REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
September 5, 2017
The City Council of the city of Fayette, Iowa, met Tuesday, September 5, 2017 at 7:30pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, Larson, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 8/21/17, claims list of 8/22/17 – 9/5/17, the June 2017 and July 2017 Treasurer’s/Clerk’s Reports, the June 2017 Budget Report, and the Outstanding Obligations Disclosure Statement Report for FY2017. The total debt for the city ending 6/30/17 was $1,616,535.50. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer's Balance for Fund Accounts as of June 30, 2017: General $213,868.81; Streets $305,948.29; Debt Service $18,732.67; Water Utility $235,735.90; Water T&A $22,183.34; Sewer Utility $219,463.90; Landfill/Recycling $2,708.27; Yard Waste $5,229.67; Bolger Fund $225,731.89; TIF $51,749.62; Local Option Tax $8,078.58; Storm Water $10,994.18; Downtown Project ($29,715.04); Franchise Fees $48,920.48. June Receipts by Fund: General $61,692.09; Streets $108,191.12; Debt Service $13,565.96; Water Utility $4,083.72; Water T&A $1,010; Sewer Utility $5,269.17; LF/Recycling $894.61; Yard Waste $188.72; Bolger $37,333.18; TIF $71.90; Local Option $16,157.16; Storm Water $130.31. Total Receipts $248,587.91. June Disbursements by Fund: General $145,618.99; Streets $13,466.99; Water Utility $119,660.46; Water T&A $6,606.73; Sewer Utility $93,636.02; LF/Recycling $80.00; Yard Waste $6,661.76; Bolger $1,245; TIF $5,409.26; Local Option $94,596.40. Total Disbursements: $486,981.61. Investments: $1,291,619.01. Bank Balance $2,624,743.56. Balance with Library Funds $2,714,455.44.
Treasurer’s Balance as of July 31, 2017: Checking $1,324,160.77; Savings $242,815.03; Investments $1,128,876.14; Library Memorial $9,309.81. Total July Receipts: $181,664.29. Total July Disbursements: $188,446.43. Balance: $2,705,161.75.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to discuss Frank Atchison water bill for 308 E. State Street. Atchison was not present. After discussion, no action was taken.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes to approve, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised the council that a few housing focus groups took place today and more will take place tomorrow. This is part of the business and cultural development study that UIU and the City of Fayette partnered together to strengthen our community. City Administrator/Clerk McGrane and Wenthe attended a FEMA/Ia Homeland Security & Emergency Management Public Assistance Applicant Briefing on August 31st.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane reported to the council that he attended the UIU Resource Fair on 8/24 to encourage new students to use fayetteiowa.com as a resource for city information, local businesses, and activities/events. McGrane also attended the UIU Haunted Hayride meeting on 8/29 and it was decided to hold their event on the same night as our town trick-or-treating and Maple Crests Halloween event to hopefully bring more people to Fayette that evening. McGrane advised at the Fayette Co. Advisory Committee meeting on 8/30 it was reported that NEIA Community Action Corp. is anticipating to start building the new house at 104 King St. in the Spring of 2018. McGrane also informed the council that the Fayette Community Library has posted and published the help wanted ad to hire a new part time assistant librarian.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to get an update on Kevin Lehs property at 516 W. Water St. Lehs was not present at the meeting. Nefzger advised she spoke to Lehs and he moved the pile of dirt, moved and stacked the pile of bricks and tiles, and he has an individual coming in to do some tuck-pointing to the house. Chief Pisanti advised he spoke to Lehs about a week and a half ago and advised him of the nuisance abatement ordinance. Lehs said he would take care of it and he did.
Moved Larson, seconded Kragnes, to consider and take action on the storm water drainage at Madison and King Streets. Wenthe, Tucker and Public Works Director Hildebrand met with Chris Matt on 8/29. Their recommendation would be a two-phase approach. Matt recently placed an additional drain at this location. The first phase would include rerouting the storm water, lowering the tile on Matt’s property, and move forward with the construction work to hopefully address the storm water issue. If phase one does not help, then move to phase two which would be to dig out the ditch at this location to hopefully capture the storm water and hold it a little longer before it drains across the road. After discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approach Matt about returning the ditch to the original condition. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to consider inspecting or replacing the city-owned Rohn 25G tower. The city has received a few rough estimates from Tri State Tower. McGrane received specific information from the Fayette County E911 Coordinator about what they currently have on the tower which he forwarded to Tri State Tower to get a more accurate estimate. McGrane is still waiting to get an estimate from another company. McGrane attended the Fayette County E911 meeting on 8/23 and the committee did approve to pay for half the cost of a tower inspection up to $1500. Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to table. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to review updates of the Fayette Flooding from July 22nd, 2017, timeline. Wenthe advised the council of the latest updates and information including designated FEMA funding is currently frozen due to the disasters in Texas and possibly in Florida to assist them. The city will get reimbursed however it may not happen as quickly as originally planned. McGrane advised he is continuing to work with the insurance company for the pre-treatment plant flood damage.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to discuss parking issues in the 500 block of Mechanic Street near the North Ridge condos. After discussion, moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to change the ordinance to make the east side of Mechanic Street from E. Jay St. to W. Madison St. no parking any time. Three ayes, Kragnes and Nefzger nay, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Kragnes, to discuss a housing assessment with Glenn Lyons and Marilyn Arber with 571 Polson Developments. The city and UIU have a contract with Zach Mannheimer and McClure Engineering to get some revitalization ideas. Lyons and Arber were contacted by Mannheimer to take a look at Fayette’s housing market. They are looking at the economic & demographic data and are meeting with some individuals & focus groups while they are in town for a couple days. After they are finished with their research they will provide a preliminary analysis that will include if there is a reasonable demand for either ownership housing for single families or rental apartments. If there is, they will start to look at sites and a feasibility analysis that they could do a preliminary analysis on. If there doesn’t appear to be a strong enough demand in either of those options, they will help us to start conversations about what will it take to create or enhance that demand.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to consider changing the days and/or the hours of the Fayette Yard Waste Site. Larson advised he was approached by a couple people in town about doing something different with the hours of the Yard Waste Site. After discussion and different options were discussed, no action was taken.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to consider surveying the property lines for the Open Air Market. McGrane advised a property owner next to the Open Air Market recently inquired about putting up a structure on their property. In doing some research, it was discovered that the city may not have a survey of the lot lines for the Open Air Market and there are some conflicting maps that show where the lot lines are. The Open Air Market is a flood buy-out area so nothing can be built on the property. Fehr Graham Engineering provided a cost estimate of $1,150 to take a survey of the entire Open Air Market area. Moved Larson, seconded Nefzger, to contact the owners of the property next to the Open Air Market to ask if they would want to pay half the cost of the survey. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to consider an extension of Officer Ben Davis living outside the city limits. Davis was granted a waiver to the residency requirement for one year when he was hired and that time has now passed. After discussion, moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to provide Officer Ben Davis one more year from his hire date (making it a total of two years) to find residency in the Fayette city limits. Three ayes, Kragnes and Larson nay, motion carried. The council requested to have Davis attend the next regular city council meeting.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to discuss the FY2017 ending balances and transfers to and from savings and budget transfers. McGrane explained the auditors require council approval for the end of the year transfers, even though this is policy and discussed during budget meetings. The funds remaining on June 30th are put into savings for equipment, vehicles or projects for the following fiscal year or transferred out of savings to help cover extra costs accrued. McGrane explained there was one more local option sales tax deposit on June 30th that was not accounted for when McGrane made the bank transfers on that same day. He will make those transfers in the current fiscal year. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve the ending balances and transfers. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 9:34pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 21, 2017
The City Council of the city of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, August 21, 2017 at 7:30pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, Larson, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 8/7/17, the claims list of 8/8/17 – 8/21/17, and the renewal of a liquor license for Shiner’s Bar and Grill. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Fayette citizen John Kelly informed the council on the damage he received from the wastewater that backed-up due to the heavy rains on Jul. 22. He asked the council if there was any warning system in place to notify citizens. Mayor Wenthe advised his understanding was the fire department drives around town with their lights and sirens on warning citizens when the Volga River is going to breach its banks and flood the town. Wenthe is not aware of any warning for wastewater possibly backing-up in resident’s homes. The city can look into different alert systems for future circumstances.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes to approve, carried.
Mayor Wenthe provided a list of Fayette students interested in a North Fayette Valley (NFV) school activity bus. Amy Tucker advised she had one high school student contact her that was interested in the bus, too. Wenthe will contact NFV Superintendent Duane Willhite to let him know about our findings.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council he had met with Greg Huff with the Iowa Rural Water Association for their annual visit, attended the NEIA Local Housing Trust Fund meeting, and met with Doug Jones for the city’s annual IMWCA audit over the last few weeks. McGrane advised a citizen had inquired at the last council meeting if the cities insurance would cover the cost of the damage to residents due to the wastewater back-up in basements and the insurance does not cover that type of damage. The first day to file nomination papers to run for mayor or city council is 8/28/17. The last day to file is 9/21/17. Nomination papers and candidate affidavit forms are available to pick up at Fayette City Hall or you can print them off at www.sos.state.ia.us, but the nomination papers must be filed with the Fayette County Auditor’s office in West Union. McGrane also reminded the council the next council meeting will be on Tues., Sept. 5 due to Labor Day. City hall will be closed on Labor Day.
Police Chief Pisanti informed the council that UIU move-in day is Wed., Aug. 23, so there will be some heavy traffic around town that day.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the Fayette Recreation Board minutes from Aug. 14, 2017. Tucker highlighted a few of the items in the minutes and encouraged anyone to share their ideas with the Recreation Board members. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve the Fayette Recreation Board minutes from Aug. 14, 2017. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the Streets Committee minutes from Aug. 16, 2017 and consideration and action of storm water drainage at the corner of Madison and King Streets. Wulfekuhle highlighted a few of the items in the minutes. Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand had informed the Streets Committee that Doug Egeland thought he could fix the culverts and make them safer for around $6,500. It was questioned if Chris Matt had permission to fill in the ditch at 105 W. Madison St. The city can look into it. After further discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to proceed with checking with the property owner of 105 W. Madison St. to see what they can do to assist with the storm water drainage and proceed with any recommendations that Public Works Director Hildebrand would have. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to discuss the timeline and updates from the Fayette flooding on Jul. 22, 2017. Mayor Wenthe gave an update on the progress from the flooding.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to consider and take action of hiring a Financial Advisor. The council was provided a few agreements/proposals from PFM Financial Advisors LLC and Speer Financial, Inc. McGrane explained both companies sent a representative up to meet with him in person over the last week. PFM presented two proposals, one for $5,000 to specifically work on the study for the downtown project and the other for $7,000 to work on the study as well as a full one year retainer for other reports or requests the council may request. Speer’s proposal did not include a cost for the study or project because they would charge for their services if the city decided to take out financing for the project. PFM would also have an additional charge on top of their fees if the city decided to take out financing. After further discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to hire Speer Financial, Inc. to present to the council their financial advice for financing the downtown project and W. Water Street. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to consider vacating the alley in between the 700 and 800 blocks of S. Main St. and Washington St. A citizen would like the council to consider vacating the alley at this location. McGrane explained he discovered the city had vacated some of the alleys in Fayette around twenty to thirty years ago that were no longer used. The city offered portions of the alley to adjacent property owners at the property owners cost. John Kelly advised the council that the city may want to research if that specific alley is the only access to one of the old railroad property parcels. After further discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to have the city attorney present the costs of vacating the property and the future legal issues or risks there may be for vacating the property to the council. All ayes, motion carried.
At 8:33pm, moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to go into closed session per Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(j) to discuss the purchase or sale of real estate only where premature disclosure could be reasonably expected to increase the price the City would have to pay for that property or reduce the price the City would receive for that property. All ayes, motion carried.
