REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

November 15, 2021

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, November 15, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.

     Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 11/1/21, the claims list of 10/30/21 - 11/12/21, the abstract of votes for the city elections on 11/2/21, the Annual Financial Report for Fiscal Year 2021 and the Street Financial Report for Fiscal Year 2021. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to amend the agenda and move agenda item 6C, discussion on the Water Street liquidated damages to 6A at the beginning of Old Business and to approve the amended agenda. All ayes, motion carried.

     Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request, moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to appoint Elizabeth Meyer to the Fayette Fire Department. All ayes, motion carried.

     Mayor Wenthe attended the Big Rock Country Club golf course meeting last week and they are working through their options of how to pay off their debt. Wenthe reminded them that the city owns the back nine and if they make any changes to the course, the agreement with the city will need to be updated.

     City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the CDBG Rehab grant administered by Upper Explorerland. McGrane has been in communication with the state and is looking into options the city can take for the grant. McGrane notified a few businesses in town about the hotel-motel tax passing so they can start preparing and to reach out to the Iowa Department of Revenue with questions. McGrane has been working with a few business owners to get a meeting for all Fayette business owners to meet. Andrea Scott with Yoga Genesis has a meeting scheduled for them on 11/17. McGrane sent out the fiscal year 2023 budget worksheets to all the department supervisors and boards.

     Fayette Police Chief Davis advised the council the city did not receive one of the grants for the K9 but there is another grant he is pursuing. Odin, the Fayette PD K9, will be evaluated in January to determine if he will be able to go through K9 training in the spring. Davis is now a certified Mental Health Crisis Intervention Member. Davis said the Fayette PD toy drive has started for this year and encouraged everyone to help promote it. The department has partnered with Peacocks for Progress to help promote the toy drive at Upper Iowa University. The toys will be donated to Riverview and Helping Services as in the past.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss W. Water Street project liquidated damages. Wenthe advised he met with Jon Beiderman (Fehr Graham), Public Works Director (PWD) Jerry Hildebrand and Kris McGrane to discuss the liquidated damages. The recommendation was to penalize Heartland Asphalt $12,600 for the project delays. Colton Meirick with Heartland Asphalt was present. Meirick was appreciative of the city for their patience with the delays of the project and was understanding of the penalty. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to move forward with liquidated damages to Heartland Asphalt for the West Water Street improvements project of $600 per day from September 18, 2021, to October 8, 2021, totaling $12,600. All ayes, motion carried.

     This being the time and place published for a public hearing on allowing KDME, LLC to have access to and to install a solar electric generating system on designated premises owned by the City of Fayette and sell the electricity generated by the system to the City of Fayette, Mayor Wenthe opened the hearing and asked for comments. Tucker advised she had a resident that was concerned about the ground solar panels by the water tower. Pat and Linda Whelan were present and asked questions including how the power purchase agreement worked. Kent Kraus with Eagle Point Solar was present and explained how the agreement worked. McGrane advised PWD Hildebrand mentioned to him there used to be a home located at the place where the ground solar panels at the water tower were scheduled to be constructed. Kraus and the council will look to see if they may be moved to provide more room for a future house. Mayor Wenthe closed the hearing.

     Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to discuss Resolution 2021-32. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to adopt Resolution 2021-32 approving the Solar Power Purchase Agreement. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss purchasing a 2022 F-150 4x4 Regular Cab at a maximum price of $36,280. This was a budgeted expense, and the lowest bid is from Wilbur Ford at $30,600. A few other bids included a Chevy from Birdnow at $34,210 and a Ford from Browns at around $37,000. PWD Hildebrand advised the truck may not get here until June and it is an addition to the Public Works vehicles. Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to purchase a 2022 F-150 4x4 Regular Cab from Wilbur Ford for $30,600. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss continuing with a Wellmark Health Insurance plan for city employees. McGrane advised he met with the city's insurance representative on 11/12 to discuss the cities options. The best option was to remain with our current plan with an increase of 7.45% to the premiums. The city will have around a 40% usage loss for this current year. The city saved money from the previous plan that the city moved away from earlier this year because our usage loss was under 74%. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to continue with the Wellmark myBlue HDHP Bronze partially self-funded plan for the city employees and contribute a total of $1,000 to single and $2,000 to family city employee's health savings accounts with half the amount paid every six months. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss Resolution 2021-31. Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to adopt Resolution 2021-31 gWorks Master Services Agreement, Terms of Service, Product Support Agreement and Privacy Policy. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss moving forward with hiring Upper Explorerland with city code of ordinance updates. McGrane provided the quote which was $3,500. It was the consensus of the council to find out how the administration of the current CDBG grant will be completed by Upper Explorerland before we start a new project with them. No action was taken.

     Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to discuss Resolution 2021-33. Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to adopt Resolution 2021-33 an agreement for Codification Services with Local Government Professional Services, Incorporated doing business as Iowa Codification. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss and approve the Annual Urban Renewal Report for fiscal year (FY) 2021. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the Annual Urban Renewal Report for FY2021. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to go into closed session per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(j) to discuss the purchase or sale of particular real estate only where premature disclosure could be reasonably expected to increase the price the City would have to pay for that property or reduce the price the City would receive that property. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to open regular session. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss the city purchasing property in the city limits of Fayette. Moved Potratz, seconded Tenney, to not take action on purchasing any property at this time. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to discuss applying for a grant. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to continue to look at grants and put a plan in place to assist with vacant businesses in Fayette. All ayes, motion carried.

     There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:16 pm.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

November 1, 2021

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, November 1, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent - Potratz.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 10/18/21, the claims list of 10/16/21 - 10/29/21, July 2021 Financial Reports, August 2021 Financial Reports, approval to renew the Class C Beer Permit with a Class B Wine Permit and Sunday Sales for Dollar General Store #20268 and approval to renew the Class C Liquor License and Sunday Sales for Down Town Lounge. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.

     Mayor Wenthe informed the council the city needs to find a resident to serve on the Fayette County Waste Management Committee. Wenthe mentioned he will be attending the Big Rock Country Club members meeting on 11/11 when they discuss potential changes to the golf course. Wenthe indicated there was a good turnout at the Meet the Candidates night on 10/29. Wenthe advised the Iowa Municipal Finance Officers Association (IMFOA) sent a letter indicating City Administrator/Clerk Kris McGrane has become an Iowa Certified Municipal Finance Officer.

