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.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
September 3, 2019
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Tuesday, September 3, 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 Cowley, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 8/19/19, the claims list of 8/20/19 – 9/3/19, and the financial reports for July 2019. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of July 31, 2019: Total July Receipts: $129,721.31 (General $66,174.22; Streets $13,811.82; Employee Benefits $1,593.77; Local Option Sales Tax [LOST] $8,541.19; TIF $28.32; CDBG LMI Housing $1,020; Revolving Loan $1,085.47; Bolger $315.40; Library Fund $33.49; Water $12,451.45; Water T&A $1,350; Sewer $18,182.02; Water/Sewer Capital $4,550.11; Storm Water $584.05). Total July Disbursements: $166,187.78 (General $68,141.42; Streets $20,046.81; Employee Benefits $26,703.79; Bolger $1,467.01; Water $17,665.19; Water T&A $1,345.42; Sewer $22,634.29; Sewer Project $8,122.53; 9 S. Main St $61.32). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $3,264,931.44.
Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.
Mayor Wenthe reminded the council about Fayette Watermelon Days this weekend. Wenthe will be attending a meeting to search for a new Fayette County Assessor. Wenthe advised the council that the new business, Driftless Area Guide Company, has officially opened next to City Hall.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane reminded the council that city hall’s hours officially changed, and he ordered a window decal for the front door to indicate the new hours. Deputy Clerk Anne Seller’s last day with the city was on 8/30/19. McGrane met with FEMA to review the cities Floodplain documents on 8/20. He also attended a Low-Income Housing Tax Credit & Affordable Housing informational meeting on 8/29.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Ordinance 508, amending section 2 in chapter 92 to adjust water rates for irrigation systems. Roy and Jean Karlson (506 W. Clark St.) were present and had some questions about their water bills answered. Karlson’s voiced their concerns about increasing the water rates for irrigation systems and wanted the council to be aware that there are only a few irrigation systems in town. Wenthe also advised the council he is not in support of increasing the rates for irrigation systems at this time. McGrane had inquired with other cities around Iowa who have separate rates for irrigation systems and only heard back from Waukee, West Des Moines, Johnston and Urbandale. After further discussion, no action was taken.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Ordinance 507, amending sections 2 and 4 in chapter 99 to increase the sewer rate. McGrane explained that there are a few sections in the code that need updated with the new minimum sewer rates that were recently raised. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to waive the first and the second readings of Ordinance 507. Roll call, all ayes. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 508, amending sections 2 and 4 in chapter 99 to increase the sewer rate. Roll call, all ayes.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider drafting a solar panel ordinance. Tucker advised she had started researching and Decorah and Waverly currently have a solar panel ordinance. The council decided to have Tucker and Cowley work together on researching and drafting an ordinance to present at a future council meeting. After further discussion, moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to have any building permits with solar panels or energy efficient structures be brought to the city council prior to approval. All ayes, carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Larson, to discuss and consider purchasing another JUS Utility Billing User License. McGrane explained the quote was for $650, which would be annually. By purchasing the extra license, it would let city hall workers access the Utility Billing software on two computers instead of only one. Currently if we are assisting multiple customers, working on customer accounts, printing bills or working on any utility billing financing, we have to take turns using the software because only one person can be on it at a time. After further discussion and questions, McGrane will provide more information and clarification about the software at a future meeting. Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to table. All ayes, carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Larson, to move into closed session per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(j) to discuss the purchase or sale of a 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. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Wulfekuhle, to move out of closed session. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
There being no further business, moved Larson, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:46pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 19, 2019
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, August 19, 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, Potratz (formerly known as Nefzger), Tucker and Wulfekuhle (arrived right after roll call).
