REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
September 6, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Tuesday, September 6, 2022, at 6:02 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Pro-Tem Potratz presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Scott, Tenney, Tucker, Post, and Potratz.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 8/15/22, claims list of 8/13/22-9/2/22, Outstanding Obligations Disclosure Statement for Fiscal Year 2022, and correspondence from Hackley Homes & Communities LLC. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Scott, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane reminded the council that City Hall hours are now 8AM-4PM and closed from 12:30PM-1:30PM. The Iowa DNR approved a Construction Permit for the solar panels to be placed at the wastewater plant, so Eagle Point Solar is hoping to start installing the solar panels later this month. Fehr Graham believes W. Water Street should be patched up and completed the week of Sept. 12th. McGrane completed and submitted the annual Outstanding Obligations report on 8/29. McGrane advised the city received the first payment for Hotel Motel Tax, however, he needs to find out from the state the dates the payment is for. McGrane reminded everyone about Fayette Watermelon Days this coming weekend and volunteers are still needed.
Police Chief Davis was not present but had McGrane share a few updates. The department will be announcing a K9 fundraiser soon. It will be a free-will donation luncheon at Cardinal Park from 11AM-2PM on October 9th. The department also received confirmation that they will be awarded $7,500 from the United States Police Canine Association grant.
Moved Post, seconded Scott, to accept the Fayette Personnel Committee meeting minutes from 8/21/22 and the Fayette Safety meeting minutes from 8/24/22. All ayes, motion carried.
McGrane shared information from the Fayette County Economic Development and Tourism Housing Study. McGrane advised that an open house will be held on Thursday, 9/22 from 5-7PM at the Fayette Opera House for anyone to review the study and ask questions. No formal action was taken.
Upper Explorerland would like to know if the council would like to consider giving funds for the Northeast Iowa Regional Housing Trust Fund for 2023. Upper Explorerland applies for a grant each year through the Iowa Finance Authority for State Housing Trust Fund dollars as a match. McGrane provided a history of what the city has committed in the past. The funds will only be used in Fayette and carry over each year if unspent. The council requested McGrane to get an update on how much money is currently in the fund for Fayette and present it at the next council meeting. No formal action was taken.
Council member Post would like a group of residents from the city of Fayette and the county of Fayette to meet and come up with some ideas for future improvements at the Open Air Market park and the Fayette County Freedom Rock. The majority of the council thought it was a great idea if Post wanted to lead a group and they can present their ideas to the council. No formal action was taken.
The council discussed how to move forward with a hiring committee for the Public Works Director position. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to utilize the current city Personnel Committee and the Mayor to interview and provide a recommendation of a Public Works Director to the full council. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to adopt Resolution 2022-32, approving the Fiscal Year 2022 Transferring of funds. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to adopt Resolution 2022-33, amending the city of Fayette Personnel Policy changing section 1 Organization Chart/Chain of Command and changing "Police Committee" to "Public Safety Committee" in sections 6 and 7.1. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Scott, seconded Tenney, to adopt Resolution 2022-34, revising and updating the job description for the Public Works Director position. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Jon Biederman with Fehr Graham was present to discuss the improvements needed on North Main Street and estimated costs. The project would start where the concrete ends just north of the bridge near Cardinal Park and end where the concrete begins just south of HWY 150. The project would include widening the road from 18 feet to 24 feet. A preliminary opinion of probable cost was $864,225 for concrete surfacing and $892,838 for asphalt surfacing. Biederman would recommend the council make a formal decision to move forward with the project by November to provide them adequate time to prepare to take bids in January or February of 2023. Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to have the city's Financial Advisor attend a future council meeting to discuss funding options for the North Main Street improvements project. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Potratz declared the meeting adjourned at 8:34 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 15, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, August 15, 2022, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Scott, Tenney, Tucker, Post, and Potratz.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 8/1/22 and the claims list of 7/30/22-8/12/22. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood advised he spoke with Fayette County Sheriff Marty Fisher in reference to an incident that took place in late June, and it was forwarded to the Public Safety Committee chair. Wood will be having a meeting to learn more about a possible grant for placing electric charging stations within our city. The city employees will be starting safety meetings this month by request of the city's workers compensation company.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on city hall expanding their hours to 8AM to 12:30PM and 1:30PM to 4PM, Monday through Friday, starting on Tuesday, 9/6/22. McGrane also completed and submitted the required paperwork for the USDA Rural Development grant for the new radios. McGrane reminded the council the next council meeting will be on Tuesday, 9/6/22.
