REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
November 7, 2022
Prior to this meeting, at 5:01 pm, the council held a work session to discuss Resolution 2022-36, adopting council and mayor communications with city staff and employees, Resolution 2022-37, adopting the rules of procedure governing the conduct of business of the city council. The work session adjourned at 6:03 pm.
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, November 7, 2022, at 6:03 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Scott, Tenney, Tucker, Post, and Potratz.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 10/17/22, claims list of 10/15/22-11/4/22, the 5-day Class C Liquor License for Peach Cart Co., LLC, starting November 16, 2022, to be a vendor at winter market at Upper Iowa University (514 Union Street), the Class E Liquor License with the Class B Wine Permit and the Class C Beer Permit for Sunshine Energy LLC/The Pumper, the Fayette safety meeting minutes from 10/26/22 and correspondence from Mediacom. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the agenda as presented. Scott would like to remove agenda item for a donation to Upper Iowa University for the Recreation Center. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the agenda as amended. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood advised the council that there is a grant with our workers compensation company that can assist with costs of ice cleats for employees, and we are looking into it. A budget workshop will be held on 11/5 that Wood may attend. A KCRG TV reporter interviewed Wood about Fayette's speed cameras and the story should be airing in the near future. Wood submitted a letter to UIU student Johnson, and she may have some information and documents that the city or the Fayette Chamber may be able to utilize. Wood also provided an update on the police department and investigations.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that the Union Echo Leader newspaper will be running a nice article on the Homes for Iowa home. The open house for the new home will be on 11/10 from 4-6PM. Eagle Point Solar is working on the electrical for the solar panels. McGrane attended the fall Iowa Municipal Finance Officers Association conference on 10/20 and 10/21. McGrane met with the city's health insurance representative to discuss the new rates on 10/25.
Police Chief Davis explained to the council he has been working with Fayette County E911 board on the new radio system. There was a large operation that multiple agencies within our county worked on, including the Fayette police, and information will be coming out on that soon. The department will soon be starting their annual toy drive.
Roland and Magda Vazquez, 100 King Street, were present and addressed the council regarding the issues and damage they had during the W. Water Street improvements project. Vazquez summarized the issues from their letter (dated 5/4/22): 1) their house shook, a mirror fell causing minor damage to the drywall and the contractors were contacted (they estimate $48.15 to repair); 2) 2 years prior to the Water Street project they replaced part of their sidewalk and they would not have repaired part of it if they would have known the city would have been doing this project (they estimate $428 total with labor and materials); 3) nice bushes/plants that were planted on their property near the sidewalk were buried and damaged by a subcontractor (they estimate $144.45 of damages). Vazquez did not have any receipts to justify any of the costs of damages. Police Chief Davis and Tenney recommended the city contact our attorney to provide guidance to the council in these matters. No formal action was taken.
There was no discussion on Resolution 2022-36 because the council would like to see the updated draft at the next meeting.
There was no discussion on Resolution 2022-37 because the council would like to see the updated draft at the next meeting.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 515, amending and combining Chapter 23, Parks Board, and Chapter 24 Recreation Board. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to accept the Fayette Ambulance Service meeting minutes from 9/7/22. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve partial pay estimate number 1 - final to Dave's Home Improvement for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 300 Alexander Street in the amount of $13,490. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve the purchase of a Blink IQ 200 Dual Electric Charging Station in the amount of $9,588. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve renewing Bird Friendly Iowa out of the Recreation funds and making sure we get the signs up in the near future. All ayes, motion carried.
Wood suggested McGrane and Davis start gathering costs for the possibility of moving city hall to 9 S. Main Street and expanding the police department into the current city hall office. McGrane and Davis have looked at the computer server and network switch but still need to gather more costs and information. They will present more information at a future meeting. No formal action was taken.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve Resolution 2022-41, approving the gWorks Master Services Agreement, Terms of Service, Product Support Agreement and Privacy Policy. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Scott, to table Resolution 2022-42, approving an agreement for Dispatch Services for Fayette County, until a future date and after we receive more documentation including justification of the higher costs of the contract. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to approve Resolution 2022-43, approving an agreement for Professional Services and Scope of Services with Fehr Graham Engineering for the North Main Street Improvements Project. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the Wellmark Health Insurance plan for city employees. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Scott, 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 Scott, to open regular session. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve Resolution 2022-40, directing setting a public hearing for the sale of the city's interest in 207 Alexander Street, Fayette, Fayette County, Iowa. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 8:17 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
October 17, 2022
Prior to this meeting, at 5:04 pm, the council held a work session to discuss Resolution 2022-36, adopting council and mayor communications with city staff and employees, Resolution 2022-37, adopting the rules of procedure governing the conduct of business of the city council. The work session adjourned at 5:59 pm.
