REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
May 16, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, May 16, 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 and Scott; Absent - Tenney and Tucker.
Moved Post, seconded Potratz, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 5/2/22 and the claims list of 4/30/22-5/13/22. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Scott, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood informed the council that McGrane and him worked on a counter offer for the cell tower company lease. Wood provided an update on the strategic planning committee and advised he will be attending the Nuisance Abatement conference on Wednesday, May 18.
Upon Mayor Wood’s request, moved Potratz, seconded Post, to reappoint Melle Starsen to the Planning & Zoning Commission for a 5-year term expiring 5/31/27. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wood’s request, moved Post, seconded Scott, to reappoint Jeff Potratz to the Board of Adjustment for a 5-year term expiring 5/15/27. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council city hall has been busy learning the new online payment software, assisting citizens with permits and assisting college students utility accounts as they move out.
Police Chief Davis updated the council on the nuisance abatement homes and explained he is working with McGrane on hiring a building inspector for the home inspections. Three police officer applicants tested last Saturday for the open police officer position. Davis will hold another test date in the near future for more applicants.
This being the time and place published for a public hearing for comments on the proposed fiscal year (FY) 2022 budget amendment and certification, Mayor Wood opened the hearing and asked for comments. There being no comments, Mayor Wood closed the hearing.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to adopt Resolution 2022-25, approving the FY 2022 budget amendment and certification. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Roland and Magda Vazquez (100 King Street) provided a letter to the Mayor asking the city council to reconsider their previous decision and provide them permission to plant small, decorative flowers in the city right of way. They also explained a few issues they experienced with the city's W. Water Street project and are requesting reimbursement from the city for: 1) $428 for sidewalks, 2) $144.45 to replace plants and 3) $48.15 for drywall damage. Jon Biederman, the W. Water Street project Engineer with Fehr Graham, was present and provided a statement about the concerns. The council discussed the request to plant small, decorative flowers in the city right of way and denied the request. Moved Post, seconded Scott, to table the reimbursement requests until after the W. Water Street project is completed. All ayes, motion carried.
Tim and Holly Wolff (308 E. Water Street) presented a request for a variance to the city of Fayette zoning ordinance application and drawing of a new garage they would like to build on their property. McGrane explained they will need to go through the Board of Adjustment, however, they would like a conveyance at their cost of preparation of an easement allowing them to build on the city right of way. They would like to build the new garage on approximately 4 feet of the city right of way. Public Works Director Hildebrand did not have any concerns with the request because the only utilities on that road go down the middle of the road to 102 Union Street. Moved Post, seconded Scott, to set a public hearing for the next council meeting, 6/6/22, for the conveyance at the cost of preparation of an easement allowing Tim and Holly Wolff to build upon city right of way at 308 E. Water Street. All ayes, motion carried.
Hildebrand presented a quote from Albert Cline to grind 36 tree stumps for $2,012. Hildebrand mentioned that the price will be a little higher because we have 3 more stumps since he received this quote and Cline will grind those as well. Moved Potratz, seconded Scott, to approve the quote from Albert Cline. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Scott, to reimburse Sugar Bowl $1,000 for the marketing incentive. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 6:49 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
May 2, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, May 2, 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 Potratz, Scott, Tenney and Tucker; Absent - Post.
Moved Scott, seconded Potratz, to amend the meeting minutes of 4/18/22 by taking out the words "One of the" in the Mayor Wood report so it reads "Strategic planning for cities was one of the training sessions at the Leagues training". Motion Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the amended regular meeting minutes of 4/18/22 and the claims list of 4/16/22-4/29/22. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Everett (Roy) Karlson, 506 W. Clark Street, informed the city council that he presented a letter last week to the mayor and council in regards to the poor condition of the home located at 507 W. Clark Street. Karlson contacted the police about the house a few years ago and they were able to get the yard picked up and mowed. Karlson advised since then, the house has continued to deteriorate. Karlson advised Mayor Wood contacted him and they discussed and looked at the house. Karlson advised he is losing property value on his home located next door. Karlson requested copies of the city ordinance. Police Chief Davis and City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed Karlson that there is a process that must be followed, and someone will follow-up with him.