After returning to open session, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:48pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 7, 2017
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, August 7, 2017, at 7:30pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, Larson, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 7/17/17 and the claims list of 7/18/17 – 8/7/17. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Renee Voshell informed the Mayor and Council about a bible reading event she is planning that will take place at Klock’s Island Park, the Open Air Market Park and a gazebo outside Maple Crest Manor Nursing Home and Assisted Living. The reading will be from 7AM to 8PM on both Friday, Sept. 15th and Saturday, Sept. 16th. Anyone interested in reading a portion of the bible at this event or has any questions may contact Kathy Thomas at 563-880-4091, Barb Hackmann at 563-880-8362 or Renee Voshell at 563-608-5518. The Mayor and Council appreciated her informing them about the event and requested City Administrator/Clerk McGrane to include the information in an upcoming community email so the public is aware.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Kragnes, to add action item 7C under New Business regarding Madison and King Streets storm water drainage. All ayes, motion carried. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe reported that he had inquired with Duane Willhite, North Fayette Valley (NFV) Superintendent, about how many students in the Fayette area would be necessary to have an activities bus that would transport students to and from Fayette to West Union. Wenthe requested McGrane to inform the public through an upcoming community email to contact City Hall, the Mayor or a Council member if they would have a need for an activities bus in Fayette. Wenthe advised if the school would not be able to offer the service, maybe the Fayette Recreation Board could help.
City Admin/Clerk McGrane reported to the council that he attended 18 classes at the Iowa Municipal Professionals Institute and Academy in Ames between July 17th and 28th. McGrane has been preparing for upcoming audits and reviews for IMWCA and IPERS. The exterior, underside of the water tower was cleaned in July, as the council had budgeted for. Fayette Library Director Linda Adams had turned in her letter of retirement to the city. Her last day will be on September 29th, 2017. Adams was hired on November 21st, 1988, and has served the citizens of Fayette for almost 29 years.
Police Chief Pisanti informed the council that the Fayette Police Dept. has completed its first week of the contract with Upper Iowa University (UIU). Fayette Officer Waid has almost completed his Field Training.
Moved Tucker, seconded Larson, to approve the Fayette Community Library board minutes from July 11, 2017. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Kragnes, to discuss Fayette flooding from July 22nd, 2017. Mayor Wenthe and McGrane provided a timeline to the council of the events of the flood which included the estimated damage of approximately $80,000 of city property, meetings with Iowa Homeland Security & Emergency Management Department (IHSEMD) and clean-up process. Wenthe advised the IHSEMD is hoping to provide all the details to the President of the United States so he will consider declaring a disaster. If the President does declare our area a disaster, then the city may be able to receive up to 75-90% of approved city expenses being reimbursed for flood repair and replacement of damaged facilities and areas. Tucker asked that since the storm sewer system couldn’t keep up with all the rain water, causing multiple drains to back-up, if there was anything the city could do to help prevent this in the future. Larson commented that once the system is full of water, then there’s no place for the water to go. Public Works Director Hildebrand advised that the city pumps were pumping the whole time during the flood at over 1,000 gallons per minute. Hildebrand advised that most basements that were backed-up and flooded was due to the sewer lines not being able to keep up with all the rain water and not from the river flooding. In 2014 when the river flooded the sewer plant, no one in town had reported to Hildebrand that they had any sewer back-up in their basements. It was also discussed that residents who have sump pumps should not have them pumping down their sewer drains. Hildebrand informed the council that the pre-treatment lift station, the lagoons and well number 3 all have back-up generators if the power would ever go off in a situation like this. David Orr advised his mother lives on Mechanic St. and she had wastewater backup in her basement. Orr wanted to know if the cities insurance company would pay for damages. Wenthe advised we will look into it. The council discussed other options and citizen suggestions due to the flood.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Kragnes, to discuss the consideration of hiring a structural engineer to inspect the city owned Rohn 25G tower. McGrane advised AC Skyways/Allamakee Clayton Electric Cooperative had inquired about placing an antenna on the tower to provide wireless internet to the community. McGrane contacted Brenda VandeVoorde, the Fayette County E911 Coordinator, to inform them of the discussion since they have an antenna on the tower that is used for emergency services. VandeVoorde inquired with their Engineer and they did not recommend adding anything new to the tower until an inspection was done. The Engineer advised the life of a tower like this is 25 years and it is in its final years. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to have the tower inspected to determine the capacity and status of the tower as well as research the cost of replacing the tower. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to discuss Madison and King Streets storm water drainage. Public Works Director Hildebrand advised the council the storm sewer that is under the road is in need of repair or replacement and would recommend the issue be referred to the Streets Committee to look into it. Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to refer the storm water drainage at Madison and King Streets to the Streets Committee. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to discuss the consideration of hiring a municipal or financial advisor to provide financial options to the council for the downtown and Water Street project. McGrane advised the city was awarded $350,000 of the $500,000 for the CDBG Community Facilities & Service Grant to be used for storm sewer system improvements in downtown Fayette on Main St. as part of the $3,015,012 Downtown Project. We were not awarded the CDBG Water/Sewer grant. We were also awarded a SRF Water Resource Restoration Sponsored Project which would provide 10% of the SRF wastewater loan amount (approx. $31,900) for the project. McGrane felt it was in the best interest of the city to hire a Municipal Advisor to research the financial options if the council wanted to move forward with this project. Once the council understands the options, then they can decide if they want to move forward with the project or not. Moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to obtain a scope of practice and cost estimate from a few different advisors for this project. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:22pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
July 17, 2017
The City Council of the city of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, July 17, 2017 at 7:30pm in the ICN Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, Larson, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Prior to this meeting, at 6:30pm, the mayor & council held a work session and public meeting to discuss the rental housing code draft ordinance.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 7/3/17, the special meeting minutes of 7/10/17 and the claims list of 7/4/17 – 7/17/17. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes to approve, carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised the council that the City Administrator, Kris McGrane, is at clerk and finance school for two weeks learning about his duties as a clerk and government finances.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane had prepared a report to the council that stated Todd Granberg, co-owner of Rite Price Office Supply in Oelwein, donated a copy machine/scanner/printer to the Fayette Fire Department on July 6th. Mayor Wenthe thanked Rite Price for the donation of the copy machine.
Police Chief Pisanti introduced to the council the new full time Fayette Police Officer, Anthony Landis.
