REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
October 16, 2017
The City Council of the city of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, October 16, 2017 at 7:30pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Larson, Kragnes, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 10/2/17, the claims list of 10/3/17 – 10/16/17, the renewal of a liquor license, outdoor service and Sunday sales to Down Town Lounge and the renewal of a native wine permit and Sunday sales for Pavo Blue/Upper Iowa University. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes to approve, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request and the Fayette Fire Departments recommendation, moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to appoint Jason Niles and Keegan Clark, both from Fayette, to the Fayette Fire Department. All ayes, carried.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane reported to the council that Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand and McGrane met with Jerald Ballanger (Ia Dept of Homeland Security & Emergency Management) on Oct. 11th to discuss and update the flood damage progress. McGrane attended an “On-The-Road” Budgeting, Examinations and Accounting for Municipalities training at UIU on Oct.12th. Bacon Concrete has started working on repairing Cardinal Park Sports Complex flood damages. McGrane advised there was some minor damage to the bridge on South Main Street from the flood that was recently discovered. It has been pointed out to Ballanger and Hildebrand is working on getting estimates. McGrane advised the council of a few up-coming city notices including: Leaf pick-up will begin on Monday, Oct. 23rd and will take place on Monday’s (weather permitting) [Citizens may place their leaves on the City parkway or right-of-way near the street], Fall Clean-Up Day will be Thursday, Oct. 19th, and the city will be flushing hydrants on Tuesday, Oct. 24th (weather permitting) beginning at 7AM. McGrane also presented the compliance review results from the recent IPERS audit to the council.
Police Chief Pisanti advised the department has been working on quite a few cases and the new police vehicle should be here this week.
Moved Tucker, seconded Kragnes, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board Minutes from September 13, 2017. All ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to discuss and receive an update from Sam Whitehead, the Fayette County Economic Director. All Ayes. Whitehead advised: He has been scheduling meetings with entrepreneurs interested in starting a new business with consultants to discuss, free of charge, business plans and ideas and Whitehead has helped at least two clients out of Fayette; He has been working with Robert Wolf who met with Mayor Wenthe and Admin. McGrane to discuss regionalism and connecting communities across NE Iowa and discussed a community project proposal that was discussed that the city may partake in the future; He met with Wenthe, McGrane and Folsom Developments about redeveloping our housing strategies; He has been helping with working on a workforce road map project that is a study of our labor-ship and how to attract more people to our area; He is waiting to hear back from a Federal EEA grant; He was on the planning committee for the STEM Festival in Oelwein last week and he made sure that North Fayette Valley was included; He reminded the council that there are revolving loan funds available for GAP financing for people looking to start a business and are falling a little short on financing: He heard there may be a need for an area investment network and if there are any local investors to contact Whitehead.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to receive an update from Amy Tucker about the Fayette Hazard Mitigation Plan. Tucker shared a few updates to the plan including addressing storm water/flooding drainage. Tucker also shared the Turkey River Watershed Flood Reduction Plan. If anyone has suggestions they should contact Tucker.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss appointing Housing Committee members for the CDBG Owner Occupied grant. McGrane can notify the community through emails if anyone is interested in serving on a Housing Committee to contact Fayette City Hall.
Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Ordinance 497 – Amending Fayette city code section 69.08 parking regulations: No parking zones by adding sub section 13. No parking on east side of Mechanic Street from West Madison Street to West Jay Street, third and final reading. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to approve the third and final reading and adopt Ordinance 497. On roll call, Larson, Tucker and Wulfekuhle ayes, Kragnes and Nefzger nay, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to introduce Resolution 2017-16. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve and adopt Resolution 2017-16: City Street Financial Report for FY 2017. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to introduce Resolution 2017-17. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Kragnes, to approve and adopt Resolution 2017-17: Authorizing submission of a CDBG Application to the Iowa Economic Development Authority and the Expenditure of Funds for a CDBG General Application for Owner Occupied Housing Rehabilitation Program. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:14pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
October 2, 2017
The City Council of the city of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, October 2, 2017 at 7:30pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, Larson, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 9/18/17, claims list of 9/18/17 – 10/2/17, the August 2017 Treasurer’s/Clerk’s Report, and the renewal of a beer permit for Gavins IGA. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer's Balance for Fund Accounts as of August 31, 2017: Checking $1,294,892.53; Savings $242,887.21; Investments $1,128,876.14; Library Memorial $8,924.62. Total August Receipts: $65,922.92. Total August Disbursements: $102,146.81. Bank Balance: $2,675,580.50.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes to approve, motion carried.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane reported to the council that he met with Danielle Huffine with IPERS for an audit on Sept. 21st. Fayette Library Director Linda Adams, Assistant Library Director Annette Butikofer and McGrane attended the Fayette County Supervisors meeting on Sept. 22nd to discuss future funding of the libraries throughout the county. Jeremy Lockard and Bryce Bentley with Ridihalgh Fuelling Snitker Weber & Co. were at city hall Sept. 26th – 28th conducting the on-site portion of the city exam. McGrane advised he is still working with the insurance company for the Pre-Treatment Plant in reference to the flooding. McGrane informed the council that there is a good chance that Bacon Concrete would start working on Cardinal Park this week.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to discuss the Fayette Community Library 2017 Iowa Public Library General Information Survey. Wenthe highlighted a few items in the report.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to discuss Ordinance 497 – Amending Fayette city code section 69.08 parking regulations: No parking zones by adding sub section 13. No parking on east side of Mechanic Street from West Madison Street to East Jay Street, second reading. Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to waive the third reading of Ordinance 497. Larson, Tucker and Wulfekuhle aye, Kragnes and Nefzger nay, motion carried (on 10/6/2017 discovered the motion failed because it must pass with a three-fourths vote). Moved Larson, seconded Tucker, to approve the second reading and adopt Ordinance 497. On roll call, Larson, Tucker and Wulfekuhle ayes, Kragnes and Nefzger nay, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to introduce Resolution 2017-15. Moved Tucker, seconded Kragnes, to approve and adopt Resolution 2017-15: A resolution awarding the Cardinal Park Flooding Project to Bacon Concrete LLC out of Postville, Iowa, in the amount of $41,629. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised the council that Upper Iowa University had withdrawn their request to seek approval of closing the 200 block of S. Main St. between State St. and Clark St. from 4PM to 11:30PM on Saturday, Oct. 28th, for a post-game bash for UIU’s Homecoming celebration due to not being able to get all community partners on board.