     City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council that he posted the City Maintenance Worker help wanted ads and the information about the election proposals on the city website, social media, city hall, post office and the bank on 10/19 & 10/20. On 10/20 McGrane had a site visit from IMWCA Workers Compensation. McGrane attended the IMFOA training on 10/21 and 10/22 and reported some of the updates and information that was brought up. On 10/26 McGrane had the annual Access Systems account review. On 10/27 McGrane completed the GASB 77 letters. McGrane updated the council on the CDBG Rehab grant administered by Upper Explorerland and how the city may not be able to get the 6^th and final house completed before the grant runs out in January 2022. McGrane reminded the council that city hall and the city offices will be closed on 11/11 for Veterans Day and 11/25 and 11/26 for Thanksgiving. McGrane will be completing the Annual Financial Report and the Annual Street Report this month.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss approving the Recreation (Rec) Board to use their money from savings to repair a baseball diamond at Cardinal Park. An estimate from Iowa Athletic Field Construction Company was provided in the amount of $54,579.37. Steve Landry and Susan Scott with the Rec Board were present. Adam Carpenter from the UIU Rec Center expressed that UIU staff/students would be able to help maintain the fields to save the Public Works Dept. time. A quote for the renovation was received earlier this year in the amount of $53,000 and it has now increased about $1,500 since then. Landry mentioned the Rec Board is looking into contacting traveling teams and surrounding recreational programs to use the fields more often. Scott advised the longer they wait to renovate them, the more it will cost. Tucker recommended the Rec Board inquire if there are basic repairs for the other field that could be completed while the company is in town. Tucker also inquired if another bid was required due to the projects high cost. Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve letting the Rec Board spend $54,579.37 of their savings for renovating the east baseball field at Cardinal Park, subject to the bid process and if another bid is needed. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss combining the Rec Board with the Park Board. Scott advised they are open to joining but would like to have two more members on the board. It was discussed about having one of the Board members include a Public Works Dept. employee to assist with communication. It was decided that may cause a conflict of interest and a Public Works Dept. employee should be the liaison to the Board similar to the Tree Board. Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to have the City Administrator/Clerk draft an ordinance joining the Recreation and Parks Boards, adding two additional members, having a Public Works Department employee act as a liaison for the Board and having the Rec Board review it prior to the city council receiving it. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss designating an area in town for a dog park. Landry mentioned some dog parks have two fenced in areas, one for bigger dogs and one for smaller dogs. The Rec Board mentioned the grassy lot across the street from the disc golf course along the trail as a good location. They inquired if the city could dump snow at the disc golf course instead of the possible dog park location. The council requested the Rec Board continue to gather more information and draft a map of where the dog park would be located. No formal action was taken.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and approve the Fayette Ambulance Service meeting minutes from 5/5/21, 6/2/21, 7/7/21, 8/4/21 and 9/1/21. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss and approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 9/8/21 and 10/13/21 and the Directors Report from 10/13/21. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss adjusting Penny Montgomery's water and/or sewer charges. The council received information about Montgomery's high water usage, including the 2650 cubic feet of water used on the 9/27/21 utility bill. Montgomery was present via telephone to discuss the bill with the council. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to waive the late fees on Penny Montgomery's utility bills for the high usage through 12/1/21 and provide her until 11/15/21 to show the city documentation that she has reached out to resources for assistance in paying her utility bill without turning her water off. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss directing the City Administrator/Clerk to publish and set a Public Hearing for 11/15/21, or 12/6/21, at 6PM in the Fayette Community Library on allowing KDME, LLC to have access to and to install a solar electric generating system on designated premises owned by the City of Fayette and sell the electricity generated by the system to the City of Fayette. McGrane advised he was able to get the notice printed in this weeks local newspaper so the hearing can be on 11/15/21. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to direct the City Administrator/Clerk to publish and set a Public Hearing for November 15, 2021, at 6PM in the Fayette Community Library on allowing KDME, LLC to have access to and to install a solar electric generating system on designated premises owned by the City of Fayette and sell the electricity generated by the system to the City of Fayette. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to discuss directing the City Administrator/Clerk to publish and set a Public Hearing for December 6, 2021, at 6PM in the Fayette Community Library on the proposed adoption of an ordinance granting to ITC Midwest LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of ITC Holdings Corp., a 25-year non-exclusive electric transmission franchise. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to direct the City Administrator/Clerk to publish and set a Public Hearing for December 6, 2021, at 6PM in the Fayette Community Library on the proposed adoption of an ordinance granting to ITC Midwest LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of ITC Holdings Corp., a 25-year non-exclusive electric transmission franchise. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss moving forward with hiring Simmering-Cory/Iowa Codification for the city of Fayette's codification project. McGrane provided a Fayette Code Development Project Proposal in the amount of $5,700 and would include a complete code update and three complete hard copies. McGrane mentioned that Upper Explorerland also does this work and he is waiting for a proposal from them. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to continue to take the steps in hiring Simmering-Cory/Iowa Codification for the city of Fayette's codification process. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss and approve Contract Change Order Number 1 for the CDBG Rehab project at 605 S. Main St. in the amount of $1,000. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve Contract Change Order Number 1 for the CDBG Rehabilitation project at 605 S. Main Street in the amount of $1,000. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss and approve Partial Pay Estimate Number 1 to Dave's Home Improvement for CDBG Rehab project at 605 S. Main St. in the amount of $10,039. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve Partial Pay Estimate Number 1 to Dave's Home Improvement for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 605 S. Main Street in the amount of $10,039. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss and approve Contract Change Order Number 5 for the Water St. Improvements project 20-897 in the amount of $4,710.10. Jon Biederman from Fehr Graham Engineering was present to discuss the project. The change order is a decrease of $4,710.10 because less tile was needed. It also included rock disposal and more curb and gutter being completed. Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve Contract Change Order Number 5 for the Water Street Improvements project 20-897 in the amount of $4,710.10. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and approve Partial Pay Estimate Number 6 to Heartland Asphalt, Inc. for the Water Street Improvements project 20-897 in the amount of $383,775.78. This is for work in September and October and it is not a final pay estimate. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve Partial Pay Estimate Number 6 to Heartland Asphalt, Inc. for the Water Street Improvements project 20-897 in the amount of $383,775.78. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss Resolution 2021-30. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to adopt Resolution 2021-30, Jayhawk Annual Software Assurance/Support Hours Contract Terms and Contract. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to go into closed session per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(j) to discuss the purchase or sale of particular real estate only where premature disclosure could be reasonably expected to increase the price the City would have to pay for that property or reduce the price the City would receive that property. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to open regular session. Roll call, all ayes, motions carried.

     There being no further business, moved Wulfekuhle, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:06 pm.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

October 18, 2021

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, October 18, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 10/4/21, the claims list of 10/2/21 - 10/15/21 and approval to renew the Special Class C Liquor License with Outdoor Service and Sunday Sales for Shrubb's Street Eatery LLC. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to amend the agenda by removing agenda items 8B, 8C and 8D and approving the amended agenda. All ayes, motion carried.

     Mayor Wenthe reminded the council of the meet the candidate's night on 10/29 at the Fayette Community Library.

     City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council he has caught up on the city's finances and reported the city received the first payment of $107,371.55 for the American Rescue Plan, received $80,950.13 from July through October from the speed cameras and received $16,951.66 so far in 2021 from the campground. The new printer/copier/scanner at City Hall was installed on 10/14. This will replace the old utility billing printer. The city auditor was involved in an accident and was hospitalized, so we have rescheduled the city exam for 12/3/21.

     Fayette Police Chief Ben Davis advised the council that Officer Ball will graduate from the police academy on Friday and will be back to work. The K9 grant contest for people to vote online opens up tomorrow, 10/19, and everyone is encouraged to vote and share on social media. It is currently on the Fayette Police Departments Facebook Page.

     Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider moving forward installing solar panels with Eagle Point Solar. Kent Kraus and other representatives from Eagle Point Solar were present to discuss solar panel equipment and materials, solar benefits, power purchase agreements (PPA), and the city of Fayette's financial return on a 25 year PPA. Eagle Point Solar visited city buildings and locations and determined the best places to use solar energy. The locations included the library, city hall/police/ambulance, fire department, water tower, sewer lagoons, pre-treatment plant and the water well on Wadena Road. All will have roof mounted solar panels except the sewer lagoon, the water tower and the water well will have solar panels on the ground. A PPA would have the investor purchase all the solar panels, installation, insurance, repairs for any damage, and other costs while the city would receive the cost savings. The PPA would include buy-out terms if the city would decide to buy-out the solar panels after 7 to 10 years. Eagle Point Solar estimates the city could save around $842,668 in electrical costs with the solar panels over the next 25 years. If the city wants to move forward, Eagle Point Solar would send a contract for the city attorney to review. If the city is interested and things move smoothly, they could try and get posts pounded in before the ground freezes this year. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to move forward with getting a contract from Eagle Point Solar for the PPA and to have the city attorney review it. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to discuss and consider hiring a fourth full time Public Works employee. Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand advised that every year the Public Works department gets more and more things to do and things that result in being short staffed. The department is currently short staffed. Hildebrand would like the job duties to be identical as the current City Maintenance Worker position. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to move forward and start hiring a fourth full time public works employee. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss hiring Charles Cunningham as a full time Fayette Police Officer at an hourly wage of $21.85 and paying off his contract. Police Chief Davis recommended the city to hire Cunningham, an UIU alumni, for the full-time police officer position. Cunningham currently works for the city of Sumner, he has a college degree and he graduated the academy in August. Cunningham will start working in Fayette on 11/8/21. Davis explained offering Cunningham a higher wage than normal because of the cost area police departments are offering for open positions and we need to stay competitive. By offering Cunningham a higher wage, the current police officers will need a pay increase as well to keep things fair. McGrane recommended having the Personnel Committee meet in the near future to discuss all city employee wages. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to hire Charles Cunningham as a full-time Fayette Police Officer at an hourly wage of $21.85, to pay off this contract of $21,544.07 and require Cunningham to sign an agreement to pay back the contract to the City of Fayette if his employment shall be terminated over the next few years. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to discuss and approve moving Nicole Ball from an hourly wage of $19.20 to $21.85 following her graduation from the police academy. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to discuss and approve moving Olivia Hake from an hourly wage of $18.54 to $21.19 following her graduation from the police academy effective January 1. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider on moving forward with an electric transmission franchise for ITC Midwest. ITC Midwest provided all the information including a draft ordinance for the city to review. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to move forward with the electric transmission franchise information from ITC Midwest and send the information to the city attorney to review. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2021-28. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to adopt Resolution 2021-28: Water Utility Vendor Agreement Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss Resolution 2021-29. McGrane advised the maintenance agreement with Copy Systems Inc. is for the new printer/copier/scanner for utility billing and is for $24 a month for the next 12 months. McGrane advised the agreement has already paid for itself because it covered the set-up costs. After 12 months, the city can re-evaluate and determine if it will be worth it moving forward. Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to adopt Resolution 2021-29: Copy Systems Inc. Maintenance Agreement. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider extending the agreement with Upper Iowa University Recreation Center that provides a discount for city of Fayette residents and the city donating $10,000 to the Recreation Center. After discussion, it was the consensus to refer the topic to the Fayette Recreation Board to discuss. No action was taken.

            Moved Post, seconded Potratz, to discuss and consider informing Fayette residents about the election proposals that will be on the 11/2/2021 ballot. Council member Tenney put together a flyer the city may use. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to allow the City Administrator to hang up the flyer and place on the cities website and social media. All ayes, motion carried.

     There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:43 pm.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

October 4, 2021

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, October 4, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 9/20/21 and the claims list of 9/18/21 - 10/1/21. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Post, seconded Potratz, to amend the agenda and move agenda item 6A, discussion on the Water Street Reconstruction Project to the end of the agenda and approve the amended agenda. All ayes, motion carried.