Moved Tucker, seconded Kragnes, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board minutes from June 7, 2017. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Board of Adjustments minutes from July 6, 2017. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Tucker, to swear in Anthony Landis as a full time police officer.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to discuss hiring Brian J. Waid. Chief Pisanti advised the council that Waid is from Charles City and he is a certified police officer. Waid has already passed the MMPI. Moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle to conditionally offer Brian J. Waid a full time police officer job at a salary of $37,000 per year, based on Waid successfully completing the physical agility test & fingerprinting/background investigation, with a tentative starting date of Monday, July 24th, 2017. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to waive the residency requirement for Brian Waid for one year to give him time to find a residence in the corporate limits of the City of Fayette or within one mile of the Fayette City limits. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Nefzger, to discuss the approval of the change of scope authorization from for Fehr Graham – 2017 Water System Improvements project. Moved Nefzger, seconded Kragnes, to approve the change of scope authorization form for Fehr Graham for the 2017 Water System Improvement project of $2,750 increase for a total of $6,750. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Larson, to discuss the annual review proposals. Moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve hiring Ridihalgh, Fuelling, Snitker, Weber & Co. to perform the city of Fayette’s annual review for FY2017. Four ayes, Larson nay, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:50 pm.
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
July 10, 2017
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, July 10, 2017 at 7:30pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, Larson, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to approve the agenda. All ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the consideration of hiring a new police officer, purchase a new police vehicle and purchase police equipment. Police Chief Pisanti advised the council the Police Committee met last Thursday, July 6th, and interviewed a couple applicants for the two available full time police officer positions. Both applicants had submitted applications last year when the department was going through the hiring process for the open full time position and recently submitted applications again. Two other applicants have submitted applications but neither are certified. The city is still accepting applications until July 15th. One of the full time police applicants, Anthony William Charles Landis, is currently a Fayette County Sheriff’s Office deputy. Landis is currently from Westgate, Iowa, has graduated from the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy and is fully certified. The Police Committee recommends the council hire Landis as a full time Fayette police officer. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to conditionally offer Anthony William Charles Landis a full time police officer job at a salary of $37,000 per year, based on Landis successfully completing the MMPI and medical/physical exams, with a tentative start date of Monday, July 17th, 2017. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to waive the residency requirement for Anthony Landis for one year to give him time to find a residence in the corporate limits of the City of Fayette or within one mile of the Fayette City limits. Four voted aye, Larson nay, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve a lease agreement for a 2017 Ford Explorer and install the Fayette Police Department’s current radio and repeater equipment from the 2007 Ford Explorer for a cost of $36,699.43. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Nefzger, to approve the Fayette Police Department to purchase two Glock firearms at a price of $604 each to be used by the two new full time officers. The firearms will be maintained by the city and will be treated as other city owned police equipment used by full time officers. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:44pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
July 3, 2017
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, July 3, 2017 at 7:30pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes (via speakerphone), Larson, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 6/19/17 and the claims list of 6/20/17 – 7/3/17. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Bill Dohrmann wanted to inform the Mayor and Council how much he appreciated the city services. Dohrmann wanted to thank the Fayette Ambulance Service crew members and Fayette Police Chief Rich Pisanti for their help and cooperation with getting his wife, Sue, back to the area and assisting during her funeral.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to add action item 8C under New Business regarding contract change order #2 and partial pay estimate #2 for the 2017 Water Improvements project and approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request, moved Tucker, seconded Nefzger, to appoint Andrea Scott to the Library Board, replacing Jeff Butikofer who resigned. Scott will finish Butikofer’s term and serve on the board until June 30, 2020.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council that he has been continuing to get data entered into the new accounting and payroll software to be ready for the new fiscal year. On June 27th, Amy Tucker, Police Chief Pisanti and McGrane attended the Fayette Hazard Mitigation Public Meeting. Joel Holden’s last day at the Fayette Community Library was June 30, 2017. Holden started about 3 years ago and worked approximately 20 hours a week under a national program that compensated him. The City of Fayette was awarded $350,000 for the CDBG Community Facilities & Services Grant.
Police Chief Pisanti informed the council the department is continuing to work on the nuisance abatement project around town. They started on one side of town and had about 20 cases they were working on. They have been notifying property owners of the violations and have been getting a good outcome as citizens are taking care of the issues right away. No citations for nuisance abatement issues or for long grass/weeds have been issued yet. Pisanti also advised the council that the police have been educating citizens about the current fireworks ordinance as they come across people with fireworks. The current ordinance requires citizens to fill out a fireworks permit at Fayette City Hall, at no cost, and provide proof of insurance.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to discuss the approval of partnership for the city of Fayette to provide police services to Upper Iowa University. Chief Pisanti presented the council with information about the contractual law enforcement services that would be provided to UIU for the annual cost of $97,500 per budget year with a 2% annual inflation rate for each additional year of the contract beyond the first year. The city will hire two new full time police officers. The annual cost that UIU will pay the city includes the entire cost of the salary and benefits for one full time officer and 50% of the salary and benefits for the other full time officer. One officer will be stationed at UIU and another officer will split duties between the city and UIU. A supplemental startup cost necessary to purchase/lease a new police vehicle with required equipment will be paid for by UIU. If either the city or UIU terminates the agreement for law enforcement services, each of the parties agree to be responsible for paying all costs associated with the termination, including worker compensation, liability claims and employee separation payments. The agreement will commence on August 1, 2017 and terminate on June 30, 2020, with the option to extend the term by mutual agreement of both parties. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the partnership for the city of Fayette to provide police services to UIU. Four voted aye, Larson nay, motion carried.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Tucker, to discuss the annual review proposals. The city received proposals from the Office of Auditor of the State of Iowa, Hacker Nelson & Co. PC and Ridihalgh Fuelling Snitker Weber & Co. After discussion, moved Nefzger, seconded Tucker, to contact Ridihalgh Fuelling Snitker Weber & Co. to find out if they would consider decreasing their cost estimate since they have worked with the city previously and have the cities previous records. Four voted aye, Larson nay, motion carried.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss contract change order #2 and partial pay estimate #2 for the 2017 Water System Improvements project. Contract change order #2 will decrease the total amount of the project by $13,233.30, making the total project cost $98,076.45. Partial pay estimate #2 is for $50,821.49. After discussion, moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Nefzger to approve contract change order #2 and partial pay estimate #2 for the 2017 Water System Improvements project. All aye, carried.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:20pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