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, October 17, 2022, at 6:01 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 (via telephone because she was out of the country), Tenney, Tucker, and Post. Absent - Potratz.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 10/3/22, claims list of 10/1/22-10/14/22, the May 2022 and June 2022 financial reports and the acceptance of resignation from Gerald Hildebrand. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of May 31, 2022: Total May Receipts: $203,844.76 (General $89,875.91; 9 S. Main $300; Streets $7,579.89; Employee Benefits $12,620.86; LOST $10,794.03; TIF $14,495.66; Revolving Loan $230.65; Bolger $175.46; Library Fund $26.72; Debt $3,108.07; Water $23,581.56; Water T&A $900; Sewer $34,930.70; Water/Sewer Capital $4,638.25; Storm Water $587). Total May Disbursements: $134,373.14 (General $39,682.45; Streets $11,071.76; Employee Benefits $8,269.53; CDBG $4,257.62; Revolving Loan $16.66; Bolger $25.98; Library Fund $964.95; Debt $32,632.50; Homes for Iowa $4,470.04; Water $12,315.86; Water T&A $2,325.82; Sewer $18,339.97). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,404,703.43.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of June 30, 2022: Total June Receipts: $133,764.67 (General $45,871.86; Streets $22,895.20; Employee Benefits $958.30; LOST $10,794.03; Revolving Loan $231.71; Bolger $370.10; Library Fund $76.22; Debt $204.51; Water $18,867.69; Water T&A $1,350; Sewer $27,490.70; Water/Sewer Capital $4,084.35; Storm Water $570). Total June Disbursements: $335,098.71 (General $88,577.67; Streets $14,614.46; Employee Benefits $10,526.17; TIF $44,919.11; Revolving Loan $17.70; Bolger $17,109; Library Fund $964.95; Water $18,709.89; Water T&A $2,399.18; Sewer $46,260.58; Sewer Fund $91,000). Transfers in: General $67,934.39; Street $80,085.37; TIF LMI $12,076.79; Water Street Project $389,903.24; Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: General $15,636; Street $187,890.24; LOST $143,019.76; TIF $12,076.79; Water $130,465; Sewer $70,487.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,207,541.32.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood informed the council that Police Chief Davis and himself met with the Upper Iowa University (UIU) Student Government Association since the last council meeting. They discussed the interaction of police officers on campus for security at UIU. Wood suggested UIU have a police officer address the new students as they have done in the past. Wood met with the city attorney on the nuisance homes and an extension was granted for one property. At the Iowa League of Cities conference, Wood was informed city councils should not approve the hiring of any employees or volunteers, only the department supervisors. Wood checked with the city attorney, and he agreed. Wood recommended each council committee chair develop a charge for each council subcommittee that would include their responsibilities and duties. Wood would also like to look at the by-laws, procedures and Standard Operating Manual for the police to see if anything needs updated or revised.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council they received a thank you from the Watermelon Days committee. McGrane advised the solar panels are almost installed and now they will be working on hooking them up to the electricity. Public Works Director Adam Hildebrand is working with a company on the rip rap and has the price reduced by around $15,000 from the original quotes. Jeff Bradley is the city treasurer, and his term expires 12/31/2022. McGrane informed the council they could eliminate the position and have the full-time deputy clerk take over the duties. McGrane would recommend they continue to have a separate person as the city treasurer because it is another person reviewing the city finances. McGrane advised the auditor completed the on-site visit on 10/14/22.
Police Chief Davis was not present; however, he provided a written update to the Mayor who shared it with the council.
This being the time and place posted for a public hearing on a ground solar array being constructed at 705 W. Water Street, Mayor Wood opened the hearing and asked for comments. Jeff Muzingo, 705 W. Water Street, informed the council on his solar array request. There being no further comments, Mayor Wood closed the hearing.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve a ground solar array to be constructed at 705 W. Water Street. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to move forward with the N. Main Street project so Fehr Graham Engineering may start moving forward with the project. All ayes, motion carried.
There was no discussion on Resolution 2022-36 because the council would like another work session on this Resolution.
There was no discussion on Resolution 2022-37 because the council would like another work session on this Resolution.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the second reading of Ordinance 515, amending and combining Chapter 23, Parks Board, and Chapter 24 Recreation Board. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to accept the Fayette Recreation Board meeting minutes from 3/21/22, 4/25/22, 6/16/22 and 7/14/22. All ayes, motion carried.
The council discussed paying the former Public Works Director Gerald Hildebrand an additional 26.7 hours of vacation that Hildebrand was not able to take and lost the hours because he was already at the maximum of 200 hours. After discussion, no action was taken.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve contract change order #7 for the Water Street improvements project 20-897. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve partial pay estimate #8 to Heartland Asphalt, Inc. for the Water Street improvements project in the amount of $2,137.50. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve partial pay estimate #9 - the final retainage to Heartland Asphalt, Inc. for the Water Street improvements project in the amount of $6,240.47. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to accept the project acceptance of the Water Street improvements project 20-897. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Scott, seconded Tenney, to approve a donation in the amount of $200 out of the hotel/motel tax fund to the Winneshiek Energy District for assisting us with the research in the electric vehicle charger stations. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve Resolution 2022-39, accepting and approving the Jayhawk Annual Software Assurance/Support Hours Contract Terms. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 7:42 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
October 3, 2022
Prior to this meeting, at 5:00 pm, the council held a work session to discuss Resolution 2022-36, adopting council and mayor communications with city staff and employees, Resolution 2022-37, adopting the rules of procedure governing the conduct of business of the city council. The work session adjourned at 5:59 pm.