     City Administrator/Clerk McGrane met with the Fayette County E911 Coordinator and a representative from a company hired to help with researching a new emergency radio/communication system for Fayette County on 9/22 to discuss the city purchasing a new radio tower. The city has set aside about $40,000 for a new radio tower. The cost of a new tower is around $500,000 and if the city would be able to rent out space on the tower, it could take a minimum of 10 years to recoup the expenses. McGrane advised he would inform the council and he doubts the city would be interested in purchasing a new tower. Deputy Clerk Creery and McGrane attended a webinar on 9/22 with NEIA Community Action discussing a new Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program for residents. On 9/23 McGrane met with the City Administrators and Police Chiefs from Oelwein and West Union to discuss the Fayette County Dispatching Services contracts. On 9/27 the City Administrators met with the Fayette County Board of Supervisors (FCBOS) to discuss the contracts and their concern that city residents are double taxed for the dispatching service since city residents pay county taxes that should include these costs. The FCBOS will take the concern into consideration. Purchasing a new emergency radio/communication system for Fayette County was also discussed at the same meeting. The City Administrators stressed the importance of upgrading the system now because the system is outdated and have heard there are areas in the county where radios do not work causing a safety concern. The longer the wait to upgrade the system, the more the price will increase. The City Administrators feel that the FCBOS need to cover the costs for the new countywide system and cities should not have to contribute because that would be double taxing city residents. The system would be utilized by all the emergency services throughout Fayette County. The Oelwein Police Chief has researched a USDA Grant that each city may apply for that could help cover a small portion of the expenses for new radios and pagers. The FCBOS will take the concerns into consideration. On 9/28 McGrane attended the NEIA Regional League meeting to discuss police departments, hiring and retaining officers. McGrane has spent quite a bit of time working on the CDBG Rehab Grant and is hoping two more houses should be completed by the end of this year when the grant expires. McGrane has been working on paperwork for Quick Med Claims and Wellmark for the Ambulance service. The annual city exam will be rescheduled due to a conflict with the auditor. McGrane has also been very busy assisting people with permits and city code inquiries. McGrane reminded the Mayor and Council about email scams and to be cautious.

     Fayette Police Chief Ben Davis informed the council that the police department (PD) has been awarded $500 from Black Hills Energy to help purchase a drone. Davis is working on other grants for the drone. The PD accepted closed bids and sold the 2001 Harley Davidson motorcycle that was forfeited during a criminal investigation a few years ago. Two certified officers applied for the FT police officer position and Davis is hoping to start scheduling interviews soon.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss and consider purchasing fire rings from North Fayette Valley (NFV) Spark. NFV Spark is a program that offers high school students authentic learning opportunities while connecting them to community workplace experiences with focuses on community needs and carrier and college readiness. NFV students Jonas Menne and Carson Wolff were present to show an example of a custom fire ring and costs associated. They advised the city currently has about 18 fire rings at Klocks Island Campground and the cost per 40 inch fire ring would be $229.39. Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand was present and recommended the city purchase 6 fire rings for the front of the campground at this time. Menne and Wolff believe they can have them completed and delivered sometime in November. They will work with Hildebrand on the final design. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to purchase six, 40 inch fire rings using money out of the Parks budget. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider approving the Recreation Board use money from their savings to repair a baseball diamond at Cardinal Park. A representative from the Fayette Recreation Board was not present. Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to table the decision until more information is provided by the Recreation Board. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider designating an area in town for a Dog Park. McGrane provided a little information from the Recreation Board and information he received from the city's insurance company stating there are no extra insurance costs for a dog park. The council recommends the Recreation Board continue to research other dog parks, continue to present possible locations in town and possibly having residents take a survey to find out if there is a need. No formal action was taken.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss and consider combining the Recreation Board with the Park Board. McGrane advised the Fayette Recreation Board is willing to combine the two boards and would recommend appointing two more members with one of those positions being a Public Works employee. Wenthe recommended we continue discussion when a Recreation Board member is present. No formal action was taken.

     Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to discuss and consider purchasing a power washer in the amount of $5,230 from Midwest Alkota. Hildebrand advised it was budgeted for but the price has increased from the original quote of $4,700. Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to purchase the power washer in the amount of $5,230 from Midwest Alkota. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2021-27. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve Resolution 2021-27, the Iowa Department of Transportation agreement for maintenance and repair of primary roads in municipalities. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss and consider removing Cottonwood Trees from the City Code. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to have McGrane provide the updated nuisance State Code to the council to compare with the City Code. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss and consider the American Tower Lease agreement proposal. After discussion, the council would like to get the opinion of the City Attorney and his cell tower contact person. No formal action was taken.

     Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to discuss and consider reviewing the city code. McGrane advised he will research costs and information on having the city code reviewed. No formal action was taken.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to discuss and consider having the city wide trick-or-treating on Sunday, 10/31/2021 from 5PM to 7PM. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to have city wide trick-or-treating on Halloween night, 10/31/2021, from 5PM to 7PM. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the Water Street Reconstruction Project. Jon Biederman, an Engineer at Fehr Graham, was present and advised the first layer of asphalt will be laid tomorrow followed by the second and third layers over the next three days. The contractor is hoping to have the street completed and open by the end of the day on Friday. Next week they will work on concrete, sidewalks, manholes and other parts of the project but the road will be able to remain open. No formal action was taken.

