REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

March 21, 2016

 

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, March 21, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Just prior to this meeting, Nancy Wulfekuhle took the oath of office from Mayor Wenthe as a newly elected city council member, to fill the vacancy of Rich Patrick who resigned Jan. 12, 2016.  A special city election was held March 15, 2016 to fill this council vacancy and the results for the three candidates who filed nomination papers were: Nancy Wulfekuhle 52 votes, Curtis Larson 45 votes and Randy Sandhagen 42 votes.   

     Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, McGrane, Nefzger, Sorensen, Wulfekuhle.

     Moved Sorensen, seconded Nefzger, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 03/07/16, Claims List of 03/08–21/2016 and the February 2016 Treasurer’s/Clerk’s Report and Budgetary Report.  Roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Treasurer's Balance for Fund Accounts as of February 29, 2016:  General $290,130.30; Streets $407,874.88; Debt Service $6,821.81; Water Utility $256,786.80; Water T&A $23,360.67; Sewer Utility $414,068.04; CDBG Sewer ($316,614.92); Landfill/Recycling ($397.27); Yard Waste $13,786.54; Bolger Fund $148,210.69; TIF $39,942.32; Local Option Sales Tax $66,997.59; Storm Water $2,492.97; Downtown Project ($24,926.26); Franchise Fees $27,602.59.  February Receipts by Fund: General $17,142.17; Streets $13,946.61; Debt Service $89.58; Water Utility $4,203.18; Sewer Utility $6,298.06; Lf/Recycling $1,062.97; Yard Waste $222.28; Bolger $393; TIF $15.82; Local Option $8,566.56; Storm Water $156; Franchise Fees $3,322.32.  Total Receipts $55,418.55.  February Disbursements by Fund: General $26,701.76; Streets $7,371.16; Water Utility $6,486; Water T&A $535; Sewer Utility $17,482.70; CDBG Sewer $76,460.30; Bolger $133.21; Downtown Project $1,000. Total Disbursements: $136,170.13. Investments: $1,281,411.98.  Bank Balance $2,641,548.73.  Balance with Library Funds $2,736,828.82.

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

     Mayor Wenthe welcomed Nancy Wulfekuhle to the city council.

     Administrator/Clerk Dennis reported that she and a UIU IT employee got her new Dell computer set up the week of March 7th with Office 365 and Windows 10.

     Police Chief Pisanti made a verbal report to the mayor and council. 

     Moved Sorensen, seconded McGrane, to introduce for discussion the item concerning the Show & Shine with Lloyd Carnicle present.  Lloyd said this will be the fourth year for the car show on Fayette’s Main Street.  Lloyd requested permission to have the event May – September 2016, again on the third Thursday of each month from 7 pm to 9 pm.  Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle to approve, all ayes, carried.  The council thanked Lloyd for taking care of the event each year. 

     Moved Sorensen, seconded McGrane, to approve Fayette’s FY 2015 Annual Review performed by Roger Shaffer, CPA, Sumner, Iowa.  There were only a few minor recommendations and Admin/Clerk Dennis explained in her Clerk’s Report the reasoning or actions needed for each.  All ayes to approve, carried.

      Moved Nefzger, seconded Kragnes, to go into closed session at 7:55 p.m. per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(c.), possible real estate litigation with Attorney John Hofmeyer present.  All ayes to go into closed session, carried.

     The council came out of closed session at 8:24 p.m.  

     There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:24 pm.

Regular Council Meeting

March 7, 2016

    

   The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, March 7, 2016, at 7:30 pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

   Roll call: Present - Council members McGrane, Nefzger and Sorensen. Absent: Kragnes.

   Moved Sorensen, seconded Nefzger, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 02/16/16 letter of appreciation from citizens for the work of our Public Works employees, Claims List of 02/17/16 – 03/07/16 with the addition of Shieldware software in the amount of $9,000 for the Police Dept. (that will link our PD with other agencies) and utility billing software for city hall in the amount of $4,335 which is $900 more than first quote to add a NACHA file for customer auto-withdrawal from bank accounts (both had been previously approved by the Finance Committee during their budget meetings), renewal of liquor license for Cabo Blue, Native Wine Permit for Touch of Elegance and Beer License for Boarders Inn. On roll call, all ayes, carried.

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

   This being the time and place published for a public hearing on the FY 2017 Estimated Budget, Mayor Wenthe opened the hearing and asked for any comments. Admin/Clerk Dennis said the Fayette Leader cut off most of the category descriptions on the left side of the public hearing notice but fortunately our notice lined up perfectly with Maynard’s notice so people could know what the numbers related to. Dennis said she called Ted Nellesen, IDOM, and told him about the notice. Nellesen said the notice was acceptable, but to republish the full notice and mail both proofs of publication with the budget to the Fayette County Auditor. The second publication had the whole notice. The tax asking for FY 17 will be $14.43 per $1,000 of taxable valuation. There being no further comment, the mayor closed the hearing. Moved McGrane, seconded Nefzger, to approve Resolution #2016-04: Fayette’s FY 2017 Budget. On roll call, all ayes.  

Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request, moved Nefzger, seconded McGrane, to appoint Megan Kohr as Fayette’s representative to the UERPC Housing Authority Board for three years. Her term will expire 01/01/2019. All ayes, carried. ~ Mayor Wenthe also noted that Sam Whitehead is the new Fayette County Economic Development Director, replacing the vacancy from Karla Organist. Sam also works for UERPC, like Karla did, and will be in the West Union Ec. Development office part-time.

Administrator/Clerk Dennis reported the GIS mapping has been completed, except for a few corrections after Jerry reviews everything. The full cost of $12,500 has been paid and James Krivachek, Midwest Geographical Services, was very good to work with.

Police Chief Pisanti said the ads for a police officer were sent out to 12 different places with a deadline of March 28th. He added that he had received four applications already. ~ Pisanti also mentioned that Reserve Officer Chuck Rodas had knee surgery and that went well. He added that he would be starting a list of repeat parking offenders and tow vehicles when several tickets haven’t been paid. 

Moved Nefzger, seconded McGrane, to introduce the third and final reading of Ordinance 490 – Lowering the speed limit on Big Rock Road from 35 mph to 25 mph, since it’s a shared road with pedestrians, bicycles and vehicles. Moved McGrane, seconded Sorensen to approve the final reading. On roll call, all ayes, carried.

Moved McGrane, seconded Sorensen, to introduce for discussion the audit proposals from Ridihalgh, Fuelling, Snitker, Weber & Co., $9,000, Oelwein; and Hacker, Nelson & Co., $8,900, Decorah. McGrane recommended Ridihalgh’s firm since they are closer and because they have done Fayette’s audits and annual reviews for the past several years so they would have our background and the audit should go quicker. Moved McGrane, seconded Nefzger, to approve the bid from Ridihalgh and company to perform Fayette’s full audit for FY 2016 in August 2016 for the amount of $9,000. All ayes, carried.    

Moved Nefzger, seconded McGrane, to introduce the matter to change the name of Lima Road, in the city limits, to Jade Road, which is the name in the county for the same road. Dennis explained that Jerry Kleppe, resident living on Jade Road in the county, made this request to the city after talking to the county supervisors and they told him that would be up to the city. Kleppe said it would be less confusing giving people directions to his house if the name was the same all the way. Dennis said there are several roads that have one name in town then turn into a different name out of the city limits, as in all towns. Dennis said there isn’t anyone living on that section of Lima Road so there wouldn’t be any address changes needed. Public Works Director Hildebrand would have to order two new signs and Dennis said she would need to make a couple of map changes and let the county know if the name is changed. Moved Sorensen, seconded Nefzger, to change the name of Lima Road in the city limits to Jade Road. All ayes, carried.

Moved McGrane, seconded Nefzger, to consider the bids for two warning sirens and their installation for the IHSEMD/FEMA grant. The four bids received were from these four companies: RCSystems Radio Communications Co., Waterloo, $33,600; Electronic Engineering Co., Waterloo, $39,045; Feld Fire, Carroll, $40,180; and Graybill Communications, Hiawatha, $50,639. The bid opening was held at 9:30 a.m. on March 3rd with Fire Chief Rohde, Public Works Director Hildebrand and Admin/Clerk Dennis present. Moved Sorensen, seconded Nefzger, to approve the low bid from RCSystems Radio Communications Company for $33,600. All ayes, carried.    

     Moved Nefzger, seconded Sorensen, to go into closed session at 7:57 p.m. per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(c.), possible real estate litigation with Attorney John Hofmeyer present. All ayes to go into closed session, carried.

     The council came out of closed session at 8:43 p.m.

     There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:43 pm.

 

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

February 16, 2016

    

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Tuesday, February 16, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, McGrane, Nefzger, Sorensen.

     Moved Nefzger, seconded Kragnes, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 02/01/16, Claims List of 02/02–16/2016, January 2016 Treasurer’s/Clerk’s Report and Budgetary Report.  Roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Treasurer's Balance for Fund Accounts as of January 31, 2016:  General $299,689.89; Streets $401,299.43; Debt Service $6,732.23; Water Utility $259,069.62; Water T&A $23,895.67; Sewer Utility $425,252.68; CDBG Sewer ($236,154.62); Landfill/Recycling ($1,460.24); Yard Waste $13,564.26; Bolger Fund $147,950.90; TIF $39,926.50; Local Option Sales Tax $58,431.03; Storm Water $2,336.97; Downtown Project ($23,926.26); Franchise Fees $24,280.27.  January Receipts by Fund: General $8,504.06; Streets $12,163.96; Debt Service $127.99; Water Utility $63,391.99; Water T&A $450; Sewer Utility $84,421.43; Lf/Recycling $14,054.56; Yard Waste $2,799.83; Bolger $453; TIF $76.15; Local Option $8,566.54; Storm Water $1,245.64; Franchise Fees $740.45.  Total Receipts $196,995.60.  January Disbursements by Fund: General $28,250.45; Streets $25,973.04; Water Utility $8,013.32; Water T&A $350; Sewer Utility $32,250.66; CDBG Sewer $40,218; Landfill/Recycling $14,957.71; Bolger $127.35; TIF $32. Total Disbursements: $150,172.53. Investments: $1,281,360.12.  Bank Balance $2,722,248.45.  Balance with Library Funds $2,817,610.01.

     Moved Sorensen, seconded McGrane, to approve the agenda as presented.  All ayes, carried.

     Administrator/Clerk Dennis included her FY 2017 Estimated Budget Report in the agenda packet.  Mayor Wenthe and Finance Chair Kris McGrane thanked Dennis for her detailed budget report.  Mayor Wenthe noted from the report that the FY 2017 tax levy was going up five cents, so the taxes on a house valued at $100,000 will be going up only $1.37 from FY 2016.  The highlights from the report are:  100% city valuation increased $2,503,346 which gives us $125,168 in general fund bonding capacity; 2% Cost of Living Allowance for city employees July 1, 2016; health insurance increasing 6.18% March 1, 2016; the rollback on residential property is decreasing 0.10% to 55.63%; township valuations increased so we will receive $1,646.50 more for the Ambulance and Fire Departments.  We are budgeting $357,000 for the Big Rock Road resurfacing project; $51,954 to resurface several blocks of streets; $300,000 for a sewer main lining/repair project; $42,866 to purchase 250 remote transmitters, software and equipment to start remote reading, then in FY18 finish purchasing transmitters and meter so the city can go to monthly billing once all the transmitters are installed; $3,164,795 for the Downtown & Water Street projects if CDBG program awards are received. FY 17 estimated resources $5,369,830 and estimated expenditures $5,325,469.  Tax levy $14.43.  Moved Nefzger, seconded Kragnes, to adopt the proposed FY17 Budget Estimate, set the time and date for the public hearing on the proposed budget for March 7, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. in Fayette City Hall and direct Admin/Clerk Dennis to publish the budget hearing notice.  All ayes, carried.