Mayor Wood acknowledged that he and the council received the letter of concern from the Karlson's. Wood is concerned about abandoned property issues and dilapidated properties in town. Wood has been reading the city code and is planning on attending a training later this month for guidance on municipalities to address these issues. Wood advised the first Steering Committee meeting took place on 4/28/22.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council the switch to PACE, the new online payment software, went well on 4/19 and Deputy Clerk Creery and him have had a few training sessions. They have also been assisting customers with the change. McGrane attended the IMFOA conference on 4/21 and 4/22. He completed and submitted the required American Rescue Plan report on 4/26.
Police Chief Davis informed the council that the Goodell property abatement court date is 5/11 and they are waiting for a court date for the Smith property. The bike helmet/story walk event that the Fayette Library and Police Department are organizing is developing well and they will be promoting it soon. The annual Upper Iowa University off campus end of the year college student celebration did not take place this year.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to accept and acknowledge the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 1/12/2022 and 3/9/2022. All ayes, motion carried.
The council discussed homeowners planting specific types of plants in the city rights-of-way. The city attorney recommended the council not allow anything other than grass planted in city rights-of-way because it could become time consuming for the council to manage the variety of homeowners requests and determine what can and cannot be planted, among other things. Moved Potratz, seconded Tenney, to have the city rights-of-way that are currently grass or undeveloped areas to remain grass or to have grass seeded as of todays date of May 2, 2022 and moving forward. All ayes, motion carried.
Wanda Crawford with the new Fayette Chamber would like to request a donation of $600 from the city to assist the Fayette Chamber with promoting businesses in Fayette during RABGRAI 2022. Moved Scott, seconded Tucker, to donate $600 out of the Bolger Fund to the Fayette Chamber for the public purpose of promoting the city of Fayette and the city of Fayette businesses and to have $600 from the hotel/motel tax be transferred to the Bolger Fund to cover the costs when available. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Scott, to approve a $20.00 per hour wage for part-time, reserve police officer Charles Rodas effective April 1, 2022. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve signing a letter of support for the Community Services Block Grant that benefits the Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve Resolution #2022-23 adopting and accepting the established city employee salaries. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve Resolution #2022-24 adopting and accepting the Fayette Visual Security and Surveillance Policy. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 7:17 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
April 18, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, April 18, 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, Tenney and Tucker.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 4/4/22 and the claims list of 4/2/22-4/15/22. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood updated the council that Jeff Scott will be the final member of the Strategic Planning steering committee and the committee will meet for the first time this month. Wood attended part three of the Municipal Leadership Academy training in Waterloo.
Upon Mayor Wood’s request, moved Potratz, seconded Scott, to reappoint Steve Post to the Fayette Board of Adjustment for a 5-year term expiring on 5/15/2027. Potratz, Scott, Tucker and Tenney ayes, Post abstained, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that he completed the USDA Rural Development grant and submitted it on 4/14/22. Upper Iowa University will probably postpone appreciation day to 4/27 due to the forecast.
Police Chief Davis advised the council the next few weeks is a traffic enforcement wave for the GTSB grant. A nonjury trial is set in May for the nuisance abatement issue for the Goodell property. Smith properties are still being documented for the city attorney. The police department is teaming up with the Fayette Library for a storywalk scavenger hunt event to hand out bike helmets. More details will be announced soon. The city is now accepting applications for a full-time police officer.