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Kragnes, to discuss approving a CDBG Housing Rehabilitation grant. Lori Brockway with Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission discussed details about the grant with the council. Brockway informed the council that there is no longer a city match. If the city is awarded the grant, then homeowners in Fayette that meet low to moderate income requirements may apply for a forgivable loan for housing projects such as electrical, roof, windows, lead hazard reduction, plumbing, heating, etc. The cost to the city would be $1,500 for Upper Explorerland to prepare, help manage and apply for the grant. Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve and adopt the grant writing agreement and approve the expenditure of $1,500 for the grant. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to discuss replacing the automatic alarm dialer at the pre-treatment plant. McGrane explained that the current automatic dialer is malfunctioning. Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the purchase of a new alarm dialer for the wastewater treatment plant from Automatic Systems Co. in the amount of $2,275 plus any taxes, fees and permits that are necessary. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Kragnes, to discuss monthly transfers from the Sewer fund to the Sewer SRF Sinking fund. McGrane explained this was suggested from the auditors as an easy way to meet the SRF Sewer Revenue Bond contract requirement of maintaining 110% of the annual debt service (or payment). McGrane recommended transferring $9,575.50 each month, starting with July 2017, as that amount is 110% of $104,460 (which is the city’s largest annual payment in fiscal year 2029) divided by 12 months. The annual payments fluctuate slightly each year, by using the largest payment amount, the city will not have to change the monthly transfer amount each year. The city will make the annual payments out of the Sewer SRF Sinking fund. Moved Nefzger, seconded Kragnes, to approve monthly transfers of $9,575.50 from the Sewer fund to the Sewer SRF Sinking fund starting from July 2017 and lasting until the Sewer Revenue Bond is paid off. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Nefzger, to have Amy Tucker provide an update from the Fayette Hazard Mitigation meetings. Tucker advised she has been attending some of the Fayette County Hazard Mitigation meetings and briefly explained what has been discussed at the meetings. Tucker advised she was hoping to have an updated document to share with the council, but she hasn’t received it yet and will provide an update at the next council meeting.
At 8:02pm, moved Tucker, seconded Kragnes, to go into closed session per Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(j) to discuss the purchase or sale of real estate only where premature disclosure could be reasonably expected to increase the price the City would have to pay for that property or reduce the price the City would receive for that property. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
At 8:13pm, moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to get out of closed session. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:13pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
September 18, 2017
The City Council of the city of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, September 18, 2017 at 7:30pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Larson, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent – Kragnes.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 9/5/17 and the claims list of 9/6/17 – 9/18/17. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Nefzger, to approve the amended agenda, moving item 8G to 8I, adding 8G – consideration and awarding the Cardinal Park Flood Repairs to Bacon Concrete LLC out of Postville, Iowa and adding 8H – consideration and discussion to apply for a CDBG Housing Rehabilitation grant. All ayes to approve, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request and the Fayette Ambulance Services recommendation, moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to appoint Austin Steil and Caitlin Himes to the Fayette Ambulance Service. Steil is currently an EMT and Himes will be a driver, but is considering going through EMT school. Both passed background checks. All ayes, carried. Wenthe also wanted to thank the Fayette Recreation Board for hosting another successful Music in the Park last night.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane reported to the council that City Hall will be busy the next few weeks getting water bills prepared and mailed, gathering and uploading information to the FEMA website to get financial assistance from the July flood, preparing and submitting the annual street report and preparing for an IPERS audit and the city exam later this week and the following week. McGrane attended the Housing Study Focus Group along with a few other Housing Study meetings on 9/5 and 9/6, met with Jerald Ballanger (Ia Dept of Homeland Security & Emergency Management) for a Scoping Meeting for FEMA funds on 9/13 and 9/14 and met with area City Administrators on 9/14. McGrane and Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand are still working with the insurance company for the Pre-Treatment Plant damage due to the flood. A retirement reception is planned for Library Director Linda Adams on 9/27 from 5PM-7PM at the Fayette Community Library. The Friends of the Library will have refreshments available.
Police Chief Pisanti wanted to thank everyone for their participation with Watermelon Days. There were no reported incidents or crimes during the event.
Moved Tucker, seconded Larson, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board Minutes from August 9, 2017. All ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Ordinance 497 – Amending Fayette city code section 69.08 parking regulations: No parking zones by adding sub section 13. No parking on east side of Mechanic Street from West Madison Street to East Jay Street, first reading. Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the first reading of Ordinance 497. On roll call, Larson, Wulfekuhle and Tucker ayes, Nefzger nay, carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to consider vacating the alley in between the 700 and 800 blocks of S. Main Street and Washington Street. City Attorney, Pat Dillon, advised some of the pros and cons of vacating the property. Dillon mentioned it is hard to get property back once it is vacated, most of the time cities don’t give up property unless there is a specific reason, if the property is a burden or causing problems for the city or the town is not planning on growing in that direction those are reasons to vacate the property. If the city does vacate the property, it is recommended that the city maintains an easement for future utilities if something changes and the city needs to get access to that area. After further discussion, the council took no action.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to consider and approve Dave Buchholz placing a portable building at 233 S. Main Street. Buchholz was present to inform the council of his plan to place a red, 10x16 portable building on the south side of the current station. The 16 foot side would face S. Main Street and the building would be to store inventory for Buchholz’s business. Moved Nefzger to refer this to the Board of Adjustments. After further discussion, Nefzger withdrew her motion. Moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to have the City Attorney review the city code to find out if a variance is required. All ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to consider and approve Jeff Scott replacing sidewalk and adding a curb at 246 S. Main Street. Wenthe advised the plans have changed since the council packet was put together and McGrane passed out an updated diagram. Scott no longer wants to put a curb at 246 S. Main Street, just leave it as it is because it will be an entrance and exit to a parking area. Scott would like to change the last parking space in the 200 block of S. Main Street, on the west side in front of Scott’s Pharmacy to a handicap parking spot. Moved Tucker, seconded Larson, to accept Scott’s second plan and place a handicap parking space in the suggested space. All ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Nefzger, to consider and approve the purchase of a mower as budgeted to replace the old mower. Public Works Director Hildebrand advised this mower is used for the lagoons, the sports complex, the Frisbee golf area and the welcome to Fayette’s signs. Hildebrand received a bid from Baumler Implement (West Union) for $2700 and P&K Midwest, Inc. (Sumner) for $2890. Moved Larson, seconded Nefzger, to approve the purchase of a new mower. All ayes, carried.
Moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to consider and approve replacing the chlorinator. Hildebrand advised the current chlorinator is about 25 years old and has been acting up. Hildebrand received a quote from J&R Supply, Inc. (East Dubuque, IL) for $1770. After discussion, moved Larson, seconded Nefzger to purchase a new chlorinator. All ayes, carried.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2017-14: Amending the city personnel policy, section 2.19a Residency requirements. Nefzger recommended updating the residency requirements by expanding the requirements to police officers. City Attorney Pat Dillon advised the trend is going away from requiring employees to live in town unless there is a compelling need. Dillon recommended to the council if they decide to adopt a residency restriction policy, it should be very broad due to the trend of the economy. A smaller residency restriction makes it harder to recruit future employees and the council cannot look at this as an economic development engine, it has to be rationally connected to their performance. Dillon also stated that some employees, including the Police Chief, have contracts with the city. The residency requirement in the personnel policy would be for employees that do not have a performance contract or that have a contract but it doesn’t mention any residency requirements within the contract. After discussion, moved Tucker, seconded Nefzger, to approve Resolution 2017-14, which would give the police chief, public works director and assistant public works director up to two years from time of employment or appointment to reside within the City of Fayette or within one mile of the Fayette city limits. Police officers, other than the police chief, must reside within a 20-air mile radius of the Fayette city limits within two years of employment or appointment. It also clarifies the principal place of residence as that place where an employee actually lives and which the employee declares as the employee’s home with the intent to remain there indefinitely. On roll call, Tucker, Nefzger and Wulfekuhle aye, Larson nay, carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Nefzger, to discuss changing the ATV and UTV city code. Adam Hildebrand had presented the council with a few suggestions to the city code. Currently snowmobiles, ATV’s and UTV’s are all grouped together in the same code section and Hildebrand suggested separating them. He would also like the council to consider letting people drive ATV’s and UTV’s on city roads within the daylight hours. After discussion, moved Nefzger, seconded Larson, to research and look at the entire section of this code to update it, including fines and fees. All ayes, carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to consider and award the Cardinal Park Flood Repairs to Bacon Concrete, LLC, out of Postville, Iowa. McGrane explained to the council that Fehr Graham was hired to assist with repairing Cardinal Park due to the extensive amount of damage. Fehr Graham was the engineer when the park was built and had all the information. Due to FEMA regulations, the city needed at least three different bids for the project in order to be able to get financial help from FEMA. Fehr Graham put together an estimate of $41,990 and sent it out for bids. Earlier today we held the bid opening and the bids received were: Bacon Concrete LLC, Postville - $41,629; Leslie Lauer & Sons, Inc., West Union - $43,566.71; and Super Landscapes, West Union - $75,757. Fehr Graham recommends the council award the bid to the lowest bidder, Bacon Concrete. Public Works Director Hildebrand advised Bacon Concrete worked on the cement flood wall in town and did a good job. After discussion, moved Tucker, seconded Nefzger, to award the construction contract for the Cardinal Park project to Bacon Concrete LLC out of Postville, Iowa, per their proposal. All ayes, carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to discuss applying for a CDBG Housing Rehabilitation grant. McGrane explained the city was awarded a CDBG Housing Rehab grant years ago to help Fayette residents who are below 80% low and moderate income (LMI) make housing repairs such as repairing or replacing roofs, doors, windows, electrical, etc. In the past, the city had to have a match to the funds, but that has since went away. The grant could help about 6 homeowners in Fayette. The cost to the city would be $1500 for Upper Explorerland to write the grant, submit and help manage the program. If the council is interested, the next step would be to invite Lori Brockway with Upper Explorerland to a future council meeting to help answer any questions. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to invite Brockway to a future council meeting to get more details. All ayes, motion carried.
At 8:29pm, moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to go into closed session per Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(j) to discuss the purchase or sale of real estate only where premature disclosure could be reasonably expected to increase the price the City would have to pay for that property or reduce the price the City would receive for that property. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
At 8:41pm, moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to get out of closed session. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Nefzger, to direct Administrator McGrane to follow up with what was discussed in the closed session. All ayes, carried.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:42pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
September 5, 2017
The City Council of the city of Fayette, Iowa, met Tuesday, September 5, 2017 at 7:30pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, Larson, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 8/21/17, claims list of 8/22/17 – 9/5/17, the June 2017 and July 2017 Treasurer’s/Clerk’s Reports, the June 2017 Budget Report, and the Outstanding Obligations Disclosure Statement Report for FY2017. The total debt for the city ending 6/30/17 was $1,616,535.50. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer's Balance for Fund Accounts as of June 30, 2017: General $213,868.81; Streets $305,948.29; Debt Service $18,732.67; Water Utility $235,735.90; Water T&A $22,183.34; Sewer Utility $219,463.90; Landfill/Recycling $2,708.27; Yard Waste $5,229.67; Bolger Fund $225,731.89; TIF $51,749.62; Local Option Tax $8,078.58; Storm Water $10,994.18; Downtown Project ($29,715.04); Franchise Fees $48,920.48. June Receipts by Fund: General $61,692.09; Streets $108,191.12; Debt Service $13,565.96; Water Utility $4,083.72; Water T&A $1,010; Sewer Utility $5,269.17; LF/Recycling $894.61; Yard Waste $188.72; Bolger $37,333.18; TIF $71.90; Local Option $16,157.16; Storm Water $130.31. Total Receipts $248,587.91. June Disbursements by Fund: General $145,618.99; Streets $13,466.99; Water Utility $119,660.46; Water T&A $6,606.73; Sewer Utility $93,636.02; LF/Recycling $80.00; Yard Waste $6,661.76; Bolger $1,245; TIF $5,409.26; Local Option $94,596.40. Total Disbursements: $486,981.61. Investments: $1,291,619.01. Bank Balance $2,624,743.56. Balance with Library Funds $2,714,455.44.