Moved Cowley, seconded Larson, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 8/5/19, the claims list of 8/6/19 – 8/19/19, and the updated Outstanding Obligations Disclosure Statement for 2019. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Louise Scott was present and addressed the council about a letter that was sent to the Mayor and council in regard to the solar panel array that is currently being installed at the North Fayette Valley (NFV), Fayette Elementary School (FES) located at 200 Volga Street. NFV Superintendent Duane Willhite and NFV Board of Education member Julie Ahrens were both in attendance to answer questions that were addressed to the school. Willhite advised the NFV Board of Education approved the solar panel project in May and panels will be placed at all the NFV school locations. Willhite advised the school district should save over $50,000 for the first year for electricity by installing the panels. The panels were originally planned to go on the roof of the FES, however it is more economical and safer for maintenance to place the panels on the ground. A fence will be put up around the panels and Willhite advised the school could probably have some landscaping around the fence to help make it more visually appealing. He may have the plans presented to the city council. Willhite said the panels are designed to absorb the sunlight, so there should be no reflection onto the neighboring houses. It was questioned about why the building permit was not completed sooner and Willhite said he would take the responsibility for that. The project moved faster than he anticipated because part of the project is being purchased by an investor. The building permit was completed before construction began and there were no violations to the City Code of Fayette. Willhite also mentioned there are no current plans on adding any more panels than what is already started. Willhite expects the project to be completed in Fayette by the end of September. Tucker expressed that communication needs to be better from the school. Ahrens apologized for the lack of communication to the neighbors and community about the project. Willhite understands the neighbors’ concerns and will try and be good neighbors. Willhite advised that NFV enrollment has increased and as long as enrollment doesn’t significantly decrease, there will be no plans on closing the FES. Scott requested the construction to stop until further communication is done with the neighbors and that the council look into adopting an Ordinance about solar panels so similar situations like this do not occur in the future. Mayor Wenthe advised the city cannot authorize the construction to stop because there is no violation to the City Code and that they would discuss a solar panel Ordinance at the next council meeting.
Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.
This being the time and place published for a public hearing for the conveyance of an utility easement allowing Hawkeye Interconnect Company a perpetual right-of-way easement for the purpose of constructing, reconstructing, operating, maintaining and removing lines for the transmission and distribution of fiber optic service and for communication facilities including the necessary other appurtenances, and to permit the attachment thereto of facilities owned by others, together with the right of ingress and egress and the right to trim, cut down and remove such trees, brush, saplings, and bushes as may interfere with the proper construction at the following locations: the East 15 feet of the North 18 feet of Lot 12 and the South 14 2/3 feet of Lot 13, Block 7, Fayette, Fayette County, Iowa; the West 15 feet of the West 20 feet of the South 26 feet of Lot1, Block 12, Fayette, Fayette County, Iowa; and the West 15 feet of the South 3 feet of Lot 3, Block 13, Fayette, Fayette County, Iowa. Moved Larson, seconded Potratz, to open the hearing. All ayes, carried. Mayor Wenthe opened the hearing and asked for comments. There being no comments, Mayor Wenthe closed the hearing. Moved Larson, seconded Potratz, to close the hearing. All ayes, carried. Moved Potratz, seconded Larson, to approve Resolution 2019-18: Approval of the conveyance of a utility easement allowing Hawkeye Interconnect Company (Hawkeye Telephone) to use the perpetual right-of-way for fiber optic service. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Mayor Wenthe updated the council on the CDBG Rehab Housing Projects. There are currently five projects and funding is available for one additional project. No bids were presented for the bid opening on 8/12/19 for two of the projects. Upper Explorerland is going to reach out to a few contractors for feedback and we will set another bid opening date for the future.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that he is finishing up the SRF loan and Sewer Spot Repair and Lining project. The maximum amount the city needed to borrow for the SRF Supplemental loan is $82,000, down from $130,000. McGrane also updated the Outstanding Obligation Debt Report to reflect this change.
Fayette Police Chief Davis advised the council that National Night Out was a great success and they are estimating between 350 and 400 people attended. Davis also advised sTEP (special traffic enforcement program) is currently going on right now and the Fayette Police Department will be partnering up with the West Union Police Department for a joint project in the near future. The joint project is mandated for the GTSB grant program.