This being the time and place published for a public meeting/hearing for comments on the City of Fayette filing an application with the USDA Rural Development for financial assistance to purchase new radios and equipment for the new Fayette County public safety radio network project, Mayor Wood opened the hearing and asked for comments. There being no comments, Mayor Wood closed the hearing.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to acknowledge we received the Fayette County Economic Development and Tourism Quarterly Report for January through March 2022. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to accept the Fayette Personnel meeting minutes from 4/6/2022. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Scott, seconded Post, to approve closing the 100 block of S. Main Street on Saturday, May 21, 2022, for Fayette's Main Street Market. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, 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 2022 for the Fayette Show and Shine Car Shows. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Scott, seconded Tenney, to approve purchasing a security camera system capable of 7 or 8 cameras with Iowa Surveillance Team. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve and direct the City Administrator/Clerk to publish the Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Amendment and setting a public hearing for May 16, 2022, at 6PM in the Fayette Community Library on the FY 2022 Budget Amendment. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 7:23 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
April 4, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, April 4, 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, Tenney and Tucker.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 3/21/22, the claims list of 3/19/22-4/1/22 and the February 2022 financial reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of February 28, 2022: Total February Receipts: $106,049.07 (General $34,788.01; Streets $14,184.25; Employee Benefits $862.49; Revolving Loan $230.10; Bolger $73.58; Library Fund $48; Debt $184.05; Water Street Project $1,390; Water $19,615.17; Water T&A $150; Sewer $29,714.61; Water/Sewer Capital $4,240.81; Storm Water $568). Total February Disbursements: $79,990.67 (General $35,718.27; Streets $7,234.72; Employee Benefits $8,047.17; CDBG $766.40; Bolger $118.08; Library Fund $1.082.88; Water Street Project $600; Water $12,456.11; Water T&A $570; Sewer $13,397.04). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,279,674.54.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wood’s and the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees requests, moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to appoint James Lowery to the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees to finish the term ending 6/30/2026. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wood’s request, moved Scott, seconded Potratz, to appoint Mallory Hanson, David Runyon, Amanda Pasket, Pete Shea, Shannon Nix, Linda Tenney, Wade Whitcher, Kris McGrane and one more Fayette business owner who is also a city of Fayette resident to a Strategic Planning steering committee which will work on an identity and vision for the city as well as strategic goals and to have Mayor Wood facilitate. The committee will eventually refer everything to the city council for final approval. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the transition to the new online electronic payment company (PACE) that will take place on 4/20/22. The 4th CDBG Rehab home paperwork is almost completed and the process has started for the 6th and final home. The fiscal year 2023 budget has been submitted to the state and the county. McGrane will now be working on a budget amendment. Upper Iowa University will be having their Appreciation Day on 4/20/22. Any adults who are able to volunteer and help students clean-up downtown Fayette or businesses wanting their outside windows washed may contact Amy Tucker.
Police Chief Davis advised that the public safety radio project is moving forward for Fayette County. The Fayette police and library are working together on an event to hand out free bike helmets. K9 Odin will be headed to training on 5/19 for a few months.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve Resolution #2022-19 approving change order #5 to the Fayette Housing Sustainability Project for the Clark KB home project. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve Resolution #2022-20 approving change order #6 to the Fayette Housing Sustainability Project for the Clark KB home project. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Scott, to approve Resolution #2022-21 approving the final acceptance of the Fayette Housing Sustainability Project for the Clark KB home project. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve Resolution #2022-22 agreeing to apply for financial assistance with the USDA, Rural Development to finance new radios and equipment for the Fayette County Public Safety Radio Project and authorize the Mayor and City Administrator to sign all documents. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to direct the City Administrator/Clerk to publish the public meeting notice and set a public meeting for April 18, 2022, at 6PM in the Fayette Community Library on applying for financial assistance with the USDA, Rural Development to finance new radios and equipment for the Fayette County Public Safety Radio Project. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to agree to forward the USDA, Rural Development financial assistance to the Fayette County Board of Supervisors to assist with the Fayette County Public Safety Radio Project, if we are awarded the financial assistance. All ayes, motion carried.