Treasurer’s Balance as of July 31, 2017: Checking $1,324,160.77; Savings $242,815.03; Investments $1,128,876.14; Library Memorial $9,309.81. Total July Receipts: $181,664.29. Total July Disbursements: $188,446.43. Balance: $2,705,161.75.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to discuss Frank Atchison water bill for 308 E. State Street. Atchison was not present. After discussion, no action was taken.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes to approve, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised the council that a few housing focus groups took place today and more will take place tomorrow. This is part of the business and cultural development study that UIU and the City of Fayette partnered together to strengthen our community. City Administrator/Clerk McGrane and Wenthe attended a FEMA/Ia Homeland Security & Emergency Management Public Assistance Applicant Briefing on August 31st.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane reported to the council that he attended the UIU Resource Fair on 8/24 to encourage new students to use fayetteiowa.com as a resource for city information, local businesses, and activities/events. McGrane also attended the UIU Haunted Hayride meeting on 8/29 and it was decided to hold their event on the same night as our town trick-or-treating and Maple Crests Halloween event to hopefully bring more people to Fayette that evening. McGrane advised at the Fayette Co. Advisory Committee meeting on 8/30 it was reported that NEIA Community Action Corp. is anticipating to start building the new house at 104 King St. in the Spring of 2018. McGrane also informed the council that the Fayette Community Library has posted and published the help wanted ad to hire a new part time assistant librarian.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to get an update on Kevin Lehs property at 516 W. Water St. Lehs was not present at the meeting. Nefzger advised she spoke to Lehs and he moved the pile of dirt, moved and stacked the pile of bricks and tiles, and he has an individual coming in to do some tuck-pointing to the house. Chief Pisanti advised he spoke to Lehs about a week and a half ago and advised him of the nuisance abatement ordinance. Lehs said he would take care of it and he did.
Moved Larson, seconded Kragnes, to consider and take action on the storm water drainage at Madison and King Streets. Wenthe, Tucker and Public Works Director Hildebrand met with Chris Matt on 8/29. Their recommendation would be a two-phase approach. Matt recently placed an additional drain at this location. The first phase would include rerouting the storm water, lowering the tile on Matt’s property, and move forward with the construction work to hopefully address the storm water issue. If phase one does not help, then move to phase two which would be to dig out the ditch at this location to hopefully capture the storm water and hold it a little longer before it drains across the road. After discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approach Matt about returning the ditch to the original condition. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to consider inspecting or replacing the city-owned Rohn 25G tower. The city has received a few rough estimates from Tri State Tower. McGrane received specific information from the Fayette County E911 Coordinator about what they currently have on the tower which he forwarded to Tri State Tower to get a more accurate estimate. McGrane is still waiting to get an estimate from another company. McGrane attended the Fayette County E911 meeting on 8/23 and the committee did approve to pay for half the cost of a tower inspection up to $1500. Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to table. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to review updates of the Fayette Flooding from July 22nd, 2017, timeline. Wenthe advised the council of the latest updates and information including designated FEMA funding is currently frozen due to the disasters in Texas and possibly in Florida to assist them. The city will get reimbursed however it may not happen as quickly as originally planned. McGrane advised he is continuing to work with the insurance company for the pre-treatment plant flood damage.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to discuss parking issues in the 500 block of Mechanic Street near the North Ridge condos. After discussion, moved Larson, seconded Wulfekuhle, to change the ordinance to make the east side of Mechanic Street from E. Jay St. to W. Madison St. no parking any time. Three ayes, Kragnes and Nefzger nay, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Kragnes, to discuss a housing assessment with Glenn Lyons and Marilyn Arber with 571 Polson Developments. The city and UIU have a contract with Zach Mannheimer and McClure Engineering to get some revitalization ideas. Lyons and Arber were contacted by Mannheimer to take a look at Fayette’s housing market. They are looking at the economic & demographic data and are meeting with some individuals & focus groups while they are in town for a couple days. After they are finished with their research they will provide a preliminary analysis that will include if there is a reasonable demand for either ownership housing for single families or rental apartments. If there is, they will start to look at sites and a feasibility analysis that they could do a preliminary analysis on. If there doesn’t appear to be a strong enough demand in either of those options, they will help us to start conversations about what will it take to create or enhance that demand.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to consider changing the days and/or the hours of the Fayette Yard Waste Site. Larson advised he was approached by a couple people in town about doing something different with the hours of the Yard Waste Site. After discussion and different options were discussed, no action was taken.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to consider surveying the property lines for the Open Air Market. McGrane advised a property owner next to the Open Air Market recently inquired about putting up a structure on their property. In doing some research, it was discovered that the city may not have a survey of the lot lines for the Open Air Market and there are some conflicting maps that show where the lot lines are. The Open Air Market is a flood buy-out area so nothing can be built on the property. Fehr Graham Engineering provided a cost estimate of $1,150 to take a survey of the entire Open Air Market area. Moved Larson, seconded Nefzger, to contact the owners of the property next to the Open Air Market to ask if they would want to pay half the cost of the survey. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to consider an extension of Officer Ben Davis living outside the city limits. Davis was granted a waiver to the residency requirement for one year when he was hired and that time has now passed. After discussion, moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to provide Officer Ben Davis one more year from his hire date (making it a total of two years) to find residency in the Fayette city limits. Three ayes, Kragnes and Larson nay, motion carried. The council requested to have Davis attend the next regular city council meeting.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to discuss the FY2017 ending balances and transfers to and from savings and budget transfers. McGrane explained the auditors require council approval for the end of the year transfers, even though this is policy and discussed during budget meetings. The funds remaining on June 30th are put into savings for equipment, vehicles or projects for the following fiscal year or transferred out of savings to help cover extra costs accrued. McGrane explained there was one more local option sales tax deposit on June 30th that was not accounted for when McGrane made the bank transfers on that same day. He will make those transfers in the current fiscal year. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve the ending balances and transfers. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 9:34pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 21, 2017
The City Council of the city of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, August 21, 2017 at 7:30pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, Larson, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 8/7/17, the claims list of 8/8/17 – 8/21/17, and the renewal of a liquor license for Shiner’s Bar and Grill. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Fayette citizen John Kelly informed the council on the damage he received from the wastewater that backed-up due to the heavy rains on Jul. 22. He asked the council if there was any warning system in place to notify citizens. Mayor Wenthe advised his understanding was the fire department drives around town with their lights and sirens on warning citizens when the Volga River is going to breach its banks and flood the town. Wenthe is not aware of any warning for wastewater possibly backing-up in resident’s homes. The city can look into different alert systems for future circumstances.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes to approve, carried.
