD and UIU were approved to host an Active Shooter Response Training (A.L.I.C.E.) Instructor Course. The course will take place on 12/1/21 and 12/2/21. The Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division Tobacco compliance checks were completed, and we had 100% compliance. Davis is working on his end-of-year report. Friday, Feb. 12th is the next scheduled vaccination distribution at the same location at UIU.
This being the time and place published for a public hearing on the proposed property tax levy for fiscal year July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2022, Mayor Wenthe opened the hearing and asked for comments. There being no other comments, Mayor Wenthe closed the hearing.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to discuss Resolution 2021-4. Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve and adopt Resolution 2021-4, adopting the proposed property tax levy for FY 2022. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve the Fayette Finance Committee meeting minutes from 1/21/21. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to discuss granting Nicole Ball an unpaid leave of absence. Ball presented a letter to the council requesting an unpaid leave of absence while she is on maternity leave and asked if the council would consider continuing to pay her single health insurance premium for her 30 days of unpaid leave. Ball was hired in July 2021 and has accrued 32 hours of sick time and 39.6 hours of vacation time and has not used any of the time since she started employment. Ball plans on using all of the time she has accrued but will need an unpaid leave of absence for the remainder of her 6-week maternity leave. City employee Adam Hildebrand advised in 2014 he went on personal medical leave for an injury and was not granted the opportunity or was told he could make a request to the council to have the city continue to pay for his health insurance premium. He advised other city employees were able to donate their sick/vacation time to him. It seemed to be the consensus of the council to research other cities maternity policies to be presented at a future meeting. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to grant Nicole Ball family leave, an unpaid leave of absence and for the city to continue to pay for Ball's single health insurance premium until March 15th, or until she is released to return to work by her medical provider. Post, Tucker and Tenney - ayes; Potratz and Wulfekuhle - nays, motion carried.
Post left the meeting at 18:43 due to a dropped telephone call.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss moving forward with a Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Health Insurance plan for city employees. Eric Willis, the Employee Benefits Consultant for the city of Fayette, answered questions about the options provided to the council. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to change the city employees insurance plan to the Wellmark myBlue HDHP Bronze (partially self-funded) plan and to have the city contribute a total of $1,000 to single and $2,000 to family city employee's health savings accounts with half the amount paid every six months. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss Resolution 2021-5. Eric Willis explained that payments for the new health insurance plan work best when cities have a separate bank account specifically for employee benefits. Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve and adopt Resolution 2021-5, opening a separate checking account for City of Fayette Employees Health Insurance. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2021-6. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Potratz, to approve and adopt Resolution 2021-6, appointing Paying Agent, Note Registrar, and Transfer Agent, approving the Paying Agent and Note Registrar and Transfer Agent Agreement and authorizing the execution of the Agreement in reference to the $500,000 General Obligation Capital Loan Notes, Series 2021. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to discuss Resolution 2021-7. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve and adopt Resolution 2021-7, approving and authorizing a form of Loan Agreement and authorizing and providing for the issuance, and levying a tax to pay the Notes; approval of the Tax Exemption Certificate in reference to the $500,000 General Obligation Capital Loan Notes, Series 2021. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2021-8. This resolution was recommended by our City Attorney due to recent situations where citizens in area communities are trying to cause problems and create reactions from city employees regarding public spaces. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve and adopt Resolution 2021-8, approving public areas and restricted areas for all city buildings and facilities. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss starting the process in applying for a Homes for Iowa House. McGrane explained this program helps Iowa's housing shortage and trains offenders in skilled trades. Iowa Prison Industries builds the homes near Newton, Iowa. The cities total cost would be $75,000 and includes a new home and delivery. We would work with Upper Explorerland who would receive $2500 administrative fee which is taken out of the $75,000 cost to help find a low to moderate income (LMI) family to move into the home. McGrane feels this would be a great program to put a house at 207 Alexander Street which is owned by the city. The city would have additional costs in preparing the lot for the house, however, the city could use the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) LMI funds for this project. If we apply now, we may be able to get on the list for 2022. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to authorize the City Administrator/Clerk to work with Upper Explorerland and submit an application and $1500 deposit to reserve a Homes for Iowa home. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to discuss setting and letting and holding a public hearing for March 1, 2021 for the W. Water St. Reconstruction Project. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to set and letting and holding a public hearing for March 1, 2021 for the W. water St. Reconstruction Project. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 17:07 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
January 19, 2021