The council discussed options for the flagpole and log cabin that are located at the old Tourism home. The council would like to find out the condition and size of the flagpole and the possibility of moving it next to the Freedom Rock. They discussed if it was able to move to the Freedom Rock, possibly having the Fayette American Legion taking care of it. The council would like McGrane to draft something for the public to make suggestions on the future of the log cabin. Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to allow the Watermelon Days committee to have a banner or sign on the old tourism lot this summer pending the city remains the owner of the property. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 7:18 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
March 21, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, March 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 Post (via telephone), Potratz, Scott, Tenney and Tucker.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 3/7/22, the claims list of 3/5/22-3/18/22. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to amend and approve the amended agenda to add discussion on combining the Parks Board and Recreation Board under old business, agenda item #7C. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood advised the council he attended the new city of Fayette chamber of commerce meeting last Thursday. They appointed chairs, discussed their constitution and how they want to proceed as an organization. Wood will also be working on forming a committee for a Strategic Planning session.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that the city is planning on transitioning to the new online electronic payment company (PACE) on or around April 20, 2022. A letter will be mailed or emailed out to all utility customers. Autopay customers will need to reapply for the automatic bank withdrawals each month because there will now be a $0.99 fee for payments under $500 or 1% of the payment amount for payments over $500. McGrane also updated the council on the CDBG Rehab grant and legislative updates.
Police Chief Davis advised Gary Goodell was served citations and Davis met with the Iowa DNR in reference to the situation. The Smith property cases are still open and being monitored.
This being the time and place published for a public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2023 Estimated Budget, Mayor Wood opened the hearing and asked for comments. There being no comments, Mayor Wood closed the hearing.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tenney, to approve Resolution #2022-18 adopting and approving the Fiscal Year 2023 Budget and Certification of Taxes. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Scott requested an update on combining the Parks Board and the Recreation Board. McGrane advised he is still working on a draft ordinance to provide to the Recreation Board to review as requested by the council at a November 2021 meeting. Mayor Wood advised he can start working on the draft ordinance.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to discuss and approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 2/9/2022. All ayes, motion carried.
McGrane updated the council on the 4th CDBG Rehab home, the Clark home. Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve Resolution #2022-14 adopting Change Order #1 for the Fayette Housing Sustainability Project for the Clark RS Home Project. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to approve Resolution #2022-15 adopting Change Order #2 for the Fayette Housing Sustainability Project for the Clark RS Home Project. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Scott, seconded Tenney, to approve Resolution #2022-16 adopting Change Order #3 for the Fayette Housing Sustainability Project for the Clark RS Home Project. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve Resolution #2022-17 approving the Final Acceptance for the Fayette Housing Sustainability Project for the Clark RS Home Project. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
McGrane explained the Turkey River Recreational Corridor would like to add a post near the Fayette County Freedom Rock and make it one of its 20 sites for their 2022 Turkey River Safari. Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to endorse the Turkey River Safari project at the Freedom Rock as a site for the 2022 Safari scavenger hunt. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 6:35 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
March 7, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, March 7, 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, Tenney and Tucker. Absent - Scott.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 2/22/22, the claims list of 2/19/22-3/4/22 and the January 2022 financial reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of January 31, 2022: Total January Receipts: $185,363.52 (General $82,129.53; Streets $14,644.03; Employee Benefits $6,164.38; Local Option Sales Tax $10,800.59; CDBG $18,531; Revolving Loan $230.48; Bolger $582.79; Library Fund $53.33; Debt $1,315.51; Water $18,333.32; Water T&A $750; Sewer $27,292.27; Water/Sewer Capital $3,978.29; Storm Water $558). Total January Disbursements: $118,380.57 (General $46,632.70; Streets $7,437.89; Employee Benefits $4,299.74; CDBG $12,616.93; Bolger $448.14; Library Fund $748.18; Water Street Project $21,244.23; Water $11,468.36; Water T&A $634.11; Sewer $12,850.29). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,253,301.37.
A letter was received by Herman Lenz addressed to the Mayor and Council in reference to the Iowa Legislature and speed cameras as well as his communication with the Fayette Police Department.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to amend the agenda and move correspondence from consent agenda items to agenda item 4, receiving and filing of any communications, petitions or please of protest and to approve the agenda as amended. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood advised he submitted an article to the Oelwein Daily Register listing things accomplished in Fayette within the last year and future plans. Wood wrote to Representative Ashley Hinson about the drug problems and the impact it has on our local law enforcement. Hinson replied to Wood's letter and sent a representative who met with Wood at the end of February.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that he attended the Fayette County Supervisors meeting to discuss the dispatch contracts for the cities of Oelwein, West Union, and Fayette on 2/28. Fayette County Sheriff Fisher proposed an amount for each city based on calls for services (CFS) generated by each city. The city of Fayette's estimated CFS is 920 (based on FY2022) and the proposed cost to Fayette would be $11,082, which is a $5,601 increase of the current contract. The Fayette County Supervisors agreed to keep the fee the same as the current year for Fayette in FY2023 and to form an advisory committee made up of two representatives from Oelwein, West Union, Fayette, and Fayette County to discuss how to fund the dispatch center. McGrane and Fayette Police Chief Davis will attend the first advisory committee meeting in April.