Mayor Wenthe provided a list of Fayette students interested in a North Fayette Valley (NFV) school activity bus. Amy Tucker advised she had one high school student contact her that was interested in the bus, too. Wenthe will contact NFV Superintendent Duane Willhite to let him know about our findings.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council he had met with Greg Huff with the Iowa Rural Water Association for their annual visit, attended the NEIA Local Housing Trust Fund meeting, and met with Doug Jones for the city’s annual IMWCA audit over the last few weeks. McGrane advised a citizen had inquired at the last council meeting if the cities insurance would cover the cost of the damage to residents due to the wastewater back-up in basements and the insurance does not cover that type of damage. The first day to file nomination papers to run for mayor or city council is 8/28/17. The last day to file is 9/21/17. Nomination papers and candidate affidavit forms are available to pick up at Fayette City Hall or you can print them off at www.sos.state.ia.us, but the nomination papers must be filed with the Fayette County Auditor’s office in West Union. McGrane also reminded the council the next council meeting will be on Tues., Sept. 5 due to Labor Day. City hall will be closed on Labor Day.
Police Chief Pisanti informed the council that UIU move-in day is Wed., Aug. 23, so there will be some heavy traffic around town that day.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the Fayette Recreation Board minutes from Aug. 14, 2017. Tucker highlighted a few of the items in the minutes and encouraged anyone to share their ideas with the Recreation Board members. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve the Fayette Recreation Board minutes from Aug. 14, 2017. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the Streets Committee minutes from Aug. 16, 2017 and consideration and action of storm water drainage at the corner of Madison and King Streets. Wulfekuhle highlighted a few of the items in the minutes. Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand had informed the Streets Committee that Doug Egeland thought he could fix the culverts and make them safer for around $6,500. It was questioned if Chris Matt had permission to fill in the ditch at 105 W. Madison St. The city can look into it. After further discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to proceed with checking with the property owner of 105 W. Madison St. to see what they can do to assist with the storm water drainage and proceed with any recommendations that Public Works Director Hildebrand would have. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to discuss the timeline and updates from the Fayette flooding on Jul. 22, 2017. Mayor Wenthe gave an update on the progress from the flooding.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to consider and take action of hiring a Financial Advisor. The council was provided a few agreements/proposals from PFM Financial Advisors LLC and Speer Financial, Inc. McGrane explained both companies sent a representative up to meet with him in person over the last week. PFM presented two proposals, one for $5,000 to specifically work on the study for the downtown project and the other for $7,000 to work on the study as well as a full one year retainer for other reports or requests the council may request. Speer’s proposal did not include a cost for the study or project because they would charge for their services if the city decided to take out financing for the project. PFM would also have an additional charge on top of their fees if the city decided to take out financing. After further discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to hire Speer Financial, Inc. to present to the council their financial advice for financing the downtown project and W. Water Street. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to consider vacating the alley in between the 700 and 800 blocks of S. Main St. and Washington St. A citizen would like the council to consider vacating the alley at this location. McGrane explained he discovered the city had vacated some of the alleys in Fayette around twenty to thirty years ago that were no longer used. The city offered portions of the alley to adjacent property owners at the property owners cost. John Kelly advised the council that the city may want to research if that specific alley is the only access to one of the old railroad property parcels. After further discussion, moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to have the city attorney present the costs of vacating the property and the future legal issues or risks there may be for vacating the property to the council. All ayes, motion carried.
At 8:33pm, moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to go into closed session per Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(j) to discuss the purchase or sale of real estate only where premature disclosure could be reasonably expected to increase the price the City would have to pay for that property or reduce the price the City would receive for that property. All ayes, motion carried.
After returning to open session, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:48pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 7, 2017
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, August 7, 2017, at 7:30pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, Larson, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 7/17/17 and the claims list of 7/18/17 – 8/7/17. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Renee Voshell informed the Mayor and Council about a bible reading event she is planning that will take place at Klock’s Island Park, the Open Air Market Park and a gazebo outside Maple Crest Manor Nursing Home and Assisted Living. The reading will be from 7AM to 8PM on both Friday, Sept. 15th and Saturday, Sept. 16th. Anyone interested in reading a portion of the bible at this event or has any questions may contact Kathy Thomas at 563-880-4091, Barb Hackmann at 563-880-8362 or Renee Voshell at 563-608-5518. The Mayor and Council appreciated her informing them about the event and requested City Administrator/Clerk McGrane to include the information in an upcoming community email so the public is aware.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Kragnes, to add action item 7C under New Business regarding Madison and King Streets storm water drainage. All ayes, motion carried. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe reported that he had inquired with Duane Willhite, North Fayette Valley (NFV) Superintendent, about how many students in the Fayette area would be necessary to have an activities bus that would transport students to and from Fayette to West Union. Wenthe requested McGrane to inform the public through an upcoming community email to contact City Hall, the Mayor or a Council member if they would have a need for an activities bus in Fayette. Wenthe advised if the school would not be able to offer the service, maybe the Fayette Recreation Board could help.
City Admin/Clerk McGrane reported to the council that he attended 18 classes at the Iowa Municipal Professionals Institute and Academy in Ames between July 17th and 28th. McGrane has been preparing for upcoming audits and reviews for IMWCA and IPERS. The exterior, underside of the water tower was cleaned in July, as the council had budgeted for. Fayette Library Director Linda Adams had turned in her letter of retirement to the city. Her last day will be on September 29th, 2017. Adams was hired on November 21st, 1988, and has served the citizens of Fayette for almost 29 years.