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, October 3, 2022, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Scott, Tenney, Tucker, Post, and Potratz.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 9/19/22, claims list of 9/17/22-9/30/22 and approval to renew the Class C Beer Permit with a Class B Wine Permit and Sunday Sales for Dollar General Store #20268. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tenney, to amend the agenda and have agenda item 7A, discussion on moving forward and finance options for the N. Main Street improvements project, next on the agenda and approve the amended agenda. All ayes, motion carried.
Maggie Burger, Financial Advisor with Speer Financial, presented the council with the city's debt limit, the remaining legal debt margin, estimated project costs, costs of issuance for general obligation bonds and a few spreadsheets to show potential interest rates, maturity schedules and impact on the tax rate. No formal action was taken.
Mayor Wood informed the council that council person Tenney, City Administrator McGrane and him attended the Iowa League of Cities annual conference last week and it was very worthwhile. Mr. Runyon had talked to Wood about concerns with drivers on Big Rock Road and sharing the road with pedestrians and bikers. It was suggested to have "25 MPH" and/or stencils of pedestrians and bikers painted on the road to remind drivers. Wood would like to refer the request to the Streets and Sidewalks committee. Louise Scott spoke with Wood about the possibility of adding a pedestrian stop light along HWY 150 at the intersection of W. Clark Street to assist school age children crossing the HWY. Wood would like to refer the suggestion to the Streets and Sidewalks committee. Wood has had multiple property owners approach him about a variety of concerns with Upper Iowa University (UIU) students. Wood is working with the police department and public works department to assist with some of the concerns. Wood and Police Chief Davis will be meeting with the UIU Student Government Association ON 10/4 about their concerns. Wood provided the council with correspondence on an investigation he conducted with some UIU student's complaints on the Fayette Police Department. Wood has concluded his investigation and cannot report specifics at this time due to an open police investigation.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the solar panel project. The panels are starting to be installed around the city. McGrane advised he is working with an attorney on the possibility of the Fayette Ambulance Service receiving a donation from a potential residual beneficiary of a Trust. McGrane is still working with KS State Bank on the payment for the new police Tahoe and completed paperwork with Quick Med Claims for Medicare revalidation for the ambulance service. McGrane advised the on-site audit for fiscal year 2022 will be conducted on 10/14.
Police Chief Davis advised the council that abatements are still moving forward. Motorola is working on the countywide emergency radio system upgrade and believes the project could start in November. On 10/9 from 11AM to 2PM will be the Fayette PD K9 fundraiser at Cardinal Park and will be a free-will donation lunch. On 10/20 there will be around 30 police K9's in and around town for training.
Paul Cutting with Winneshiek Energy District was present to discuss and answer questions about installing an electric vehicle (EV) charging station in Fayette. Cutting provided warranty information on the units. Cutting advised he will assist us with marketing the new EV charging station. Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve moving forward with purchasing a dual Blink EV Charger with a 5 year warranty using the hotel/motel tax funds and placing it on S. Main Street by the Fayette Fire Station. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to having the Public Works Director, Mayor and City Administrator/Clerk decide on the best contractor to place riprap around the solar panels at the lagoons taking into consideration cost and availability on completing the project without spending more than $49,999.99. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to approve donating $4,000 plus the price of the sand from the park fund to the American Legion Post 339 to assist with the new playground equipment installed at Klocks Island park. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to accept the Fayette Safety meeting minutes from 9/28/22. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to approve Ordinance 515, amending and combining Chapter 23, Parks Board, and Chapter 24, Recreation Board, as amended. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
No discussion was had on Resolution 2022-36 because the council would like another work session on this Resolution.
No discussion was had on Resolution 2022-37 because the council would like another work session on this resolution.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve Resolution 2022-38, the Medical Director Agreement between the City of Fayette Ambulance Service and Winneshiek Medical Center. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve having citywide trick or treating on Monday, October 31 from 5PM to 7PM. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 8:36 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
September 19, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, September 19, 2022, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Scott, Tenney, Tucker, Post (via telephone due to his employment), and Potratz.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 9/6/22, claims list of 9/3/22-9/16/22 and approval to renew the Class C Beer Permit with a Class B Wine Permit and Sunday Sales for Dollar General Store #20268. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Daniel Rosario Cushion, Upper Iowa University (UIU) Assistant Vice President for Student Life, and Katy O'Brien, president of the UIU Student Government Association, addressed the council with concerns they received from UIU students regarding the Fayette Police Department. Two other UIU students also shared a recent experience they had with Fayette Police Officers. Mayor Wood advised he is currently investigating some complaints he received and would like to meet with anyone who has any other concerns.