      Moved Nefzger, seconded Kragnes, to approve the second reading of Ordinance 490 – Lowering the speed limit on Big Rock Road from 35 mph to 25 mph, since it’s a shared road with pedestrians, bicycles and vehicles.  On roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Moved Kragnes, seconded McGrane, to introduce for discussion the bids and proposals for engineering for the FY17 Sewer Main Rehabilitation Project.  Bids were received from Fehr Graham $19,000 and The Burrington Group $20,200.  Dennis said Public Works Director Hildebrand recommended Fehr Graham because they have the low bid and due to the close proximity of their West Union office to Fayette.  Moved Nefzger, seconded Kragnes, to accept the bid from Fehr Graham.  All ayes, carried.

      Moved McGrane, seconded Nefzger, to go into closed session at 7:41 p.m. per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(c.), possible real estate litigation. All ayes to go into closed session, carried.

     The council came out of closed session at 8:10 p.m.  

     There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:10 pm.

Regular Council Meeting

                                                         February 1, 2016    

   The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, February 1, 2016, at 6:15 pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

   Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, McGrane, Nefzger and Sorensen.

   Moved Kragnes, seconded Sorensen, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 01/18/16 and the Claims List of 01/19/16 – 02/01/16. On roll call, all ayes, carried.

   Moved McGrane, seconded Kragnes, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.

   Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request, moved Kragnes, seconded McGrane, to appoint Linda Tenney and Amy Tucker to the Fayette Recreation Board. Their terms will expire 11/01/2017. All ayes, carried.   Also, moved McGrane, seconded Kragnes, to appoint Roger Post to the Fayette Board of Adjustment. His term will expire 5/15/2020. All ayes, carried.      

Administrator/Clerk Dennis reported that Jerry got the new Chevy Silverado pickup truck on January 25, 2016.  

Moved Sorensen, seconded Kragnes, to introduce Resolution 2016-03: Approving an Award of Contract for the 2016 Big Rock Road Project. Admin/Clerk Dennis handed out the bid tabulations from Jon Biederman, Fehr Graham Engineering, and Jon’s letter of recommendation to award the contract to Heartland Asphalt of Mason City, Iowa, in the amount of $303,085. Dennis noted there were two bids, with the other bid coming from River City Paving, Decorah, for $308,472.90. Heartland’s bid was 22.3 percent below the engineer’s estimate. Moved McGrane, seconded Kragnes, to approve the bid from Heartland Asphalt and award the contract to them for the Big Rock Road project. On roll call, all ayes, carried.

Moved Kragnes, seconded McGrane, to introduce for discussion the matter of filling the vacant council seat due to the resignation of Richard Patrick on January 12, 2016. All ayes to discuss. Dennis said she spoke with Lori Moellers, Fayette County Auditor, about the special election process. Dennis said if the election was held on March 15th, then citizens running for the election would need to file their papers (Affidavit of Candidacy and Nomination Petition signed by ten eligible voters living in the City of Fayette) to Lori at the Fayette County Court house on February 19, 2016 before 5:00 p.m. Moved Kragnes, seconded McGrane, to hold a special election on March 15, 2016 for the purpose of filling the council vacancy. All ayes, carried.

Moved McGrane, seconded Kragnes, to introduce the Finance Committee meeting minutes of January 27, 2016. McGrane said the minutes cover everything. Dennis said she would have her full FY17 budget report in the February 16th council agenda packet. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve the minutes, all ayes, carried.

Moved Kragnes, seconded Sorensen, to introduce the first reading of Ordinance 490 – Lowering the speed limit on Big Rock Road from 35 mph to 25 mph, since it’s a shared road with pedestrians, bicycles and vehicles. It was a consensus of the council to have all three readings of this ordinance separately to provide more communication about lowering the speed limit on this road. Moved Nefzger, seconded Kragnes, to approve the first reading of Ordinance 490. On roll call, all ayes, carried.

Moved Kragnes, seconded McGrane, to discuss a letter from IIW Engineers recommending acceptance of the Wastewater Treatment Facility 2013 Contract C Lagoon Sludge Removal Project, Contract Payment #2 for $76,316.35 and Change Order #1 (Reduction of $69,667). All ayes to discuss. Dennis said this is a considerable cost savings and will lower the bottom line of our SRF loan amount. Moved McGrane, seconded Kragnes, to approve the recommendation from IIW Engineers to accept the project, approve Pay Request #2 and Change Order #1. All ayes, carried.

There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:37 pm.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

                                                     January 18, 2016    

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, January 18, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, McGrane, Nefzger (7:33 pm), Sorensen.

     Moved McGrane, seconded Kragnes, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 01/04/16, Claims List of 01/05–18/2016, December 2015 Treasurer’s/Clerk’s Report and Budgetary Report.  Roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Treasurer's Balance for Fund Accounts as of December 31, 2015:  General $319,436.28; Streets $415,108.51; Debt Service $6,604.24; Water Utility $203,690.95; Water T&A $23,795.67; Sewer Utility $373,081.91; CDBG Sewer ($195,936.62); Landfill/Recycling ($557.09); Yard Waste $10,764.43; Bolger Fund $147,625.25; TIF $39,882.35; Local Option Sales Tax $49,864.49; Storm Water $1,091.33; Downtown Project ($23,926.26); Franchise Fees $23,539.82.  December Receipts by Fund: General $48,260.47; Streets $14,562.30; Debt Service $4,978.92; Water Utility $1,411.24; Water T&A $225; Sewer Utility $2,426.38; Lf/Recycling $376.92; Yard Waste $77.72; Bolger $552; TIF $269.87; Local Option $8,179.69; Storm Water $52.28.  Total Receipts $81,372.79.  December Disbursements by Fund: General $46,923.68; Streets $11,224.02; Water Utility $21,355.63; Water T&A $797.52; Sewer Utility $14,238.98; Yard Waste $324; Bolger $169.50; TIF $22; Downtown Project $3,615.15. Total Disbursements: $98,670.48. Investments: $1,281,304.70.  Bank Balance $2,675,369.96.  Balance with Library Funds $2,769,542.17.

     Moved Kragnes, seconded Sorensen, to approve the agenda as presented.  All ayes, carried.

     This being the time and place set for a public hearing on the proposed plans, specifications and estimated cost of the 2016 Big Rock Road Improvement Project, Mayor Wenthe opened the hearing for comment. (Nefzger arrived) Admin/Clerk Dennis said Public Works Director, Jerry Hildebrand, and she got together with Jon Biederman, Fehr-Graham Engineer, this morning and reviewed the plans.  The engineer’s estimated project cost is $351,576 for the city and $35,225 for the county share, making a total cost of $386,801.  She added that the bid opening will be February 1st at 11:00 am in the Fayette City Hall and work is to be completed by August 19, 2016.  There being no further comment, Mayor Wenthe closed the hearing.

     Moved Kragnes, seconded McGrane, to approve Resolution 2016-02: Adopting the proposed plans, specifications, form of contract and estimated cost of the 2016 Big Rock Road Improvement Project prepared by Fehr-Graham Engineers.  On roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Mayor Wenthe reported that the annual Fire Advisory Board meeting that he attended on January 14, 2016 at the Fayette Fire Station was well attended by the Township Trustees.  There weren’t many questions since the Fire Dept. budget is remaining the same as the FY16 budget. 

     Administrator/Clerk Dennis reported that Floyd Alber donated $400 to be used for Main Street flowers.

     Moved McGrane, seconded Kragnes, to introduce for discussion placing signs along Big Rock Road for pedestrians and bicyclers.  All ayes.  McGrane showed a picture of a sign he found on the internet that said “Share the Road” and had a picture of a walker, bicycle and vehicle on it.  There was discussion about painting a sign on the road of a bicycle with arrows pointing out, but it wasn’t recommended because of the expense and time to repaint it every year.  Hildebrand said the cost of regular signs from Iowa Prison Industries is $85 for two signs plus the cost of the posts and hardware.  Hildebrand said he would look into the cost of a custom made sign like the picture that McGrane had.  Moved McGrane, seconded Kragnes, to go ahead with the purchase of four signs that say “Share the Road” with the three symbols on them pending the cost, to place on Big  Rock  Road  after the improvement project is completed.  The signs should be placed near the trail bridge, mid-way on the road and near Lima Road as people enter on to Big Rock Road.  All ayes, carried.         

     Moved McGrane, seconded Sorensen, to discuss changing the speed limit on Big Rock Road from 35 mph to 25 mph.  All ayes.  After some discussion, moved Sorensen, seconded Kragnes, that Admin/Clerk Dennis prepare an ordinance amendment to lower the speed limit on Big Rock Road from 35 mph to 25 mph.  All ayes, carried.

     Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve the Personnel Committee meeting minutes of January 12, 2016, where it was recommended by the committee to continue to pay the cash health benefit for the four city employees (Adam Hildebrand, Rick Briggs, Linda Adams & Christie Dennis) who have been receiving this benefit.  Kragnes said since Christie is retiring the end of October 2016 and Linda is retiring in a few years, we’re only talking about two employees continuing to receive this benefit so it doesn’t seem worth stopping it because of all the arguments it’s causing.  Nefzger said she would like to see the cash benefit grandfathered in because it has been a part of the employee’s income that they have become dependent on.  She added that she doesn’t want to lose our present employees who are dedicated and it would cost a lot more to hire replacements because of all the certifications our employees have.  Mayor Wenthe said he doesn’t feel comfortable taking it away because the employees have earned it and we’re not in a financial crisis at this time.  The cash benefit doesn’t apply to new employees who were hired  after  April  2015  when  benefits  were  changed  in  the  Personnel  Policy.   The Personnel Committee also recommended a 2% Cost of Living Allowance for all employees for FY2017.  At the Personnel Committee meeting Nefzger & Kragnes voted aye for both recommendations, where the other committee member, Rich Patrick, abstained on both votes.  Clerk’s Note:  According to the “Rules of procedure governing the conduct of business of the Fayette City Council, Rule 12. Voting.  An abstention shall be deemed as a “yes” vote except where the member has a conflict of interest, which conflict shall be stated at the time of abstention”.  On the motion to approve the Personnel Committee meeting minutes, three voted aye, Sorensen voted nay, the minutes were approved.

    Moved Kragnes, seconded McGrane, to introduce for discussion a replacement on the city council for Richard Patrick who resigned on January 12, 2016 following the Personnel Committee meeting.  All ayes.   It was a consensus of the council that they would like feedback from the community for filling the position before potentially making an appointment.  Moved Sorensen, seconded Kragnes, that Admin/Clerk Dennis post and publish a notice stating that anyone interested in filling the council position for the remainder of the term contact Dennis or Mayor Wenthe before noon on February 1, 2016.  The council will make a decision at the council meeting February 1st.  All ayes, carried.