Police Chief Pisanti informed the council that the Fayette Police Dept. has completed its first week of the contract with Upper Iowa University (UIU). Fayette Officer Waid has almost completed his Field Training.
Moved Tucker, seconded Larson, to approve the Fayette Community Library board minutes from July 11, 2017. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Kragnes, to discuss Fayette flooding from July 22nd, 2017. Mayor Wenthe and McGrane provided a timeline to the council of the events of the flood which included the estimated damage of approximately $80,000 of city property, meetings with Iowa Homeland Security & Emergency Management Department (IHSEMD) and clean-up process. Wenthe advised the IHSEMD is hoping to provide all the details to the President of the United States so he will consider declaring a disaster. If the President does declare our area a disaster, then the city may be able to receive up to 75-90% of approved city expenses being reimbursed for flood repair and replacement of damaged facilities and areas. Tucker asked that since the storm sewer system couldn’t keep up with all the rain water, causing multiple drains to back-up, if there was anything the city could do to help prevent this in the future. Larson commented that once the system is full of water, then there’s no place for the water to go. Public Works Director Hildebrand advised that the city pumps were pumping the whole time during the flood at over 1,000 gallons per minute. Hildebrand advised that most basements that were backed-up and flooded was due to the sewer lines not being able to keep up with all the rain water and not from the river flooding. In 2014 when the river flooded the sewer plant, no one in town had reported to Hildebrand that they had any sewer back-up in their basements. It was also discussed that residents who have sump pumps should not have them pumping down their sewer drains. Hildebrand informed the council that the pre-treatment lift station, the lagoons and well number 3 all have back-up generators if the power would ever go off in a situation like this. David Orr advised his mother lives on Mechanic St. and she had wastewater backup in her basement. Orr wanted to know if the cities insurance company would pay for damages. Wenthe advised we will look into it. The council discussed other options and citizen suggestions due to the flood.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Kragnes, to discuss the consideration of hiring a structural engineer to inspect the city owned Rohn 25G tower. McGrane advised AC Skyways/Allamakee Clayton Electric Cooperative had inquired about placing an antenna on the tower to provide wireless internet to the community. McGrane contacted Brenda VandeVoorde, the Fayette County E911 Coordinator, to inform them of the discussion since they have an antenna on the tower that is used for emergency services. VandeVoorde inquired with their Engineer and they did not recommend adding anything new to the tower until an inspection was done. The Engineer advised the life of a tower like this is 25 years and it is in its final years. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to have the tower inspected to determine the capacity and status of the tower as well as research the cost of replacing the tower. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to discuss Madison and King Streets storm water drainage. Public Works Director Hildebrand advised the council the storm sewer that is under the road is in need of repair or replacement and would recommend the issue be referred to the Streets Committee to look into it. Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to refer the storm water drainage at Madison and King Streets to the Streets Committee. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to discuss the consideration of hiring a municipal or financial advisor to provide financial options to the council for the downtown and Water Street project. McGrane advised the city was awarded $350,000 of the $500,000 for the CDBG Community Facilities & Service Grant to be used for storm sewer system improvements in downtown Fayette on Main St. as part of the $3,015,012 Downtown Project. We were not awarded the CDBG Water/Sewer grant. We were also awarded a SRF Water Resource Restoration Sponsored Project which would provide 10% of the SRF wastewater loan amount (approx. $31,900) for the project. McGrane felt it was in the best interest of the city to hire a Municipal Advisor to research the financial options if the council wanted to move forward with this project. Once the council understands the options, then they can decide if they want to move forward with the project or not. Moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to obtain a scope of practice and cost estimate from a few different advisors for this project. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:22pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
July 17, 2017
The City Council of the city of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, July 17, 2017 at 7:30pm in the ICN Room at the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, Larson, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Prior to this meeting, at 6:30pm, the mayor & council held a work session and public meeting to discuss the rental housing code draft ordinance.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 7/3/17, the special meeting minutes of 7/10/17 and the claims list of 7/4/17 – 7/17/17. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes to approve, carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised the council that the City Administrator, Kris McGrane, is at clerk and finance school for two weeks learning about his duties as a clerk and government finances.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane had prepared a report to the council that stated Todd Granberg, co-owner of Rite Price Office Supply in Oelwein, donated a copy machine/scanner/printer to the Fayette Fire Department on July 6th. Mayor Wenthe thanked Rite Price for the donation of the copy machine.
Police Chief Pisanti introduced to the council the new full time Fayette Police Officer, Anthony Landis.
Moved Tucker, seconded Kragnes, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board minutes from June 7, 2017. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Board of Adjustments minutes from July 6, 2017. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Tucker, to swear in Anthony Landis as a full time police officer.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to discuss hiring Brian J. Waid. Chief Pisanti advised the council that Waid is from Charles City and he is a certified police officer. Waid has already passed the MMPI. Moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle to conditionally offer Brian J. Waid a full time police officer job at a salary of $37,000 per year, based on Waid successfully completing the physical agility test & fingerprinting/background investigation, with a tentative starting date of Monday, July 24th, 2017. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to waive the residency requirement for Brian Waid for one year to give him time to find a residence in the corporate limits of the City of Fayette or within one mile of the Fayette City limits. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Nefzger, to discuss the approval of the change of scope authorization from for Fehr Graham – 2017 Water System Improvements project. Moved Nefzger, seconded Kragnes, to approve the change of scope authorization form for Fehr Graham for the 2017 Water System Improvement project of $2,750 increase for a total of $6,750. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Larson, to discuss the annual review proposals. Moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve hiring Ridihalgh, Fuelling, Snitker, Weber & Co. to perform the city of Fayette’s annual review for FY2017. Four ayes, Larson nay, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:50 pm.