June 19, 2017
The City Council of the city of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, June 19, 2017 at 7:30pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, Larson, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Tucker, seconded Kragnes, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 6/5/17, claims list of 6/6/17 – 6/19/17, the May 2017 Treasurer’s/Clerk’s Report & Budget Report, and the renewal of a liquor license for The Pumper. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Treasurer's Balance for Fund Accounts as of May 31, 2017: General $297,795.71; Streets $211,224.16; Debt Service $5,166.74; Water Utility $351,312.64; Water T&A $27,780.07; Sewer Utility $307,830.75; Landfill/Recycling $1,893.66; Yard Waste $11,702.71; Bolger Fund $189,643.71; TIF $57,086.98; Local Option Tax $86,517.82; Storm Water $10,863.87; Downtown Project ($29,715.04); Franchise Fees $48,920.48. May Receipts by Fund: General $37,199.79; Streets $11,565.08; Debt Service $634.60; Water Utility $4,654.14; Water T&A $2,496.96; Sewer Utility $5,171.24; LF/Recycling $1,023.13; Yard Waste $196.07; Bolger $2,957; TIF $252.06; Local Option $6,915.67; Storm Water $146; Franchise Fees $3,425.92. Total Receipts $76,637.66. May Disbursements by Fund: General $28,993.44; Streets $14,450.76; Water Utility $11,033.54; Water T&A $507.53; Sewer Utility $8,094.85; Yard Waste $5,478.99. Total Disbursements: $68,559.11. Investments: $1,309,664.03. Bank Balance $2,863,137.26. Balance with Library Funds $2,952,849.14.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Kragnes, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes to approve, carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised the council that Jeff Butikofer resigned from the Library Board due to a conflict of interest regarding a potential candidate for the Library Director position. The City Council needs to consider a replacement. Annette Butikofer was offered and accepted the Library Director position. On June 15th, the Mayor spent the day with Zach Mannheimer meeting with different groups and individuals and touring the town as part of the Creative Placemaking Economic Assessment study. Wenthe would like to encourage all the citizens to shop local and support the businesses that we do have as that is the first step to seeing improvements in the community and with economic development. Fayette has a lot of things that we should be proud of and we should help promote these things.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane reported to the council that he attended a NEIA League meeting on June 6th, a housing meeting on June 12th, had an annual visit with Black Hills Energy personnel on June 13th and attended the Steering committee meeting on June 15th.
Police Chief Pisanti informed the council that he attended a training to prevent violence against women last week. The cost was covered by a grant and UIU. The department is wrapping up on the unpaid, over-due tickets project. Out of 61 unpaid tickets, only 19 are left unpaid and letters have been sent out to address the last 19 tickets. The department started a code enforcement or nuisance abatement sweep around town this week. The sweep will address issues such as abandoned vehicles, trash piles and tall grass. They will also inform residents on the importance of displaying their house numbers so they are visible from the road.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to discuss the Fayette Community Library Board minutes from May 10, 2017. Annette Butikofer accepted the Library Director position and will start on approximately August 1st. Linda Adams will retire the end of September. After a brief discussion, the council was wondering if the Library Board had an idea of when they would hire an assistant librarian. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve. All ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to introduce Alex Soderquist, the General Manager at Hawkeye Telephone Company (HTC), to discuss running fiber optic lines through Fayette. HTC runs fiber optic lines all over Fayette County and NE Iowa. It was proposed to them by Community Digital Wireless (CDW) to run fiber optic lines to a cell tower just north of the city of Fayette so CDW can provide fixed, wireless internet service to the city of Fayette residents, hopefully within the next year. Fixed, wireless internet is where an antenna is placed on top of a cell tower and a resident puts an antenna on top of their home or business to receive internet connection. The internet service is reasonably fast and is usually less expensive than other services. HTC currently has fiber optic service at the cell tower just south of Fayette. The current preliminary plan is to run the fiber optic lines from the tower south of Fayette, along Klock Rd/Washington St into town, run a line to UIU so they can take advantage of the service, head west along W 7th St, then north through town, behind the downtown district, over to city hall, police dept, fire dept and ambulance garage, then north to the cell tower. Soderquist is also hoping to include in the plan to run a line to the NFV school and Fayette Community Library. When they build the fiber optic line, they do not have the ability to provide a service line to every business, but they do prepare for future options and investments for other companies that may want to come in and take advantage of the fiber optic line. Since HTC is a small company with a small staff, they are unable to provide fiber optic services to multiple customers throughout NE Iowa, but they like the idea of spearing new interventions into towns where services are not available. Currently there are no plans for offering fiber optic service to residents, however, the cities infrastructure can still take advantage of fiber optic service. HTC is currently working with other providers and companies to try and have them come up to the NE Iowa area to provide the fiber optic service. Soderquist wanted to introduce himself and let the council know they are currently in the middle of preliminary planning to do this type of work. The cities advantage would be to have fiber optic run to places they felt would be useful. HTC just finished getting West Union city hall connected to fiber optic. HTC tries to provide a discounted rate at a fixed cost for cities who use the service. As an example, HTC charges the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office and West Union city hall a fixed rate of $70 per month. HTC typically offers a full 1GB service, that is 1,000MB up and 1,000MB down, unlimited usage, HTC provides support via IT networking capabilities. They are also hoping this would help bring in future business opportunities and are hoping to have the fiber optic line in the ground before the end of October. Their work and construction is done by a local contractor, West Union Trenching. They would trench and lay the fiber optic lines in the cities right-of-way through town. When Soderquist has completed his plan, he will come back with specific details as well as options for the city to take advantage of the service.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to introduce the third and final reading of Ordinance 493 – Amending the code of ordinances of the city of Fayette, Iowa, by repealing and amending sections 92.02 of water rates and 99.02 of sewer service charges under chapters 92 and 99. The ordinance increases water and sewer rates by 2% on all rate levels to keep up with inflation, continue with improvements, replacing water and sewer lines, and replacing water meters. The minimum sewer charge will increase from $59.09 to $60.28 per quarter. The minimum water charge will increase from $38.01 to $38.77. The rate increase will begin on September 1, 2017, which is billable in December 2017. All the water and sewer rates shall automatically increase 2% per year on June 1 unless changed by resolution of council. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 493. On roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to introduce the third and final reading of Ordinance 494 – Amending the code of ordinances of the city of Fayette, Iowa, by repealing and amending section 106.09 of landfill fee under chapter 106. The ordinance increases the landfill fee by $0.25 per quarter. The increase is due to Fayette County increasing the landfill cost by $1.00 per person, per year starting in July 2017. The rate increase will begin on July 1, 2017, which is billable in September 2017. Moved Tucker, seconded Kragnes, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 494. On roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and review Ordinance 484 – Rental Housing Code. After discussion, Kragnes suggested inviting the community and landlords to a special meeting to discuss the new updates to the draft code that City Attorney Pat Dillon suggested. The council agreed to hold a meeting on July 17th at 6:30PM, an hour before the city council meeting.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:53pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
June 5, 2017
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, June 5, 2017 at 7:30pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, Larson, Nefzger and Tucker. Absent – Wulfekuhle.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 5/15/17 and the claims list of 5/16/17 – 6/5/17. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.
