REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
February 3, 2020
Prior to this meeting, at 5:00 pm, the mayor and council held a work session to discuss the items on the regular council meeting agenda including adopting a rental code. The work session adjourned at 5:29 pm.
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, February 3, 2020, at 5:30 pm in Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post (via speakerphone), Potratz, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent - none
Moved Post, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 1/20/20, the claims list of 1/21/20 - 2/3/20, and the December 2019 financial reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of December 31, 2019: Total December Receipts: $125,401.49 (General $31,009.41; Streets $10,603.72; Employee Benefits $733.08; Local Option Sales Tax $17,426.42; TIF $28.88; Revolving Loan $1,086.45; Bolger $184.47; Library Fund $.10; Water $22,726.66; Water T&A $840; Sewer $35,500.06; Water/Sewer Capital $4,682.19; Storm Water $580.05). Total December Disbursements: $108,543.13 (General $47,739.79; Streets $6,540.42; Employee Benefits $10,488.31; CDBG LMI Housing $3,875.81; Revolving Loan $138.32; Bolger $580; Water $10,332.39; Water T&A $769.74; Sewer $14,196.33; Sewer Fund $13,737.57; 9 S. Main St $144.45). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $3,654,421.87.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised the council that one of the Revolving Loan Fund recipients has closed their business, however, they did pay the loan back in full. There is still money available in the fund for anyone interested.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council he has been continuing to work on the Budget, getting files transferred over and organized on the new server, and has had discussions with the Mayor, Upper Explorerland and the Fayette County Economic Development Director on business strategies, updates and marketing.
Police Chief Davis advised the council 30 people signed up for autism training the department is hosting. Davis is hoping to have his annual Police report at the next meeting.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to discuss and accept the donation from Paul and Jennifer Adams for the vacant lot located at 207 Alexander Street. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to accept the donation of the empty lot located at 207 Alexander Street from Paul and Jennifer Adams. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to discuss the rental code. At the work session it was discussed to continue to work on this at future work sessions. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to place the discussion of the rental code on the next work session agenda as the council continues to research and revise it. McGrane will contact the city of Oelwein to find out if they would be interested in contracting out their building inspectors. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to discuss the Fayette Personnel Committee meeting minutes from 1/14/20. Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve the Fayette Personnel Committee meeting minutes from 1/14/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Fayette Finance Committee meeting minutes from 1/16/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Potratz, to approve the Fayette Finance Committee meeting minutes from 1/20/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to start research on the next steps for a Water Street project. McGrane advised he needs to check to find out if we legally have to put out an RFP for an Engineer on the project or if we may use our previous Engineer, WHKS. Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand advised WHKS would have some information from their previous research that may help because they wouldn't have to start completely over. No action was taken.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 5:41 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
January 20, 2020
Prior to this meeting, at 5:30 pm, the mayor and council held a work session to discuss the items on the regular council meeting agenda, adopting a rental code and strategic planning. The work session adjourned at 5:59 pm.
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, January 20, 2020, at 6:00 pm in Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post (via phone), Potratz, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent - none
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 1/6/20 and the claims list of 1/7/20 - 1/20/20. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request, moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to appoint David Runyon to the Fayette Tree Board for a three-year term. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that the new server, network switch, backups, fiber switchover and transferring of software occurred 1/6-1/10. McGrane advised he attended the Fayette Library Board meeting on 1/8 to walk through their financial reports, explained some financial details and answered questions. Someone donated a laptop to Fayette City Hall and UIU donated a desktop computer to Fayette City Hall to replace the computer that would no longer be supported by Windows.