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
July 10, 2017
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, July 10, 2017 at 7:30pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, Larson, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to approve the agenda. All ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the consideration of hiring a new police officer, purchase a new police vehicle and purchase police equipment. Police Chief Pisanti advised the council the Police Committee met last Thursday, July 6th, and interviewed a couple applicants for the two available full time police officer positions. Both applicants had submitted applications last year when the department was going through the hiring process for the open full time position and recently submitted applications again. Two other applicants have submitted applications but neither are certified. The city is still accepting applications until July 15th. One of the full time police applicants, Anthony William Charles Landis, is currently a Fayette County Sheriff’s Office deputy. Landis is currently from Westgate, Iowa, has graduated from the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy and is fully certified. The Police Committee recommends the council hire Landis as a full time Fayette police officer. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to conditionally offer Anthony William Charles Landis a full time police officer job at a salary of $37,000 per year, based on Landis successfully completing the MMPI and medical/physical exams, with a tentative start date of Monday, July 17th, 2017. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to waive the residency requirement for Anthony Landis for one year to give him time to find a residence in the corporate limits of the City of Fayette or within one mile of the Fayette City limits. Four voted aye, Larson nay, motion carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve a lease agreement for a 2017 Ford Explorer and install the Fayette Police Department’s current radio and repeater equipment from the 2007 Ford Explorer for a cost of $36,699.43. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Nefzger, to approve the Fayette Police Department to purchase two Glock firearms at a price of $604 each to be used by the two new full time officers. The firearms will be maintained by the city and will be treated as other city owned police equipment used by full time officers. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:44pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
July 3, 2017
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, July 3, 2017 at 7:30pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes (via speakerphone), Larson, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 6/19/17 and the claims list of 6/20/17 – 7/3/17. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Bill Dohrmann wanted to inform the Mayor and Council how much he appreciated the city services. Dohrmann wanted to thank the Fayette Ambulance Service crew members and Fayette Police Chief Rich Pisanti for their help and cooperation with getting his wife, Sue, back to the area and assisting during her funeral.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to add action item 8C under New Business regarding contract change order #2 and partial pay estimate #2 for the 2017 Water Improvements project and approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s request, moved Tucker, seconded Nefzger, to appoint Andrea Scott to the Library Board, replacing Jeff Butikofer who resigned. Scott will finish Butikofer’s term and serve on the board until June 30, 2020.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane advised the council that he has been continuing to get data entered into the new accounting and payroll software to be ready for the new fiscal year. On June 27th, Amy Tucker, Police Chief Pisanti and McGrane attended the Fayette Hazard Mitigation Public Meeting. Joel Holden’s last day at the Fayette Community Library was June 30, 2017. Holden started about 3 years ago and worked approximately 20 hours a week under a national program that compensated him. The City of Fayette was awarded $350,000 for the CDBG Community Facilities & Services Grant.
Police Chief Pisanti informed the council the department is continuing to work on the nuisance abatement project around town. They started on one side of town and had about 20 cases they were working on. They have been notifying property owners of the violations and have been getting a good outcome as citizens are taking care of the issues right away. No citations for nuisance abatement issues or for long grass/weeds have been issued yet. Pisanti also advised the council that the police have been educating citizens about the current fireworks ordinance as they come across people with fireworks. The current ordinance requires citizens to fill out a fireworks permit at Fayette City Hall, at no cost, and provide proof of insurance.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Larson, to discuss the approval of partnership for the city of Fayette to provide police services to Upper Iowa University. Chief Pisanti presented the council with information about the contractual law enforcement services that would be provided to UIU for the annual cost of $97,500 per budget year with a 2% annual inflation rate for each additional year of the contract beyond the first year. The city will hire two new full time police officers. The annual cost that UIU will pay the city includes the entire cost of the salary and benefits for one full time officer and 50% of the salary and benefits for the other full time officer. One officer will be stationed at UIU and another officer will split duties between the city and UIU. A supplemental startup cost necessary to purchase/lease a new police vehicle with required equipment will be paid for by UIU. If either the city or UIU terminates the agreement for law enforcement services, each of the parties agree to be responsible for paying all costs associated with the termination, including worker compensation, liability claims and employee separation payments. The agreement will commence on August 1, 2017 and terminate on June 30, 2020, with the option to extend the term by mutual agreement of both parties. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the partnership for the city of Fayette to provide police services to UIU. Four voted aye, Larson nay, motion carried.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Tucker, to discuss the annual review proposals. The city received proposals from the Office of Auditor of the State of Iowa, Hacker Nelson & Co. PC and Ridihalgh Fuelling Snitker Weber & Co. After discussion, moved Nefzger, seconded Tucker, to contact Ridihalgh Fuelling Snitker Weber & Co. to find out if they would consider decreasing their cost estimate since they have worked with the city previously and have the cities previous records. Four voted aye, Larson nay, motion carried.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss contract change order #2 and partial pay estimate #2 for the 2017 Water System Improvements project. Contract change order #2 will decrease the total amount of the project by $13,233.30, making the total project cost $98,076.45. Partial pay estimate #2 is for $50,821.49. After discussion, moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Nefzger to approve contract change order #2 and partial pay estimate #2 for the 2017 Water System Improvements project. All aye, carried.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:20pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
June 19, 2017
The City Council of the city of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, June 19, 2017 at 7:30pm in the Fayette City Hall pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Kragnes, Larson, Nefzger, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Tucker, seconded Kragnes, to approve the consent agenda consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 6/5/17, claims list of 6/6/17 – 6/19/17, the May 2017 Treasurer’s/Clerk’s Report & Budget Report, and the renewal of a liquor license for The Pumper. Roll call, all ayes, carried.