Moved Larson, seconded Potratz, to discuss raising water rates for irrigation systems or non-consumption water accounts. McGrane provided the council with the information from the previous council meeting. Larson suggested doubling the water rates, which would be a minimum bill of $30 for the first 150 cubic feet and $0.11 per cubic foot for anything over the minimum. Moved Larson, seconded Potratz, to move forward with a draft Ordinance for the next council meeting. All ayes, carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Larson, to discuss purchasing a new radio tower south of town. The budget committee has budgeted to replace the tower over the last few years because it is getting to be at the end of its life. The estimated quotes are a few years old and this project needs to be researched again. Wenthe recommends referring this to the Safety Committee to research. Moved Potratz, seconded Cowley, to refer purchasing a new radio tower to the Safety Committee. All ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to approve the Fayette Tree Board meeting minutes from 7/2/19. All ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to approve the Fayette Tree Board meeting minutes from 8/7/19. All ayes, carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2019-17. Moved Cowley, seconded Larson, to adopt Resolution 2019-17, approving and authorizing a form of Loan and Disbursement Agreement by and between the City of Fayette, Iowa, and the Iowa Finance Authority, and authorizing and providing for the issuance and securing the payment of $82,000 Sewer Revenue Capital Loan Notes, Series 2019, of the City of Fayette, Iowa, under the provisions of the City Code of Iowa, and providing for a method of payment of said Notes, and Approving form of Tax Exemption Certificate. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to discuss approving the rental lease for 9 S. Main Street to Driftless Area Guide Company. McGrane researched and updated our current rental lease as the council requested to make it more cost-effective for start-up businesses. McGrane had the City Attorney review the updated lease and make suggestions. Wulfekuhle recommended a $200 deposit. The council agreed to $50 per month rent for the first 6 months, then an increase of $50 per month every 6 months up to 3 years. Driftless Area Guide Company is only planning on renting the space for 3 months. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Cowley, to accept the lease and to approve the City Administrator to take the necessary steps to lease out the space at 9 S. Main Street to Driftless Area Guide Company. All ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss IMLA Dangerous Dog Ordinance. Chief Davis advised we received information from our City Attorney and he is reviewing it with our current City Code. No action was taken.
Moved Larson, seconded Potratz, to discuss approving the Fayette Community Church’s Downtown & Neighborhood Revitalization Program application. Moved Cowley, seconded Larson, to approve the demolition incentive for the Fayette Community Church and reimburse 50% of the demolition costs out of the Bolger fund for $4,746.25. All ayes, approved.
Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to discuss approving the Butikofer’s Downtown & Neighborhood Revitalization Program application. Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to approve the demolition incentive for the Butikofer’s and reimburse 50% of the demolition costs out of the Bolger fund for $3,750. All ayes, approved.
Potratz left the meeting at 7:05pm.
Moved Cowley, seconded Larson, to discuss increasing the hours of the Deputy Clerks. Deputy Clerk Anne Sellers provided her retirement notice and her last day will be Friday, August 30th. McGrane provided the council with information he had presented at a previous council meeting. Larson had contacted neighboring cities to find out staffing hours and job duties. Larson was not in favor of increasing the hours because it would increase the expenses out of the water and sewer funds. Wulfekuhle suggested cutting back the hours that City Hall is open to the public, giving more uninterrupted time for administration to complete their job duties. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to change Fayette City Hall’s public office hours to 8am to 12:30pm and 3pm to 4pm, Monday through Friday, starting Monday, August 26th, 2019. All ayes, carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to discuss granting permission for the city to submit a video in the SRF Water Tower contest. McGrane advised the State of Iowa is holding a contest to show-off their hometown pride by submitting a short video for a chance to win a one-of-a-kind water tower. McGrane would work on this project on his own time and not during company time. Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to approve the City Administrator to submit a video for the SRF Water Tower contest on his own time. All ayes, carried.
There being no further business, moved Larson, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:32pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 5, 2019
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, August 5, 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, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle (arrived at 6:04pm).
Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 7/15/19, the claims list of 7/16/19 – 8/5/19, the financial reports for June 2019, and the Outstanding Obligations Disclosure Statement for 2019. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of June 30, 2019: Total June Receipts: $102,769.06 (General $29,623.84; Streets $14,003.99; Employee Benefits $1,504.64; Local Option Sales Tax [LOST] $8,378.53; TIF $20.20; Revolving Loan $1,085.02; Bolger $3,319.25; Library Fund $3.88; Water $14,690.67; Water T&A $900; Sewer $24,455.37; Water/Sewer Capital $4,235.46; Storm Water $548.21). Total June Disbursements: $281,263.16 (General $64,202.65; Streets $6,850.90; Employee Benefits $10,403.41; TIF $42,565.32; CDBG LMI Housing $566.47; Bolger $22.16; Water $18,374.48; Water T&A $3,063; Sewer $17,880.88; Sewer Project $32,596.10; Sewer Fund $84,684.29; 9 S. Main St $53.50). Transfers in: General $32,241.10, Street $48,269.57, Bolger $37,481.80, Radio Tower $15,000, Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: General $15,000; LOST $106,909.34; TIF $5409; Library Memorial $5,674.13, Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $3,301,193.10.
Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Nefzger, to schedule a public hearing on August 19, 2019, at 6PM at Fayette City Hall for the conveyance of a utility easement allowing Hawkeye Interconnect Company a perpetual right-of-way easement for the purpose distributing fiber optic service and communication facilities at the following locations: The east 15 feet of the north 18 feet of lot 12 and the south 14 2/3 feet of lot 13, block 7, Fayette, Iowa; the west 15 feet of the west 20 feet of the south 26 feet of lot 1, block 12, Fayette, Iowa; and the west 15 feet of the south 3 feet of lot 3, block 13, Fayette, Iowa. All ayes, carried.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Tucker, to discuss scheduling a public hearing on August 19, 2019, at 6PM at Fayette City Hall for consideration in rezoning 807 W. Water Street to commercial. Tim Bruihler, who submitted the request to change the zoning, advised the council he would like to build two or three commercial storage units on the property that Bruihler believes could possibly be assessed from $130,000 to $140,000. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended Bruihler provide documentation that the well was properly sealed, if there was any septic or sanitation system and if it’s been properly taken care of and meets all health and sanitation code requirements and receive consent from the neighbors of the property. Bruihler went to the Sanitation department at the Fayette County Courthouse and they have record of a septic system application in the 1980’s but it was never installed. There is currently an outhouse at the location, so Bruihler believes the outhouse was put in place instead of the septic system. There is a well on the property, but they have no records of sealing the well. Bruihler said there is concrete around it that has October 1984 or 1994 inscribed in it indicating it has been sealed for at least 25 years. Bruihler did email the DNR for more information but has not heard back from them. Jeff Muzingo, a neighbor to the property, is not in favor of having commercial building(s) on that location. Muzingo advised he would like to live next to people and not structures. Muzingo and Bruihler both indicated they respect each other’s intentions and that they are content with whatever the council decides and hope the council makes a decision on what is best for the city. Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to schedule a public hearing on September 3, 2019, at 6PM at Fayette City Hall for the consideration of rezoning the residential property at 807 W. Water Street in Fayette, Iowa, to commercial. Ayes – Cowley, Tucker; Nays – Larson, Nefzger, Wulfekuhle, motion failed.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that he filmed and produced a short video promoting the City of Fayette and the new construction incentives on his own time as a way to give back to the City of Fayette. The video is on the cities Facebook page. Mallory Hanson with NEIA RC&D is scheduled to attend the 9/16/19 Council meeting to discuss Fayette County Economic Development and Tourism. McGrane has been continuing to work on the steps needed to install the new server, including researching and ordering CAT6 wiring and accessories. He is hoping to run the wire himself over the next week or two. McGrane assisted with the IMWCA audit on 7/17/19. He attended the NEIA Community Action Housing meeting on 8/1/19 and they are still accepting applications for the new home on S. Main Street. The construction on the new home should be completed by the middle of this month. The city of Fayette is still being considered for another future NEIA Community Action home.
Fayette Police Chief Davis reminded the council that the National Night Out event scheduled for tomorrow (Tuesday, 8/6/19).