Police Chief Davis advised the council the Fayette Police are planning an autism training here in Fayette for area law enforcement agencies.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Fayette Fire Department meeting minutes from 12/3/19. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to discuss televising the storm water line near Union Street. Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand stated the storm sewer line has two places they have repaired in the past and two more spots may need repaired. Hildebrand would like to see if the line could be televised and possibly lined to fix the issues. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to move forward and televise the storm water line. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to discuss updating and changing the rates in the Wastewater Service Agreement between the City of Fayette and the City of Randalia. The recommendation is to increase the hourly rate from $35 to $50. Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to update the Wastewater Service Agreement with the $50 per hour rate increase and to run the contract by our City Attorney. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss authorizing the City Administrator/Clerk to sign any documents to continue full time city employee health insurance coverage with Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield. McGrane explained the rates are increasing by 20.06%. The rates had decreased a total of 38.16% over the last three years. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to authorize the City Administrator/Clerk to sign the necessary documents to continue the employee health insurance coverage with Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield at the proposed rates. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tenney, to discuss directing the City Administrator/Clerk to publish the proposed property tax levy and setting a Public Hearing for Tuesday, February 18, 2020, at 6PM in Fayette City Hall on the FY2021 proposed property tax levy. The proposed fiscal year (FY) 2020/2021 maximum property tax levy is $14.83830, a 10.39% increase from the current FY. McGrane explained he is estimating very high as a security blanket because the council will not be able to approve the final budget if it is more than this amount. McGrane advised the finance committee is currently looking at about a 2.7% increase. Moved Potratz, seconded Tenney, to authorize the City Administrator/Clerk to publish the proposed property tax levy and set a public hearing for Tuesday, February 18, 2020, at 6PM at Fayette City Hall on the FY2021 proposed property tax levy. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:19 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
January 6, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, January 6, 2020, at 6:00 pm in Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the consent agenda items. City Administrator/Clerk McGrane explained how to read the claims list and the financial reports. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 12/16/19, the claims list of 12/17/19 - 1/6/20, approval to refund the Class C liquor license and outdoor service & Sunday sales for Shiners Bar & Grill in the amount of $292.50, the October 2019 and November 2019 financial reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of October 31, 2019: Total October Receipts: $274,847.81 (General $118,921.82; Streets $16,631.25; Employee Benefits $34,351; Local Option Sales Tax [LOST] $8,517.88; TIF $27,772.33; CDBG LMI Housing $2,615; Revolving Loan $1,085.86; Bolger $167.89; Library Fund $33.57; Water $25,235.50; Water T&A $1,200; Sewer $32,837.88; Water/Sewer Capital $4,764.31; Storm Water $663.52; 9 S. Main $50). Total October Disbursements: $108,442.95 (General $52,054.62; Streets $7,343.40; Employee Benefits $10,019.40; CDBG LMI Housing $3,518.86; Revolving Loan $113.80; Bolger $150; Water $13,719.07; Water T&A $494.02; Sewer $15,767.03; Sewer Project $5,183.95; 9 S. Main St $78.80). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $3,570,243.67.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of November 30, 2019: Total November Receipts: $141,348.31 (General $48,505.06; Streets $14,677.59; Employee Benefits $15,294.65; Local Option Sales Tax [LOST] $1,579.99; TIF $797.55; Revolving Loan $1,085.31; Bolger $314.78; Library Fund $.08; Water $21,961.41; Water T&A $510; Sewer $31,445.84; Water/Sewer Capital $4,382.18; Storm Water $575; 9 S. Main $218.87). Total November Disbursements: $73,423.49 (General $28,421.37; Streets $6,665.45; Employee Benefits $11,090.44; Bolger $4,300; Water $9,627.07; Water T&A $454.46; Sewer $12,774.63; 9 S. Main $90.07). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $3,637,784.31.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe presented the recommended council committees and representatives. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to accept and appoint the following council committees and representatives: Finance - Potratz (Chair), Tenney, Tucker; Personnel - Tucker (Chair), Potratz, Wulfekuhle; Public Safety - Post (Chair), Tenney, Tucker; Streets & Sidewalks - Tenney (Chair), Post, Wulfekuhle; Economic Development - Wulfekuhle (Chair), Post, Potratz; Mayor Pro-Tem - Potratz; Fayette County E-911 Board Representative - Primary Ben Davis, Alternate Kris McGrane; Fayette County Emergency Management Representative - Primary Wenthe, Alternate Potratz. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request, moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to appoint Jacob Daniel to the Fayette Ambulance Service. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that he has finished assisting with the application for the Fayette County Community Foundation Grant for the Freedom Rock and submitted it. McGrane advised it is a busy time of year with end-of-year and budget preparation. There was a water main break in the 600 block of S. Main St. and it was repaired on 1/2/20. McGrane will be assisting with installing the new server, network switch and firewall all week. McGrane provided a timeline for the up-coming FY21 budget meetings. The Personnel committee decided to meet on Tuesday, 1/14 at 5:30PM and the Finance committee will meet on Thursday, 1/16 at 7PM.