Police Chief Davis advised the department has some upcoming events that they will be advertising soon.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to change the headings on the Finance Committee meeting minutes and to approve the amended Finance Committee meeting minutes from 2/24/22 and 2/28/22. All ayes, motion carried.
McGrane advised Resolution #2022-13 is an agreement with Gundersen to lock us in on rates. Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve Resolution #2022-13 adopting and accepting the Business Health Services and Occupational Health Service Agreement with Gundersen Health System. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to reassign the current lease with Big Rock Country Club, Inc. to Rock Bottom, LLC, and to accept the Rock Bottom, LLC, assignment of lease for the Big Rock Golf Course. All ayes, motion carried.
McGrane highlighted some of the items in the fiscal year 2023 (FY23) proposed budget estimate the Finance Committee is recommending. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to direct the City Administrator/Clerk to publish the Budget Estimate and set a Public Hearing for March 21, 2022, at 6PM in the Fayette Community Library on the FY23 Budget Estimate. All ayes, motion carried.
McGrane explained he would like the council to consider having Deputy Clerk Nancy Creery start full-time on 4/11/22, which is a few months earlier than budgeted for. McGrane explained his work duties keep increasing and the city has time-sensitive priorities/projects to complete over the next few months including a budget amendment, the W. Water Street project, the Homes for Iowa project, the solar panel installation, the CDBG Rehab Housing grant and switching to the new electronic utility billing payment company. Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to make Deputy Clerk Nancy Creery full-time starting April 11, 2022, at the current wage of $12.96 per hour. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 7:19 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
February 22, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Tuesday, February 22, 2022, at 6:02 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 & Potratz.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 2/7/22, the special meeting minutes of 2/10/22, the claims list of 2/5/22 - 2/18/22 and the December 2021 financial reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of December 31, 2021: Total December Receipts: $136,357.05 (General $53,639.72; Streets $12,912.19; Employee Benefits $776.93; Local Option Sales Tax $10,800.59; Revolving Loan $230.47; Bolger $317.74; Library Fund $74.96; Debt $165.77; Water $20,994.53; Water T&A $300; Sewer $31,224.98; Water/Sewer Capital $4,331.72; Storm Water $587.45). Total December Disbursements: $162,402.42 (General $81,892.17; Streets $9,232.91; Employee Benefits $12,281.42; CDBG $9,161.14; Bolger $113.14; Library Fund $694.98; Water Street Project $1,433.50; Water $13,441.77; Water T&A $846.17; Sewer $20,305.22; Sewer Fund $13,000). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,185,392.73.
Moved Scott, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood advised the council he held a department supervisor meeting on 2/16 with the Public Works Director, Police Chief, Library Director and City Administrator/Clerk. Wood is planning on having these meetings monthly. On 2/16, he attended the Fayette County Conference Board with the Assessors office.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council he is working with Ann Langerman, the Big Rock Golf Course Board President, on paperwork with transferring their current lease to the new owners of the golf course.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the Fayette Finance Committee meeting minutes from 2/10/22. All ayes, motion carried.
Discussion on Resolution #2022-12 included the policy doesn't have to be reviewed by the city attorney because the Iowa Code protects the participating officers who are trained through the Peer Support Group. Police Chief Davis advised he may have to make some revisions to the policy as they get the program started. Moved Scott, seconded Tenney, to approve Resolution #2022-12 adopting an addition to the Fayette Police Departments policy and procedure manual as amended replacing "Sheriff" with "Peer Support Coordinator". Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
The city attorney recommended releasing the judgement liens in the case of Connie Conner that were due to nuisance abatement issues in the past. A potential owner would like to develop the property. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve releasing the judgement liens in the case of Connie Conner in reference to case numbers 01331FACICV055805, 01331FACICV055806 and 01331FACICV055807. All ayes, motion carried.