     Moved Kragnes, seconded McGrane, to change the time of the February 1, 2016 council meeting to 6:15 p.m. due to the Iowa Presidential Caucuses.  All ayes, carried.

     There being no further business, moved Nefzger, to adjourn at 8:02 pm.

Regular Council Meeting

January 4, 2016

    

   The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met in the Fayette Community Library ICN Room at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, January 4, 2016, council member Kris McGrane presiding.

   Roll call: Present - Council members McGrane, Patrick, Sorensen. Absent Nefzger, Kragnes.

   Moved Patrick, seconded Sorensen, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 12/14/15, notices from Mediacom and Claims List of 12/15/15 – 01/04/16. On roll call, all ayes, carried.

   Moved Sorensen, seconded Patrick, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes to approve the agenda, carried.

The following council committee appointments were listed under the mayor’s report: Finance – Patrick (Chair), McGrane, Nefzger; Personnel – Nefzger (Chair), Patrick, Kragnes; Safety – Sorensen (Chair), Patrick, Kragnes; Streets & Sidewalks – McGrane (Chair), Sorensen, Kragnes; Police – Mayor Wenthe (Chair), McGrane, Nefzger. Mayor Pro-Tem – Nefzger.

Administrator/Clerk Dennis reported that the public works employees hauled 50 truck-loads of leaves and traveled 500 round-trip miles to the farm to dump the leaves. They also traveled 321 miles in town using the vacuum truck.

Moved Sorensen, seconded Patrick, to discuss the petition from Dave & Sue Runyon requesting construction of a four foot pedestrian trail adjacent to Big Rock Road in the ditch from the trail bridge to Lima Road – approximate cost $175,000 to $200,000. Dave Runyon read the petition and then handed out copies to the council, with the original going to Admin/Clerk Dennis. The petition was signed by 56 Fayette citizens, three children, and 12 people from out of town who use Fayette’s recreation trails. The petition stated all of the progressive projects that the City of Fayette has done over the past 15 years to move the community forward and the continuing projects to invest in our future. The petition also stated, “All these, and more, have enhanced the City’s “live-ability” ensuring that future generations will enjoy the community’s natural and cultural assets”. Runyon noted that they have seen a big increase in pedestrian, bicycle and vehicle traffic on Big Rock Road since the golf course was expanded to 18 holes (15 years ago) and since the trail was completed with the bridge over the Volga River (over seven years ago). Runyon said the road is a multi-use corridor that isn’t safe for walkers and bikers. The petition stated: “We the undersigned request immediate attention by the Fayette City Council to revise the Big Rock Road rebuilding to include a pedestrian and bike lane”. Runyon added that signage should be installed, at the very least, referring to a legal case from Clayton County where signage was missing. Patrick said in theory he is not opposed to a trail along Big Rock Road, but he said he didn’t want to use the Bolger fund before we’re finished paying off a previous loan to the fund and would like to look into grants and fund raising for construction of a trail. McGrane noted the financial options that Admin/Clerk Dennis had provided to the council and said he would like into where the trail could be taken to and not rush into anything with research it first. Sorensen agreed that we need to look into other options and not rush. Jon Biederman, Fehr-Graham Engineer, was present and said that a four foot width isn’t a trail, it’s just widening the road and that’s all the room there is on the north side of the road. He added that it would actually be a one-way trail because pedestrians should travel against the traffic. Admin/Clerk Dennis said Biederman looked into putting a trail on the south side of Big Rock Road when the trail committee was deciding where to run the trail that was built in 2008 and it was going to be cost prohibitive because of the stream being so close and the dampness of the area, so that’s why it was decided to go across UIU property and construct a bridge over the Volga River. In the grant applications that Dennis wrote to the DNR and DOT, it was shown that the bridge came out on Big Rock Road and that pedestrians and bikers could go east or west on Big Rock Road if they didn’t want to turn around. Biederman said a standard trail is ten feet wide and an exception can be requested to narrow it to eight feet, which we did on the trail from Klock’s Island Park. It was a consensus of the council to have Biederman and Public Works Director Hildebrand look into various signage that could be installed along Big Rock Road to make people more aware that they should “Share the Road”, and that the road is a “Shared Corridor” and perhaps put up some bicycle and pedestrian signs. Also, to review the speed limit ordinance and perhaps lower the speed limit on Big Rock Road from 35 mph to 25 mph and have the Fayette Police do more enforcement of the speed on the road. McGrane thanked the Runyon’s for bringing the matter to the council’s attention.  

Moved Patrick, seconded Sorensen, to approve Resolution #2016-01: Setting a public hearing for the 2016 Big Rock Road Improvements Project for January 18, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. in Fayette City Hall. On roll call, all ayes, carried.

     There being no further business, moved Sorensen, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:13 pm.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

December 14, 2015

    

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, December 14, 2015 at 5:30 p.m. in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Jon Biederman, Fehr-Graham engineer, had another commitment at 6 pm, so he was on the agenda prior to Nefzger arriving. Biederman informed those present that the Big Rock Road project would be closer to $352,000 because of the steep cross slope of the road would require the asphalt to be thicker in some areas. He added that he has estimated the cost to core out the bad area at $70,000, which is part of the above figure. The road will be 18 feet wide with a two inch overlay, although it will be three to four inches in some areas. Biederman said the cost includes a couple of feet of widening in the corner by the sewer lagoons. He added this cost doesn’t include the east 830 foot portion the county is paying for, which is estimated to be $31,000 and the county will reimburse the city. Biederman said we could drop the Lima Road portion of the project to save some money. Dennis said there is enough money to do the whole project. The consensus was to do it all so it is taken care of and done right.  

     Roll call: Present - Council members Boberg, McGrane, Nefzger (5:35 pm). Absent: Patrick, Sorensen.

     Moved Boberg, seconded McGrane, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 12/07/15, Claims List of 12/08–14/15, November 2015 Treasurer’s/Clerk’s Report and Budgetary Report and the Fire Department payroll June-Dec. and report of fire calls. Roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Treasurer's Balance for Fund Accounts as of November 30, 2015: General $318,099.49; Streets $411,770.23; Debt Service $1,625.32; Water Utility $223,635.34; Water T&A $24,368.19; Sewer Utility $384,894.51; CDBG Sewer ($195,936.62); Landfill/Recycling ($934.01); Yard Waste $11,010.71; Bolger Fund $147,242.75; TIF $39,634.48; Local Option Sales Tax $41,684.80; Storm Water $1,039.05; Downtown Project ($20,311.11); Franchise Fees $25,539.82. November Receipts by Fund: General $61,044.26; Streets $14,430.10; Debt Service $1,507.89; Water Utility $4,286.42; Water T&A $900; Sewer Utility $4,836.70; Lf/Recycling $679; Yard Waste $140; Bolger $717.45; TIF $13,063.65; Storm Water $87. Total Receipts $101,692.47. November Disbursements by Fund: General $42,202.04; Streets $6,464.52; Debt Service $9,403.07; Water Utility $4,436.45; Water T&A $175; Sewer Utility $16,472.10; LF/Recyling $22; Yard Waste $48; Bolger $5,021.92; Downtown Project $556.95. Total Disbursements: $84,802.05. Investments: $1,281,249.29. Bank Balance $2,692,612.24. Balance with Library Funds $2,785,769.03.

     Moved McGrane, seconded Boberg, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.

     Administrator/Clerk Dennis reported that the four new computers and monitors were delivered so Michael Saathoff, city web designer, will be setting them up.  

   Moved McGrane, seconded Nefzger, to introduce a proposal from CK & TK Properties, LLC. to rent the city owned building at 9 S. Main for $350 per month for twelve months beginning January 1, 2016. Chris Kragnes said they would use the space for a business office for their rental business and as a work area away from home. Moved Nefzger, seconded Boberg, to approve the proposal from the Kragnes’ to rent the building for $350 per month. All ayes, carried.

     Moved McGrane, seconded Boberg, to introduce the purchase of a new heart monitor by the Fayette Ambulance Service for $25,000 from their budget. Dennis explained that this would be in addition to the new heart monitor that the Service is purchasing with the $25,000 grant they received in November through Mission Lifeline, so each vehicle would have the same monitor. Moved McGrane, seconded Boberg, to approve the purchase. All ayes, carried.

     Moved Nefzger, seconded McGrane, to introduce the letter from Attorney James Burns for Sierra Fox regarding the agreement to pay back her training funds. All ayes to discuss. The letter, to Attorney John Hofmeyer III, stated that Hofmeyer draft a Judgment because Fox has decided that she will take the offer of Judgment plus attorney’s fees minus $500 discount and will agree to the Judgment. If it is accompanied by an agreement that no execution will be issued on the Judgment as long as the defendant (Fox) pays $200 every other week. Hofmeyer addressed the council and said payments are often done like this by new officers and that Fox is having her wages sent to the city already from the City of West Union already. He added that he agrees to take $500 off his bill. He also added that a Judgment will follow Fox wherever she goes and even in a new state. Hofmeyer said Fox is paying 5% interest on the outstanding amount that she owes, per State Code. He added that it’s his recommendation to do as the letter states. Moved McGrane, seconded Nefzger, to accept the letter and have Hofmeyer proceed with the Judgment. McGrane & Nefzger voted aye, Boberg voted nay, motion carried.

     There being no further business, moved Nefzger, to adjourn at 5:50 pm.

     Mayor Wenthe then swore in newly elected council members, Tiffany Kragnes, Kris McGrane and Patty Nefzger. Then City Admin/Clerk Dennis swore in Mayor Wenthe for his new term. Rich Patrick and Todd Sorensen will be sworn in sometime before January 1, 2016.           

                                                       Regular Council Meeting

December 7, 2015

    

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met in the Fayette City Hall at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, December 7, 2015, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Boberg, McGrane, Nefzger, Patrick, Sorensen.

     Moved Nefzger, seconded Sorensen, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 11/16/15, Claims List of 11/17/15 – 12/07/15 and a Native Wine Permit for Pavo Blue.  On roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Moved McGrane, seconded Nefzger, to approve the agenda as presented.  Patrick asked that the following addition be added to the Fayette Ambulance Service meeting minutes:  approval of Dr. Troy Buchholz, Sumner, as the Emergency Medical Director for the Fayette Ambulance Service.  All ayes to approve the agenda with the addition, carried.

     This being the time and place set for a public hearing on the proposal for authorizing the submission of a CDBG Water/Sewer application and a CDBG Community Facility & Services application to the Iowa Economic Development Authority  for the Fayette Downtown Reconstruction Project 2017 to replace water/sewer & storm water mains and the installation of a sewer main on West Water Street, Mayor Wenthe declared the hearing open for public comment.  Rachelle Howe, Director of Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission, included a review of the following:

 

  1. (a)how the need for the activity was identified;

The need was identified as the existing sanitary sewer lines were televised.  The results have indicated cracks and holes throughout the pipe and deterioration at some of the service tees. There are also two sections of private sanitary sewers, one on each side of Water Street from Vine Street to King Street. These sections have been problematic causing several blockages and sanitary sewer backups into the homes.

The condition of the water mains is unknown. The City reports that minimal repair work has been needed on the water main. However, the south block of Main Street has several leaking underground storage tanks (LUST) and replacement at this time seems appropriate to coincide with the replacement of the sanitary sewer line.