Moved Cowley, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Ordinance 506, second reading. Moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to waive the second reading of Ordinance 506. Roll call, Ayes – Cowley, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle; Nays – Larson, motion carried. Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 506, an ordinance that would amend a portion of Chapters 92 and 99 to adjust the water and sewer infrastructure/administration fee from a flat $10 fee per month, per account, to a 2% of total cubic feet used per month, per account, with a minimum charge of $3 per month and a maximum charge of $100 per month. Roll call, Cowley, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle – ayes, Larson – nay. Motion carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Tucker, to discuss Resolution 2019-16. The resolution clarifies a few things in the new home and new commercial construction incentive program from July 15, 2019 through December 31, 2020. A few of the clarifications include a new construction of home or business must be completed within 2 years of the demolition date as indicated on the demolition permit. The demolition must begin after August 1, 2019. The Council may extend the deadline upon written application submitted to the City Council prior to the expiration of the initial deadline and supported by good cause beyond the applicant’s control. No partial demolition of a structure(s) shall qualify. The property owner must turn in a completed application and it must be approved by the City Council prior to funds being awarded. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Cowley, to adopt Resolution 2019-16, adopting the updated new home and new commercial construction incentive program. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Nefzger, to accept the Fayette Planning and Zoning Commission meeting minutes from 7/24/19. All ayes, carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Tucker, to discuss the request by Joel and Mina Fantz, 706 Lovers Lane Ct, to forgive a portion of the sewer charges. Mina Fantz explained to the council they had accidentally left their garden hose run for approximately four days. Fantz requested a breakdown of their daily usage which the city provided them, and they figured an average daily usage of 18 cubic feet per day. They would like to ask the city to forgive $232.32 of the sewer fees, or whatever the council feels fair, since the water would not have gone down the city’s sewer line. In the past, the council has forgiven sewer fees when the residents have shown some sort of proof that the water has not went down the sewer lines for such situations like a pipe burst or leaked. In this case it is hard to prove. Nefzger suggested the council discuss giving $100 off the Fantz bill. After discussion, no action was taken.
Moved Cowley, seconded Nefzger, to discuss purchasing a mower at the cost of no more than $9,800 from the Parks budget. The city received two quotes, one from Bodensteiner Implement Company in the amount of $8,400 and one from P&K Midwest in the amount of $9,752.21. Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to accept the quote from Bodensteiner Implement Company in Oelwein, Iowa for $8,400 for a new John Deere Z950R ZTrak mower. All ayes, carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to discuss accepting the quote from K&W Coatings LLC. K&W Coatings LLC provided a quote of $1400 for cleaning and inspecting of the wet interior of the water tower, $3600 for the exterior washing of the underside of the tank from the logo to the pedestal, and $12,500 to furnish and install a Kasco Certisafe tank mixer with a stainless-steel suspended mounting system. Jerry Hildebrand, the Public Works Director, budgeted for the interior cleaning and the mixers, but not for the exterior cleaning. Hildebrand informed the council, it is their choice if they want to clean the exterior at the same time or not. Moved Nefzger, seconded Tucker, to accept the entire bid of $17,500 from K&W Coatings LLC for the interior cleaning and inspection, the exterior cleaning of the bottom part of the tank and the furnishing and installing of the tank mixer. All ayes, carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Larson, discuss Resolution 2019-15. Moved Nefzger, seconded Cowley, to approve Resolution 2019-15: Transferring funds FY2018-19. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Nefzger, to discuss purchasing a laptop for City Hall. McGrane advised one of the computers at City Hall is about 5 to 7 years old and has Windows 7 installed. Microsoft will no longer support the computer and it will not work with the new server. McGrane feels if we need to replace the computer, he suggests a laptop so he could use it for meetings, trainings and to work in the council room at times when the Deputy Clerks are working, and he needs to get things done without any interruptions. McGrane had only asked for one quote, so far, from Access Systems, and they quoted a laptop for $1,588.91, but McGrane would continue to shop around before purchasing a new laptop. Cowley inquired if the current computer could be upgraded to Windows 10. McGrane advised he never thought of that and Cowley advised he could look to see if it would be worth upgrading. McGrane was in favor of having Cowley look at the computer before the council makes any further decisions. Moved Nefzger, seconded Tucker, to table the discussion. All ayes, carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to discuss new business incentives. An idea that was brought up in a previous incentive discussion was to offer reimbursing a new business costs for advertising/marketing. The council would like McGrane to draft an incentive proposal that includes reimbursing a new business up to $1,000 in advertising/marketing costs, they must present their business proposal to the council, the advertisement must mention “located in Fayette”, and must stay in business for at least 6 months. Moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to move forward with drafting a new business marketing incentive. All ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to discuss changing water rates for irrigation systems or non-consumption water accounts. McGrane had provided the council with some information that they had requested. There were 11 active irrigation water accounts in 2017 that used a total of 888,327 cubic feet of water and generated $42,999.33. There were 10 active irrigation water accounts in 2018 that used a total of 287,306 cubic feet of water and generated $14,497.40. For the first 6 months of 2019, there have been 10 active irrigation water accounts that have used 6,672 cubic feet of water and generated $358.35. Wenthe advised the council to contact McGrane if they have any suggestions for an increase in the water rates for irrigation systems and they can discuss it at a future meeting. No action was taken.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:05pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
July 15, 2019
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, July 15, 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 – Nefzger.