Police Chief Davis advised he is out of the office this week because he is training the Delaware County Sheriffs Office and Manchester Police Department staff in active shooter response. The department will be picking up the new K9 squad vehicle this Friday. Police K9 Odin and Officer Ball have completed their training and are now working the streets.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to move forward on having an open house for the Homes for Iowa home once it is completed. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to accept the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 6/8/22 and 7/13/22. All ayes, motion carried.
Members of the Fayette American Legion Post 339 were present to ask the council if they could purchase and install playground equipment to be placed at Klocks Island Park. The members have found a family in Minnesota that are selling a commercial playground set that is approximately 7 years old and is in great shape for $4,000. The members would pick up the equipment and install it at Klocks Island park with the assistance of the Fayette Public Works employees. The family would like some sort of plaque to go up near the equipment for their donation. The city council may also help pay for part the purchase of the equipment if they would like. The members believe they would have the new playground equipment installed at Klocks Island park before the end of this season. Mayor Wood thanked the members for the project. Moved Potratz, seconded Scott, to approve the donation of the new playground equipment from the American Legion Post 339 to be placed at Klock's Island park. All ayes, motion carried.
Police Chief Davis recommended the city to hire Joshua McCraney for the full-time police officer position. McCraney currently works in the Nuclear Security Field and is a Navy veteran. McCraney is uncertified and will probably attend the police academy in January of 2023. McCraney can start working on Monday, 8/22/22. Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve hiring Joshua McCraney as a full-time Fayette Police Officer at an hourly wage of $20.50. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve awarding the CDBG Rehabilitation contract for 300 Alexander Street to Dave's Home Improvement in the amount of $17,000 contingent on finalization of review of some various items. All ayes, motion carried.
Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand provided a quote from K&W Coatings LLC in the amount of $36,500 for cleaning and painting the exterior of the water tower. It would be an additional $800 for them to clean the interior of the water tower at the same time. Upper Iowa University does not have extra funds at this time to help cover the costs of painting "Upper Iowa University" on the tower. The council discussed other options including artwork or slogans that could be painted on the tower. Hildebrand recommended that it should be cleaned and repainted within the next few years. No formal action was taken.
McGrane explained in 2006, $25,000 of Sewer funds were invested in a CD to cover the pay-out of Jerry Hildebrand's vacation and sick time when he retires. McGrane advised we currently have enough in the Sewer fund to cover the expenses and the council could keep the CD invested for a future sewer project. Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve keeping the Sewer CD in the amount of $25,000 invested and to be used for a future sewer project. All ayes, motion carried.
A few options for the future of the Public Works Department were presented to the council after Public Works Director Hildebrand retires. The first option was to post the job advertisement to replace the position. The second option was to contract the water/wastewater duties out to a neighboring city. The third option was to contract the water/wastewater duties out to PeopleService Inc. The city of Oelwein would we open to discuss a contract, but the city of West Union would not be interested. PeopleService Inc. provided information and a proposal of $13,076 per month for them to manage all the water/wastewater systems and duties. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to continue to go with the option to hire a new Public Works Director. Ayes - Scott, Tucker, Post and Potratz; Nay - Tenney; motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 7:45 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 1, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, August 1, 2022, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Scott, Tenney, Tucker (arrived at 6:01), Post, and Potratz.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 7/18/22 and the claims list of 6/30/22-7/29/22. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood updated the council on the cell tower negotiations. Wood attended the Fayette Chamber RAGBRAI event on 7/29/22.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council the Homes for Iowa home was delivered on 7/20. The city will be replacing the entire sidewalk in front of the home and a few sections of the neighbors due to cracks from the delivery. The Development Agreement has been sent to Jaime Hackley for review. McGrane has continued to work with the Iowa Department of Revenue in regards to the Hotel/Motel tax. McGrane has a new IRS Form to complete each year and a small tax to pay because of our new health insurance plan. Starting 7/1/22 the quarterly Iowa Sales Tax report and payment is changing to monthly. McGrane had the annual I.T. meeting with Access Systems on the city's computers on 7/20. McGrane attended the Iowa Municipal Professionals Academy training on 7/27-7/29.
