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.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

June 6, 2022

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, June 6, 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, Scott (via telephone due to illness), Tenney and Tucker; Absent - Potratz.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 5/16/22, the claims list of 5/14/22-6/3/22, renewal of the Iowa Retail Permit Application for Cigarette/Tobacco/Nicotine/Vapor for Dollar General Store #20268, the March 2022 financial reports and the April 2022 financial reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of March 31, 2022: Total March Receipts: $127,650.66 (General $24,892.82; Streets $8,208.67; Employee Benefits $1,313.01; Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) $18,350.62; Tax Increment Financing (TIF) $321.66; Revolving Loan $230.50; Bolger $5,670.03; Library Fund $114.93; Debt $289.39; Water Street Project $4,840.75; Water $23,946.36; Water T&A $600; Sewer $33,878.64; Water/Sewer Capital $4,403.28; Storm Water $590). Total March Disbursements: $149,272.90 (General $43,283.61; Streets $9,085.95; Employee Benefits $19,095.87; CDBG $34,925; Bolger $97.13; Library Fund $1,230.92; Homes for Iowa $3,182.50; Water $17,907.44; Sewer $20,464.48). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,252,398.88.

     Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of April 30, 2022: Total April Receipts: $224,828.13 (General $89,892.71; Streets $19,154.38; Employee Benefits $30,414.56; LOST $9,175.31; TIF $14,002.29; Revolving Loan $230.25; Bolger $200.41; Library Fund $68.97; Debt $6,891.07; Water Street Project $2,294; Water $18,805.10; Water T&A $450; Sewer $28,608.27; Water/Sewer Capital $4,054.81; Storm Water $586). Total April Disbursements: $142,442.07 (General $55,264.29; Streets $8,899.06; Employee Benefits $8,569.36; CDBG $30,305; Bolger $62.39; Library Fund $1,709.70; Water Street Project $180; Homes for Iowa $3,000; Water $14,082.47; Water T&A $300; Sewer $20,069.80). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,335,359.06.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.

     Mayor Wood informed the council that he attended the nuisance abatement conference on 5/18 and recommended the city look at adopting ordinances including an abandoned property ordinance. Wood provided an update on the strategic planning committee and hopes to present the plan to the city council at a July council meeting.

     Upon recommendation from the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees and Mayor Wood, moved Tenney, seconded Post, to appoint Keisha Formanec to the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees to complete the 6-year term expiring 6/30/26. All ayes, motion carried.

     Upon recommendation from the Fayette Ambulance Service and Mayor Wood, moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to appoint Paul Becthold to the Fayette Ambulance Service. All ayes, motion carried.

     Upon recommendation from the Fayette Ambulance Service and Mayor Wood, moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to appoint Heather Becthold to the Fayette Ambulance Service. All ayes, motion carried.

     City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council city hall has remained busy with the transition to PACE, assisting citizens with permits and utility customers moving in and out. McGrane completed the budget amendment process and submitted the paperwork to the courthouse on 5/24. McGrane has attended the strategic planning committee meetings, continued to assist with paperwork for the solar panels and has researched tax increment financing (TIF).

     Police Chief Davis updated the council on the nuisance abatement for the Gary Goodell property. Davis is waiting for the paperwork from the court before the city can contact a company to clean up the property. Davis advised the city has hired a building inspector to inspect 507 W. Clark Street and 309 W. Water Street later this month. Davis is waiting to receive the POST test for the 4 applicants to take.

     This being the time and place published for a public hearing for comments on 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, Mayor Wood opened the hearing and asked for comments. There being no comments, Mayor Wood closed the hearing.

     Moved Post, seconded Tucker, to adopt Resolution 2022-26, approving the conveyance of an easement allowing building upon city right of way by Tim and Holly Wolff. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to accept and acknowledge the Fayette Personnel Committee meeting minutes from 5/4/22. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to accept and acknowledge the Fayette Ambulance Service meeting minutes from 5/4/22. All ayes, motion carried.