The storm sewer would be replaced at the same time and the City will be exploring the use of green solutions that would affect the quality of the storm water runoff of Main Street. The storm sewer empties into the Volga River, which is only 1,300 feet from the farthest point of the proposed project and the Volga River State Park is just downstream of the City of Fayette.

  1. (b)how the proposed activities will be funded and the sources of funds;

The proposed project will be funded by CDBG Water/Sewer funds in the amount of $500,000 and by CDBG Community Facilities & Services funds in the amount of $500,000.  The overall cost of the project is estimated to be around $3,164,795.00, leaving the City of Fayette to cover the local match portion.

           

(c)       date the CDBG application will be submitted;

The CDBG Water/Sewer application will be submitted on or before January 8th, 2015 to the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA).

 

  1. (d)requested amount of federal funds;

The requested amount is $500,000 from CDBG Water/Sewer and $500,000 from CDBG Community Facilities & Services.                                       

 

  1. (e)estimated portion of federal funds that will benefit low-and moderate-income persons;

According to the 2014 HUD LMI numbers, 52.76% of the population in the City of Fayette is considered as low-and-moderate.

 

(f)        where the proposed activities will be conducted;

The project will be conducted downtown along South Main Street from approximately 200’ north of Water Street to Clark Street and along West Water Street from Highway 150 to Main Street, which is within the city limits of Fayette, located in Fayette County.

 

(g)        plans to minimize displacement of persons and businesses resulting of funded activities;

There will be no displacement of persons and businesses as a result of funded activities for the water/sewer project. 

(h)        plans to assist persons actually displaced;

There are no plans to displace any persons.

(i)         the nature of the proposed activities.

The nature of the project is to assist the City of Fayette with the replacement of their water, sewer and storm sewer lines throughout the downtown and install city sewer main on West Water Street to replace private  sewer lines for six residences. 

     City Administrator/Clerk Christie Dennis handed out a spreadsheet to the Mayor and City Council showing where the $2.165 million for the city match for the project would come from with a combination of Revenue Bonds, Road Use Tax and General Obligation Bonds.  Dennis noted these grant applications would be Fayette’s second try through the CDBG program.  She added that the project wouldn’t start until 2017 if we were awarded both grants.       

     There being no further comments from the public, Mayor Wenthe closed the public hearing. 

     Moved Patrick, seconded Boberg, to approve Resolution #2015-21: Authorizing the submission of a CDBG Water/Sewer application and a CDBG Community Facility & Services application to the Iowa Economic Development Authority and authorizing the expenditure of city funds for the required match, pending approval of the applications, and authorizing Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission to perform the administration of the grants.  On roll call, all voted aye, carried.

  Mayor Wenthe thanked the Girl Scouts and Shirley Ungerer, Scout Leader, for furnishing the cookies and drinks for the meet & greet for Fayette’s new police chief, Rich Pisanti, this evening prior to the council meeting.  Also, thanked Linda Adams for having the library open for the event. ~ The mayor also thanked Kris McGrane for researching the new computers for the police department and the clerk’s office. 

Upon the mayor’s recommendation, moved Boberg, seconded Nefzger, to reappoint Jason Rohde as the Fayette Fire Chief for 2016 and to reappoint Bradley Minger for three more years to the Fayette County Community Foundation Board as Fayette’s representative.  Minger’s new term will expire 01/01/2018 and will be his final term because representatives may only serve two terms, three years each.  All ayes, carried.

  Administrator/Clerk Dennis handed out brochures from Fayette Co. Economic Development that she had received in the mail this date. ~ Dennis announced that Floyd Alber gave a $500 donation and didn’t specify the use. ~ Dennis said she would be listening to a webinar through the EPA for an hour the next day about green infrastructure ideas and Jon Biederman would be one of the presenters, speaking about Monona’s pervious paver parking lot. ~ Dennis called Windstream and had the bandwidth increased in City Hall from 1.5 mbps to 12 mbps, for $20 more, so the internet is faster for the ambulance, police and clerk’s office. ~ The sludge removal from the fourth cell of the sewer lagoons was completed, then Blazek Co. installed the aeration system in that lagoon, finishing on Dec. 4, 2015.  Some ventilation issues still need to be looked at and the heater checked in one of the buildings. ~ Dennis gave the abstract and deed for 104 King Street to NEICA, so they officially own that property now.  NEICA is applying for funding through a grant application that will be submitted in May 2016 to construct a house on that property.

   Moved Nefzger, seconded McGrane, to introduce for discussion a funding request from the Main Street Matters group for flowers on Main Street for 2016.  All ayes to discuss.  Sue Dohrmann addressed the council and gave them a copy of the group’s latest meeting minutes explaining what their plan is for the flowers and pots.  The cost of the flowers will cost $1,050 and they plan to have Lucy Fox plant 8 wave petunias into each of the 30 hanging brackets on February 1st, to give the plants a better start.  Dohrmann said getting volunteers to water the flowers was an issue this past summer so their group is going to advertise to try to get groups to volunteer to do the watering.  Dennis said she can put their ad on the city web site, city Facebook page and send to the community e-mail list.  There isn‘t enough space on the water bills to write much.  The group is planning to purchase a new pump/tank because the last one broke near the end of the season.  Moved Boberg, seconded Nefzger, to donate $1,000 for the plants, using the $500 donation from Floyd Alber and taking $500 from the General Fund.  All ayes, carried.

    Moved Boberg, seconded McGrane, to introduce Dave Runyon’s request to widen Big Rock Road for a pedestrian trail when the Big Rock Road project is done next year.  All ayes to discuss.  Runyon addressed the council and said since the trail and bridge were completed several years ago, they have seen a significant increase in the amount of foot and bicycle traffic go by their house on Big Rock Road.  Runyon said because the road is so narrow, he and his wife, Sue, have seen some near misses of people getting hit by vehicles, so they would like to see the road widened for safety.  Runyon said they would donate their land for a trail in the ditch.   Runyon said they appreciate the trails the city has built and they are a great enhancement to Fayette.  Jon Biederman, Fehr-Graham Engineer for the Big Rock Road project, addressed the council and explained that the cost for a four foot trail would be approximately $150,000 and that doesn’t include land acquisition, or additional intakes and storm piping, if needed.  Biederman said they are planning to go to bid on the road project in January or the first of February 2016 so construction can begin in the spring/summer.  There was discussion about the need for consistent speed enforcement when the new surface is finished on Big Rock Road because people will be speeding.  Biederman mentioned that the cost estimates for the Big Road project are coming in a little higher than the allowed budget, so he will present those figures at the next council meeting, Dec. 14th.  No decision was made on the pedestrian trail in the ditch because funding would have to be researched.

     Moved Boberg, seconded Patrick, to approve the Fayette Ambulance Service meeting minutes of Nov. 4th and to approve Dr. Troy Buchholz, Sumner, as the Emergency Medical Director for the Fayette Ambulance Service.  All ayes, carried.

     Moved McGrane, seconded Nefzger, to introduce the Dec. 3rd meeting minutes of the Fayette Recreation Board.  The Rec. Board provided craft activities at the soup supper put on by Rainbow Land Preschool on Dec. 4th.  Looking into having open gym time at the middle school for the winter for children.  Moving their meeting time to third Tuesday each month, starting Jan. 19, 2016.  Moved Boberg, seconded McGrane, to approve the meeting minutes, carried.

  Moved Patrick, seconded McGrane, to approve an amendment to the FY 2015 Annual Urban Renewal Report with the addition of debt obligations for Colonial Manors Memory Care and the low-to-moderate income requirement for Northridge Condominiums.  All ayes, carried. 

     There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:23 pm.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

November 16, 2015

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, November 16, 2015 at 7:30 p.m. in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Boberg, McGrane, Nefzger, Patrick, Sorensen.

     Moved Patrick, seconded Nefzger, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 11/02/15, Abstract of Votes from the City Election on November 3, 2015, certified by the Fayette Co. Supervisors, with the following abstract of votes: Mayor - Andrew Wenthe 133, Daniel Boberg 64, scattering 15. City Council - Kris McGrane 167, Rich Patrick 155, Tiffany Kragnes 134, Patricia Nefzger 130, Todd Sorensen 108, Curtis Larson 103, write-in Randy Sandhagen 61, scattering 6. Total number of voters in this election 212, which is 33.13% of the 640 registered voters in the City of Fayette. All terms are for two years and take effect January 1, 2016. The election cost for the Fayette city election was $833.72. Claims List of 11/03–16/15, October 2015 Treasurer’s/Clerk’s Report and Budgetary Report. Roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Treasurer's Balance for Fund Accounts as of October 31, 2015: General $299,257.27; Streets $403,804.65; Debt Service $9,520.50; Water Utility $223,785.37; Water T&A $23,643.19; Sewer Utility $396,529.91; CDBG Sewer ($195,936.62); Landfill/Recycling ($1,591.01); Yard Waste $10,918.71; Bolger Fund $151,547.22; TIF $26,570.83; Local Option Sales Tax $41,684.80; Storm Water $952.05; Downtown Project ($19,754.16); Franchise Fees $23,539.82. October Receipts by Fund: General $111,165.20; Streets $12,728.06; Debt Service $2,386.41; Water Utility $60,399.09; Water T&A $675; Sewer Utility $63,016.69; Lf/Recycling $13,686.90; Yard Waste $2,704.34; Bolger $297.80; TIF $1,495.74; Local Option Tax $16,631.76; Storm Water $898.05; Franchise Fees $4,591.80. Total Receipts $290,976.84. October Disbursements by Fund: General $29,740.81; Streets $17,273.90; Water Utility $12,506.54; Water T&A $222.24; Sewer Utility $10,081.71; LF/Recyling $14,957.71; Bolger $1,906.88; TIF $31,683.29; Downtown Project $141.90. Total Disbursements: $118,514.98. Investments: $1,281,195.69. Bank Balance $2,675,668.22. Balance with Library Funds $2,768,254.37.

     Moved Sorensen, seconded Boberg, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.

     Mayor Wenthe introduced and welcomed Fayette’s new police chief, Richard Pisanti, and council member elect, Tiffany Kragnes. Mayor Wenthe swore in Chief Pisanti on November 10, 2015.

   The report from Administrator/Clerk Dennis consisted of the following: The sludge removal from the sewer lagoon started on November 14th; the new tankless hot water heater and water softener was installed by D&D Plumbing on Nov. 13th; Alliant Energy is doing a street light inventory in Fayette and surrounding towns and hope to be finished by the end of February. The street lights will be listed on our new billing after that; the Fire Dept. transferred the IDNR 1986 Chevy brush truck to Westgate on Nov. 12th.

   Moved Nefzger, seconded McGrane, to introduce changing the last council meeting of the year on December 21st to December 14th and starting the meeting at 5:30 p.m. Mayor Wenthe and the five newly elected council members will be sworn in at the Dec. 14th meeting. Moved McGrane, seconded Boberg, to approve the date and time as noted above. All ayes, carried.

     Moved Sorensen, seconded McGrane, to introduce the Community Development & Housing Needs Assessment required for submitting the CDBG program applications for the Downtown Sewer/Water Replacement Project and for the Downtown Storm Water Drainage Construction Measures. Moved Nefzger, seconded Sorensen, to approve the Assessment. All ayes, carried.