Police Chief Davis informed the council that K9 Odin is now certified in narcotics. Odin will receive quarterly evaluations and will be able to start training in "tracking" next spring. Davis applied for a $10,000 grant to help with the Fayette K9 program.
Moved Scott, seconded Post, to adopt Resolution 2022-30, adopting an addition to the Fayette Police Departments Policy and Procedure Manual: Police Canine Policy. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to acknowledge receipt of the Fayette Board of Adjustment meeting minutes from 6/9/22, the Fayette Planning and Zoning Commission meeting minutes from 7/21/22 and the Fayette Board of Adjustment meeting minutes from 7/25/22. All ayes, motion carried.
Assistant County Attorney Nathan Lein was present and advised the council that he has not received reports from the Fayette Fire Department on an incident that occurred in Fayette around 7/1/22. Lein needs time to review the report and investigation because he has a 45-day deadline to file charges if charges need to be filed in the case. Lein has made a few requests for the report and has only received about 6 photographs. Lein would also like a list of witnesses, witness interviews and medical reports for the case. Lein presented the Mayor with additional information that he encouraged the Mayor and council members to view in regards to the case. Post, the chair for the Fayette Public Safety committee, advised he will follow-up with Fayette Fire Chief Rohde about the reports and will work on scheduling a Public Safety committee meeting in the future. No formal action was taken.
Inspiring Lives had representatives present at the meeting including Laura Peyton (C.E.O.), Kira Roberts (Director of Long Term Care Services), Molly Heldt (Director of Clinical Services), Jennifer White (Director of Organizational Development) and Nick (Human Resources) to help educate and answer questions about their company from the council and the public. Peyton advised that Inspiring Lives has been around for quite a few years and they assist individuals with mental health disorders and work on getting them back into the community and on their own. A few Fayette residents voiced frustrations about having safety and other concerns (not of criminal nature) with some of the clients and when residents reached out to communicate with Inspiring Lives, they were not getting calls returned or answered. Some of the concerns later developed into criminal activity by the clients. The Fayette Police Department has had approximately 44 calls-for-services since 1/1/22 that involved clients from Inspiring Lives. Other area law enforcement agencies have had concerns with Inspiring Lives clients and they met in July to communicate the concerns with Inspiring Lives staff. The goal is to develop better communication to resolve the concerns. Inspiring Lives advised they have recently updated their website and have contact information on their website for the public to report concerns that are not crimes. Inspiring Lives will continue to work better at communication with the public and their concerns. Wood suggested an Inspiring Lives representative return to a future council meeting within the next few months to provide an update on their action plan to help with communication. No formal action was taken.
Davis provided an update on the Iowa state code changes for registration and the use of ATV's and UTV's. After discussion the council would like city code Chapter 75 to be updated and a draft that refers to the Iowa State code rules be presented at a future meeting. They would also like clarification if snowmobiles are included with the changes. No formal action was taken.
Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to adopt Resolution 2022-31, approving and authorizing a request for obligation of funds, a letter of intent to meet conditions and the community facilities grant agreement. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 8:08 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
July 18, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, July 18, 2022, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Scott (via telephone until she arrived in person), Tenney, Tucker, Post, and Potratz.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 7/5/22 and the claims list of 7/2/22-7/15/22. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood provided the council with the Iowa Municipalities Workers Compensation Association letter he received in regards to a meeting McGrane and him attended on 7/6/22.
Upon recommendation from Mayor Wood, moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to reappoint Becky Wadian and Marcia Andrews to the Fayette Library Board of Trustees for a 6-year term that will expire on 6/30/2028. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the new Hotel/Motel Tax. McGrane is working with the Iowa Department of Revenue and the Fayette County Auditor with the Hotel/Motel tax paperwork. McGrane advised the new Homes for Iowa home will be delivered on 7/20. McGrane has been working with the USDA Rural Development on the grant to help with the costs of the new radio/equipment that will be needed for the Fayette County tower upgrade. The maximum the city may receive from the grant is now $44,600.