     Jaime Hackley was present and discussed his planned project of updating the mobile home court in Fayette. He is planning on replacing and adding water, sewer, and electrical lines in the park to some of the vacant lots in hopes to get more mobile homes. Hackley is working with city officials in Iowa City to possibly relocate some of their mobile homes to Fayette. Hackley is looking at spending around $50,000 to update and run new water, sewer, and electrical to the vacant lots. Hackley may also add additional lots in the back of the mobile home park. Hackley inquired with the city about TIF or other incentives the city would be willing to offer. McGrane had researched TIF, and the city could offer that, however, the bond council advised this would be an unusual use of TIF funds. McGrane suggested the council discuss a new city incentive using Bolger funds to assist projects like this to gain more residential properties in town. The council requested Hackley bring back accurate amounts for costs of running the water and sewer to the vacant lots. The council requested McGrane to have the bond council start drafting a contract for an incentive to present to the council to review. No formal action was taken.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to adopt Resolution 2022-27, fixing a date for a meeting 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 and providing for publication of notice thereof. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve using up to $1,000 from the Parks Department to purchase new batteries for the golf cart used for watering the downtown plants. All ayes, motion carried.

    There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 7:38 pm.

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.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

January 17, 2022

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, January 17, 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, Scott, Tenney and Tucker.

     Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 1/3/22 and the claims list of 12/31/21 - 1/14/22. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.

     Mayor Wood advised the council he attended the town hall meeting with Senator Grassley earlier today.

     Upon Mayor Wood’s request, moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to reappoint Benjamin Davis as the Fayette Police Chief. All ayes, motion carried.

     Upon Mayor Wood’s request, moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to reappoint Susan Scott to the Upper Explorerland Regional Housing Authority Board for 3 years. Ayes - Post, Potratz, Tenney and Tucker; Abstained - Scott; motion carried.

     Upon Mayor Wood’s request, moved Post, seconded Scott, to appoint Bradley Minger to the Fayette County Community Foundation Board for 3 years. All ayes, motion carried.

     Upon Mayor Wood’s request, moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to reappoint Joshua Crosbie to the Fayette Tree Board for 3 years. All ayes, motion carried.

     Upon Mayor Wood’s request, moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve the council committee appointments and representatives: Finance - Potratz (Chair), Tenney, Tucker; Personnel - Tucker (Chair), Potratz, Scott; Public Safety - Post (Chair), Tenney, Tucker; Streets & Sidewalks - Tenney (Chair), Post, Scott; Economic Development - Scott (Chair), Post, Potratz; Mayor Pro-Tem - Patricia Potratz; Fayette County E-911 Board Representative - Primary Benjamin Davis, Alternate Kris McGrane; Fayette County Emergency Management Representative - Primary Mayor Wood, Alternate Patricia Potratz). All ayes, motion carried.

     City Administrator/Clerk McGrane provided an update on the CDBG Rehab grant and the Fayette County Board of Supervisors meeting in reference to the dispatching contract. McGrane has went through all the free laptops and will be working on getting them delivered to the departments. Mayor Wood and McGrane attended the new local business/community leaders meeting on 1/12. Letters and invoices have went out to the property owners who need to reimburse the city for the private lines that were installed during the W. Water Street improvements project.

     Fayette Police Chief Davis informed the council that he completed the Peer Support Team training and is working on a plan and policy that he hopes can assist all of the emergency responders in Fayette County. It will help emergency responders with debriefings and grief counseling. Davis reviewed prior applicants in hopes to hire a new part-time reserve officer for the department to replace former part-time officer Austin Hall who resigned. Citations from the speed cameras are starting to decrease. Davis advised the cameras are doing their job of slowing vehicles down because there have only been 2 accidents compared to the usual 6 accidents at the intersection of HWY 150 and 93.