     There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:10 pm.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

September 20, 2021

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, September 20, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Tenney, Tucker (arrived 6:01) and Wulfekuhle (arrived 6:01).

     Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 9/7/21 and the claims list of 9/4/21 - 9/17/21. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to amend the agenda to remove agenda item 8B, discussion and consideration in purchasing fire rings from North Fayette Valley. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the amended agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.

     Mayor Wenthe shared with the council that he wanted to thank everyone who had a part in Watermelon Days.

     City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council on 9/8 was the CDBG Rehab Grant bid opening and only 1 bid came in to complete one house but another contractor was informed about the other house. On 9/14 McGrane completed all the reports and documents for the IMWCA workers compensation audit.

     Fayette Police Chief Ben Davis informed the council that he applied for two grants for around $10,000 to help with K9 expenses. Davis believes he should hear back about the grants in December. Davis received the title to the motorcycle that was confiscated and he will start advertising to accept closed bids in the near future. Fayette Sgt. Barker has accepted a position at the Fayette County Sheriff's Office and will be leaving our department in November. The city is now accepting applications for the open full-time position.

     Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to discuss and consider removing a tree in the city right of way in the 600 block of S. Main Street. McGrane provided information from the 2020 tree inventory that the State DNR conducted. The type of tree that Pat Whelan, the adjacent property owner, wants removed is a Red Maple. The information also included how many Red Maple trees are located throughout the city of Fayette in parks and city right of ways, which was around 21. Whelan reminded the council that his concern is the roots were growing into his private sewer line and close to his water shutoff valve. Whelan advised he is concerned about his sidewalks being disturbed by the roots, also. Tenney did research which confirmed what Assistant Public Works Director Adam Hildebrand mentioned at a prior meeting, that tree roots usually enter sewer lines where holes or cracks exist. Tenney also believed that Whelan has the right to trim tree branches and roots that are on his property, as long as it doesn't impact the health of the tree. No formal action was made.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider taking action on a nuisance tree in the 100 block of State Road/300 block of Old HWY 150 North. McGrane provided information from the city attorney stating that the city council may use "diseased and/or dying" as a nuisance to have the property owner remove the tree. McGrane and Chief Davis explained the nuisance abatement process if the council decided to take that route. Dave and Connie Collins were present to remind the council of their concerns of the dying tree and to answer questions. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to start the nuisance abatement process for the Cottonwood tree to be removed by the property owner at 101 Station Road. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss, consider and action on the W. Water Street Project. Jon Biederman, an Engineer at Fehr Graham, was present and the council was provided an updated letter from Heartland Asphalt, Inc. The letter indicated that the curb and gutter should be completed by the end of the week of 9/20/21. The week of 9/27/21 they will complete the final grading of rock and pave the road. Once the road is paved, they will reopen the road but will still have a few other items left to finish which should only take about a week to complete. No formal action was taken.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss and consider allowing chickens at 409 W. Water Street. McGrane informed the council that he was notified the residents had chickens, so he contacted and informed them of the city code and that the chickens needed to be removed as soon as possible. McGrane also explained to them the process they needed to complete in order to have chickens on their property. The residents requested to be on the agenda but were not at the meeting. Brenda Stahl, a neighbor of 409 W. Water St., was present and shared her concerns. Stahl advised when the residents had the chickens, the small fenced in area they were kept in was not cleaned and gave off an unpleasant odor. No action was taken.

     There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:55 pm.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

September 7, 2021

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Tuesday, September 7, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent - Potratz and Tenney.

     Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 8/16/21, the claims list of 8/14/21 - 9/3/21, the receiving of the Outstanding Obligations Disclosure Statement for Fiscal Year 2021 and approval of the Special Class C Liquor License for Boarders Inn & Suites/Fayette Hospitality LLC. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

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

     Mayor Wenthe informed the council on 8/21/21 City Administrator/Clerk McGrane and himself joined a small group to discuss infrastructure needs for cities and counties with Senator Joni Ernst in Fayette. Senator Ernst was shown the W. Water Street project. On 8/26/21, Wenthe and McGrane spent the day with a representative from Eagle Point Solar visiting city buildings to gather information for the installation of solar panels. Eagle Point Solar will present to the council on a future date. Wenthe and McGrane provided 2020 census results and information. The city of Fayette's new population is 1,256, down 82 people from the 2010 census of 1,338. Wenthe encouraged everyone to enjoy Watermelon Days this weekend as well as the Freedom Rock Dedication.