     Moved Sorensen, seconded Patrick, to set a public hearing for December 7, 2015 at 7:30 p.m. in Fayette City Hall for submitting two CDBG program applications for the 2017 Fayette Downtown Reconstruction Projects. All ayes, carried.

     There being no further business, moved Nefzger, to adjourn at 7:42 pm.      

Regular Council Meeting

November 2, 2015

    

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met in the Fayette City Hall at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, November 2, 2015, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Boberg, Nefzger, Patrick. Absent: McGrane, Sorensen.

     Prior to this meeting the council held a work session at 6:00 p.m., as posted, to discuss the drainage in the business blocks of Main Street in preparation for a grant application.  Present at this work session was the mayor, the full council except Sorensen, Dan Hingtgen with whks engineering, Casey Mai with UERPC, Public Works Director Hildebrand and City Admin/Clerk Dennis.  The council decided to not use permeable pavers in the downtown project because of the extensive and on-going maintenance required to keep the space between the pavers from plugging up with dirt, sand and vehicle fluids.   The grant application for the Community Facilities CDBG program will be submitted for a second try by UERPC (due January 2016) and use the same wording as last year.  The green street criteria we will use are street trees with grates around them that water can drain into and there may be some vegetative box filters.  It was a consensus that we don’t want large concrete plant boxes on Main Street that people could fall it, vehicle bumpers could hit, or that would take up parking spaces.  The storm sewers will be enlarged to accommodate more water to alleviate the rain water back-up that happens presently during a heavy rain further to the south at several Main Street intersections.  Dennis was asked to put some figures together for financing the projects.  Work on the projects won’t start until 2017.  

     Moved Patrick, seconded Nefzger, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 10/19/15, Claims List of 10/20/15 – 11/02/15 and renewal of a liquor license for the Downtown Lounge. 

     Under communications from the public, Admin/Clerk Dennis noted that Janice Larson called and said she wanted it brought up to the city council that she didn’t think it was fair that she now has to pay $3.00 per quarter for a storm water fee when storm sewers weren’t installed when the new subdivision was built on the hill across from her house.  Dennis said she explained that this was a new mayor and council, and they started the storm water fee to try to build up some funds to be able to pay for installing storm sewers in the future.

     Moved Patrick, seconded Boberg, to approve the agenda as presented.  Nefzger asked that a closed session on litigation be added under old business and that it be moved to the last matter on the agenda.  Patrick approved the agenda with the amendment, all ayes, carried.

     Mayor Wenthe thanked the members of the Police Chief Search Committee for the good job in finding a new police chief.  The committee members were Karla Gavin, Dave Runyon, Patty Nefzger, Kris McGrane and the mayor.  He said it took quite a lot of time, but he thinks we’ve found a good person for the job.  He added that Richard Pisanti, the new chief, is driving from Florida this week and plans to start work on Monday, Nov. 9th.

     The mayor said we will have a meet & greet for Richard and his wife sometime in the future. 

     Administrator/Clerk Dennis reported that the grant application she submitted to FEMA through the Iowa Homeland Security & Emergency Management Department for two warning sirens was approved.  The total amount of the grant is $44,006. (Federal portion: $29,270/ State: $4,400 and local: $10,336, and the project must be completed in one year. ~ Dennis noted that she posted and published all of the winter notices on Oct. 22nd. ~ Letters (35) were mailed to property owners asking them to repair their water shut-off valves. ~ A letter was mailed to Connie Conner regarding removing her dog at 701 S. Main since there is no one living on the property because the house was removed and about a couple of junk lawn mowers on the property that need to be removed. ~ The Fayette Yard Waste Site will be closed for the winter after Nov. 11th and the last day for leaf pick-up will be Nov. 9th.

     Moved Nefzger, seconded Patrick, to approve the FY 2015 Annual Urban Renewal Report.  Dennis explained that this report is more in-depth TIF information regarding the city’s TIF debt in our Urban Renewal Area that is required by the State Department of Management each year.  All ayes, carried.        

     Moved Nefzger, seconded Boberg, to go into closed session at 7:44 pm, allowed under Iowa Code Chapter 21.5(1)C, for a litigation matter.  All ayes, carried.   

     The council came out of closed session at 8:07 pm

     There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:07 pm.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

October 19, 2015

    

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, October 19, 2015 at 7:30 p.m. in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Boberg, McGrane, Nefzger, Sorensen. Absent - Patrick.

     Moved Boberg, seconded Nefzger, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 10/05/15, Special Council meeting minutes of 10/14/15, Claims List of 10/06–19/15, September 2015 Treasurer’s/Clerk’s Report and Budgetary Report, renewal of a Beer Permit for Gavin’s Foods and a new Cigarette Permit for Zychski’s Boutique, 210 S. Main Street. Roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Treasurer's Balance for Fund Accounts as of September 30, 2015: General $217,532.88; Streets $408,350.49; Debt Service $7,134.09; Water Utility $175,592.82; Water T&A $23,190.43; Sewer Utility $343,594.93; CDBG Sewer ($195,936.62); Landfill/Recycling ($320.20); Yard Waste $8,214.37; Bolger Fund $153,156.30; TIF $56,758.38; Local Option Sales Tax $25,053.04; Storm Water $54; Downtown Project ($19,612.26); Franchise Fees $18,948.02. September Receipts by Fund: General $79,620.47; Streets $19,412.52; Debt Service $958.74; Water Utility $2,883.56; Water T&A $1,800; Sewer Utility $4,807.10; CDBG Sewer $5,648; Lf/Recycling $456.68; Yard Waste $100; Bolger $5,865.57; TIF $659.91; Storm Water $39. Total Receipts $122,251.55. September Disbursements by Fund: General $61,618.92; Streets $2,573.65; Water Utility $33,042.78; Water T&A $1,100; Sewer Utility $29,936.62; Sewer CDBG $1,921.54; Bolger $2,031; Downtown Project $2,206.05. Total Disbursements: $134,430.56. Investments: $1,281,140.32. Bank Balance $2,503,150.99. Balance with Library Funds $2,597,263.67.

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

     Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request, moved Nefzger, seconded McGrane, to appoint Pat Whelan as Fayette’s representative to the Fayette County Solid Waste Management Commission for a two year term (10/19/15-10/19/17) to fill the vacancy of Kerry Opel; to appoint Shawn McMurray to the Recreation Board for a two year term (10/19/15 – 11/01/17) to fill the vacancy of Elissa Wenthe; to reappoint Don McComb to the Planning & Zoning Commission for another five year term (expires 5/31/2020); and to reappoint Al Wagner to the Fayette County Local Housing Trust Fund Board for another three year term (expires 8/01/2018). All ayes, carried.

     Administrator/Clerk Dennis reported that D&D Plumbing, Htg. & Electric provided a bid for the installation of a tankless hot water heater and water softener in city hall at a cost of $3,700, which will be installed as soon as the equipment arrives. ~ Dennis handed out new brochures that Maple Memory Lane Assisted Living Center dropped off at her office today.

     Moved Nefzger, seconded McGrane, to introduce for discussion the purchase of a new pick-up truck for the Public Works Department. Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand was present and said this would be a third pick-up truck for the department so the employees don’t have to drive their personal vehicles to perform city work and that $25,000 was budgeted in FY16 for this truck. Moved Sorensen, seconded Boberg, to approve the purchase of a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck for the Public Works Department for the low bid of $23,050 from Brown’s Sales, Elkader. All ayes, carried.

   Moved Boberg, seconded McGrane, to approve the Ambulance Service meeting minutes of Oct. 7, 2015. All ayes, carried.

   Moved McGrane, seconded Nefzger, to introduce for discussion the rent to charge for the office space at 9 S. Main. Dennis reported she had checked with local realtor, Jeff Bradley, and he said $400 per month for the office size (1,219 sq. ft.) we have would be reasonable. Moved Boberg, seconded Nefzger, to approve a rent amount of $400 for 9 S. Main Street. All ayes, carried.

     There being no further business, moved Nefzger, to adjourn at 7:40 pm.      

SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING

October 14, 2015

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met in special session in the council chambers at City Hall, on Wednesday, October 14, 2015, at 7 p.m. pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Andrew Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Boberg (on speaker phone), McGrane, Nefzger and Sorensen. Absent – Patrick.  

     Moved McGrane, seconded Nefzger, to approve the agenda as posted. All ayes, carried.

     Moved Nefzger, seconded McGrane, to discuss the hiring of Richard Pisanti, Florida, as the new Police Chief. All ayes to discuss. Mayor Wenthe explained that the Police Chief Search Committee recommended Richard Pisanti and a law enforcement panel, made up of the Fayette County Sheriff, the Fayette County Chief Deputy, the Oelwein Police Chief and the West Union Police Chief, also recommended him. He added that all the background checks came back with no issues and Richard passed the tests that are required by the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy.

     The Mayor said by having this special meeting, Pisanti could start working in Fayette two weeks earlier than if the council had waited until the regular meeting on Monday, Oct. 19th, to approve his hiring. Pisanti’s start date will be November 9th or very close to that date.

     Moved McGrane, seconded Nefzger, to hire Richard Pisanti as the new Fayette Police Chief at a salary of $55,000. Three voted aye, Boberg nay, motion approved. 

     There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:12 p.m., carried.

Regular Council Meeting

October 5, 2015

    

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met in the Fayette City Hall at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, October 5, 2015, Mayor Pro-Tempore Patty Nefzger presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Boberg, McGrane, Nefzger, Sorensen. Absent: Patrick.

     Moved Boberg, seconded McGrane, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 09/21/15, Claims List of 09/22/15 – 10/05/15. McGrane explained that the expenditure of $3,069.90 to 247 Security Inc. is for a camera system for one of the police vehicles that was purchased through the sTEP grant program and the city will be reimbursed for the total amount. On roll call, all voted aye, carried.

     Moved Sorensen, seconded Boberg, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.

     Mayor’s Report: Nefzger said they were still waiting on the background information before they could hire the new police chief, but they are getting close to being finished. ~ Halloween Trick or Treating will be held in Fayette on Saturday night, October 31st, from 5 pm to 7 pm. Citizens wishing to hand out treats should turn on their porch lights. ~ Several committee positions are vacant that need to be filled.

   Administrator/Clerk Dennis reported that Roger Shaffer, auditor, came to her office and started the annual exam. ~ Mailed 473 city utility bills on Sept. 29th. ~ Dennis will be retiring next year on October 28th, 2016.

     Mayor Pro-Tem Nefzger asked Bobby Larson, Watermelon Days Co-Chair, if she would like to add anything to the letters the council had received with concerns about Fayette Fire Chief, Jason Rohde, not allowing the Watermelon Days Committee to use the Fire Station for the Watermelon Days community dinner. Larson said the actions that happened the afternoon/evening of September 11th were unacceptable by the Fire Chief. She added that now she and Linda Tenney (Co-Chair) have no trust or respect for a man of his status and they are concerned whether Rohde will put past issues aside in order to save their families if they ever have an emergency. Larson said someone of that status in the community should stand up for the community and were very disappointed that they weren’t allowed to use the fire station or the tables and chairs stored there, when Rohde had given them permission months before to use them for the event. In Larson’s letter she said the fire chief complained that the committee didn’t list the Firemen’s supper on the Watermelon Day poster. Larson said if Rohde had an issue with the supper not being on the poster, he should have come to the committee sooner rather than having a confrontation in front of the committee and volunteers. Mayor Pro-Tem Nefzger apologized to Larson and the committee and suggested that the new building use policy would eliminate future problems, although Larson wasn’t so sure. Larson suggested that Fire Chief Rohde should be reprimanded and that others in the community feel the same, but hadn’t voiced their opinions. Boberg suggested that Nefzger consult with Mayor Wenthe about referring the matter to the Personnel Committee or have the Mayor talk to Rohde. Rohde was present at the council meeting but did not comment on the matter.