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Tuesday, January 19, 2021, at 6:01 pm via conference call/online 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 able to attend the meeting via conference call/online 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 (via online), Tenney (via online), Tucker (via online) and Wulfekuhle (via telephone). Absent - Potratz.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 1/4/21 and the claims list of 1/1/21 - 1/15/21. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s recommendation, moved Tucker, seconded Post, to appoint Steve Landry to the Fayette Recreation Board for a 3 year term, expiring 1/19/24. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that the Fayette County Economic Development & Tourism and the Fayette County Iowa State University Extension is funding and hosting a Fayette County Leading Communities program for 25 area leaders. The program will consist of 6 meetings and they are tentatively looking at holding the classes in September, October and November 2021. The council should let McGrane know of any residents they would want to nominate to attend the classes. McGrane advised he has been working with the owners of the Sugar Bowl in Decorah and they are opening up a new location in downtown Fayette. The Public Works Employees have taken out the old flooring at 9 S. Main Street. McGrane has attended multiple meetings over the last few weeks as we prepare the FY2022 budget. More budget related meetings are planned over the next few weeks.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to discuss the City of Fayette Community Development Block Grant Owner-Occupied Housing Program. This being the time and place published for a public hearing on the status of funded activities for the City of Fayette Community Development Block Grant Owner-Occupied Housing Program, Mayor Wenthe opened the hearing and asked for comments. Lee Balik, the Community Housing Associate with Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Center, provided an update. A. General description of accomplishments to date: To date we have closed out one home (112 Mechanic St.) and 2 projects currently underway. She anticipates bidding out 1 remaining project this spring, with the last 2 projects to follow. B. Summary of expenditures to date: Total expended: $68,811; total rehab: $24,985; total Lead Hazard Reduction (LHR): $6,750; total relocation: $1,251; total admin: $20,216.00; total tech services: $11,874; total LHR admin: $3,735. C. General description of remaining work: Work left consists of initial inspections, historical clearances, contractor walk throughs/bid opening, pre-construction conferences and final inspections. D. General description of changes made to project budget: No changes were made to the budget, targets, schedules, scope, location or objectives. There being no other comments, Mayor Wenthe closed the hearing.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the $500,000* (subject to adjustment per terms of offering) General Obligation Capital Loan Notes, Series 2021 receipt of bids. Maggie Burger, a Financial Advisor with Speer Financial, Inc., advised the council of the bids received. Four bids were received earlier today: Bankers' Bank, Madison, Wisconsin - True Interest Cost (TIC) of 1.3139%; UMB Bank, n.a., Kansas City, Missouri - TIC 1.3441%; United Bankers' Bank, Bloomington, Minnesota - TIC 1.4802%; D.A. Davidson & Co., Denver, Colorado - TIC 1.6961%. It is the opinion of Speer Financial, Inc. that the bid of Bankers' Bank, Madison, Wisconsin, is the best bid received, and Burger shared a 1.3139% is an exceptionally low interest rate. Speer Financial, Inc. recommends that the Notes be awarded to Bankers' Bank, Madison, Wisconsin at a price of $496,500, being at a TIC of 1.3139%. No formal action was taken.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve and adopt Resolution 2021-3 directing sale of $500,000* (subject to adjustment per terms of offering) General Obligation Capital Loan Notes, Series 2021 to Bankers' Bank, Madison, Wisconsin to help fund the Water Street Improvements project. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to discuss the Fayette Personnel Committee meeting minutes. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the Fayette Personnel Committee meeting minutes from 1/13/2021. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss plowing, cleaning, maintaining recreational trails for the remainder of the winter. Wenthe said he has received multiple requests from citizens asking for the recreational trails to be cleaned off for walkers. Wenthe said Tim Frey advised he would volunteer to plow the trails of snow. McGrane contacted the cities insurance companies and area cities to inquire if they clean off trails in the winter. Every city is different, some clean them off and some do not. The insurance company did explain there are some liabilities and the trails would need to be sanded. McGrane advised he spoke with Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand and the cities dump truck would be too big to sand the trails, so we would need to invest in equipment. Wulfekuhle suggested contacting Upper Iowa University about their equipment/brushers for sidewalks. Wenthe suggested Frey or another walker may volunteer to do the sanding. McGrane shared that Hildebrand heard that snowmobilers groom the trail from Klocks Island to the Open Air Market for snowmobiles. McGrane suggested the city start with the trails at Cardinal Park. Wenthe will reach out to Frey to see what level he wants to volunteer to clean the trails around Cardinal Park. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to explore turning the Cardinal Park trails and area to a walking park area this winter. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss adding Non-Statutory Volunteer Coverage to our Iowa Municipalities Workers' Compensation Association (IMWCA) coverage. McGrane explained as he was researching cleaning off the recreational trails for the winter, he discovered a volunteer coverage the city can add to their workers' compensation plan at $100 per year. The volunteers would need to fill out an application prior to volunteering in order to be covered. Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to add Non-Statutory Volunteer Coverage to our IMWCA coverage. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss accepting a bid for painting 9 S. Main Street. McGrane reached out to two local painters to remove the wallpaper and glue/paste, fill in holes, prime and paint most of the interior rooms at 9 S. Main Street before the new floor is installed. The city will provide the wallpaper remover, primer and paint. The bids received: Kane Magnuson - $800 and Cheryl Peterson $1,120. McGrane also received pricing from the Fayette Lumber Yard on wallpaper remover, primer and paint. Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to hire Kane Magnuson at an estimate of $800 to prep and paint 9 S. Main Street and the city to purchase paint, primer and wallpaper remover from the Fayette Lumber Yard. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to discuss directing the City Administrator/Clerk to publish the proposed property tax levy and setting a Public Hearing on the Fiscal Year 2022 proposed property tax levy. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to direct the City Administrator/Clerk to publish the proposed property tax levy and set a Public Hearing for Monday, February 1, 2021, at 6PM on the Fiscal Year 2022 proposed property tax levy. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Wulfekuhle, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:44 pm.
