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 30^th.  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 26^th, 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.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

July 1, 2019

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, July 1, 2019, at 6pm in Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Larson, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent – Cowley and Nefzger.

     Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 6/17/19 and the claims list of 6/18/19 – 7/1/19.  Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Larry Kuecker with The Cahoy Group out of Sumner, Iowa, was present to inform the council about The Cahoy Group.  They specialize in pump installation and repair, well cleaning and surveys, test hole drilling and other services.  They are local and would like to be considered for any future projects or emergency situations.

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

     Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson to publish and schedule a public hearing for July 15, 2019, at 6PM, for the conveyance of an easement allowing Jared Hildebrand to build a deck upon city right of way at the intersection of E. Madison Street and Jones Street.  All ayes, carried.

     Mayor Wenthe informed the council that he had received a resignation letter from Tylar Spece earlier today.  The city will start taking steps to advertise for the open City Maintenance Worker position.  Upon Mayor Wenthe’s recommendation, moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to reappoint Nick Serra to the Planning and Zoning Commission for another 5-year term and to appoint Mark Danker to the Planning and Zoning Commission for the remainder of Tim Wulfekuhle’s term, ending 5/31/2021.  All ayes, carried.

     Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that monthly utility billing is going well but consuming a lot of his time at City Hall, as he predicted.  McGrane recommends the council discuss some options in the near future.  McGrane is continuing to take steps in getting the new server installed and will be working on this throughout the month of July.  McGrane also advised the council that July and August will be busy finishing the books for the FY2019, preparing for the annual exam and the workers compensation audit.  The Fayette Community Library and City Hall will be closed on Thursday, July 4^th for the holiday.

     Fayette Police Chief Davis updated the council on the National Night Out event scheduled for August. 

     Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, 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 Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the second reading of Ordinance 504, an ordinance amending the code of ordinances of the city of Fayette, Iowa, by repealing and amending a portion of sections 92.02 of water rates and 99.02 of sewer service charges under chapters 92 and 99 to increase the rates and fees.  Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Fayette Recreation Board annual update.  All ayes, carried.

     Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to discuss and consider approving Lyle & Valerie Buehler’s demolition incentive.  The Buehler’s had provided all the necessary documentation, except one invoice from Brewer Construction, LLC, needed updated because there were additional costs in the demolition.  The Buehler’s had provided their proof of payments to Brewer Construction that showed they paid the additional costs.  The total reimbursement, which would be 50% of the demolition costs, would be $4,353.75.  Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the demolition incentive for the Buehler’s at a cost of $4,353.75, once all proper documentation and an updated invoice is provided to Fayette City Hall.  All ayes, carried.

     Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to discuss Resolution 2019-11.  Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to adopt Resolution 2019-11: Accepting the project and approving payment of partial payment Number 8-Final to Tschiggfrie Excavating for the Sanitary Sewer Repair and CIPP Lining Improvements project 16-137, Division 1.  Roll call, all ayes, motion carried. 

     Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to discuss Resolution 2019-12.  Fayette Fire Chief Jason Rohde was present to advise the council that the Fayette Fire Department’s Constitution and By-Laws had not been updated for over 20 years.  Rohde advised nothing serious was changed, just clarifying some wording.  Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to adopt Resolution 2019-12: Accepting and adopting the Fayette Fire Department’s Constitution and By-Laws.  Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to discuss and consider purchasing a new mobile car radio for the 2017 Ford Explorer.  Chief Davis explained the importance of the radio and that it was budgeted.  Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the purchase of a new mobile radio for the 2017 Ford Explorer at the cost of $728 from the police account, as budgeted.  All ayes, carried.

     Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to discuss and consider purchasing three body armor vests.  Chief Davis explained the importance of the vests and that he has applied for a grant where the Department of Justice will reimburse the city for 50% of the costs of the vests.  Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to approve the purchase of three new body armor vests for the police department, out of the police account, as budgeted.  All ayes, carried.

     Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Ordinance 505.  The ordinance changes the water and sewer capital fund fee.  McGrane shared spreadsheets that the council had requested he put together at the last council meeting.  The spreadsheets showed some 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 $100, $75 and $50 fee.  Currently the city is charging a $10 flat fee on every bill.  The council discussed about switching from a flat fee to a percentage, would make it fairer to the consumers.  Some council members felt the few businesses in town that use a significant amount of water shouldn’t have to spend thousands of dollars each month towards the capital fund because it could hurt their business with such a significant increase.  Those council members felt the city should put a maximum amount on it.  After further discussion, moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the first reading of Ordinance 505, 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, Tucker and Wulfekuhle – ayes, Larson – nay.  Motion failed.