   Moved McGrane, seconded Boberg, to introduce and approve Resolution #2015-18: City Building Use Policy. The City Administrator/Clerk is responsible for scheduling City Hall, the Library Director for the Library and the Fire Chief for the Fire Station, but the Mayor has the final authority approving the use of a city building. A written request should be submitted to the City Administrator/Clerk fifteen days in advance of the usage date. On roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Moved Sorensen, seconded McGrane, to approve the final reading of Ordinance 488: Rescinding Ordinance 487, reinstating Lien Exemptions, and adding language to the ordinance for a mailing address and phone number from a landlord. On roll call, all ayes, final reading approved.

     Moved Boberg, seconded McGrane, to introduce and approve the final reading of Ordinance 489: Amending Chapters 90.10, Tapping Mains; Chapter 92.09, Customer Deposits; Chapter 92.10, Temporary Vacancy and adding Chapter 99.16, Customer Deposits for sewer, landfill, recycling, yard waste and storm water drainage utility service. On roll call, all ayes, final reading approved.

     Moved Sorensen, seconded McGrane, to introduce and approve Resolution #2015-19: Five Year Sewer Maintenance Contract with Municipal Pipe Tool Company. The city has used this company for over thirty years for televising, jet cleaning and smoke testing the city’s sewer mains. On roll call, all ayes, carried.

         Moved McGrane, seconded Boberg, to approve Resolution #2015-20: Bridge Inspection Agreement with Fayette County. Dennis explained that this isn’t anything new and the inspection fees are the same as the city was charged by the Fayette County Engineers office two years ago. The county hires an outside engineering firm to inspect the city’s bridges and Fayette County provides their engineering services at no charge to be Faytte’s Custodian and Program Manager. On roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Moved Boberg, seconded Sorensen, to go into closed session at 7:59 pm, allowed under Iowa Code Chapter 21.5(1)C for a litigation matter. All ayes, carried.  

     The council came out of closed session at 8:14 pm. Moved Boberg, seconded Sorensen, to authorize City Attorney Hofmeyer to prepare the documentation to sue Sierra Fox for her police training costs in the amount of $7,199.67 which was due August 30, 2015 (sixty days from the date she resigned, as stated in the agreement that Fox signed). Three voted aye, McGrane voted nay, motion carried.

     There being no further business, moved Boberg, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:18 p.m.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

September 21, 2015

    

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, September 21, 2015 at 7:30 p.m. in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Boberg, McGrane, Nefzger, Patrick, Sorensen.

     Moved Sorensen, seconded Nefzger, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 09/08/15, Claims List of 09/09–21/15 and the August 2015 Treasurer’s/Clerk’s Report and Budgetary Report. Roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Treasurer's Balance for Fund Accounts as of August 31, 2015: General $199,831.33; Streets $391,511.62; Debt Service $6,175.35; Water Utility $205,752.04; Water T&A $22,490.43; Sewer Utility $368,724.45; CDBG Sewer ($199,663.08); Landfill/Recycling ($776.88); Yard Waste $8,114.37; Bolger Fund $149,321.73; TIF $56,098.47; Local Option Sales Tax $25,053.04; Storm Water $15; Downtown Project ($17,406.21); Franchise Fees $18,948.02. August Receipts by Fund: General $21,707.11; Streets $18,794.31; Water Utility $4,946.74; Water T&A $3,553.31; Sewer Utility $7,341.62; CDBG Sewer $502,412; Lf/Recycling $1,285.68; Yard Waste $260; Bolger $1,848; Local Option $8,315.88; Storm Water $15; Franchise Fees $2,787.15. Total Receipts $573,266.80. August Disbursements by Fund: General $37,750.54; Streets $11,408.92; Water Utility $6,118.71; Water T&A $1,291.59; Sewer Utility $28,642.39; Sewer CDBG $124,254.87; Bolger $245; Downtown Project $3,178.75. Total Disbursements: $212,890.77. Investments: $1,309,942.90. Bank Balance $2,544,132.58. Balance with Library Funds $2,637,555.68.

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

     Mayor Wenthe reported that the search committee interviewed the two Police Chief candidates who were at the meet and greet on Tuesday, September 15th.   He said they are waiting for the results of some on-going testing, before they can make their final choice for Police Chief.

   Administrator/Clerk Dennis reported that Fayette Lumber installed a new back door and raised the threshold to keep the water from running under the door at 9 South Main, next door to city hall. ~ The hot water heater at city hall broke so she is getting bids for a new on-demand hot water heater and a water softener at the request of the ambulance service. ~   Dennis finalized the application to partially fund two new warning sirens through Iowa Homeland Security & Emergency Management and it was submitted to FEMA on September 10, 2015. A new location was chosen for the siren that was going in Cardinal Park. It will now be placed north of the water tower on city property. After FEMA approves the application, then we may proceed with the project. ~ Fire Chief, Jason Rohde, picked up the new 2016 Ford F350 pick-up truck from Wilbur Ford in West Union on Sept. 15th. The cost was $29,862.24 and was paid for out of the fire department city savings account. ~ The Fayette American Legion made their final loan payment and paid off their 2011 loan of $15,000 early. ~ Fall Clean-up Day will be October 14th in Fayette for landfill items. ~ Mediacom is going to finish going 100% digital starting the first part of October. Lee Grassley, Senior Mediacom Manager, said this would only affect about 1 percent of the subscribers who are still using some analog channels. Grassley said a notice would be sent out to subscribers the first of October.

     Moved Patrick, seconded McGrane, to discuss the topic of an Economic Development Business Survey with Karla Organist, Fayette County Economic Development Director. All ayes, to discuss. Organist informed the mayor and council that the survey had been done in Elgin and Fayette was going to be next. The survey is being done county-wide to find out from businesses where Fay. Co. Ec. Development can best meet their needs.

     Moved Patrick, seconded Nefzger, to introduce and discuss Resolution 2015-18: Adopting a City Building Use Policy for the City of Fayette. All ayes to discuss. Mayor Wenthe explained this policy was drafted by Dennis and him in response to a situation on the Friday night of Watermelon Days. Fire Chief Jason Rohde wouldn’t let the Watermelon Day Committee members use the fire station or the tables and chairs stored in the fire station for the annual dinner, although Committee Co-Leader Bobby Jo Larson had received permission to use the fire station months before from Rohde. Dennis noted in her report that when the council accepted the proposal from David Bolger to use funds from the sale of the Rexam property to pay for the new fire station in October 2007, it was approved with the condition that the fire station would be used for community events and meetings. Also, when Upper Iowa University was replacing some of their old tables and chairs with new ones several years ago, they said they would give them to the city with the stipulation that the tables and chairs could be used by the community for events. After some discussion about the wording for the policy, McGrane suggested that Library Director Adams be given a chance to review the policy, so the resolution was tabled. Mayor Wenthe then said, “We are a community and we should work in a cooperative manner whenever possible. Remember that you may come to me or the five council members if there is an issue and that not just one person has the final say for the use of a public building”. Wenthe thanked Bobby Jo Larson for her work on Watermelon Days and asked her to pass that on to Linda Tenney, the other Committee Co-Leader. Wenthe said there was a good turnout for the event and he received a good report from several people. Wenthe also thanked Kris McGrane for his success with Watermelon Idol. Wenthe commended all the volunteers.

    Moved McGrane, seconded Sorensen, to discuss the letter from Larry Webb regarding the funding of the memorial for James Lee. Webb again thanked the mayor and council for allowing him to pursue the memorial for Lee.  Webb also provided a financial statement for the memorial bench project showing total donations of $2,915 and a cost of $1,995 for the bench that was purchased from Valders Stone & Marble, Inc. Mick Gage donated  the

concrete and his labor. Webb noted that the remaining $921.38 in the fund raising account would be used for lighting the memorial to be installed during the construction of the proposed larger Veterans Memorial. Patrick said that Webb needs to understand that the Veterans Memorial may not be done. McGrane stated that Webb should be made aware, as a courtesy, that things are moving slow. Moved McGrane, seconded Boberg, to approve the letter financial report from Larry Webb. All voted aye, carried.

     Moved Sorensen, seconded Patrick, to introduce the engineering proposals received for the Big Rock Road project. All ayes to discuss. Proposals were received from Fehr Graham, IIW Engineers and Whks Engineering. Since the proposals from IIW & Whks left out a lot of the costs associated with a city project of this size, Public Works Director Hildebrand suggested to Patrick to go with Fehr Graham because their proposal was complete with a final engineering cost of $30,000 (per Jon Biederman) without any hidden expenses. Moved Patrick, seconded Nefzger, to approve the bid from Fehr Graham for the Big Rock Road Project. All ayes, carried.

     Moved Sorensen, seconded Boberg, to introduce for discussion the parking on West Water Street. All ayes to discuss. Boberg said a citizen brought to his attention that the grain trucks don’t have room to pass when there are vehicles parked on both sides of the street, so they have to stop and let others go by before they can get through. Patrick said this was discussed last year and he isn’t convinced that we need to take a whole side of the street from parking. Boberg said it’s a main artery in and out of town. Dennis noted that it was the designated truck route in and out of town. Karla Organist said she is the Transportation Planner for our area and she would send Dennis some reports from the DOT showing the traffic count in Fayette and how far someone should park from a corner. McGrane said he talked to some of the renters last year where some of the cluster parking was happening and directed them to use the Open Air Market area. Dennis noted that November 1 to March 31 no one is allowed to park on the streets over night. There was no further discussion on the matter.

     Moved Sorensen, seconded McGrane, to introduce and approve the second reading of Ordinance 488: Rescinding Ordinance 487, allowing lien exemption notices and adding that the landlord must provide the mailing address and phone number for their tenants. On roll call, all voted aye, carried.

     Moved Patrick, seconded Boberg, to introduce and approve the second reading of Ordinance 489: Amending Chapters 90.10, Tapping Mains; Chapter 92.09, Customer Deposits; Chapter 92.10, Temporary Vacancy and adding Chapter 99.16, Customer Deposits for sewer, landfill, recycling, yard waste and storm water drainage utility service. On roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Moved Boberg, seconded Patrick, to discuss the letter to Sierra Fox regarding her training agreement payback. All ayes to discuss. Mayor Wenthe said an attorney for Fox called him and proposed a 24-month payback of the $7,199 due with 5 percent interest with a co-signer. Patrick said, “I don’t think we’re in the business of being a bank, she can get a loan.” He added, “It’s stated very clearly in the contract, several times, so it shouldn’t have been a surprise to anybody.” Everyone agreed with Patrick. Mayor Wenthe will convey this to Foxes attorney.

     There being no further business, moved Nefzger, to adjourn at 8:17 pm.         