McGrane explained the findings and recommendations that were in the fiscal year 2021 city examination. Moved Scott, seconded Tucker, to acknowledge receiving and reviewing the fiscal year 2021 city examination. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 6:37 pm.
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
February 10, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Thursday, February 10, 2022, at 5:15 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding (via telephone).
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Scott, Tenney and Tucker.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to discuss purchasing Big Rock Country Club golf course in Fayette County, Iowa. Big Rock board members were present to answer questions from the council members including operational and financial questions. Big Rock board members provided suggestions for the council to consider in their offer to buy.
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 Tucker, seconded Scott, to open regular session (Post left the meeting during the closed session due to another personal obligation he needed to attend). Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Scott, seconded Tucker, to approve Resolution #2022-11 approving and submitting an offer to buy the Big Rock Country Club golf course in Fayette County, Iowa, for $400,000. Roll call, ayes - Potratz, Scott, Tenney and Tucker, absent - Post, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 6:40 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
February 7, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, February 7, 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, Tenney and Tucker.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 1/17/22, the special meeting minutes of 1/26/22, the claims list of 1/15/22 - 2/4/22 and correspondence. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood advised the council City Administrator/Clerk McGrane and him attended the Fayette Fire Advisory meeting on 1/19. Wood attended the Fayette County EMA commission meeting on 1/25, the Fayette County Conference Board on 1/26, the Personnel committee meeting on 1/26 and the Finance committee meeting on 2/2.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council he attended the Upper Explorerland Board meeting on 1/27 to express the frustrations and challenges we had with the administration of the CDBG Rehab grant performed by Upper Explorerland. A representative from the city of Cresco was also present to voice their grant administration issues.
Fayette Police Chief Davis their department has been working with Junior Achievement and teaching elementary schools at our local school district.
This being the time and place published for a public hearing on the proposed property tax levy for fiscal year July 1, 2022 – June 30, 2023, Mayor Wood opened the hearing and asked for comments. McGrane and Wood explained the purpose for the proposed property tax levy. Sue Runyon inquired what the tax increase was from the previous year to the current year and she was informed $0.04. There being no additional comments, Mayor Wood closed the hearing.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve Resolution #2022-09 adopting the proposed property tax levy for fiscal year 2023. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
This being the time and place published for a public hearing on the sale of the city’s interest in the golf course property in Fayette County, Iowa, Mayor Wood opened the hearing and asked for comments. Tim Wulfekuhle started by explaining the reasons why Nancy and him want to purchase Big Rock golf course including keeping it a tourist destination for the city. Wulfekuhle explained the urgency of them purchasing it including helping the Big Rock board by getting their debts and financial obligations paid before liens and other consequences occur. The Wulfekuhle's also need to start planning for the upcoming golf season. Wulfekuhle explained some of the portions of the agreement, including running it as an 18 hole golf course for a minimum of 5 years. Wulfekuhle indicated if the city doesn't take the steps to sell tonight, he feels it is too late and they will withdrawal their offer to buy. Council member Scott informed everyone the city may only sell property at fair market value and the city attorney does not encourage the council to sell the city owned property known as the "back 9" for $1. Many people, including Roy Karlson, Dennis Martin, Mike Eischeid, Bernard Pattison, Zach Wulfekuhle, Sue Runyon, Anne Langerman, Katheryn Hannigan, Nancy Wulfekuhle, Bradley Minger, Adam Carpenter, Jim Mitchell, David Runyon, Nancy Stockman, Kevin Lehs, Davis Wulfekuhle, Steve Landry, Bill Prohaska, Jeff Bradley,Tim Frey, Wayne Tjernagel, Tim Wulfekuhle and Andrea Scott, asked and answered questions, spoke in favor of the city accepting the offer to buy and selling the property, and spoke against the city selling the property. Written comments and information were provided to the council prior to the meeting from Christie Dennis, Jon Biederman, the Big Rock Country Club Board, David Runyon, Katherine McCarville and Andrew Wenthe. Those in favor of the city accepting the offer to buy and selling the property indicated reasons, including the Wulfekuhle's have proven they can run successful businesses and have taken risks for the better of the city and the Wulfekuhle's will have to invest their own money in repairing the golf course as well as getting it ready for the upcoming season and take a financial risk. Those against the city selling the property indicated reasons, including selling the property for $1 was not enough money, the city should look into other options including the city purchasing the golf course and concerns that a minimum of 5 years running the 18 hole golf course was not long enough. Other concerns were mentioned including a possible future expansion to the city sewer lagoons that are located next to the golf course. The majority of those in attendance expressed they did not want to lose the golf course because it provides something for area residents to do and brings a lot of people to the city. There being no additional comments, Mayor Wood closed the hearing.