Treasurer's Balance for Fund Accounts as of May 31, 2017: General $297,795.71; Streets $211,224.16; Debt Service $5,166.74; Water Utility $351,312.64; Water T&A $27,780.07; Sewer Utility $307,830.75; Landfill/Recycling $1,893.66; Yard Waste $11,702.71; Bolger Fund $189,643.71; TIF $57,086.98; Local Option Tax $86,517.82; Storm Water $10,863.87; Downtown Project ($29,715.04); Franchise Fees $48,920.48. May Receipts by Fund: General $37,199.79; Streets $11,565.08; Debt Service $634.60; Water Utility $4,654.14; Water T&A $2,496.96; Sewer Utility $5,171.24; LF/Recycling $1,023.13; Yard Waste $196.07; Bolger $2,957; TIF $252.06; Local Option $6,915.67; Storm Water $146; Franchise Fees $3,425.92. Total Receipts $76,637.66. May Disbursements by Fund: General $28,993.44; Streets $14,450.76; Water Utility $11,033.54; Water T&A $507.53; Sewer Utility $8,094.85; Yard Waste $5,478.99. Total Disbursements: $68,559.11. Investments: $1,309,664.03. Bank Balance $2,863,137.26. Balance with Library Funds $2,952,849.14.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Kragnes, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes to approve, carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised the council that Jeff Butikofer resigned from the Library Board due to a conflict of interest regarding a potential candidate for the Library Director position. The City Council needs to consider a replacement. Annette Butikofer was offered and accepted the Library Director position. On June 15th, the Mayor spent the day with Zach Mannheimer meeting with different groups and individuals and touring the town as part of the Creative Placemaking Economic Assessment study. Wenthe would like to encourage all the citizens to shop local and support the businesses that we do have as that is the first step to seeing improvements in the community and with economic development. Fayette has a lot of things that we should be proud of and we should help promote these things.
Administrator/Clerk McGrane reported to the council that he attended a NEIA League meeting on June 6th, a housing meeting on June 12th, had an annual visit with Black Hills Energy personnel on June 13th and attended the Steering committee meeting on June 15th.
Police Chief Pisanti informed the council that he attended a training to prevent violence against women last week. The cost was covered by a grant and UIU. The department is wrapping up on the unpaid, over-due tickets project. Out of 61 unpaid tickets, only 19 are left unpaid and letters have been sent out to address the last 19 tickets. The department started a code enforcement or nuisance abatement sweep around town this week. The sweep will address issues such as abandoned vehicles, trash piles and tall grass. They will also inform residents on the importance of displaying their house numbers so they are visible from the road.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Tucker, to discuss the Fayette Community Library Board minutes from May 10, 2017. Annette Butikofer accepted the Library Director position and will start on approximately August 1st. Linda Adams will retire the end of September. After a brief discussion, the council was wondering if the Library Board had an idea of when they would hire an assistant librarian. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve. All ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Larson, to introduce Alex Soderquist, the General Manager at Hawkeye Telephone Company (HTC), to discuss running fiber optic lines through Fayette. HTC runs fiber optic lines all over Fayette County and NE Iowa. It was proposed to them by Community Digital Wireless (CDW) to run fiber optic lines to a cell tower just north of the city of Fayette so CDW can provide fixed, wireless internet service to the city of Fayette residents, hopefully within the next year. Fixed, wireless internet is where an antenna is placed on top of a cell tower and a resident puts an antenna on top of their home or business to receive internet connection. The internet service is reasonably fast and is usually less expensive than other services. HTC currently has fiber optic service at the cell tower just south of Fayette. The current preliminary plan is to run the fiber optic lines from the tower south of Fayette, along Klock Rd/Washington St into town, run a line to UIU so they can take advantage of the service, head west along W 7th St, then north through town, behind the downtown district, over to city hall, police dept, fire dept and ambulance garage, then north to the cell tower. Soderquist is also hoping to include in the plan to run a line to the NFV school and Fayette Community Library. When they build the fiber optic line, they do not have the ability to provide a service line to every business, but they do prepare for future options and investments for other companies that may want to come in and take advantage of the fiber optic line. Since HTC is a small company with a small staff, they are unable to provide fiber optic services to multiple customers throughout NE Iowa, but they like the idea of spearing new interventions into towns where services are not available. Currently there are no plans for offering fiber optic service to residents, however, the cities infrastructure can still take advantage of fiber optic service. HTC is currently working with other providers and companies to try and have them come up to the NE Iowa area to provide the fiber optic service. Soderquist wanted to introduce himself and let the council know they are currently in the middle of preliminary planning to do this type of work. The cities advantage would be to have fiber optic run to places they felt would be useful. HTC just finished getting West Union city hall connected to fiber optic. HTC tries to provide a discounted rate at a fixed cost for cities who use the service. As an example, HTC charges the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office and West Union city hall a fixed rate of $70 per month. HTC typically offers a full 1GB service, that is 1,000MB up and 1,000MB down, unlimited usage, HTC provides support via IT networking capabilities. They are also hoping this would help bring in future business opportunities and are hoping to have the fiber optic line in the ground before the end of October. Their work and construction is done by a local contractor, West Union Trenching. They would trench and lay the fiber optic lines in the cities right-of-way through town. When Soderquist has completed his plan, he will come back with specific details as well as options for the city to take advantage of the service.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to introduce the third and final reading of Ordinance 493 – Amending the code of ordinances of the city of Fayette, Iowa, by repealing and amending sections 92.02 of water rates and 99.02 of sewer service charges under chapters 92 and 99. The ordinance increases water and sewer rates by 2% on all rate levels to keep up with inflation, continue with improvements, replacing water and sewer lines, and replacing water meters. The minimum sewer charge will increase from $59.09 to $60.28 per quarter. The minimum water charge will increase from $38.01 to $38.77. The rate increase will begin on September 1, 2017, which is billable in December 2017. All the water and sewer rates shall automatically increase 2% per year on June 1 unless changed by resolution of council. Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 493. On roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Kragnes, seconded Nefzger, to introduce the third and final reading of Ordinance 494 – Amending the code of ordinances of the city of Fayette, Iowa, by repealing and amending section 106.09 of landfill fee under chapter 106. The ordinance increases the landfill fee by $0.25 per quarter. The increase is due to Fayette County increasing the landfill cost by $1.00 per person, per year starting in July 2017. The rate increase will begin on July 1, 2017, which is billable in September 2017. Moved Tucker, seconded Kragnes, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 494. On roll call, all ayes, carried.
Moved Nefzger, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and review Ordinance 484 – Rental Housing Code. After discussion, Kragnes suggested inviting the community and landlords to a special meeting to discuss the new updates to the draft code that City Attorney Pat Dillon suggested. The council agreed to hold a meeting on July 17th at 6:30PM, an hour before the city council meeting.
There being no further business, moved Nefzger, unanimous, to adjourn at 8:53pm.