Regular Council Meeting

September 8, 2015

    

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met in the Fayette City Hall at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2015, Mayor Andrew Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members McGrane, Patrick, Sorensen. Absent: Nefzger and Boberg.

     Prior to this meeting, at 7:20 p.m., Mayor Wenthe swore in Benjamin Davis as a temporary certified patrol officer for the police department.  

     Moved Sorensen, seconded Patrick, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 08/17/15, Claims List of 08/18/15 – 09/08/15 and two change orders for Blazek Construction on the sewer lagoon project for an increase of $30,840. On roll call, all voted aye, carried.

     Under communications from the public, Admin/Clerk Dennis mentioned that Darwin Vandersee, 509 Mechanic, complained about the parking on Mechanic Street in front of his property. Patrick said it was voted on by the council with all five members present to leave the parking as it is. Dennis said that Vandersee also complained about the drainage in that area. Jerry Hildebrand said when the condominiums were constructed that drain tile was placed on the west side of the street and roof drainage is directed to the holding tanks behind the condos, so water drainage is actually better now than it was before the condos were built.      

   Moved Sorensen, seconded McGrane, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.

     Mayor Wenthe said the police chief search committee interviewed five applicants over Zoom and have narrowed the field down to four candidates. He added that they are planning to have a meet & greet gathering at the Opera House, if it’s available, on Tuesday, Sept. 15th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. to meet the candidates.

     Administrator/Clerk Dennis reported that Big Rock Country Club has paid off their city loan and that the American Legion only has $265 remaining to pay. ~ James Krivachek installed the new GIS program on the Clerk’s computer and the Public Works computer and she has already used the program. PWD Hildebrand needs to review the data to see what corrections are needed. ~ Sept. 3rd Dennis released the insurance funds retained for 701 S. Main Street since the demolition project for Connie Conner is completed. ~ Helping Services of NE Iowa is ending their lease with the city for the office space at #9 S. Main Street. They are moving to a smaller office space at 112 S. Main Street.

     Moved Patrick, seconded McGrane, to discuss the agreement between Sierra Fox and the City regarding the payback of her police training expenses. All ayes to discuss. Dennis said she mailed a letter to Fox on August 19, 2015 informing her that she owes $7,199.67 and it was supposed to be paid by August 30, 2015 (sixty days from the date she resigned, as stated in the agreement that Fox signed). Dennis said she also e-mailed the agreement to Fox on August 19th, but hasn’t received an acknowledgement from Fox for either and hasn’t received any payment. It was a consensus that Dennis should mail the letter again by certified mail with a note to Fox stating she has until September 18th to pay what she owes or we will be turning the matter over to our attorney.

     Moved McGrane, seconded Sorensen, to introduce for discussion the application for demolition incentive for 103 Jones Street from Jim & Carla Mitchell. Dennis said the start date is Sept. 14th, 2015 and the completion date is October 10th, 2015. A bid of $5,000 was submitted with the application from L&E Construction (Jason Rohde) for the demolition. All voted aye to approve the application with the completion date of October 10, 2015 and the city program paying 50% of the $5,000 ($2,500), carried.      

     Moved Patrick, seconded McGrane, to approve Resolution #2015-16: Annual Street Financial Report for FY2015, showing total income of $224,551 and total expenses of $136,622, with an ending balance of $403,157 on June 30, 2015. On roll call, all voted aye, carried.

     Moved McGrane, seconded Sorensen, to introduce for discussion Resolution 2015-17: Local Match for a hazard Mitigation Grant Program for two warning sirens. Mayor Wenthe said Jason Rohde, Fayette Fire Chief, contacted the siren company and they came up with a couple of other locations for the sirens. The Mayor, Rohde, Hildebrand and Dennis will meet Thursday to decide on the new location for the best coverage for the town. Dennis has been working on the program application with IHSEMD since 2011. There was some funding available, but that ran out. The entire project cost is estimated to be $44,006, but FEMA only has $39,024 available right now and won’t have any again until a Presidential Disaster is declared for Fayette County or more funds are de-obligated. FEMA pays 75% of the funds available and IHSEMD pays 10% of the project cost, leaving the city to come up with $10,336. Dennis said there is $2,620 available in our Emergency Management fund and the mayor said the remainder could come from the Fire Department (approx. $1,900) and the police department budget ($5,800). Moved Sorensen, seconded McGrane, to approve the resolution committing the local match for the sirens project. On roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Moved Patrick, seconded McGrane, to introduce for discussion the first reading of Ordinance 488: Rescinding Ordinance 487, reinstating Lien Exemptions, and adding language to the ordinance for a mailing address and phone number from a landlord and that a rental unit must have a separate curb stop in the city right-of-way, as already required in Chapter 90.10 of the City Code, for a lien exemption notice to be accepted by the city. Dennis said there are several buildings and houses with rental units in Fayette that don’t have separate outside shut-offs and this is needed so the city can have immediate access to shut off water for unpaid bills if a landlord files a lien exemption. Moved Patrick, seconded Sorensen, to approve the first reading of Ordinance 488, on roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Moved McGrane, seconded Sorensen, to introduce for discussion the first reading of Ordinance 489: Amending Chapters 90.10, Tapping Mains; Chapter 92.09, Customer Deposits; Chapter 92.10, Temporary Vacancy and adding Chapter 99.16, Customer Deposits for sewer, landfill, recycling, yard waste and storm water drainage utility service. All ayes to discuss. Dennis said Fayette’s City Code needed to be revised to meet requirements by the State Code. Instead of having the same deposit for all rental properties, the deposit needs to be based on the usual cost of ninety days of water service and the other services billed by the city. The new language explains how the deposits will be figured. McGrane suggested that a clause be added explaining how the Clerk would figure a deposit if there is no past history. Dennis said Attorney Hanson suggested a paragraph for that (the average usual cost for all residents) so she will include that for the second reading. Moved McGrane, seconded Sorensen, to approve the first reading of Ordinance 489 with the addition of the third section. On roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Moved Sorensen, seconded McGrane, to introduce for discussion curb stops (water shut-offs) that need repairing by property owners. Jerry Hildebrand said when he was locating all of the curb stops in town for GIS mapping, he found there are 42 that aren’t working. He said our city code states it is the property owners responsibility to have a working curb stop and in case of an emergency we need to be able to shut off the water to a property. It was a consensus of the council that Dennis & Hildebrand draft a letter to property owners explaining why their curb stops need to be repaired.

     There being no further business, moved Sorensen, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:21 p.m.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

August 17, 2015

    

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, August 17, 2015 at 7:30 p.m. in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Boberg, McGrane, Nefzger, Patrick, Sorensen.

     Moved McGrane, seconded Nefzger, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 08/05/15, Claims List of 08/04–17/15, July 2015 Treasurer’s/Clerk’s Report and Budgetary Report and renewal of liquor license for Boike’s Trailside Inn Cafe. Roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Treasurer's Balance for Fund Accounts as of July 31, 2015: General $215,874.76; Streets $384,126.23; Debt Service $6,175.35; Water Utility $206,924.01; Water T&A $20,228.71; Sewer Utility $390,025.22; CDBG Sewer ($577,820.21); Landfill/Recycling ($2,062.56); Yard Waste $7,854.37; Bolger Fund $147,718.73; TIF $56,098.47; Local Option Sales Tax $16,737.16; Downtown Project ($14,227.46); Franchise Fees $16,160.87. July receipts by Fund: General $15,513.36; Streets $13,920.88; Debt Service $1,021.71; Water Utility $52,475.48; Water T&A $1,575; Sewer Utility $98,900.56; CDBG Sewer $78,148; Lf/Recycling $13,315.53; Yard Waste $2,627; Bolger $2,886; TIF $12.96; Local Option $16,737.16; Downtown Project $2,000; Franchise Fees $847.02. Total Receipts $299,980.66. July Disbursements by Fund: General $31,922.63; Streets $20,952.10; Water Utility $7,685.33; Water T&A $552.95; Sewer Utility $22,697.47; Sewer CDBG $382,333.68; LF/Recy $14,957.71; Bolger $2,000. Total Disbursements: $483,101.87. Investments: $1,309,878.98. Bank Balance $2,183,692.63. Balance with Library Funds $2,276,026.89.

     Under communications from the public, Connie Conner, 701 S. Main, was present and asked the council for another extension for the demolition of her house that burned last winter. Conner said her contractor, Jason Rohde, has had three breakdowns on his equipment. It was a consensus of the mayor & council to give Conner & Rohde an extension until August 31, 2015 to have the demolition completed and all of the junk on the property removed. They also voided a fine that had been assessed Monday for Conner.

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

     Mayor Wenthe reported he had received 36 applications for the police chief position. He said the search committee would be meeting next week to review the applications. ~ The mayor also said he held a vicious dog hearing on Aug. 12th, and said there was non-sufficient evidence to determine the terrier dog as vicious.  

     Administrator/Clerk Dennis reported that she attended the dedication ceremony at Grandview Cemetery on Aug. 12th of the new grave stone for Pvt. Levi Henry Raesly, a civil war veteran. ~ The bid opening for the city’s 1946 212 Caterpillar Motor Grader was held at noon on this date, Aug. 17th, with five bids being received. The high bid came from Doug Egeland, Ossian, for $2,850. ~ On Aug. 14th, I mailed requests for bids/proposals for engineering services for the Big Rock Road Project with a deadline of Sept. 11th, since we haven’t heard back from the County Engineer about doing a joint project.

     Moved Boberg, seconded McGrane, to introduce the ambulance service meeting minutes of Aug. 10, 2015. The ambulance service has ordered a FERNO power cot and an extra holding fastener, so the cot can be interchangeable between the two ambulance vehicles, at a cost of $37,000. The service is using their fund raising revenue to pay for the cot and accessories. Several questions came up about some items in the meeting minutes, so Dennis said she would talk to Crew Chief Roger Post, and report back with the answers. All voted aye to approve the meeting minutes, carried.

     Moved Sorensen, seconded Boberg, to discuss the agenda item regarding the pay back from Sierra Fox for her Police Training Agreement that she signed with the city. All ayes to discuss.

The Agreement states that Fox is required to repay the city for the cost of her 14-week certification training if she leaves the City’s employ before four years of full-time employment. The actual cost of the training and salary with benefits paid for that 14 weeks totaled $15,935. Fox was employed by the City for approximately two years and four months. The agreement states that reimbursement on a prorated scale is required within 60 days of separation. Because Fox voluntarily left and took employment with the West Union Police Department after two years, but before three years had been completed, 50 percent of the total must be repaid, or $7,339 after deducting the value of Sierra’s vacation time upon her resignation June 30, 2015 and two paychecks from working for the city as a reserve in July & August 2015. Dennis said she inquired with the City of West Union if they wanted to buy out the contract for Fox, but they didn’t. Wenthe said Fox is aware of the amount she owes to the city because she mentioned it to him before she resigned. Patrick said it’s not the city’s responsibility to carry the debt because it’s clearly stated twice in the agreement that it must be paid within 60 days of resignation. Sorensen agreed that Fox should pay the outstanding amount to the city within 60 days. Moved Sorensen, seconded Boberg, that Mayor Wenthe draft a letter to Sierra Fox informing her that she is to repay the city what she owes by August 30, 2015. All ayes, carried.