Darwin Vandersee, 509 Mechanic Street, provided pictures of college parties occurring across the street from his house and expressed his frustration of having to constantly contact the police with issues from the parties. Wood advised he would like to meet with Vandersee to discuss the concerns.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood advised he has been investigating complaints from UIU students about the Fayette Police Department. Wood has also been investigating the lack of response from Fayette Fire Chief Jason Rohde on providing reports to the Assistant Fayette County Attorney in a timely manner. The Visual Element is moving out of the rental located at 9 S. Main Street and Wood would like the council to start considering moving city hall into the space. The move would provide more space for city hall and the Fayette Police Department. Wood thanked everyone who participated and helped with Fayette Watermelon Days.
Upon recommendation from Mayor Wood, moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to appoint Pat Whelan to the Fayette County Waste Management Board to complete the 2-year term ending 10/31/2023. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon recommendation from Mayor Wood, moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to reappoint Jon Biederman to the Turkey River Watershed Management Authority for a 4-year term ending 12/31/2026. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon recommendation from Mayor Wood and the Fayette Fire Department, moved Potratz, seconded Tenney, to appoint Sarah Niles to the Fayette Fire Department. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council that Maggie Burger, the city's Financial Advisor with Speer Financial, Inc., will attend the next council meeting to discuss city finances for the proposed North Main Street project. Insurance was placed on the new Homes for Iowa home. Deputy Clerk Creery and McGrane submitted the reports and information for the annual IMWCA audit. Eagle Point Solar had a pre-construction meeting and site visit in Fayette on 9/15. They are tentatively planning on starting the project on 9/21 and are estimating the project to take about 3 to 6 weeks to complete.
Police Chief Davis updated the council on abatements. The department turned over all the video evidence and reports to the mayor in reference to the UIU student's complaints and investigation.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve committing $1,200 to the Northeast Iowa Regional Housing Trust Fund for residents of the city of Fayette for 2023 out of the Hotel Motel Tax Fund. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to accept the Fayette Ambulance meeting minutes from 7/6/2022. All ayes, motion carried.
The Fayette Chamber would like to let the council know they may start fundraising for new holiday decorations to be placed on the downtown light poles. They are aware they need to work with the Public Works department to make sure they assist with the decorations. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve having the Fayette Chamber decorate the Open Air Market with holiday decorations. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve closing the 100 block of S. Main Street from 6AM to 6PM on Saturday, October 8, 2022, for Fayette's Main Street Fall Market. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood signed a proclamation recognizing the week of September 26-30, 2022, as National Clean Energy Week.
Paul Cutting, an Energy Planner for the Winneshiek Energy District, presented a letter and information about electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Wood and McGrane met with Cutting and shared what they had learned and some options. The council recommended having Cutting attend the next council meeting to continue to learn more about EV charging stations. No formal action was taken.
The hiring committee recommended to the council to hire Adam Hildebrand as the Public Works Director. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve hiring Adam Hildebrand as the Public Works Director at a salary of $62,723.61 starting on October 2, 2022. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to adopt Resolution 2022-35, approving the Water Utility Vendor Agreement Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 8:01 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
September 6, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Tuesday, September 6, 2022, at 6:02 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Pro-Tem Potratz presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Scott, Tenney, Tucker, Post, and Potratz.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 8/15/22, claims list of 8/13/22-9/2/22, Outstanding Obligations Disclosure Statement for Fiscal Year 2022, and correspondence from Hackley Homes & Communities LLC. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Scott, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane reminded the council that City Hall hours are now 8AM-4PM and closed from 12:30PM-1:30PM. The Iowa DNR approved a Construction Permit for the solar panels to be placed at the wastewater plant, so Eagle Point Solar is hoping to start installing the solar panels later this month. Fehr Graham believes W. Water Street should be patched up and completed the week of Sept. 12th. McGrane completed and submitted the annual Outstanding Obligations report on 8/29. McGrane advised the city received the first payment for Hotel Motel Tax, however, he needs to find out from the state the dates the payment is for. McGrane reminded everyone about Fayette Watermelon Days this coming weekend and volunteers are still needed.
Police Chief Davis was not present but had McGrane share a few updates. The department will be announcing a K9 fundraiser soon. It will be a free-will donation luncheon at Cardinal Park from 11AM-2PM on October 9th. The department also received confirmation that they will be awarded $7,500 from the United States Police Canine Association grant.
Moved Post, seconded Scott, to accept the Fayette Personnel Committee meeting minutes from 8/21/22 and the Fayette Safety meeting minutes from 8/24/22. All ayes, motion carried.