Police Chief Davis informed the council that Inspiring Lives staff and representatives will be attending the 8/1 city council meeting to discuss concerns. The council and citizens who have concerns are encouraged to attend the 8/1 meeting at 6PM in the Fayette Community Library. There are currently 5 homes in Fayette that Inspiring Lives use. Davis will provide some statistics on the calls in Fayette in reference to Inspiring Lives at the meeting. The Fayette PD will be providing an active shooter response training to the Delaware County police, fire and emergency medical services. Davis advised he has received communication that Goodell is collecting more items outside his home. He will communicate with the city attorney on possible next steps.
The mayor and council went through the development agreement. Moved Tenney, seconded Scott, to approve the development agreement with Hackley Homes & Communities, LLC, for $1000 per lot or actual cost for running water and sewer infrastructure up to a maximum of $20,000 and to present it to Hackley Homes & Communities, LLC. All ayes, motion carried. Motion Scott, second Post, for adding in the attorney fee shifting provision and to adjust the Minimum Improvements on page B-1 in Exhibit B. All ayes, motion carried.
The council discussed the flagpole at the old tourism lot. McGrane advised it is a 24 foot flagpole and Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand confirmed the public works employees can manage the flag during the summer. Mayor Wood advised Grandview Cemetery may be interested in the flagpole. The council suggested the flagpole should be taken out and evaluated before a decision is made. The pole could be stored with the city until a decision is made. First the council would like to know the cost of getting the flagpole removed, including how many city employees and hours worked it would take to remove the flagpole. No formal action was taken.
Wood and McGrane updated the council on the meeting they had with the city attorney on 7/13 in reference to the housing inspections. Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to move forward with unsafe structures, dangerous buildings and condemnation proceedings with city code chapter 145 and to move forward with our nuisance properties. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve and acknowledge receipt the Fayette County Economic Development & Tourism quarterly report from April to June 2022. All ayes, motion carried.
Kevin with Northeast Security Bank informed the council that the bank would like to have Boyd's food truck out of Fairbank in town on the street for a customer appreciation. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to close off W. State Street from S. Main Street to King Street on Friday, September 9, 2022, from 11AM to 2PM for Northeast Security Bank's Customer Appreciation. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to close off S. Main Street from Water Street to Clark Street and State Street from Mechanic Street to Washington Street from Friday, September 9, 2022 to Sunday, September 11, 2022 for Watermelon Days and granting permission for live music outside until 12AM on Friday, September 9, 2022, and Saturday, September 10, 2022. All ayes, motion carried.
Recommendations and edits were made to the new police canine policy for the Fayette Police Department Policy and Procedure Manual. Chief Davis drafted the policy using other surrounding departments policies and getting recommendations from other canine officers. Council would like to look at the revised policy at the next meeting. No formal action was taken.
Wood provided the 2023-2028 City of Fayette Strategy Path that was presented by the strategic planning committee. It was recommended on changing "established" with "emerging" for "Be an emerging arts and history community" as one of the vision statements. Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve the identity, vision and tenet as amended of the 2023-28 Strategy Path. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 8:58 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
July 5, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Tuesday, July 5, 2022, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wood presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Scott (via telephone due to a family emergency), Tenney and Tucker; Absent - Post and Potratz.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 6/20/22, the claims list of 6/18/22-7/1/22, the approval of the new Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service, Sunday Sales and Catering Privileges for Aramark Educational Services, LLC/Pete's/Upper Iowa University. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wood encouraged the council members to register for the Iowa League of Cities annual conference in Waterloo this year. Wood provided an update on the strategic planning committee and how they have completed their recommendations and will soon be providing the information to the city council. The Fayette Fire Department included a list of responses from 12/20/21-6/21/22.
Upon recommendation from Mayor Wood, moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to appoint Tim Wolff to the Fayette Board of Adjustment to complete the 5-year term that will expire on 5/15/2024. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon recommendation from the Fayette Recreation Board and Mayor Wood, moved Tucker , seconded Tenney, to appoint Patrick Lynch to the Fayette Recreation Board to complete the 3-year term that will expire on 12/31/2024. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the Homes for Iowa home project. The home should be delivered later this month.
Police Chief Davis advised the council K9 Odin started training today in Minnesota. Davis has not received anything from the City Attorney on updates in reference to the house inspections. The property owners need to be notified and given adequate time to respond to the violations. Davis believes if the violations are not addressed, the city attorney would file paperwork and it would go to court. Davis provided an update on the Goodell property. The city is completed with everything, and the property is cleaned up. McGrane is working on an invoice to send to Goodell on reimbursement expenses. An offer has been made to Michael Foland in accepting the full-time police officer position and Foland will get back with the city if he will accept the position.