     Moved Wulfekuhle, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:44pm.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

June 17, 2019

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met on Tuesday, June 11, 2019, at 7pm for a work session to discuss water rates, sewer rates, the water/sewer capital improvements fees and housing incentives.  The work session adjourned at 8:22pm.

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, June 17, 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.

     Moved Nefzger, seconded Cowley, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 6/3/19, the claims list of 6/4/19 – 6/17/19 and the financial reports for March, April and May of 2019.  Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of March 31, 2019: Total March Receipts: $91,788.91 (General $21,556.07; Streets $11,783.51; Employee Benefits $2,714.52; Local Option Sales Tax [LOST] $8,228.10; TIF $107.61; Revolving Loan $1,084.94; Bolger $4,066.46; Library Fund $4.81; Water $15,666.27; Water T&A $150; Sewer $25,352.11; Water/Sewer Capital $248.61; Storm Water $825.90). Total March Disbursements: $86,080.40 (General $33,338.58; Streets $5,309.03; Employee Benefits $10,054.77; Library Fund $20; Water $7,816.30; Water T&A $625; Sewer $9,315.37; Sewer Project $19,510.34; 9 S. Main St $91.01).  Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $3,220,735.14.

     Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of April 30, 2019: Total April Receipts: $364,096.51 (General $135,264.25; Streets $7,281.98; Employee Benefits $37,700.63; Local Option Sales Tax [LOST] $8,228.10; TIF $27,811.35; Revolving Loan $1,084.76; Bolger $23,330.36; Library Fund $4.65; Water $45,032.72; Water T&A $600; Sewer $72,132.34; Water/Sewer Capital $4,165.38; Storm Water $1,459.99). Total April Disbursements: $102,494.41 (General $41,005.34; Streets $11,144.30; Employee Benefits $9,199.23; CDBG LMI Housing $297.65; Revolving Loan $123.24; Water $15,637.43; Water T&A $532.41; Sewer $17,026.42; Sewer Project $7,375.96; 9 S. Main St $152.43).  Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $3,482,545.04.

     Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of May 31, 2019: Total May Receipts: $151,312.38 (General $55,469.21; Streets $16,130.56; Employee Benefits $15,064.29; Local Option Sales Tax [LOST] $8,378.53; TIF $582.87; CDBG LMI Housing $1,103; Revolving Loan $1,085.19; Bolger $561.55; Library Fund $4.81; Water $17,368.79; Water T&A $1,050; Sewer $29,207.06; Water/Sewer Capital $4,649.78; Storm Water $656.74). Total May Disbursements: $153,644.96 (General $40,452.09; Streets $8,677.79; Employee Benefits $9,224.01; CDBG LMI Housing $306.94; Water $9,221.51; Water T&A $3,687.76; Sewer $15,745.19; Sewer Project $66,244.42; 9 S. Main St $85.25).  Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $3,479,793.02.

     Moved Cowley, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.

     Mayor Wenthe explained that he had received Tim Wulfekuhle’s resignation from the Board of Adjustment because it was confirmed by our city attorney that the same person cannot serve on the Board of Adjustment and the Planning and Zoning Commission at the same time.  Tim Wulfekuhle was present and informed the council that he would like to resign from the Planning and Zoning Commission and stay on the Board of Adjustment.  Upon Mayor Wenthe’s recommendation, moved Nefzger, seconded Tucker, to appoint Brock Wissmiller to the Board of Adjustments.  Cowley, Nefzger and Tucker – ayes, Larson and Wulfekuhle – nays.  Motion carried.  

     Tim Wulfekuhle advised the council he would like to resign from the Planning and Zoning Commission effective immediately.

     Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that city hall has been extremely busy with monthly utility billing.  McGrane has also started working with Access Systems preparing for the new server.

     Fayette Police Chief Davis updated the council on the National Night Out event scheduled for August. 

     Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 5/8/19.  All ayes, carried.