Moved Cowley, seconded Larson, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 7/1/19 and the claims list of 7/2/19 – 7/15/19. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.
This being the time and place published for a public hearing on the proposed grant of easement on property owned by the City of Fayette, Iowa, Mayor Wenthe opened the hearing and asked for comments. There being no comments, Mayor Wenthe closed the hearing. Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to discuss Resolution 2019-13. Jared and Diana Hildebrand would like to remove the existing deck and replace it with a new one, however it is built on city right-of-way. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve Resolution 2019-13: Directing a grant of easement on property owned by the City of Fayette, Iowa as described as the north twelve feet (N12’) of the west eighty-two feet (W82’) of that part of Madison Street lying adjacent to the south edge of the west 82 feet of lot 1, block 3, S. H. Robertson’s Addition to Fayette; all in the City of Fayette, Fayette County, Iowa. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Upon the recommendations of the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees and Mayor Wenthe, moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to appoint Marcia Andrews to the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees to finish the term ending 6/30/2022. All ayes, carried.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that NEIA Community Action Corporation is now accepting applications for the new home that they are constructing on S. Main Street. Electricity is now run to the room that will house the new server. Access Systems will be reaching out this week to start gathering information for the new server and CAT6 wiring still needs to be run throughout the building. McGrane has the annual IMWCA audit on 7/17 and will be wrapping up the FY2019 financials, completing the four quarterly reports due this month, starting the debt report and street financial report and preparing for the FY2019 audit over the next month. Mayor Wenthe and McGrane also informed the council that monthly utility billing is consuming quite a bit of time in City Hall. McGrane showed the council that from March 2018 to June 2018, the part-time Deputy Clerk and himself worked an average of 31.4 hours per pay period (2 weeks) on the quarterly utility bills and administering the utility accounts. From March 2019 to June 2019, when the city started monthly utility billing, the two part-time Deputy Clerks and himself worked an average of 73.2 hours per pay period on utility bills and administering the utility accounts. McGrane worked 34 of the 73.2 hours. McGrane shared that he has been working additional hours at the office to keep up with utility accounts and his other job duties, but he is still falling behind. McGrane provided a few suggestions for the council to consider. His suggestions included hiring a full-time Deputy Clerk to replace the two part-time Deputy Clerk positions, increase the two part-time Deputy Clerk’s hours from 25 hours per week (combined) to 50 hours per week (combined) or consider contracting an outside business or agency to complete some of the Administrator’s job duties. Out of the three suggestions, McGrane recommended increasing the part-time Deputy Clerks hours to 50 hours per week (combined) because having two part-time Deputy Clerks has been working out well. McGrane advised the extra hours for the part-time Deputy Clerks would give them more time to work on utility billing, administering utility accounts, work on additional job duties that they used to be able to do prior to monthly utility billing and to pass along information between their shifts. If the city stays with two part-time Deputy Clerks, then the city would not have to provide employee health benefits to the Deputy Clerks. McGrane will have the topic on a future council agenda for the council to discuss.