Jaime Hackley provided updates on the improvement project for the mobile home park. His estimates came in at $109,925 for improving the 8 existing/vacant lots ($29,270), adding 12 new lots ($78,155) and extending the drive (24' x 211' $2,500). The council reviewed the "Agreement for Private Development" draft. The agreement would assist Hackley by reimbursing him some of the expenses for the water and sewer lines once he has completed the project and mobile homes are placed on the lots. Council member Susan Scott will review the agreement and provide another draft for the city council to review.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to adopt Resolution 2022-29, accepting the Engagement Agreement and Scope of Engagement with Ahlers & Cooney, P.C. with the Hackley Homes & Communities, LLC Development Agreement. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand advised North Main Street needs to be widened and resurfaced. The culverts need cleaned and reshaped, as well. Hildebrand recommends getting a cost estimate so the city council may decide if they want to move forward with the process and how to budget for it. Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to get an estimate for widening, resurfacing and cleaning and reshaping the culverts along N. Main Street with Fehr Graham Engineering. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Wood declared the meeting adjourned at 7:02 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
June 20, 2022
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, June 20, 2022, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Pro-Tem Potratz presiding. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Scott and Tucker; Absent - Tenney.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 6/6/22, the claims list of 6/4/22-6/17/22, renewal of the Iowa Retail Permit Application for Cigarette/Tobacco/Nicotine/Vapor for The Pumper, Inc., renewal of the Class C Liquor License with Catering Privilege and Sunday Sales for ARAMARK Educational Services, LLC/Upper Iowa University, and the renewal of the Class E Liquor License with the Class B Native Wine Permit, Class C Beer Permit and Sunday Sales for the Pumper, Inc. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Scott, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council the new Fayette ambulance was involved in an accident when it struck 2 Texas Longhorn Cattle. No one was injured but the ambulance had quite a bit of damage. They will be renting an ambulance for the time being. McGrane provided an update on the dispatch contract negotiations with the Fayette County Supervisors and Fayette County Sheriff's Office. McGrane was notified that the city could be awarded a maximum of $50,000 of grant funds from the USDA, Rural Development grant instead of $156,357 that would be used to assist with the Fayette County emergency radio project.
Police Chief Davis advised Gary Goodell's property will be cleaned up this week in reference to the nuisance abatement. Reports were received by the building inspector on two properties that were inspected. Davis is working with the city attorney on next steps. K9 Officer Odin will be going to training soon and should be done by the end of the summer.
This being the time and place published for a public hearing for comments on the authorization of a loan and disbursement agreement and the issuance of not to exceed $65,000 for a 2023 Chevy Tahoe PPV police vehicle, Mayor Pro-Tem Potratz opened the hearing and asked for comments. There being no comments, Mayor Pro-Tem Potratz closed the hearing.
Moved Scott, seconded Tucker, to adopt Resolution 2022-28, approving the authorization of a loan and disbursement agreement and the issuance of not to exceed $65,000 for a 2023 Chevy Tahoe. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Scott, to approve and accept the Fayette City Tree Board meeting minutes from 1/12/22 and 6/15/22, the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 4/13/22 and 5/11/22, and the Fayette Ambulance Service meeting minutes from 10/6/21, 11/3/21, 12/1/21, 2/2/22, 3/2/22 and 4/6/22. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Scott, to approve the hire of Mike Foland as a reserve police officer at the rate of $20.00 per hour. All ayes, motion carried.
Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand advised the frame was bent on the 2019 tractor and it is still having issues mowing after it was repaired. Hildebrand received two quotes, one from P&K Midwest, Inc. for $4,052.98 and the other from Bodensteiner Implement Co. for $5,250. Moved Post, seconded Scott, to approve the purchase of a new tractor/mower from P&K Midwest, Inc. in Sumner at the cost between $4,000 and $5,500 out of the Streets fund, however, if it's sold before we purchase it, then to purchase a new tractor/mower from somewhere not to exceed $5,500. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Scott, to approve $1,011.19 to Dave's Standard Service from the Parks fund for the purchase of new batteries and parts for the golf cart used for watering downtown plants. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, Tucker declared the meeting adjourned at 6:44 pm.
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.