     Upon Mayor Wenthe’s and the Fayette Fire Department’s request, moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to appoint John Rohde to the Fayette Fire Department. All ayes, motion carried.

     City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council Upper Explorerland has been understaffed and the East Central Intergovernmental Association is helping them out with our CDBG Rehab grant. A bid opening for two of the homes will take place on 9/8/21 at city hall. IMWCA requested documents for their annual audit with the incorrect dates, so McGrane has to regather the information for them to complete the audit.

     Fayette Police Chief Ben Davis informed the council a few updates including a peer support training at UIU is coming up.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 8/11/21. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider taking action on a nuisance tree. Wenthe advised he has communicated with Dave and Connie Collins, who were present, in reference to a cottonwood tree located on private property at 101 Station Rd. The tree has a large part hanging over the property line onto Collins' property at 310 Old HWY 150 North. Collins had a forester look at the tree and it was determined the trunk is 80-85% rotten. Collins are concerned if the tree falls, it will damage his building. The Fayette city code list cottonwood trees as a nuisance. Collins and Chief Davis have communicated with the property owner about the concern but the property owner does not wish to take the tree down. Collins offered to cover the costs to remove the tree. Wenthe contacted the city attorney and it is a nuisance violation according to the city code, but there are many cottonwood trees throughout the city and it would cost a great deal to remove all of them. The council agreed to have McGrane contact the city attorney for more details and clarifications on the Fayette City Code before the next city council meeting. No formal action was taken.

     Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to discuss and consider revising the storm water drainage system utility rate for irrigation systems. McGrane had a resident request the council discuss removing the $1 per month storm water drainage system utility fee from irrigation systems bills. Moved Post to remove the storm water drainage utility fee from the monthly bills, but the motion died because of a lack of a second.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider purchasing a police K9. Chief Davis advised the city has an opportunity to purchase a puppy for $600 that may be trained as a future police K9. Davis provided his research and cost estimates for care, vaccinations, training and other expenses. Davis plans on utilizing grants and fundraisers to help cover some of the costs. Officer Nicole Ball would be the K9 handler because she has experience with training animals. Officer Ball advised Chief Davis that if the dog doesn't work out for the city between now and when it is sent to training, Officer Ball would purchase the dog from the city for $600. Davis recommended purchasing the puppy now and re-evaluate in about 6 months to determine if the dog is capable and if the city wants to continue the certification process. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the purchase and initial costs of a police K9. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss partial pay estimate number 3 to Dave's Home Improvement for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 500 W. Clark Street in the amount of $3,086. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve partial pay estimate number 3 to Dave's Home Improvement for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 500 W. Clark Street in the amount of $3,086. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to discuss partial pay estimate number 5 to Heartland Asphalt, Inc. for the Water Street improvements project in the amount of $155,565.65. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve partial pay estimate number 5 to Heartland Asphalt, Inc. for the Water Street improvements project in the amount of $155,565.65. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to discuss and approve the contract change order number 4 for the Water Street improvements project 20-897. Jon Biederman, the Engineer, advised this includes extra costs for storm sewer, water main and sanitary sewer repairs. Biederman estimates a future change order will include deductions around $7,000-$8,000 for subdrain tile that is no longer needed. Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the contract change order number 4 for the Water Street improvements project 20-897 in the amount of $6,715.50. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss, consider and take action on an update with the W. Water Street improvements project. Biederman was present to explain how the liquidated damages work for the W. Water Street project. Biederman explained the city must be able to prove actual damages/expenses that occurred because of the contractor not meeting the original completion date. At this time, Biederman does not think the city has any damages/expenses the city can prove to start penalizing the contractor. Biederman recommends the council discusses it again at the next meeting when we receive another update on the project that is estimated to be completed around September 17. No formal action was taken.

     There being no further business, moved Wulfekuhle, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:10 pm.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

August 16, 2021

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, August 16, 2021, at 6:00 pm via conference call/online meeting using www.freeconferencecall.com due to COVID-19, per Iowa Code 21.8, pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding. The public was also able to access the meeting with basic directions posted on the council agenda and on the city of Fayette’s website, www.fayetteiowa.com.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Tenney, Tucker (6:01) and Wulfekuhle.

     Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 8/2/21, the claims list of 7/31/21 - 8/13/21 and the June 2021 Financial Reports. McGrane took a few minutes explaining the June 2021 Financial Reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

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

     Mayor Wenthe informed the council we are currently short handed with city staff in most of our departments due to illness, vacations, training, etc.

     City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council he was able to order 7 free laptops for the City of Fayette through the BuyIT state funding program.

     Fayette Police Chief Ben Davis shared with the council that Officer Ball started the police academy today and Officer Hake starts on 8/30.

     Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to discuss an update on the W. Water Street project. Heartland Asphalt, Inc. provided a letter to the city council earlier today requesting a time extension on the project. A few of the project delays they listed included encountering solid lime rock, receiving suitable material to replace the lime rock, additional repairs to existing utilities and relocating a gas main and phone utility pole. Heartland is planning on helping with some of the subcontracted work to help speed the completion of the project. Their best guess on a completion date is around 9/17/21 (original completion date was 8/20/21). McGrane advised Jon Biederman with Fehr Graham Engineering will be attending the next city council meeting. At that time the council may ask any additional questions and make any decisions. No formal action was taken.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss and approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 7/14/21. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider closing off S. Main St. from Water Street to Clark St. and State St. from Mechanic St. to Washington St. from Friday, 9/10/21 to Sunday, 9/12/21 for Watermelon Days and granting permission for live music outside until 11PM on Friday, 9/10/21 and Saturday, 9/11/21. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve closing off S. Main St. from Water St. to Clark St. and State St. from Mechanic St. to Washington St. from Friday, 9/10/21 to Sunday, 9/12/21 for Watermelon Days and granting permission for live music outside until 11PM on Friday, 9/10/21 and Saturday, 9/11/21. All ayes, motion carried.

     There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:29 pm.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

August 2, 2021

     The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, August 2, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.

     Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz, Tenney and Tucker. Absent - Wulfekuhle.

     Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 7/19/21, the claims list of 7/17/21 - 7/30/21 and the approval to renew the Class E Liquor License with the Class B Native Wine permit, Class C Beer Permit and Sunday Sales for The Pumper. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

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

     Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request, moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to appoint Melissa Arman to the Fayette Ambulance Service. All ayes, motion carried.

     City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council he has finished up fiscal year 2021 finances and transfers and has been working on the next process of the Employee Health Savings Account.

     Fayette Police Chief Davis informed the council that Nicole and Olivia will be attending the academy this fall. Davis has found funding through grants and donations to cover the costs of purchasing a new drone and training. He is still working on the details.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss Resolution 2021-22. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to adopt Resolution 2021-22 authorizing the Mayor and City Administrator to deliver to the Fayette County Commissioner of elections a request to submit the question of changing the Fayette city council member terms from a two (2) year term to a four (4) year term and shall be staggered terms and placed on the November, 2, 2021, ballot. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss and approve the contract change order number 3 for the Water Street improvements project 20-897. Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve the contract change order number 3 for the Water Street improvements project 20-897 in the amount of $877.50. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss partial pay estimate number 4 to Heartland Asphalt, Inc. for the Water Street improvements project in the amount of $61,765.08. Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve partial pay estimate number 4 to Heartland Asphalt, Inc. for the Water Street improvements project 20-897 in the amount of $61,765.08. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss and consider approving the Fayette Community Library to use savings and/or CDs for purchase of IT upgrades. Library Director Annette Butikofer was present to advise the council of the research and assessments that were completed. The technology upgrades, hardware, software, support and cybersecurity would cost approximately $960.36 per month for the next 12 months. After 9 months, a reevaluation will be completed. Butikofer advised she is recommending the library use funds from the library's savings and/or CD investment to cover the costs for the 12 month agreement. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the library using funds from their savings and/or CD investments to use toward IT services for the Fayette Community Library, pending approval from the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss and approve Partial Pay Estimate Number 2 to Dave's Home Improvement for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 500 W. Clark Street in the amount of $15,838. Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve Partial Pay Estimate Number 2 to Dave's Home Improvement for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 500 W. Clark Street in the amount of $15,838. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss and consider purchasing up to $9,500 in technology equipment with state funding. McGrane advised the state is offering cities and counties up to $9,500 in new laptops, tablets and accessories to better equip them to be able to work remotely. McGrane advised the department supervisors indicated they would each need at least one laptop for their departments and we may have extra funding to purchase a laptop/tablet for the elected officials to borrow for meetings. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to move to purchase up to $9,500 in technology equipment through the BuyIT at OCIO using state funding. All ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss Resolution 2021-23. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to adopt Resolution 2021-23 affirming the successful completion of the development agreement filed on March 5, 2001. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss Resolution 2021-24. McGrane briefly explained some of the transfers. Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to adopt Resolution 2021-24 transferring funds for fiscal year 2021. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to discuss Resolution 2021-25. This agreement was provided by Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation and reviewed by the city attorney. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to adopt Resolution 2021-25 approving a 28E Agreement between Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation and the City of Fayette. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to discuss Resolution 2021-26. This updated agreement was provided by the Fayette County Sheriff's Office since the prior agreement ended on June 30, 2021. Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to adopt Resolution 2021-26 approving a 28E Agreement for dispatching services with the Fayette County Sheriff's Office and the City of Fayette. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.

     There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:39 pm.