Mayor Wenthe informed the council that Upper Iowa University hired Superlandscapes to repair the wooden bridge on the rec trail between Fayette and the Volga River Recreation Area. They had finished repairing it before Memorial Day weekend. UIU will take care of the bill. Zach Mannheimer will be back in Fayette on June 15 to meet with more people and local groups as he continues the Creative Assessment for Fayette. The Fayette Fire Department will be touring UIU with some of the UIU facility staff this week so the department can be more prepared for any fire-related emergencies.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council that Lance Butikofer, NFV student, met with Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand and they installed the Little Library at the Open Air Market on June 2. Data Technologies installed the new accounting & payroll software and did on-site training with McGrane and Deputy Clerk Sellers on May 16, 17 and 18. Ray’s Excavating started the 2017 Water System Improvements project on Madison & Jones Streets on May 17. The look-out tower that UIU paid for is completed along the rec trail.
Police Chief Pisanti informed the council the department will be attending a training at UIU this week on critical incidents. Mayor Wenthe praised Chief Pisanti for handling a recent emergency at UIU with a student. Wenthe advised he heard many positive comments about the way the incident was handled and the positive outcome.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to discuss American Tower Corp. conditional offers on the land lease for the cell tower. The city attorney recommended the city not negotiate at this time since there are still quite a few years left on the lease. After a brief discussion, the council agreed to not accept an offer at this time.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson to discuss the Fayette Rec Board minutes from May 25, 2017. Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson to approve the minutes. All ayes, carried.
No motion to discuss bringing fiber-optic services into Fayette for businesses with Alex Soderquist, Hawkeye Telephone Company, as he was not present.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to consider purchasing three replacement police radios. Chief Pisanti told the council during a recent emergency call, one of the police handheld portable radios malfunctioned. He has used the radio that failed for about a year and half. The new handheld radios cost $310 each from Fayette Electronics. The department currently has 3 handheld radios that they rely on, so the new radios would replace these. Moved Tucker, seconded Kragnes, to purchase 3 police handheld radios for a total of $930. All ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to consider purchasing a snow blower and rotary broom for the John Deere, as budgeted for FY2017. John Deere in Oelwein quoted a total of $4,675 and John Deere in Sumner quoted a total of $4,187.29 for both items. Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to purchase the snow blower and rotary broom from John Deere in Sumner for a total cost of $4187.29. All ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to consider contract change order number 1 from Ray’s Excavating LLC for work completed on the 2017 Water System Improvements project on Madison and Jones Streets. The order included an increase in cost of $34.00 for increasing the culvert. Moved Larson, seconded Kragnes, to approve change order number 1. All ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to introduce the second reading of Ordinance 493 – Amending the code of ordinances of the city of Fayette, Iowa, by repealing and amending sections 92.02 of water rates and 99.02 of sewer service charges under chapters 92 and 99. The ordinance increases water and sewer rates by 2% on all rate levels to keep up with inflation, continue with improvements, replacing water and sewer lines, and replacing water meters. The minimum sewer charge will increase from $59.09 to $60.28 per quarter. The minimum water charge will increase from $38.01 to $38.77. The rate increase will begin on September 1, 2017, which is billable in December 2017. All the water and sewer rates shall automatically increase 2% per year on June 1 unless changed by resolution of council. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve the second reading of Ordinance 493. On roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Kragnes, to introduce the second reading of Ordinance 494 – Amending the code of ordinances of the city of Fayette, Iowa, by repealing and amending section 106.09 of landfill fee under chapter 106. The ordinance increases the landfill fee by $0.25 per quarter. The increase is due to Fayette County increasing the landfill cost by $1.00 per person, per year starting in July 2017. The rate increase will begin on July 1, 2017, which is billable in September 2017. After discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve the second reading of Ordinance 494. On roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to introduce the first reading of Ordinance 495 – Amending the code of ordinances of the city of Fayette, Iowa, by adding regulations for a grass, weeds, vines and brush code as chapter 52. After receiving many complaints about multiple over-grown lawns throughout town, Chief Pisanti and Administrator McGrane felt a specific chapter to help enforce the issue was needed. The city attorney reviewed and supported the new chapter. The ordinance requires owners to cut their grass, weeds, vines and brush when it exceeds approximately eight inches in height or which are obnoxious or unsightly. For the first violation in each calendar year, the property owner shall be notified and will have five days to correct the condition. If the property owner fails to maintain the property after notice, the work will be done by city employees or by a contractor and billed to the property owner. For subsequent violations on the same property in the same calendar year, a written notice will not be sent to the owner. The work will be done by city employees or by a contractor and again billed to the property owner. Failure to pay shall result in the cost being assessed against the property for collection in the same manner as a property tax. After discussion, moved Nefzger, seconded Larson, to waive the second and third readings of Ordinance 495. All ayes, carried. Moved Tucker, seconded Larson, to approve the first and final reading and adopt Ordinance 495. On roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to introduce the first reading of Ordinance 496 – Amending the code of ordinances of the city of Fayette, Iowa, by repealing and amending section 50.02 (10) of nuisance abatement procedure under Chapter 50. The ordinance modifies weeds, brush to read: Dense growth of all weeds, vines, brush, grass, other botanical growth or other similar vegetation in the City which constitutes a health, safety or fire hazard or which are obnoxious or unsightly. It also refers to Chapter 52, the new grass, weeds, vines and brush code. After discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Larson to waive the second and third readings of Ordinance 496. All ayes, carried. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve the first and final reading and adopt Ordinance 496. On roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to introduce Resolution 2017-13. After a brief discussion, moved Tucker, seconded Kragnes, to approve and adopt Resolution 2017-13: A resolution considering grass and weeds longer than 8 inches in height and debris to be a nuisance and obnoxious to the public. It also establishes the following rate for city actions taken to abate nuisances: $250 for mowing, per lot, plus $50 per hour for each hour over the first hour spent on mowing and cleaning of the property, and cleaning of debris shall be assessed at a rate of $100 per hour. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to discuss the City of Fayette’s position with fireworks. After discussion, the council decided to stay with our current policy at this time.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to consider a written RFP to engage a CPA firm to perform the City’s required annual examination for the year ending June 30, 2017. After discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to write and release an RFP to engage a CPA firm to perform the City’s required annual examination. All ayes, carried.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:29pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
May 15, 2017
The City Council of the city of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, May 15, 2017 at 8:03pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, Larson, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent – Nefzger.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 5/1/17, claims list of 5/2/17 – 5/15/17, the April 2017 Treasurer’s/Clerk’s Report & Budget Report, and the renewal of a liquor license for Aramark/Upper Iowa University. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Treasurer's Balance for Fund Accounts as of April 30, 2017: General $289,589.36; Streets $214,109.84; Debt Service $4,532.14; Water Utility $357,692.04; Water T&A $25,790.64; Sewer Utility $310,754.36; Landfill/Recycling $870.53; Yard Waste $16,985.63; Bolger Fund $186,686.71; TIF $56,834.92; Local Option Tax $79,602.15; Storm Water $10,717.87; Downtown Project ($29,715.04); Franchise Fees $45,494.56. April Receipts by Fund: General $110,995.25; Streets $9,643.69; Debt Service $2,730.36; Water Utility $42,933.22; Water T&A $625; Sewer Utility $66,830.16; LF/Recycling $14,111.61; Yard Waste $2,719; Bolger $1,120; TIF $14,028.10; Local Option $6,915.65; Storm Water $1,500.21; Franchise Fees $1,649.69. Total Receipts $275,801.94. April Disbursements by Fund: General $30,541.28; Streets $8,583.83; Water Utility $6,928.43; Water T&A $225; Sewer Utility $16,111.65; LF/Recycling $14,957.71; Yard Waste $226.57; Downtown Project $729.05. Total Disbursements: $78,303.52. Investments: $1,285,593.66. Bank Balance $2,855,058.71. Balance with Library Funds $2,946,462.68.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes to approve, carried.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane reported to the council that he has continued to work with Data Technologies preparing for the installation of the new accounting & payroll software. The installation & training will take place on May 16, 17 & 18 at Fayette City Hall. Kluesner Construction filled cracks in the streets around town on May 8th. Ray’s Excavating is scheduled to start the 2017 Water System Improvement project on Madison & Jones Streets on May 17th. Fayette’s spring clean-up day is scheduled for May 24. People can visit www.fayetteiowa.com or call City Hall for more information or to notify the clerk of items they would like picked up. Fayette City Hall will be closed on Monday, May 29 for Memorial Day.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2017-11. After a brief discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to approve Resolution 2017-11: A resolution of appointment and compensation schedule to Patrick B. Dillon of Dillon Law, PC, for City Attorney of Fayette, Iowa. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the American Tower Corporation conditional offers on tower. After discussion, the council would like to present the offers to our city attorney to review and try to find out what other communities in a similar situation are doing.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss repairing the wooden bridge on the recreational trail. The city did not receive any other bids for the project. Mayor Wenthe informed the council that currently Upper Iowa University owns this portion of the trail because it is outside the city limits. When the trail is completed, the Fayette County Conservation will take over the ownership. The trail is not considered completed until the last portion between Jade Road and the Volga Recreation Area is paved. UIU and the city of Fayette worked on the trail project together. UIU was recipient of the funds and the grant. UIU helped with a portion of the matching funds and the city of Fayette received a REAP grant to use for some of the matching funds. UIU received another grant to put up a look-out tower along the trail and covered the matching funds. It is not the cities obligation to repair the bridge, but it could be something the city of Fayette chooses to help with. After further discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to table.