     Moved Post, seconded Scott, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance #514, Electric Transmission Franchise with ITC Midwest LLC. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to discuss and consider contracting with Peters Construction Corp. to assist with preparing the vacant lot for the Homes for Iowa home. McGrane provided the agreement and costs. McGrane advised Peters Constr. informed him they have never done a project like this before and they were unsure how to bid it, so they put in a high estimate of $37,675. Peters Constr. advised they would only charge for the work they complete and do not anticipate the cost to be that high. The council recommended McGrane inquire with the city of Oelwein and research other options and estimates. No formal action was taken.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the Fayette Tree Board meeting minutes from 9/15/21 and the discussion notes from 11/30/21. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to approve the Fayette Community Library Director's report from 1/12/22. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Post, seconded Potratz, to discuss and consider removing Andrew Wenthe from all the city of Fayette bank accounts and safe deposit box and adding Kurt Wood. Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve removing Andrew Wenthe from all the city of Fayette bank accounts and safe deposit box and adding Kurt Wood. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss and consider adding authorized signatures to the cities CD's. Northeast Security Bank is requesting the council provide them authorized signers to the cities certificate of deposits (CD's). Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve Kris McGrane, Nancy Creery and Kurt Wood to all the CD's with Northeast Security Bank. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve Resolution #2022-01 reappointing and approving compensation schedule for the City Attorney. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to discuss Resolution #2022-02. Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve Resolution #2022-02 adopting the new home and new commercial construction incentive program from January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to discuss Resolution #2022-03. Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve Resolution #2022-03 adopting a commercial business marketing incentive from January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss Resolution #2022-04. Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve Resolution #2022-04 amendment #1 to the Linda Shannon housing rehabilitation project. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Post, seconded Potratz, to discuss Resolution #2022-05. Moved Scott, seconded Tucker, to approve Resolution #2022-05 change order #1 to the Linda Shannon housing rehabilitation project. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Scott, seconded Potratz, to discuss Resolution #2022-06. Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve Resolution #2022-06 change order #2 to the Linda Shannon housing rehabilitation project. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to discuss Resolution #2022-07. Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to approve Resolution #2022-07 final acceptance and authorizing final payment on the Linda Shannon housing rehabilitation project. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss and consider purchasing cleaning supplies and banners for vacant downtown businesses. Tucker would like the city to work with the vacant downtown businesses to have vinyl pictures or information placed on the windows letting people know they are available. Tucker would also like to get volunteers to help clean the inside of some of them in hopes they can have open houses in the future. Tucker thought if the city would cover costs for the vinyl and cleaning supplies it may help get them sold quicker. Tucker can research costs. Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to refer this to the Economic Development committee. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss and consider directing the City Administrator/Clerk to publish the proposed property tax levy and setting a public hearing. Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve directing the City Administrator/Clerk to publish the proposed property tax levy and setting a public hearing for Monday, February 7, 2022, at 6PM on the Fiscal Year 2023 proposed property tax levy. Roll call, 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 Tenney, seconded Post, to open regular session. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Post, seconded Scott, to table discussion and consideration in directing the City Administrator/Clerk to publish and set a public hearing on the city to purchase or sell property. All ayes, motion carried.

    There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 8:44 pm.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

January 3, 2022

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, January 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.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Scott, Tenney and Tucker.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 12/20/21, the claims list of 12/18/21 - 12/30/21, correspondence from the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) and June 2021 through November 2021 Finanical Reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of May 31, 2021: Total May Receipts: $189,193.33 (General $73,507.73; 9 S Main $550; Streets $14,111.38; Employee Benefits $13,352.58; Local Option Sales Tax $9,373.50; TIF $13,054.10; CDBG $1,648; Revolving Loan $231.11; Bolger $405.16; Library Fund $1.21; Water $26,351.09; Water T&A $1,050; Sewer $30,532.06; Water/Sewer Capital $4,455.41; Storm Water $570). Total May Disbursements: $191,868.07 (General $38,453.30; 9 S. Main $84.08; Streets $6,350.49; Employee Benefits $7,094.27; CDBG $2,167.51; Revolving Loan $100.13; Bolger $2,075.08; Water Street Project $7,180; Water $9,377.77; Water T&A $2,325; Sewer $24,324.87; Sewer Fund $92,335.57). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,856,898.58.

     Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of June 30, 2021: Total June Receipts: $119,227.04 (General $31,666.06; Streets $17,888.06; Employee Benefits $2,583.53; Local Option Sales Tax [LOST] $9,373.50; Revolving Loan $231.95; Bolger $202.21; Library Fund $65.36; Water $21,180.39; Water T&A $1,650; Sewer $29,299.90; Water/Sewer Capital $4,466.03; Storm Water $620.05). Total June Disbursements: $310,044.26 (General $65,301.72; 9 S. Main $7,012.66; Streets $50,698.29; Employee Benefits $8,325.67; TIF $44,921.50; CDBG $9,200.66; Revolving Loan $66.47; Bolger $6,772.46; Water Street Project $61,786.43; Water $33,743.74; Water T&A $2,430.02; Sewer $19,784.64). Transfers in: General $57,921.19; Street $69,018.15; TIF LMI $12,078.50; Bolger $5,399; Capital Project Tower $15,000; Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: General $20,000; LOST $121,939.34; TIF $17,477.50; Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,670,545.02.

     Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of July 31, 2021: Total July Receipts: $141,720.99 (General $51,659.32; Streets $21,428.42; Employee Benefits $1,235.01; Local Option Sales Tax $9,373.50; Revolving Loan $231.46; Bolger $1,526.91; Library Fund $505.49; Water $27,331.25; Water T&A $1,200; Sewer $22,723.61; Water/Sewer Capital $3,982.91; Storm Water $523.11). Total July Disbursements: $300,874.61 (General $92,024.28; Streets $11,712.77; Employee Benefits $28,984.18; CDBG $16,019.62; Revolving Loan $28,261.53; Bolger $3,124.36; Water Street Project $62,396.57; Water $29,160.71; Water T&A $1,094.98; Sewer $28,095.61). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,511,627.81.

     Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of August 31, 2021: Total August Receipts: $244,486.27 (General $31,147.57; Streets $12,909.68; Local Option Sales Tax $10,277.46; CDBG $3,992; Revolving Loan $231.02; Bolger $12,288.04; Library Fund $105.30; American Rescue Plan $107,371.55; Water $29,539.89; Water T&A $4,200; Sewer $27,169.11; Water/Sewer Capital $4,651.65; Storm Water $603). Total August Disbursements: $146,828.34 (General $39,368.81; Streets $6,375.02; Employee Benefits $4,003.92; Bolger $185.31; Water Street Project $71,203.58; Water $9,456.23; Water T&A $1,393.66; Sewer $14,839.41; Storm Water $2.40). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,609,997.64.

     Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of September 30, 2021: Total September Receipts: $207,371.67 (General $93,573.70; Streets $21,349.30; Employee Benefits $17,958.60; Local Option Sales Tax $10,330.70; Revolving Loan $230.31; Bolger $1,790.77; Library Fund $64.01; Debt Services $3,832.51; Water $26,689.96; Water T&A $450; Sewer $26,071.83; Water/Sewer Capital $4,467.03; Storm Water $562.95). Total September Disbursements: $326,543.41 (General $69,434.39; 9 S. Main $736; Streets $8,948.64; Employee Benefits $10,560.63; CDBG $3,086; Bolger $12,237.86; Water Street Project $177,283.65; Water $12,788.91; Water T&A $708.20; Sewer $30,759.13). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,500,753.55.

     Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of October 31, 2021: Total October Receipts: $320,602.97 (General $129,293.65; Streets $14,376.72; Employee Benefits $34,049.18; Local Option Sales Tax $10,330.70; TIF $28,176.29; CDBG $25,220; Revolving Loan $230.19; Bolger $87.25; Library Fund $53.47; Debt Services $8,072.14; Water $26,499.77; Water T&A $750; Sewer $37,791.31; Water/Sewer Capital $5,077.58; Storm Water $594.72). Total October Disbursements: $730,067.84 (General $248,615.04; Streets $25,725.30; Employee Benefits $10,336.03; CDBG $10,551.32; Bolger $3,133.26; Water Street Project $395,347.53; Water $17,893.11; Water T&A $450; Sewer $18,016.25). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,090,176.18.

     Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of November 30, 2021: Total November Receipts: $223,940.39 (General $102,931.13; 9 S Main $600; Streets $11,428.02; Employee Benefits $10,134.75; Local Option Sales Tax $31,992.23; Revolving Loan $230.59; Bolger $82.67; Library Fund $148.91; Debt Services $2,162.84; American Rescue Plan $359.73; Water $24,818.50; Water T&A $600; Sewer $32,986.66; Water/Sewer Capital $4,845.48; Storm Water $618.88). Total November Disbursements: $102,801.34 (General $54,482.29; Streets $6,584.65; Employee Benefits $4,070.19; Bolger $58.71; Debt Services $4,153.50; Water Street Project $7,821; Water $12,429.96; Water T&A $244.72; Sewer $12,956.32). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,211,991.41.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.

     Mayor Wood thanked former mayor Wenthe and council member Wulfekuhle for their years of experience and service to the city. Wood met with Wenthe last month to go over city details. On 12/11, Wood attended part 1 of the Iowa Municipal Leadership Academy training. Wood advised he was planning on having new council member Susan Scott fill former council member Wulfekuhles roles on the committees Wulfekuhle was on and leaving everyone else the same. If any council members have any suggestions or issues, they are to contact him.

     City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the CDBG Housing Rehab grant. The IEDA approved awarding the grant administration to Simmering-Cory. McGrane has spent a lot of time obtaining the records from Upper Explorerland, finalizing things with them, sending all the information to Simmering-Cory (SC) and updating them. SC found multiple issues that Upper Explorerland had failed to complete and are working with IEDA to get things cleaned up. McGrane attended the Board of Supervisors meeting on 12/27 as they are discussing dispatch contracts. McGrane explained when he cleared the cities liabilities for fiscal year 2021, it adjusted the amounts in the funds for the June 2021 Treasurers and Clerks Reports. It also adjusted each month after that, so McGrane requested the council approve all the new reports starting with June 2021. McGrane explained how to read all the financial reports and claims.

     Fayette Police Chief Davis advised the council that he and another Fayette officer will be attending a Peer Support and Trauma training. K9 Odin will be evaluated this month. Davis updated the council on the E911 Fayette County radio upgrades that are currently in discussions and the Fayette County dispatch contract.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss the second reading of Ordinance #514. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve the second reading of Ordinance #514, Electric Transmission Franchise with ITC Midwest LLC. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss the Homes for Iowa home project. McGrane reached out to Jon Biederman with Fehr Graham and he suggested it would be less expensive if the city hired a general contractor to administer and coordinate the work for the home. Biederman recommended Peter's Construction out of Waterloo. Biederman, PW Director Jerry Hildebrand, McGrane and Darrin Gillett with Peter's Construction met on 12/29 to discuss the project. Gillett advised they would be interested. McGrane needs to follow up with legal questions. The majority of the council agreed to continue planning a basement in the house. No formal action was taken.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss and consider having all fees for online and ACH payments to the city be paid by the customers. McGrane reminded the council that we are switching online payment vendors due to our utility billing software. The new vendor, PACE, has a different fee structure than our current vendor. PACE has a $0.99 fee for Echeck/ACH payments and our current vendor doesn't charge a fee for customers signed up for automatic ACH payments. PACE only charges $1.30 for a minimum fee for credit card payments and the current vendor charges $1.50. The city currently has the customer pay for all the fees. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to have all the fees for online and ACH payments be paid by the customers. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to discuss and consider making decisions for the renewal of the contract with American Tower Cell. McGrane advised on 12/22 he spoke with Tower Genius about the contract. McGrane shared a few key suggestions Tower Genius provided as well as Tower Genius rates: $2,750 for a basic service and $1,000 non-refundable deposit plus 4 times the new months tower rent for a more advance service. McGrane recommended the council grant the mayor and himself permission to start negotiations because they could take one to two years. Once the mayor felt comfortable with a contract, he will bring it back to the council and they may decide at that time if they would like to hire Tower Genius to review the contract. Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to have the mayor and city administrator/clerk to begin negotiations with American Tower Cell. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss and approve contract change order 6 for the Water St. Improvements project 20-897. Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve contract change order number 6 for the Water Street Improvements project 20-897 which decreases the contract by $16,816.10. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss and consider approving partial pay estimate 7 to Heartland Asphalt, Inc. for the Water St. Improvements project. Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to approve partial pay estimate #7 to Heartland Asphalt, Inc. for the Water St. Improvements project in the amount of $19,634.98. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss and consider changing the day and time of city council meetings. No formal action was taken.