Moved Post, 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 Post, seconded Tenney, to open regular session. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Scott, seconded Post, to discuss Resolution #2022-10. Post informed everyone the city will look into holding another public hearing as well as options for the city to purchase the golf course and run it as a municipal golf course. No motions were made to adopt and accept Resolution #2022-10, directing the sale of the city's interest in the golf course property in Fayette County.
Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to discuss contracting with Fayette Lumber Company. Council member Post advised he is going to abstain from the discussion and the vote because he is an employee at the business, and it is his families business. The Fayette Lumber Company provided the city a project management agreement to assist with preparing the vacant lot for the Homes for Iowa home. McGrane reached out to the city of Oelwein and they were not interested in contracting with the city for this project. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve and accept the construction management proposal from Fayette Lumber Company. Ayes - Potratz, Scott, Tenney, and Tucker, abstained - Post, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tucker, to discuss Fayette Recreation Board meeting minutes from 8/5/21, 9/7/21 and 9/19/21. Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to approve the Fayette Recreation Board meeting minutes from 8/5/21, 9/7/21 and 9/19/21. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve the Fayette Personnel meeting minutes from 1/26/22. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve the Fayette Finance committee meeting minutes from 2/2/22. All ayes, motion carried.
Chief Davis advised the council that he would like to hire Cameron Hart as a part-time/reserve police officer. Hart was in attendance and a student with Upper Iowa University. Davis advised background checks were completed. Hart is originally from the Quad Cities area. Moved Post, seconded Tucker, to approve hiring Cameron Hart as a part time/reserve police officer at the rate of $15.50 per hour and paying for his reserve certification. All ayes, motion carried.
Chief Davis advised the council that he would like to hire Jeremiah Owens as a part-time/reserve police officer. Owens was not present at the meeting. He is a Sergeant at the Strawberry Point police department and was a marine for quite a few years. Davis explained Owens is a good officer and is experienced in tactics. Hiring Owens will help cover the department during sickness, vacations and other time off. Owens will have to take another MMPI and an agreement is drafted for him to use most of his own equipment. Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve hiring Jeremiah Owens as a part time/reserve police officer at the rate of $20 per hour. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss waiving the building permit application fees for Eagle Point Solar. Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve waiving the building permit application fees for Eagle Point Solar to install ground and roof mounted solar arrays on city properties located at 801 Big Rock Road, 11 S. Main Street, 149 S. Main Street, 104 W. State Street, 110 Lovers Lane, 602 E. Madison Street and 616 Wadena Road. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 8:52 pm.
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
January 26, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Wednesday, January 26, 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.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz (via telephone), Scott, Tenney and Tucker.
Moved Post, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to go into closed session per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(c) to discuss strategy with counsel in matters that are presently in litigation where its disclosure would be likely to prejudice or disadvantage the position of the governmental body in that litigation. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to open regular session. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried. Potratz phone line disconnected during closed session, and we were unable to get communication established again.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve Resolution #2022-08 directing setting of a public hearing for the sale of the city's interest in golf course property in Fayette, Fayette County, Iowa. Roll call, ayes - Post, Scott, Tenney and Tucker, absent - Potratz, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 7:15 pm.