McGrane shared information from the Fayette County Economic Development and Tourism Housing Study. McGrane advised that an open house will be held on Thursday, 9/22 from 5-7PM at the Fayette Opera House for anyone to review the study and ask questions. No formal action was taken.
Upper Explorerland would like to know if the council would like to consider giving funds for the Northeast Iowa Regional Housing Trust Fund for 2023. Upper Explorerland applies for a grant each year through the Iowa Finance Authority for State Housing Trust Fund dollars as a match. McGrane provided a history of what the city has committed in the past. The funds will only be used in Fayette and carry over each year if unspent. The council requested McGrane to get an update on how much money is currently in the fund for Fayette and present it at the next council meeting. No formal action was taken.
Council member Post would like a group of residents from the city of Fayette and the county of Fayette to meet and come up with some ideas for future improvements at the Open Air Market park and the Fayette County Freedom Rock. The majority of the council thought it was a great idea if Post wanted to lead a group and they can present their ideas to the council. No formal action was taken.
The council discussed how to move forward with a hiring committee for the Public Works Director position. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to utilize the current city Personnel Committee and the Mayor to interview and provide a recommendation of a Public Works Director to the full council. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to adopt Resolution 2022-32, approving the Fiscal Year 2022 Transferring of funds. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to adopt Resolution 2022-33, amending the city of Fayette Personnel Policy changing section 1 Organization Chart/Chain of Command and changing "Police Committee" to "Public Safety Committee" in sections 6 and 7.1. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Scott, seconded Tenney, to adopt Resolution 2022-34, revising and updating the job description for the Public Works Director position. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Jon Biederman with Fehr Graham was present to discuss the improvements needed on North Main Street and estimated costs. The project would start where the concrete ends just north of the bridge near Cardinal Park and end where the concrete begins just south of HWY 150. The project would include widening the road from 18 feet to 24 feet. A preliminary opinion of probable cost was $864,225 for concrete surfacing and $892,838 for asphalt surfacing. Biederman would recommend the council make a formal decision to move forward with the project by November to provide them adequate time to prepare to take bids in January or February of 2023. Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to have the city's Financial Advisor attend a future council meeting to discuss funding options for the North Main Street improvements project. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Potratz declared the meeting adjourned at 8:34 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 15, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, August 15, 2022, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Scott, Tenney, Tucker, Post, and Potratz.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 8/1/22 and the claims list of 7/30/22-8/12/22. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood advised he spoke with Fayette County Sheriff Marty Fisher in reference to an incident that took place in late June, and it was forwarded to the Public Safety Committee chair. Wood will be having a meeting to learn more about a possible grant for placing electric charging stations within our city. The city employees will be starting safety meetings this month by request of the city's workers compensation company.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on city hall expanding their hours to 8AM to 12:30PM and 1:30PM to 4PM, Monday through Friday, starting on Tuesday, 9/6/22. McGrane also completed and submitted the required paperwork for the USDA Rural Development grant for the new radios. McGrane reminded the council the next council meeting will be on Tuesday, 9/6/22.
Police Chief Davis advised he is out of the office this week because he is training the Delaware County Sheriffs Office and Manchester Police Department staff in active shooter response. The department will be picking up the new K9 squad vehicle this Friday. Police K9 Odin and Officer Ball have completed their training and are now working the streets.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to move forward on having an open house for the Homes for Iowa home once it is completed. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to accept the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 6/8/22 and 7/13/22. All ayes, motion carried.
Members of the Fayette American Legion Post 339 were present to ask the council if they could purchase and install playground equipment to be placed at Klocks Island Park. The members have found a family in Minnesota that are selling a commercial playground set that is approximately 7 years old and is in great shape for $4,000. The members would pick up the equipment and install it at Klocks Island park with the assistance of the Fayette Public Works employees. The family would like some sort of plaque to go up near the equipment for their donation. The city council may also help pay for part the purchase of the equipment if they would like. The members believe they would have the new playground equipment installed at Klocks Island park before the end of this season. Mayor Wood thanked the members for the project. Moved Potratz, seconded Scott, to approve the donation of the new playground equipment from the American Legion Post 339 to be placed at Klock's Island park. All ayes, motion carried.
Police Chief Davis recommended the city to hire Joshua McCraney for the full-time police officer position. McCraney currently works in the Nuclear Security Field and is a Navy veteran. McCraney is uncertified and will probably attend the police academy in January of 2023. McCraney can start working on Monday, 8/22/22. Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve hiring Joshua McCraney as a full-time Fayette Police Officer at an hourly wage of $20.50. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve awarding the CDBG Rehabilitation contract for 300 Alexander Street to Dave's Home Improvement in the amount of $17,000 contingent on finalization of review of some various items. All ayes, motion carried.
Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand provided a quote from K&W Coatings LLC in the amount of $36,500 for cleaning and painting the exterior of the water tower. It would be an additional $800 for them to clean the interior of the water tower at the same time. Upper Iowa University does not have extra funds at this time to help cover the costs of painting "Upper Iowa University" on the tower. The council discussed other options including artwork or slogans that could be painted on the tower. Hildebrand recommended that it should be cleaned and repainted within the next few years. No formal action was taken.