     Moved Cowley, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and request a public hearing for the conveyance of an easement allowing Jared Hildebrand, 409 Jones Street, to build a deck upon city right of way.  Jared Hildebrand was present and explained he would like to take down the old deck (8’6”x16”) because it is old and falling apart and construct a new larger deck (12”x16”).  After discussion, moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Cowley, to schedule a public hearing at the next council meeting, Monday, July 1, 2019 at 6PM at Fayette City Hall for the conveyance at the cost of preparation of an easement allowing Jared Hildebrand to build a deck at the dimensions as the old deck (8’6”x16”) upon city right of way at the intersection of E. Madison St. and Jones St.  All ayes, carried.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Nefzger, to discuss Resolution 2019-9.  McGrane explained Chief Davis had requested adding a Patrol Sergeant during the FY2020 budget discussions and the council agreed at that time to move forward.  Davis drafted the job description based on the Police Chief’s job description.  Moved Nefzger, seconded Tucker, to adopt Resolution 2019-9: Adding the job description for the Police Patrol Sergeant.  Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Cowley, seconded Nefzger, to discuss Resolution 2019-10.  McGrane explained he added the Patrol Sergeant on the organizational chart, showing the proper chain of command.  Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to adopt Resolution 2019-10: Amending the City of Fayette Personnel Policy changing section 1 Organization by adding the Police Sergeant.  Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Nefzger, seconded Tucker to discuss the appointment of Fayette Officer Brian Waid to Patrol Sergeant.  Upon Chief Davis’ recommendation, moved Nefzger, seconded Cowley, to appoint Brian Waid as Patrol Sergeant.  All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Nefzger, 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 Nefzger, seconded Cowley, to approve the first reading of Ordinance 504, an ordinance amending the code of ordinances of the city of Fayette, Iowa, by repealing and amending a portion of sections 92.02 of water rates and 99.02 of sewer service charges under chapters 92 and 99 to increase the rates and fees.  Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Cowley, seconded Larson, to discuss Ordinance 505.  The ordinance amends a portion of section 92.02 of water rates and section 99.02 of sewer service charges to adjust the water and sewer infrastructure/administration fee.  The council would like McGrane to provide more information if the fee was changed from a flat monthly fee to a percentage of usage, capping the total amount to 3500 cubic feet, 4500 cubic feet, 5000 cubic feet and a few other examples.  Moved Wulfekuhle, second Cowley, to table the discussion on Ordinance 505.  All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Cowley, seconded Nefzger, to discuss and consider adding a hotel and motel tax to the ballot at the next city election.  McGrane provided information from the Iowa League of Cities and the Iowa Dept. of Revenue about the hotel and motel tax, the other cities and unincorporated areas in Iowa who currently have the hotel and motel tax, as well as their current rates and a history of the revenue they brought in.  John Kelley, Doug McReynolds, Clarissa Videgar and Tim Wulfekuhle advised the council they were not in favor of adding the hotel and motel tax to the ballot.  A few reasons they presented to the council included: it could deter people from staying at the hotel in Fayette which decreases the chances of the guests visiting other local businesses, there are only two or three places in town that would have to add the tax which is singling them out, and the city doesn’t have enough tourist attractions bringing people into town.  Nefzger thought the hotel and motel tax could be another revenue for the city to help repair the streets or the storm water drainage issues we have in town.  After discussion, no action was taken.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to discuss the Fayette County Economic Development.  McGrane and Wenthe updated the council that the Fayette County Supervisors are planning on contracting with RC&D to handle Fayette County’s Economic Development and ending the contract with Upper Explorerland.  No action was taken.

     Moved Larson, seconded Nefzger, to discuss the American Tower Company’s contract renewal.  McGrane had provided the council with the recent communication between an account manager with American Tower Corporation and himself.  American Tower Corporation asked the council to provide a counter offer if the council didn’t like the proposal.  The council would not like to discuss renewing the contract until there is 5 years left on the lease.  No action was taken.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Cowley, to discuss adjusting the new commercial and residential construction incentives.  McGrane presented some of the incentives that were discussed at the last work session.  The council provided additional suggestions for McGrane to put together to present at the next council meeting.  No action was taken.

     Moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:35pm.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

June 3, 2019

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, June 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, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.

     Moved Cowley, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 5/6/19, with the addition of “Nefzger abstained” on the vote reappointing Jeff Potratz to the Board of Adjustment for a 3-year term, and the claims list of 5/21/19 – 6/3/19.  Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

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

     Mayor Wenthe informed the council that Administrator/Clerk Kris McGrane and he worked on a press release promoting our new businesses in Fayette and the Revolving Loan Fund.  The Fayette Leader printed the release and the Cedar Rapids Gazette is planning on running a story in an upcoming issue.