Fayette Police Chief Davis updated the council on the National Night Out event scheduled for August.
Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to discuss Ordinance 504. The ordinance amends a portion of section 92.02 of water rates and section 99.02 of sewer service charges under Chapters 92 and 99 to increase the rates and fees. In section 92.02, the monthly water rates will change from $12 (minimum bill) to $15 (minimum bill) for the first 150 cubic feet used per month and all over 151 cubic feet will change from $0.046 per cubic foot to $0.055 per cubic foot. In section 99.02, the monthly sewer service charges will change from $18.45 (minimum bill) to $23 (minimum bill) for the first 150 cubic feet used per month and all over 151 cubic feet will change from $0.086 per cubic foot to $0.092 per cubic foot. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Cowley, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 504. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2019-14. The resolution changes the new home and new commercial construction incentive program from July 15, 2019 through December 31, 2020. The new construction incentives include a person or business may receive $10,000 after the completion and inspection of a new home or new business with an appraised value of $125,000 to $174,999, or they may receive $15,000 after the completion and inspection of a new home or new business with an appraised value of $175,000 or more, or they may receive $20,000 after the completion and inspection of a new home or new business with an appraised value of $175,000 or more constructed on land that required the demolition of a home or business of lesser value, or they may receive an annual rebate on city property taxes for three (3) years (up to $700 per year) after the completion and inspection of a new home or new business with an appraised value of $124,999 or under. Only the first tree qualified new homes or new businesses constructed and inspected will receive the incentives per calendar year. Property owners in the new Westfield Addition on Stone Man Court are required to pay a sewer connection fee of $1,000, per Chapter 100 of the City Code. The new home or new business would also receive up to $150 off the water and sewer connection fees. Moved Cowley, seconded Larson, to adopt Resolution 2019-14. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Cowley, seconded Tucker, to discuss Ordinance 506. The ordinance amends a portion of Chapters 92 and 99 to adjust the water and sewer infrastructure/administration fee. McGrane shared more spreadsheets to the council that showed more examples of amounts if the city switched to a 1% or 2% fee per cubic foot, with a minimum of $3 and a maximum of $150 and $200 fee. Currently the city is charging a $10 flat fee on every bill and some council members feel changing it to a percentage would make it fairer to the consumers. McGrane advised if the council does not make a decision and pass an ordinance before the new rate increases take effect, then the minimum utility bills will increase from $50.69 per month to almost $60. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the first reading of Ordinance 506, an ordinance that would amend a portion of Chapters 92 and 99 to adjust the water and sewer infrastructure/administration fee from a flat $10 fee per month, per account, to a 2% of total cubic feet used per month, per account, with a minimum charge of $3 per month and a maximum charge of $100 per month. Roll call, Cowley, Tucker and Wulfekuhle – ayes, Larson – nay. Motion carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to discuss adjusting the City Code to charge a higher rate for water for irrigation systems or non-consumption water usage. Larson recommended the council take steps to double the water rate to water accounts used for irrigation systems or non-consumption water usage. The council would like McGrane to provide more information at a future meeting that shows how many current accounts would fall in this category, their water usage and dollar figures if the rate was increased. No action was taken.
Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to discuss partnering with Fayette County Economic Development and Tourism. McGrane attended a meeting on 7/10/19 held by NE Iowa RC&D to discuss the new partnership and contract with the Fayette County Supervisors to work on Economic Development and Tourism in Fayette County. McGrane shared a draft statement of purpose, goals and potential for partnership document from Mallory Hanson with the council. The council requested McGrane reach out to Hanson to have her attend a future council meeting to provide more information before partnering. No action was taken.
Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to discuss the hiring process for the new City Maintenance Worker. McGrane advised he has started advertising the open position on the city’s website, Facebook page, in the West Union/Area Shopper’s Guide and the West Union newspaper. We will be accepting applications until July 31, 2019. Wulfekuhle and Tucker agreed they would be willing to assist with the interviews and hiring process. Tucker advised if Nefzger would like to assist, she would be willing step down and let Nefzger assist.
Moved Larson, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:47pm.