Police Chief Davis advised the council that he would like to thank the local media for advertising the 2019 Toy Drive. The department has also added two additional cell phones so each officer has a work cell phone.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 11/13/19. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 12/11/19. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2020-1. McGrane advised City Attorney Pat Dillon suggested a few years ago that a Resolution be adopted each time there is change on the Council reappointing the City Attorney. Concerns were discussed about having Jill Dillon as one of the alternate City Attorney's because she is also an Assistant County Attorney. The city will monitor this and if anything conflicting occurs, the council will consider removing her as one of the alternate City Attorney's. Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve Resolution 2020-1: Reappointing City Attorney Pat Dillon, alternate City Attorney Jill Dillon and alternate City Attorney Nathan Lein at a rate of $125 per meeting (only attending if requested by the Mayor or Council) and a rate of $110/hour for services and duties billed in tenths of the hour. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to discuss Resolution 2020-2. Chief Davis advised the only changes to the new contract are: purchasing a new police vehicle was removed because one was purchased during the last contract period and Upper Iowa University (UIU) will be responsible for purchasing an in-car camera for the police vehicle. The cost of the police services will continue to increase 2% each year. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve Resolution 2020-2: The agreement between the City of Fayette and UIU for campus police and safety services. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss holding council work sessions. After discussion, it was decided to try and hold some work sessions before the council meetings to discuss items on the council agendas as well as strategic planning. The first work session will be held at 5:30pm on 1/20/20. No official action was taken.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:14 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
December 16, 2019
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, December 16, 2019, at 5:30pm in Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Cowley, Larson, Potratz, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Cowley, seconded Larson, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 12/2/19 and the claims list of 11/19/19 – 12/16/19. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Larson, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request and the Fayette Fire Departments recommendation, moved Cowley, seconded Wulfekuhle, to reappoint Jason Rohde as Fayette Fire Chief for 2020. All ayes, carried. Chief Jason Rohde shared the Fire Department is needing more volunteers.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that the Public Works Department hauled 41 truckloads of leaves this year. McGrane has been busy the last few weeks preparing and assisting with the annual city exam. The auditors were at City Hall on 12/10. McGrane attended the 2019 Budget Workshop on 12/3 and the Fayette County Economic Development (FCED) meeting on 12/6. McGrane included the FCED quarterly report in the packet. The new server should be installed at the beginning of January 2020. Fayette City Hall and the Fayette Community Library will be closed on Wednesday and Thursday, 12/25/19 and 12/26/19, and Wednesday, 1/1/20 for the holidays.
Police Chief Davis reported to the council that they have received almost 300 toys for the Fayette Police Department (PD) toy drive. The department is currently participating in the holiday sTEP wave (Iowa Special Traffic Enforcement Program). The council reviewed and discussed fuel receipts from the PD for the last few months and the locations where fuel was being purchased. Resolution 8712 was discussed, which states city agencies and employees are required to purchase goods and services locally if possible and practical. Chief Davis advised he will inform his police officers of the Resolution.
Moved Potratz, seconded Larson, to approve the Fayette Recreation Board meeting minutes from 10/7/19. All ayes, carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Larson, to discuss ethics. Larson wanted to make sure everyone knew and understood the state codes on ethics. Larson advised he will provide some ethics information and leave it with the City Administrator for everyone to review. Wenthe advised Larson provided some concerns to him about alleged ethics violations, however, after consulting with the City Attorney, no violations occurred and no further action was required. The incoming Council may wish to look at adopting a Code of Ethics. Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to table the discussion.