     Administrator/Clerk McGrane told the council the S. Main St. bridge joint repair was completed over the weekend.  McGrane attended the HWY 150 Coalition meeting on 5/29 at the Fayette Community Library.

     Fayette Police Chief Davis updated the council on the National Night Out event scheduled for August. 

     Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to approve the Fayette Recreation Board meeting minutes from 5/6/19.  The council requested McGrane to promote Cardinal Park on Facebook more.  All ayes, carried.

     Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Fayette Board of Adjustment meeting minutes from 5/23/19.  All ayes, carried.

     Moved Cowley, seconded Nefzger, to discuss and consider vacating part of the city right-of-way to Jared Hildebrand at 409 Jones Street.  Hildebrand advised he would like to construct a 10’ x 12’ addition to the south side of his house where the current deck is located.  Hildebrand had attended the last Board of Adjustment (BOA) meeting, where the BOA recommended the city council sell the minimum amount of city right-of-way to Hildebrand, so a variance would not be needed.  The council discussed having Hildebrand get a survey of his property, so he would know exactly how much of the city right-of-way he would need to purchase from the city.  The council recalled our city attorney does not recommend vacating or selling any city rights-of-way because the property may be needed for future utilities.  After discussion, moved Nefzger, seconded Cowley, to not allow vacating the property but to grant an easement at Hildebrand’s expense, similar to what was recently done with the Fayette County Food Shelf expansion, and request the Board of Adjustment meet again to reconsider Hildebrand’s request.  All ayes, carried.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider approving Lyle and Valerie Buehler’s Demolition Incentive.  The council reviewed the receipts provided and clarified that the incentive is only for the demolition costs and does not include costs of street excavation, grass seed, gravel, etc.  McGrane will provide the demolition receipt/invoice at a future meeting.  No action was taken.

     Moved Cowley, seconded Nefzger, to discuss the approval of partial pay estimate number 7 to Tschiggfrie Excavating.  Moved Nefzger, seconded Cowley, to approve partial pay estimate number 7 to Tschiggfrie Excavating for the Sanitary Sewer Repair and CIPP Lining Improvements project 16-137 Division 1 contingent upon receipt of all necessary Davis-Bacon wage documentation by UERPC. All ayes, carried.

     Moved Nefzger, seconded Tucker, to discuss and consider employee pay increases for FY2020.  After discussion, moved Larson, seconded Nefzger, to have all cost-of-living increases take effect on July 1^st, 2019, and all the years-of-service step increases on the wage scale to take effect on the employee’s anniversary date.  All ayes, carried.

     Moved Larson, seconded Cowley, to discuss water and sewer rates and the capital fund fee.  McGrane shared spreadsheets with the council showing the income for water and sewer over the last few months, since switching to monthly billing.  The spreadsheets show the water and sewer funds have a slight decrease in revenue each month with the additional money going into the water and sewer capital improvements fund.  McGrane also showed examples of what it would look like if we switched the capital improvements $10 flat fee per bill to a 1% or 2% fee per cubic foot, as the council had requested at a prior meeting.  McGrane advised the council that we expected we would probably have to adjust the minimums and rates slightly once we had a few months to look at.  Some users may not see much of a change to their bills because we would be distributing the costs differently which may not cause some total utility bill amounts to change.  After discussion, the council decided to set-up a work session next week to continue to look at the rates.  McGrane will reach out to the council and choose a date that works best for the majority.  No action was taken.

     Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to discuss the water drainage in the 500 block of Mechanic Street.  At a previous meeting, the council had requested McGrane to look if the city had any documentation of what was required for CJ Construction to do for the storm water drainage when constructing the condominiums.  McGrane advised the Deputy Clerk had been looking but has been unable to find anything.  Jerry Hildebrand, the Public Works Director, believes that CJ Construction had met all the requirements.  Hildebrand does not think the storm water is running across Mechanic St. anymore since the street was re-blacktopped a couple years ago and a 2-inch crown was put in the middle of the road.  Nefzger suggested the city continues to monitor the issue.  Wulfekuhle thought the property owners on the east side of Mechanic Street could dig out a ditch to help retain the water since the driveways on the west side are already completed.  Wulfekuhle also advised the city needs to consider storm water drainage issues for future developments to avoid this issue occurring again.  Tucker mentioned if they continue to have issues in that area, she heard of other options during the flood mitigation meetings she attended that the city could consider, such as having a grassy area or more vegetation.  After further discussion, no action was taken.

     Moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:00pm.