McGrane explained in 2006, $25,000 of Sewer funds were invested in a CD to cover the pay-out of Jerry Hildebrand's vacation and sick time when he retires. McGrane advised we currently have enough in the Sewer fund to cover the expenses and the council could keep the CD invested for a future sewer project. Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve keeping the Sewer CD in the amount of $25,000 invested and to be used for a future sewer project. All ayes, motion carried.
A few options for the future of the Public Works Department were presented to the council after Public Works Director Hildebrand retires. The first option was to post the job advertisement to replace the position. The second option was to contract the water/wastewater duties out to a neighboring city. The third option was to contract the water/wastewater duties out to PeopleService Inc. The city of Oelwein would we open to discuss a contract, but the city of West Union would not be interested. PeopleService Inc. provided information and a proposal of $13,076 per month for them to manage all the water/wastewater systems and duties. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to continue to go with the option to hire a new Public Works Director. Ayes - Scott, Tucker, Post and Potratz; Nay - Tenney; motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 7:45 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 1, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, August 1, 2022, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Scott, Tenney, Tucker (arrived at 6:01), Post, and Potratz.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 7/18/22 and the claims list of 6/30/22-7/29/22. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood updated the council on the cell tower negotiations. Wood attended the Fayette Chamber RAGBRAI event on 7/29/22.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council the Homes for Iowa home was delivered on 7/20. The city will be replacing the entire sidewalk in front of the home and a few sections of the neighbors due to cracks from the delivery. The Development Agreement has been sent to Jaime Hackley for review. McGrane has continued to work with the Iowa Department of Revenue in regards to the Hotel/Motel tax. McGrane has a new IRS Form to complete each year and a small tax to pay because of our new health insurance plan. Starting 7/1/22 the quarterly Iowa Sales Tax report and payment is changing to monthly. McGrane had the annual I.T. meeting with Access Systems on the city's computers on 7/20. McGrane attended the Iowa Municipal Professionals Academy training on 7/27-7/29.
Police Chief Davis informed the council that K9 Odin is now certified in narcotics. Odin will receive quarterly evaluations and will be able to start training in "tracking" next spring. Davis applied for a $10,000 grant to help with the Fayette K9 program.
Moved Scott, seconded Post, to adopt Resolution 2022-30, adopting an addition to the Fayette Police Departments Policy and Procedure Manual: Police Canine Policy. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to acknowledge receipt of the Fayette Board of Adjustment meeting minutes from 6/9/22, the Fayette Planning and Zoning Commission meeting minutes from 7/21/22 and the Fayette Board of Adjustment meeting minutes from 7/25/22. All ayes, motion carried.
Assistant County Attorney Nathan Lein was present and advised the council that he has not received reports from the Fayette Fire Department on an incident that occurred in Fayette around 7/1/22. Lein needs time to review the report and investigation because he has a 45-day deadline to file charges if charges need to be filed in the case. Lein has made a few requests for the report and has only received about 6 photographs. Lein would also like a list of witnesses, witness interviews and medical reports for the case. Lein presented the Mayor with additional information that he encouraged the Mayor and council members to view in regards to the case. Post, the chair for the Fayette Public Safety committee, advised he will follow-up with Fayette Fire Chief Rohde about the reports and will work on scheduling a Public Safety committee meeting in the future. No formal action was taken.
Inspiring Lives had representatives present at the meeting including Laura Peyton (C.E.O.), Kira Roberts (Director of Long Term Care Services), Molly Heldt (Director of Clinical Services), Jennifer White (Director of Organizational Development) and Nick (Human Resources) to help educate and answer questions about their company from the council and the public. Peyton advised that Inspiring Lives has been around for quite a few years and they assist individuals with mental health disorders and work on getting them back into the community and on their own. A few Fayette residents voiced frustrations about having safety and other concerns (not of criminal nature) with some of the clients and when residents reached out to communicate with Inspiring Lives, they were not getting calls returned or answered. Some of the concerns later developed into criminal activity by the clients. The Fayette Police Department has had approximately 44 calls-for-services since 1/1/22 that involved clients from Inspiring Lives. Other area law enforcement agencies have had concerns with Inspiring Lives clients and they met in July to communicate the concerns with Inspiring Lives staff. The goal is to develop better communication to resolve the concerns. Inspiring Lives advised they have recently updated their website and have contact information on their website for the public to report concerns that are not crimes. Inspiring Lives will continue to work better at communication with the public and their concerns. Wood suggested an Inspiring Lives representative return to a future council meeting within the next few months to provide an update on their action plan to help with communication. No formal action was taken.
Davis provided an update on the Iowa state code changes for registration and the use of ATV's and UTV's. After discussion the council would like city code Chapter 75 to be updated and a draft that refers to the Iowa State code rules be presented at a future meeting. They would also like clarification if snowmobiles are included with the changes. No formal action was taken.
Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to adopt Resolution 2022-31, approving and authorizing a request for obligation of funds, a letter of intent to meet conditions and the community facilities grant agreement. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 8:08 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
July 18, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, July 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 Scott (via telephone until she arrived in person), Tenney, Tucker, Post, and Potratz.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 7/5/22 and the claims list of 7/2/22-7/15/22. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood provided the council with the Iowa Municipalities Workers Compensation Association letter he received in regards to a meeting McGrane and him attended on 7/6/22.
Upon recommendation from Mayor Wood, moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to reappoint Becky Wadian and Marcia Andrews to the Fayette Library Board of Trustees for a 6-year term that will expire on 6/30/2028. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the new Hotel/Motel Tax. McGrane is working with the Iowa Department of Revenue and the Fayette County Auditor with the Hotel/Motel tax paperwork. McGrane advised the new Homes for Iowa home will be delivered on 7/20. McGrane has been working with the USDA Rural Development on the grant to help with the costs of the new radio/equipment that will be needed for the Fayette County tower upgrade. The maximum the city may receive from the grant is now $44,600.
Police Chief Davis informed the council that Inspiring Lives staff and representatives will be attending the 8/1 city council meeting to discuss concerns. The council and citizens who have concerns are encouraged to attend the 8/1 meeting at 6PM in the Fayette Community Library. There are currently 5 homes in Fayette that Inspiring Lives use. Davis will provide some statistics on the calls in Fayette in reference to Inspiring Lives at the meeting. The Fayette PD will be providing an active shooter response training to the Delaware County police, fire and emergency medical services. Davis advised he has received communication that Goodell is collecting more items outside his home. He will communicate with the city attorney on possible next steps.
The mayor and council went through the development agreement. Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to approve the development agreement with Hackley Homes & Communities, LLC, for $1000 per lot or actual cost for running water and sewer infrastructure up to a maximum of $20,000 and to present it to Hackley Homes & Communities, LLC. All ayes, motion carried. Motion Scott, second Post, for adding in the attorney fee shifting provision and to adjust the Minimum Improvements on page B-1 in Exhibit B. All ayes, motion carried.
The council discussed the flagpole at the old tourism lot. McGrane advised it is a 24 foot flagpole and Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand confirmed the public works employees can manage the flag during the summer. Mayor Wood advised Grandview Cemetery may be interested in the flagpole. The council suggested the flagpole should be taken out and evaluated before a decision is made. The pole could be stored with the city until a decision is made. First the council would like to know the cost of getting the flagpole removed, including how many city employees and hours worked it would take to remove the flagpole. No formal action was taken.
Wood and McGrane updated the council on the meeting they had with the city attorney on 7/13 in reference to the housing inspections. Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to move forward with unsafe structures, dangerous buildings and condemnation proceedings with city code chapter 145 and to move forward with our nuisance properties. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve and acknowledge receipt the Fayette County Economic Development & Tourism quarterly report from April to June 2022. All ayes, motion carried.
Kevin with Northeast Security Bank informed the council that the bank would like to have Boyd's food truck out of Fairbank in town on the street for a customer appreciation. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to close off W. State Street from S. Main Street to King Street on Friday, September 9, 2022, from 11AM to 2PM for Northeast Security Bank's Customer Appreciation. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to close off S. Main Street from Water Street to Clark Street and State Street from Mechanic Street to Washington Street from Friday, September 9, 2022 to Sunday, September 11, 2022 for Watermelon Days and granting permission for live music outside until 12AM on Friday, September 9, 2022, and Saturday, September 10, 2022. All ayes, motion carried.
Recommendations and edits were made to the new police canine policy for the Fayette Police Department Policy and Procedure Manual. Chief Davis drafted the policy using other surrounding departments policies and getting recommendations from other canine officers. Council would like to look at the revised policy at the next meeting. No formal action was taken.
Wood provided the 2023-2028 City of Fayette Strategy Path that was presented by the strategic planning committee. It was recommended on changing "established" with "emerging" for "Be an emerging arts and history community" as one of the vision statements. Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve the identity, vision and tenet as amended of the 2023-28 Strategy Path. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 8:58 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
July 5, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Tuesday, July 5, 2022, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Scott (via telephone due to a family emergency), Tenney and Tucker; Absent - Post and Potratz.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 6/20/22, the claims list of 6/18/22-7/1/22, the approval of the new Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service, Sunday Sales and Catering Privileges for Aramark Educational Services, LLC/Pete's/Upper Iowa University. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood encouraged the council members to register for the Iowa League of Cities annual conference in Waterloo this year. Wood provided an update on the strategic planning committee and how they have completed their recommendations and will soon be providing the information to the city council. The Fayette Fire Department included a list of responses from 12/20/21-6/21/22.