Moved Potratz, seconded Larson, to discuss the hours City Hall is open to the public. McGrane advised he would like to address this during the budget process because he will have time to gather more information and accurate hours of the water/utility billing process to share with the council so they may reevaluate. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to table the discussion.
Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to go into closed/executive 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 for that property. All ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to go out of closed session. All ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to accept the donation to the city of Fayette of the empty lot located at 207 Alexander Street. All ayes, carried.
There being no further business, moved Larson, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:04pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
December 2, 2019
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, December 2, 2019, at 6pm in Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Cowley, Larson, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent – Potratz.
Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 11/18/19, correspondence from Mediacom, and the claims list of 11/19/19 – 12/2/19. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised the council that Congresswoman Abby Finkenauer, NE Iowa’s First Congressional District Representative, took time to tour Fayette last week and visited with some business owners. Wenthe shared the 2018 Annual Crime Report statistics for the Fayette Police Department and advised he has been made aware of 7 formal complaints about the police department since Police Chief Ben Davis has been Chief. All the complaints were investigated, and no violations of police procedures were discovered. Wenthe discussed the chain of command and the best way to address citizen complaints. Wenthe expressed his gratitude to all the city employees.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that he is still working with gWorks, the accounting software company, to correct the claims list report.
Police Chief Davis reported to the council that they have received almost 100 toys for the Fayette Police Dept. toy drive. The toy drive runs through 12/14/19.
Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to discuss the second reading of Ordinance 509. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to waive the second reading of Ordinance 509 and move to the third and final reading. All ayes, motion carried. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 509, adding chapter 162 regulations for solar energy to the Fayette City Code. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Fayette Streets and Sidewalks Committee meeting minutes from 11/18/19. All ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to discuss the Fayette Board of Adjustment meeting minutes from 11/19/19. After a brief discussion, moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to approve the Fayette Board of Adjustment meeting minutes from 11/19/19. All ayes, carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Larson, to discuss and consider approving the gWorks License and Support Agreements Addendum for the 2020 calendar year. Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the gWorks License and Support Agreements Addendum for the 2020 calendar year. All ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to discuss moving the 12/16/19 regular council meeting to 5:30PM. Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to move the 12/16/19 regular council meeting to 5:30PM. All ayes, carried.
There being no further business, moved Larson, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:16pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
November 18, 2019
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, November 18, 2019, at 6pm in Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Cowley, Potratz, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent – Larson.
Moved Potratz, seconded Cowley, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 11/4/19, correspondence including the abstract of votes for the city election, the claims list of 11/5/19 – 11/18/19, the Annual Finance Report FY2019 and renewal of the Class C liquor license with outdoor service, Sunday sales and Class B native wine permit for Downtown Lounge. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised the council that William Thom has resigned from the Fayette Tree Board and that he enjoyed his time serving as a member.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that two of the houses that were selected to receive improvements from the CDBG Grant are ready to go and construction should start soon. McGrane assisted with running the CAT6 wiring throughout the building for the new server and it’s almost complete. The IMWCA Workers Compensation site visit was on 11/14 as well as the Fayette County Housing Advisory Committee meeting. A family is now moving into the new home on S. Main Street. Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation (NEICAC) has now built 3 homes in the city of Fayette with a current total assessed value of $215,980 and $3,372 in annual property taxes. Fayette City Hall will be closed on Thursday and Friday, 11/28 and 11/29 for Thanksgiving.
Police Chief Davis informed the council that the Fayette Police Department will be having a Christmas Toy Drive from 11/17 through 12/14/19. Anyone who donates a toy will receive a free Fayette Police Dept. Christmas ornament while supplies last. The toys will then be donated to Helping Services of Iowa. New, unwrapped toys may be dropped off at the Fayette Police Dept.