     Moved McGrane, seconded Nefzger, to introduce the application for a demolition incentive from Jim & Carla Mitchell for 103 Jones Street. Dennis said she hasn’t received the written cost estimate from a contractor, as the application requires. It was a consensus of the council to table the matter until Mitchell submits a contractor cost proposal for the demolition.  

  There being no further business, moved Nefzger, to adjourn at 8:09 pm.          

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

July 20, 2015

    

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, July 20, 2015 at 7:30 p.m. in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Boberg, Patrick, McGrane, Nefzger. Absent: Sorensen.

     Moved Patrick, seconded Nefzger, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 07/06/15, Claims List of 07/07–20/15, June 2015 Treasurer’s/Clerk’s Report and Budgetary Report . Roll call, all ayes, carried.

     Treasurer's Balance for Fund Accounts as of June 30, 2015: General $232,284.03; Streets $391,157.45; Debt Service $5,153.64; Water Utility $162,133.86; Water T&A $19,206.66; Sewer Utility $313,822.13; CDBG Sewer ($273,634.53); Landfill/Recycling ($420.38); Yard Waste $5,227.37; Bolger Fund $232,853.05; TIF $56,085.51; CDBG Façade Grant ($86,020.32); Downtown Project ($16,227.46); Franchise Fees $15,313.85. June receipts by Fund: General $28,632.77; Streets $15,062.52; Debt Service $2,194.70; Water Utility $1,977.30; Water T&A $2,925; Sewer Utility $2,731.57; CDBG Sewer $549,385; Lf/Recycling $557.70; Yard Waste $112; Bolger $1,615; TIF $63.46; Local Option $8,368.57. Total Receipts $613,625.59. June Disbursements by Fund: General $86,258.66; Streets $9,650.79; Water Utility $26,088.84; Water T&A $3,793.93; Sewer Utility $28,215.74; Sewer CDBG $122,484.56; LF/Recy $21; Bolger $750; TIF $675; Downtown Project $329.85. Total Disbursements: $278,268.37. Investments: $1,313,574.78. Bank Balance $2,370,509.64. Balance with Library Funds $2,451,053.41.

     Moved Nefzger, to approve the agenda as presented. McGrane asked that a closed session on real estate be added under new business, and Boberg asked that viewing of the drawings for the proposed veteran’s memorial also be added under new business. Moved Boberg, seconded McGrane to amend to approve the agenda with these additions. All ayes, carried.

     Mayor Wenthe reported that the police chief position is being advertised again and he has received ten resumes with three of them being from previous applicants. The deadline for this round is August 10, 2015. ~ Wenthe also informed the council that he and Public Works Director, Jerry Hildebrand, visited with Al Miller, Fayette County Engineer, on July 16th, about doing a cost share project on Big Rock Road with the county doing the engineering. Miller said he would speak to the county supervisors about this and get back to them. ~ Wenthe said he and Nefzger spoke to Gary Goodell, 101 King Street, and gave him a written document stating that he needed to be off the property by July 31, 2015 and Gary signed the document.

     Administrator/Clerk Dennis reported that Dan Boberg & Gayle Klimesh purchased some perennial plants and planted them around the flag pole with help from Nancy Wulfekuhle. ~ Dennis said she met Patrick Lyons, the new owner of Blessing Industries, on July 8th, with Karla Organist, Fayette Co. Ec. Dev. Director. Lyons said he would be changing the name of all the Blessings locations and his business in Vinton, Ideal Industries, to a new name in three or four months. ~ D & D Plumbing, Electric & Heating installed the new furnace in City Hall for their proposed bid of $1,600. Dennis said she submitted a rebate application to Black Hills Energy for $400 for the new furnace. ~ July 9th Casey Mai, UERPC, and & worked with Dan Narber, IEDA, on audit for our CDBG program sewer grant and everything is in order. The sewer project should be complete by the deadline, July 31st. The sludge removal will be in the fall.  

     Moved Boberg, seconded McGrane, to introduce for discussion signs for Klock’s Island Park regarding the e-mail that Jerry Hildebrand received from the IDOT. All ayes to discuss. The IDOT did a field study of our park and noted that it meets the criteria for placement of four free Supplemental Recreational Symbol Signs to be attached to our existing Klock’s Island Park signs along Hwy. 93. McGrane said he thought we should get the free signage to help advertise our nice park. Dennis informed the council that there were 42 camping trailers in the park over the July 4th weekend. The IDOT technician also explained the requirements to place signs along Hwy. 150. Moved Patrick, seconded McGrane, to explore putting as many signs on our existing Klock’s Island signs on Hwy. 93 allowed by the IDOT and explore the possibilities of signage on Hwy. 150. All ayes, carried.            

     Moved McGrane, seconded Boberg, to introduce continuing the discussion on the requirements/inspections of rental properties. All ayes, carried. Patrick said after the work session with the landlords there hadn’t been anymore discussion so he wanted to know if the council was going to drop the subject or decide if we want to proceed. Patrick added that the proposed ordinance would need a lot of revisions after hearing what the landlords had to say. It was decided to have a council work session at 6:00 p.m. before the August 3rd council meeting to continue the discussion and review the ordinance.          

     Moved Patrick, seconded Nefzger, to introduce the status of the Personnel Committee meeting to begin examining the recommendation by the Finance Committee to change the health benefit payout for employees not participating in single or family health insurance. All ayes, to discuss. Mayor Wenthe explained that the subject was approved by the council during budget planning time, but then he consulted the Iowa League of Cities and was told that a personnel matter of this nature should be reviewed by the Personnel Committee and then a recommendation be made to the full council. Patrick said he would prepare a data sheet for the meeting, but there are bigger philosophical issues to deal with because of the length of service of several of the employees. Nefzger said she would let Admin/Clerk Dennis know when to post the meeting notice after Patrick finishes with the data.

     Moved McGrane, seconded Boberg, to approve the Library Board meeting minutes of 6-10-15. All ayes, carried.

   Moved Nefzger, seconded Boberg, to introduce for discussion the subject of staggered terms for council members. All ayes to discuss. Admin/Clerk Dennis had consulted Fayette County Auditor Lori Moellers about the procedure. The present two year terms would have to be changed to four year terms by petition with at least 26 signatures, then with council approval the matter would be on the November 3rd election ballot as a public measure.

The three people elected with the highest number of votes would have four year terms and the bottom two people would have two year terms, which would start the staggered terms. All council members elected in the November 2017 election would start staggered four year terms effective January 2018. No decision was made and the council has until the September 8th meeting to decide what they want to do on the subject.

   Moved Boberg, seconded Nefzger, to approve Resolution 2015-14: Setting a public hearing for the sale of the city property located at 104 King Street, Fayette, to Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation. Three voted aye, Patrick nay, motion carried.

     Moved McGrane, seconded Nefzger, to discuss the drawings for the proposed veterans memorial in the open air market park. All ayes. Boberg presented preliminary drawings of the memorial that were prepared by Brian Gage, son of Mick Gage at no charge. Boberg suggested that the black granite veteran’s memorial at City Hall be moved to the new location in the center back area. He added that brick pavers, that could be engraved, would form a path from a concrete parking area for handicapped parking and then more pavers would be laid over concrete and the pavers would be sold to help pay for the memorial.   An eagle on a stand would be centered at the front of the memorial and two flags would be in the background. Boberg said Mick Gage said he would furnish the concrete and level the area where the bricks would go. He added that all these items need to be discussed with a larger committee. Mayor Wenthe said the council needs to approve the final plans, moving the existing memorial, know what the entire project is going to cost and how the funds will be raised before the project can proceed.

     Moved Patrick, seconded McGrane, to approve the location for the James Lee Memorial based on Boberg’s involvement and Public Works Director Hildebrand. All ayes, carried.

     Moved McGrane, seconded Nefzger, to go into closed session at 8:27 p.m. on a real estate matter as allowed under Iowa Code Chapter 21.5(1)j. All voted aye to go into closed session, carried.

     The council came out of closed session at 9:16 p.m.                               

  There being no further business, moved Nefzger, to adjourn at 9:16 pm.   

Regular Council Meeting

August 3, 2015    

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met in the Fayette City Hall at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, August 3, 2015, Mayor Andrew Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Boberg, McGrane, Nefzger, Patrick, Sorensen.

     Prior to this meeting, at 6:00 p.m., the mayor & council held a work session to further discuss the housing inspection draft ordinance. More research is needed.  

     Moved Sorensen, seconded McGrane, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 07/20/15, Claims List of 07/21/15 – 08/03/15 and the FY 2015 Annual Outstanding Obligation Report showing total debt of $399,980. On roll call, all voted aye, carried.

   Moved Patrick, seconded Boberg, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.

     This being the time and place set for a public hearing on a proposal to sell city owned property, Mayor Wenthe opened the public hearing by reading the following: Proposal to sell the city property at 104 King Street, Fayette, for $1.00 with the following stipulations: That a new energy-star home be constructed on the property and sold to a low to moderate income family with the management handled through Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation (NEICA). Mayor Wenthe asked for comments, there being none he closed the public hearing.

     Moved Nefzger, seconded Boberg, to approve Resolution #2015-15: Approving the sale of the city property located at 104 King Street, (Legal Lot Four (4), Block sixteen (16), Original Town of Fayette, Fayette County, Iowa), and directing Mayor Wenthe and City Administrator/Clerk Dennis to execute a Warranty Deed to Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation after payment of $1.00 for the property to the City, with the following stipulations: That a new energy-star home be constructed on the property and sold to a low-to-moderate income family with the management handled through NEICA. On roll call, all voted aye, carried.    

     Mayor Wenthe said he has received 30 applications for Police Chief, with only a few of them being repeat applicants. The deadline for applications is August 10, 2015, so the search committee will meet after that to go through resumes. Patrick asked if the second officer position was also going to be filled. Nefzger, who serves on the committee, said the group thought the new police chief should have input into the hiring of the officer. ~ The mayor noted that he sent out a nuisance abatement letter to the owners of 701 S. Main giving them a deadline to remove their junk and have the demolition of the burned house completed by August 15, 2015. Fines will start August 16, 2015 with an initial fine of $200, then $100 a day until the lot is cleared. ~ The mayor mentioned that Upper Iowa University is hosting a new student event that is part of orientation called Explore Fayette day on Saturday, August 22nd, for UIU students to visit the Fayette businesses.

   Administrator/Clerk Dennis reported that the first day to file nomination papers for mayor or city council is Monday, August 24th. The last day to file is Thursday, September 17th. All nomination papers must be filed with the Fayette County Auditor’s office at the court house in West Union, not with the City Clerk. Nomination forms may be picked up at the City Clerk’s office, or obtained by going on-line to www.sos.state.ia.us. A minimum of ten signatures by eligible Fayette voters are needed on the nomination petition for each candidate. ~ Dennis said she received a check from the city’s flood insurance company in the amount of $18,278.53 for flooding that occurred at the sewer plant on June 19, 2014, after appealing the claim denial three times. The total cost of the flooding and a lighting strike to the #2 well pump last year was $57,097.13.   After insurance, State & FEMA payments, it ended up only costing the city around $1,100 because the city employees are on salary. The money paid by the State and FEMA for the clean-up done at the parks and the sewer plant by the public works employees and the administrative time by Dennis was covered through their salaries. The city was also paid for the use of city equipment doing the clean-up. The employees just worked harder to get everything taken care of.    

     There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:42 p.m.

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