Moved Tucker, seconded Kragnes, to discuss the Fayette Community Library Board minutes from April 12, 2017. The council asked where the library advertised for the open Library Director position. McGrane advised the position was posted at the library, city hall, the bank and the post office and could not remember if the library advertised anywhere else, but he could find out. The council would like to find out all the places where it was advertised and if it was not published in any of the local newspapers, to ask the Library Board to consider advertising it in a local newspaper or two and maybe some websites. Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve. All ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Laura Albert’s with Helping Services request in adopting Resolution 2017-12. Laura was unable to make the meeting, but had provided information to the council and spoke to Amy Tucker earlier about the Resolution. The resolution is to encourage people to not use tobacco products at city parks and on trails. Violators would be asked to refrain from using tobacco or leave the grounds when using tobacco and there would be no fine. Helping Services would provide the city signs to place in parks and along the trails. After discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to approve Resolution 2017-12: A resolution establishing a tobacco-free parks and trails policy for the city of Fayette, Iowa, amending the proposed resolution to state “Any person found violating this policy will be asked to refrain from tobacco use or leave the grounds to use tobacco” and to exclude Klock’s Island campground area from the resolution. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss bringing fiber-optic services into Fayette for businesses. McGrane informed the council Mr. Soderquist was unable to make tonight’s meeting and will reschedule. Moved Kragnes to table.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to discuss the release of mortgage to James & Linda Tenney, Document #2012 1671, in the Fayette County, Iowa, Recorder’s Office. Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to release the mortgage. All ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to release the mortgage to Shirley Smith, Document #2012 1670, in the Fayette County, Iowa, Recorder’s Office. All ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to introduce the first reading of Ordinance 493 – Amending the code of ordinances of the city of Fayette, Iowa, by repealing and amending sections 92.02 of water rates and 99.02 of sewer service charges under chapters 92 and 99. The ordinance increases water and sewer rates by 2% on all rate levels to keep up with inflation, continue with improvements, replacing water and sewer lines, and replacing water meters. The minimum sewer charge will increase from $59.09 to $60.28 per quarter. The minimum water charge will increase from $38.01 to $38.77. The rate increase will begin on September 1, 2017, which is billable in December 2017. All the water and sewer rates shall automatically increase 2% per year on June 1 unless changed by resolution of council. After discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to approve the first reading of Ordinance 493. On roll call, Kragnes and Tucker ayes, Larson nay, Wulfekuhle abstained, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to introduce the first reading of Ordinance 494 – Amending the code of ordinances of the city of Fayette, Iowa, by repealing and amending section 106.09 of landfill fee under chapter 106. The ordinance increases the landfill fee by $0.25 per quarter. The increase is due to Fayette County increasing the landfill cost by $1.00 per person, per year starting in July 2017. The rate increase will begin on July 1, 2017, which is billable in September 2017. After discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to approve the first reading of Ordinance 494. On roll call, all ayes, carried.
There being no further business, moved Kragnes, unanimous, to adjourn at 9:17pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
May 1, 2017
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, May 1, 2017 at 7:30pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, Larson, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 4/17/17 and the claims list of 4/18/17 – 5/1/17. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. Wulfekuhle asked to move item 6A, City Attorney Proposals under old business, so it is the last thing on the agenda. Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson to approve the amended agenda. All ayes to approve, carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request and the Fayette Ambulance Services recommendation, moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to appoint Autumn Weaver and Mason Bantz to the Fayette Ambulance Service. Weaver and Bantz are planning on going through EMT school. Both passed background checks. All ayes, carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that one of the Fayette ambulances hit a deer this past weekend on the way to a call. No one was injured and the insurance company has been contacted. The crew will primarily be using the second ambulance for calls. The city of Fayette received a check from Black Hills Energy in the amount of $2,000 to show their support and help fund the cities portion of hiring Zachary Mannheimer for the Community Placemaking Economic Assessment. McGrane received a $330 scholarship to help pay for some of the classes that he will be taking at the Iowa Municipal Professionals Institute & Academy in Ames this July as he works towards the City Clerk and City Finance certifications.
Police Chief Pisanti advised the council the department assisted with the North Fayette Valley (NFV) prom this past weekend that was held at UIU. The department is preparing for UIU graduation this weekend and are working with some of the students as the students organize an off-campus party to help keep them under control.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to introduce NFV student Lance Butikofer and his math teacher, Brooke Lodge, as they inquire about constructing and placing a Little Library in a Fayette Park. Butikofer advised the council that NFV students and himself are building Little Library’s in shop class and would like to place them throughout the school district. A Little Library is a place where people may exchange books for free. Anyone may take a book or bring a book to share in the Little Library. Butikofer would like to place a Little Library at Cardinal Park in Fayette. After further discussion, the council recommended he place the Little Library at the Open Air Market because it may get utilized more. The goal is to have the Little Library finished and in place before the end of the current school year. The NFV school has one community service day a year, so they will not be able to manage or monitor the Little Library on a regular basis, that will be up to the community. Moved Larson, seconded Kragnes, to let Lance Butikofer construct and place a Little Library at the Open Air Market. All ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to discuss approving a Freedom Rock be placed in the City of Fayette. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve placing a Freedom Rock in the City of Fayette. All ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to discuss American Tower Corporation’s three different conditional offers on the land they lease from the City of Fayette. After a brief discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to table until the next meeting when more information can be provided and the council can review the current lease.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to discuss repairing the wooden bridge on the recreation trail. Mayer Wenthe advised the bridge was washed out on the east end and is getting worse. Wenthe called West Union Trenching and they referred it to Superlandscapes. Superlandscapes provided a bid. After a brief discussion, the council would like to see more than one bid for the project. Wenthe would like the bridge repaired by June 30, 2017 because the DOT will be coming out to look at the entire trail this summer. The council requested McGrane to seek additional bids, including placing a post on Facebook, and present them at the next council meeting.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to discuss Resolution 2017-10. After a brief discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve Resolution 2017-10: A resolution of support for Fayette County to affiliate with the Northeast Iowa Regional Housing Trust Fund Program as a participating county. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to introduce the third and final reading of Ordinance 492 – Amending Fayette City Code Chapters 62.12 General Traffic Regulations, Penalties, and 63.12 Speed Regulations, Penalties, by increasing the penalties and fines. The ordinance increases the $75 and $50 fees in Chapter 62.12 to $100. These fines would include stop sign violations, expired insurance, not wearing a seat belt and other violations in Chapter 62. In Chapter 63, Speeding Regulations, the fees would increase from $75 to $100 for 1-10 miles per hour (mph) over the posted speed limit; $85 to $110 for 11-15 mph over the posted speed limit; and $95 to $125 for 16-20 mph over the posted speed limit. Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to adopt and approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 492. On roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to discuss the city attorney proposals. The city received proposals from Hofmeyer and Hanson, PC of Fayette, Dillon Law, PC of Sumner, Brick Gentry, PC of West Des Moines, and Meyer Law Firm of Mason City. Larson advised he felt Dillon Law was one of the least expensive, close to Fayette and experienced as he represents other area cities. Tucker advised she was impressed with the proposal Dillon provided and how it outlined what he has done for communities that are similar to Fayette. Kragnes advised that it looked like Dillon had a good plan in place if there are any conflicts, is experienced to handle ordinance violations, and that his fees were reasonable. After further discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to move forward in hiring Dillon Law, PC as the new city attorney. Four voted aye, Nefzger nay, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:11pm.