Moved Cowley, seconded Potratz, to discuss Ordinance 509. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to add in section 162.03, “and provide a shade report or equivalent documentation from a licensed solar installer” in the first sentence, and correct section 162.04 (B) so it reads “Roof-mounted systems must be placed on rear or side-facing roofs, which do not front any public street, unless a shade report or equivalent documentation from a licensed solar installer can be shown that such locations would be ineffective or impractical”. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Potratz, to discuss providing permission for John and Sharon Orr to apply for the Fayette County Community Foundation Grant through the City of Fayette for the Freedom Rock. After discussion, moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to provide John and Sharon Orr permission to apply for the Fayette County Community Foundation Grant through the City of Fayette for the Freedom Rock. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to discuss approving and adopting the Annual Urban Renewal Report for FY2019. Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to approve and adopt the Annual Urban Renewal Report for FY2019. All ayes, carried.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:36pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
November 4, 2019
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, November 4, 2019, at 6pm in Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Larson, Potratz and Tucker. Absent – Cowley and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Larson, seconded Potratz, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 10/21/19, the claims list of 10/22/19 – 11/4/19 and the financial reports for September 2019. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of September 30, 2019: Total September Receipts: $163,808.35 (General $54,071.80; Streets $19,224.29; Employee Benefits $19,527.13; Local Option Sales Tax [LOST] $8,517.88; TIF $1,009.05; Revolving Loan $1,085.72; Bolger $6,309.36; Library Fund $.05; Water $23,139.28; Water T&A $450; Sewer $25,365.15; Water/Sewer Capital $4,544.16; Storm Water $564.48). Total September Disbursements: $113,991.64 (General $47,539.46; Streets $5,150.97; Employee Benefits $8,929.86; CDBG LMI Housing $880.01; Revolving Loan $64.42; Bolger $10,996.25; Water $26,076.54; Water T&A $846.05; Sewer $13,432.14; 9 S. Main St $75.94). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $3,403,883.19.
Moved Larson, seconded Potratz, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.
Mayor Wenthe informed the council that he was notified by the Iowa Municipal Finance Officers Association (IMFOA) that City Administrator/Clerk Kris McGrane has completed all the requirements and obtained the designation of Iowa Certified Municipal Clerk. Wenthe also mentioned that Hawkeye Telephone Company has started running fiber lines throughout the city of Fayette.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised Upper Iowa University will be donating a used desktop computer to replace the outdated desktop at Fayette City Hall. Fayette City Hall will be closed for the holidays on 11/11, 11/28 and 11/29.
Police Chief Davis informed the council that Officer Allen is currently attending Narcan training and he will cross train the rest of the police officers. The officers must re-certify every two years.
Moved Larson, seconded Potratz, to discuss Ordinance 509. Tereasa Lenius recommended the council add to the code that a copy of the shade report from a licensed solar installer be required. The report will protect the consumer and provide further information to the city about the location of the panels. Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to add to section 162.04 (B) “such as a shade report from a licensed solar installer” of Ordinance 509. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 10/9/19. All ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to discuss drafting a city housing remodeling/rehabilitation incentive. Tereasa Lenius suggested the city offer an incentive to residents who want to fix up the exterior of their home, such as new siding. The council discussed looking for grants to fund an incentive, researching what other communities offer and to discuss the option during budget discussions. No action was taken.
Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to discuss approving the JUS Annual Software Assurance/Support Hours Contract Terms and Contract. After discussion, moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve the JUS Annual Software Assurance/Support Hours Contract Terms and Contract. All ayes, carried.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:29pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
October 21, 2019
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, October 21, 2019, at 6pm in Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Pro-Tem Potratz presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Cowley, Larson, Potratz and Tucker. Absent - Wulfekuhle.
Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 10/7/19 and the claims list of 10/8/19 – 10/21/19. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council one bid was received for two of the CDBG Housing Rehab homes and hopefully the project can start over the next few months. McGrane also updated the council on some changes to the upcoming fiscal year 2021 budget process due to Bill SF634.
Police Chief Davis informed the council that possibly next fiscal year a Fayette officer will be able to get certified to conduct tobacco/alcohol compliance checks in town. It could possibly generate some more revenue for the city.
Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to discuss Ordinance 509. Potratz had previously requested adding more clarification of the process to obtain solar panels into the new Solar Energy Systems. McGrane added in the clarification and advised the City Attorney reviewed and approves of the ordinance. Moved Cowley, seconded Tucker, to approve the first reading of Ordinance 509, adding chapter 162 regulations for solar energy to the Fayette City Code. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to discuss a new community outreach project for the Fayette Police Department. Chief Davis advised he is still researching this project and will have more information at a future council meeting.
Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to discuss the Fayette Tree Board meeting minutes from 10/2/19. Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to accept the Fayette Tree Board meeting minutes from 10/2/19. All ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to discuss removing the pine tree in the city right-of-way located a 100 W. College Street. The Fayette Tree Board recommended removing the tree because it is dying. McGrane explained, normally the Tree Board could just notify the Public Works Director about this and not have to refer it to the City Council. Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to approve removing the pine tree in the city right-of-way located at 100 W. College Street. All ayes, carried.
There being no further business, moved Tucker, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:13pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
October 7, 2019
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, October 7, 2019, at 6pm in Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Cowley (arrived at 6:09pm), Larson, Potratz, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Larson, seconded Potratz, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 9/16/19, the claims list of 9/17/19 – 10/7/19, the financial reports for August 2019 and renewal of the Class C liquor license with outdoor service and Sunday sales for Shrubb’s Street Eatery LLC. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of August 31, 2019: Total August Receipts: $213,648.10 (General $24,010.55; Streets $19,334.47; Local Option Sales Tax [LOST] $8,517.88; Revolving Loan $1,085.27; Bolger $174.87; Library Fund $.02; Water $17,299.17; Water T&A $3,000; Sewer $19,971.17; Sewer Project $114,936.69; Water/Sewer Capital $4,472.01; Storm Water $596; 9 S. Main St $250). Total August Disbursements: $125,456.28 (General $51,996.86; Streets $7,546.91; Employee Benefits $10,699.13; CDBG LMI Housing $1,109.84; Revolving Loan $112.20; Bolger $4,353.75; FEMA $2,092.57; Water $10,847.15; Water T&A $4,122.74; Sewer $15,646.10; Sewer Project $15,234.27; Storm Water $1,104; 9 S. Main St $590.76). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $3,353,848.75.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.
Upon recommendation of the Fayette Fire Department and Mayor Wenthe, moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to appoint Haydn Martin to the Fayette Fire Department. All ayes, carried.
Upon recommendation of the Fayette Fire Department and Mayor Wenthe, moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to appoint Myron Crawford to the Fayette Fire Department. All ayes, carried.
Upon recommendation from Mayor Wenthe, moved Potratz, seconded Larson, to reappoint Pat Whelan to the Fayette County Waste Management Board for another two-year term, until 10/19/2021.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the progress of the new server. McGrane also advised he had attended the Iowa League of Cities Annual Conference for the first time and encouraged the council to budget next year for the Mayor and a council member or two to attend. The City of Fayette’s trick-or-treating will be on Thursday, Oct. 31st from 5PM to 7PM. Residents who are interested in participating may leave their porch light on.
Police Chief Davis advised the council that he recently returned from attending the LEIN conference. On Oct. 9th, there will be around 21 Law Enforcement agencies at the Fayette Community Library attending the Governor Traffic Safety Bureau meeting. Officer Allen received a salvage junk title certification, so he is able to do inspections. The next E911 meeting is in December and we are on the agenda to have the board discuss if they are still interested in paying for half of a new tower in Fayette for radio communication.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to discuss and review a solar panel ordinance. Tucker and Cowley had previously met to research and draft an ordinance for the council to review. The ordinance would require property owners to complete a building permit prior to installing ground-mounted or roof-mounted solar energy systems on the property. Ground-mounted solar energy systems require the approval of the Planning and Zoning Commission and the City Council. The council will review the draft ordinance and the first reading will be at a future council meeting. No action was taken.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Cowley, to discuss purchasing an additional Jayhawk Utility Software (JUS) billing user license. McGrane did get confirmation that it is only a one-time fee of $650 for the additional license. The additional license will help the clerks to work simultaneously on utility accounts and billing. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to purchase the additional JUS billing user license for $650. All ayes, carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Larson, to discuss the Fayette Personnel Committee meeting minutes from 9/24/19. Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to approve the Fayette Personnel Committee meeting minutes from 9/24/19. All ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 6/12/19. All ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Potratz, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 7/10/19. All ayes, carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Cowley, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 8/7/19. All ayes, carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Larson, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 9/11/19 and the Library Director’s report. All ayes, carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to approve the Fayette Ambulance Service meeting minutes from 10/2/19. All ayes, carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider hiring Jacob Palmer as a City Maintenance Worker and a starting salary. Palmer was present and answered questions from the council. After discussion, moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to hire Jacob Palmer as the City Maintenance Worker and placing Palmer on the current wage scale at #8, which is an hourly wage of $18.80. Palmer plans to start on October 21, 2019. All ayes, carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to discuss Resolution 2019-19. McGrane highlighted a few things in the Street Finance Report for FY2019. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to adopt Resolution 2019-19, adopting the Street Finance Report for FY2019. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2019-20. The Fayette Ambulance Service recommended increasing the rates for the Fayette Ambulance Service by approximately 10%. After discussion, moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Cowley, to adopt Resolution 2019-20, increasing the current Fayette Ambulance Service rates by approximately 10%. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Larson, to discuss Resolution 2019-21. The Fayette Personnel Committee recommends the city offer a continuation of health coverage to employees who retire prior to age 65 at the employee’s expense. After discussion, moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Potratz, to adopt Resolution 2019-21, amending the Personnel Policy by adding continuation of health coverage in Section 5.1. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to discuss accepting the five-year sewer maintenance contract with Municipal Pipe and Tool Co. LLC. The city has contracted with Municipal Pipe and Tool Co. for many years now. Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand did get another estimate which was comparable in costs. Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to accept the five-year sewer maintenance contract with Municipal Pipe and Tool Co. LLC. All ayes, carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Cowley, to discuss approving the proposal from Kluesner Construction, Inc. for asphalt repair. After discussion, moved Tucker, seconded Larson, to approve and accept the proposal from Kluesner Construction, Inc. for asphalt repair. All ayes, carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Tucker, to discuss a new community outreach project for the Fayette Police Department. Chief Davis proposed the idea of giving parking violators in the month of November the option to either pay the $30 parking ticket or donate a toy valued at $10 to $15. The toys collected would be donated to various local services such as Family Services of NE Iowa, Helping Services for Youth and Families, Riverview Sexual Assault Center, Friends of the Family and the NE Iowa Mentoring Program to assist children of broken homes, domestic violence or other misfortunes during the holiday season. Davis does want to check with the City Attorney before moving forward but wanted to present the idea to the council to start considering before the next council meeting. No action was taken.
Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to discuss Resolution 2019-22. McGrane had drafted an ordinance with a new business incentive that would reimburse marketing and advertising costs, up to $1,000 if funds are available, for new businesses in Fayette that was discussed at a previous council meeting. New businesses opening to the public after October 1, 2019, would be reimbursed up to $1,000 after 12 months of business by completing an application, providing copies of all receipts, providing proof of advertising and council approval. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Potratz, to adopt Resolution 2019-22, adopting a new commercial business marketing incentive from October 1, 2019 through December 31, 2020. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Potratz, to discuss purchasing ceiling tiles for the back of 9 S. Main Street. McGrane advised that about 50 of the ceiling tiles in the back room of 9 S. Main Street need replaced. They are curling and discoloring. A quote provided by the Fayette Lumber Company showed 2x4 ceiling tiles are $5.80 each. Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to have someone look to make sure there are no leaks that are causing the issue and to purchase 50 ceiling tiles from the Fayette Lumber Company. All ayes, carried.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:48pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
September 16, 2019
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, September 16, 2019, at 6pm in Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Larson, Potratz and Wulfekuhle. Absent – Cowley and Tucker.
Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 9/3/19, the claims list of 9/4/19 – 9/16/19, renewal of the Class C liquor license with outdoor service and Sunday sales for Shiners Bar & Grill and renewal of the Class C beer permit, class B wine permit and Sunday sales for Dollar General/Dolgencorp, LLC. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Potratz, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.