Upon recommendation from Mayor Wood, moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to appoint Tim Wolff to the Fayette Board of Adjustment to complete the 5-year term that will expire on 5/15/2024. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon recommendation from the Fayette Recreation Board and Mayor Wood, moved Tucker , seconded Tenney, to appoint Patrick Lynch to the Fayette Recreation Board to complete the 3-year term that will expire on 12/31/2024. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the Homes for Iowa home project. The home should be delivered later this month.
Police Chief Davis advised the council K9 Odin started training today in Minnesota. Davis has not received anything from the City Attorney on updates in reference to the house inspections. The property owners need to be notified and given adequate time to respond to the violations. Davis believes if the violations are not addressed, the city attorney would file paperwork and it would go to court. Davis provided an update on the Goodell property. The city is completed with everything, and the property is cleaned up. McGrane is working on an invoice to send to Goodell on reimbursement expenses. An offer has been made to Michael Foland in accepting the full-time police officer position and Foland will get back with the city if he will accept the position.
Jaime Hackley provided updates on the improvement project for the mobile home park. His estimates came in at $109,925 for improving the 8 existing/vacant lots ($29,270), adding 12 new lots ($78,155) and extending the drive (24' x 211' $2,500). The council reviewed the "Agreement for Private Development" draft. The agreement would assist Hackley by reimbursing him some of the expenses for the water and sewer lines once he has completed the project and mobile homes are placed on the lots. Council member Susan Scott will review the agreement and provide another draft for the city council to review.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to adopt Resolution 2022-29, accepting the Engagement Agreement and Scope of Engagement with Ahlers & Cooney, P.C. with the Hackley Homes & Communities, LLC Development Agreement. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand advised North Main Street needs to be widened and resurfaced. The culverts need cleaned and reshaped, as well. Hildebrand recommends getting a cost estimate so the city council may decide if they want to move forward with the process and how to budget for it. Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to get an estimate for widening, resurfacing and cleaning and reshaping the culverts along N. Main Street with Fehr Graham Engineering. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 7:02 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
June 20, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, June 20, 2022, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Pro-Tem Potratz presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Scott and Tucker; Absent - Tenney.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 6/6/22, the claims list of 6/4/22-6/17/22, renewal of the Iowa Retail Permit Application for Cigarette/Tobacco/Nicotine/Vapor for The Pumper, Inc., renewal of the Class C Liquor License with Catering Privilege and Sunday Sales for ARAMARK Educational Services, LLC/Upper Iowa University, and the renewal of the Class E Liquor License with the Class B Native Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit and Sunday Sales for the Pumper, Inc. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Scott, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council the new Fayette ambulance was involved in an accident when it struck 2 Texas Longhorn Cattle. No one was injured but the ambulance had quite a bit of damage. They will be renting an ambulance for the time being. McGrane provided an update on the dispatch contract negotiations with the Fayette County Supervisors and Fayette County Sheriff's Office. McGrane was notified that the city could be awarded a maximum of $50,000 of grant funds from the USDA, Rural Development grant instead of $156,357 that would be used to assist with the Fayette County emergency radio project.
Police Chief Davis advised Gary Goodell's property will be cleaned up this week in reference to the nuisance abatement. Reports were received by the building inspector on two properties that were inspected. Davis is working with the city attorney on next steps. K9 Officer Odin will be going to training soon and should be done by the end of the summer.
This being the time and place published for a public hearing for comments on the authorization of a loan and disbursement agreement and the issuance of not to exceed $65,000 for a 2023 Chevy Tahoe PPV police vehicle, Mayor Pro-Tem Potratz opened the hearing and asked for comments. There being no comments, Mayor Pro-Tem Potratz closed the hearing.
Moved Scott, seconded Tucker, to adopt Resolution 2022-28, approving the authorization of a loan and disbursement agreement and the issuance of not to exceed $65,000 for a 2023 Chevy Tahoe. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Scott, to approve and accept the Fayette City Tree Board meeting minutes from 1/12/22 and 6/15/22, the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 4/13/22 and 5/11/22, and the Fayette Ambulance Service meeting minutes from 10/6/21, 11/3/21, 12/1/21, 2/2/22, 3/2/22 and 4/6/22. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Scott, to approve the hire of Mike Foland as a reserve police officer at the rate of $20.00 per hour. All ayes, motion carried.
Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand advised the frame was bent on the 2019 tractor and it is still having issues mowing after it was repaired. Hildebrand received two quotes, one from P&K Midwest, Inc. for $4,052.98 and the other from Bodensteiner Implement Co. for $5,250. Moved Post, seconded Scott, to approve the purchase of a new tractor/mower from P&K Midwest, Inc. in Sumner at the cost between $4,000 and $5,500 out of the Streets fund, however, if it's sold before we purchase it, then to purchase a new tractor/mower from somewhere not to exceed $5,500. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve $1,011.19 to Dave's Standard Service from the Parks fund for the purchase of new batteries and parts for the golf cart used for watering downtown plants. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Tucker declared the meeting adjourned at 6:44 pm.