    There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 8:32 pm.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

December 20, 2021

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, December 20, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Tenney and Tucker; Absent - Wulfekuhle.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 12/6/21 and the claims list of 12/4/21 - 12/17/21. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Post, seconded Tucker, to amend the agenda by removing items 8B, approving contract change order number 6, and 8C, approving partial pay estimate number 7, both for the Water Street project. All ayes, motion carried. Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve the agenda as amended. All ayes, motion carried.

     Mayor Wenthe informed the council that he met with incoming Mayor Kurt Wood to update him on city business before he takes over at the beginning of the year.

     City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the Homes for Iowa home and he will be meeting with a general contractor. McGrane discovered the city will still need to legally send the shut-off notices through the mail. McGrane had his first phone meeting on 12/8 to start the codification process with Simmering Cory. McGrane has continued to work quite a bit on the CDBG Housing Rehab grant as we finish up the contract with Upper Explorerland and prepare to transition to a new grant administrator. Fayette City Hall will be closed on 12/24, 12/27 and 12/31 for the holidays.

     Fayette Police Chief Davis advised the council on 1/4/22 & 1/5/22 K9 Oden will be evaluated in Des Moines to determine if he can attend K9 training in the spring. Fayette Officer Olivia Hake graduated from the academy last Friday and is back to work in Fayette. The Police Dept. received a $1500 donation for the K9 from ITC Midwest and the K9 t-shirt fundraiser made around $1300.

     This being the time and place published for a public hearing on the proposed adoption of an ordinance granting to ITC Midwest, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of ITC Holdings Corp., a 25-year non-exclusive electric transmission franchise. There being no comments, Mayor Wenthe closed the hearing.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss the first reading of Ordinance #514. Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve the first reading of Ordinance #514, Electric Transmission Franchise with ITC Midwest LLC. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss and approve the Fayette Recreation Board meeting minutes from 5/10/21, 6/24/21 and 7/8/21. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss and approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 11/10/21. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to discuss and approve the Fayette Personnel Committee meeting minutes from 11/22/21. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss and approve the Fayette Fire Department meeting minutes from 12/7/21. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to discuss and approve the 2021 Fayette County Economic Development and Tourism Annual Report. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss contacting Tower Genius for contract renewal with American Tower Cell. McGrane advised they advertise a $99 fee for a 30 minute discovery call. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve having the city administrator/clerk or the deputy clerk to contact Tower Genius for input on the Cell Tower contract. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to discuss and consider awarding Simmering-Cory & Iowa Codification the grant administration and technical services for the CDBG Housing Rehabilitation grant program. McGrane advised they were the only proposals we received. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to award Simmering-Cory & Iowa Codification the grant administration and technical services for the CDBG Housing Rehabilitation grant program. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss Resolution #2021-37. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve Resolution #2021-37 awarding grant administration services for a housing sustainability community development block grant program. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss Resolution #2021-38. Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve Resolution #2021-38 awarding technical services for a housing sustainability community development block grant program. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

    There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:21 pm.

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