Mayor Wenthe thanked everyone who helped out with Watermelon Days. Wenthe toured the new NE Iowa Community Action house at 505 S. Main Street and reminded the council that applications are still being accepted for anyone interested in purchasing. Wenthe advised that Administrator/Clerk McGrane and he attended a community conversation with other city leaders and representatives from Alliant Energy on 9/5. A variety of topics were discussed including where Alliant Energy’s priorities were moving forward including investments and the future rate increases. Individuals may reach out to Alliant Energy to express any concerns. Upon the Fayette Ambulance Service and Wenthe’s request, moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to appoint Haydn Martin to the Fayette Emergency Medical Service. All ayes, carried.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that City Hall finished notifying utility customers who received a partial water deposit refund. It is tentatively scheduled to install the new server 10/2-10/4. McGrane also met with Upper Explorerland on 9/4 to review the Revolving Loan Fund and everyone needs to continue to help promote the incentive.
Police Chief Davis advised the council that the City of Fayette was chosen to host the next Governor Traffic Safety Bureau’s meeting in October as they discuss the plans for 2020. Davis and McGrane attended the E911 meeting to learn about Fayette County’s future plans on emergency communications.
Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss forgiving a portion of the sewer fees for Laura Gleissner due to a leak. Gleissner explained she had a water leak under the crawl space of the house and the water was not going through the city’s sewer system. Assistant Public Works Director Adam Hildebrand did view the leak prior to it being fixed and confirmed it was not going down the city’s sewer system. McGrane had provided a history of Gleissner’s utility usage and figured out an average usage. Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to forgive $108.93, which is an average of prior usage, of the sewer charges from Gleissner’s utility bill, 306 E. State St., due to a water leak that did not go down the city’s sewer system. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Potratz, to discuss having Public Works employees verify newly installed mailboxes to make sure they meet the City Code requirements. Kevin Lehs was in attendance to share his idea of having a form that the city would provide indicating that any new mailboxes that are put up would be inspected by the city to indicate if they meet City Code requirements or not. Once the form is filled out, a copy would be sent to the owners of the property. Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand was in favor of the form but indicated most times the city is not notified when new mailboxes are put up. It is the home owner’s responsibility to contact the city and to call in a locate prior to digging to install a mailbox. Lehs felt the form would help clarify if a mailbox was in compliance or not if it were to get hit by a snow plow. The city code states if a legally placed mailbox is damaged by the city snow plow, it will be repaired or replaced by the city. The code also states if the mailbox is damaged by the windrow (wall of flying snow) hurled by a passing snow plow, the city will not repair or replace the mailbox. Lehs pointed out he believes the city snow plow drivers go too fast around town which doesn’t help. Hildebrand explained a few things about the snow plows including that the plows must go fast enough to provide enough momentum for the snow to get completely off the road. After they plow and the city receives more snow, the narrower the streets will get if they don’t get the previous snow completely off the road. After further discussion, Larson recommended this topic be referred to the Streets Committee. No action was taken.
Moved Larson, seconded Potratz, to discuss Fayette County Economic Development and Tourism. Mallory Hanson, with the NE Iowa RC&D and contracted by the Fayette County Supervisors to be the Fayette County Economic Development & Tourism Director, provided a short presentation to the council. Hanson explained her first priority is reaching out to all the cities, banks and other organizations to gain support in becoming a part of a new organization and forming a board. Hanson shared that the goal is to make the new organization a 501c6 because there will be more flexibility to change and grow in specific areas. Hanson has already established a Facebook page and website, www.visitfayettecountyiowa.com, and hopes to continue promoting Fayette County as she continues to work on establishing the organization. Hanson encouraged the city to be a part of the new organization and to continue paying the same rate as in the past, which is around $1500. Hanson has already visited Elgin, Clermont, West Union and Westgate and they are all on board to be a part of the organization. Fairbank has declined to be a part of the organization. Hanson hopes that the majority of the money they receive this year from those who want to be a part of the organization would be saved until the board is able to approve what they want to spend it on. Hanson has recently finished a quarterly report that she would provide the Fayette City Council. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Potratz, to continue to support the Fayette County Economic Development and Tourism at the current rate we have been supporting and what we have budgeted. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:40 pm.