REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
February 1, 2021
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, February 1, 2021, at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at the Fayette Community Library and via conference call/online 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 able to attend the meeting via conference call/online 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 (via telephone), Potratz, Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 1/19/21, the claims list of 1/16/21 - 1/29/21 and the December 2020 Financial Reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of December 31, 2020: Total December Receipts: $116,502.42 (General $29,720.06; Streets $16,866.72; Employee Benefits $1,382.36; Local Option Sales Tax $9,494.53; TIF $14.08; Revolving Loan $231.58; Bolger $636.11; Library Fund $41.35; Water $19,087.97; Water T&A $600; Sewer $28,821.61; FY17 Sewer Lining $5,000; Water/Sewer Capital $4,047.05; Storm Water $559). Total December Disbursements: $146,622.95 (General $61,113.44; 9 S. Main $96.10; Streets $11,422.34; Employee Benefits $10,555.49; CDBG $13,651.10; Revolving Loan $118.19; Bolger $725.68; Water St $4,689.47; Water $13,256.77; Water T&A $150; Sewer $16,298.61; Sewer Fund $14,545.76). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,150,625.80.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s recommendation, moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to appoint Jordan Franken to the Fayette Recreation Board for a 2 year term, expiring 2/1/23. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane updated the council on the remodeling progress at the 9 S. Main Street office space. McGrane had Dennis Vandersee remove two electric floor heaters that were no longer working. Diversity Coatings started leveling the floor on 1/28. Kane Magnuson started painting/removing wallpaper on 2/1. McGrane and Public Works Director Hildebrand attended an informational meeting for the construction/designing of the Freedom Rock kiosk on 1/25. Eric Willis, the cities Employee Benefits Consultant, attended an employee health insurance meeting on 1/26 to explain one of the new health insurance plan options and answer questions. On 1/28 was a public information meeting for those living on/near W. Water Street that will be impacted by the reconstruction project. McGrane finished the W2's and 1099's. McGrane reminded the council the next meeting will be on Tuesday, 2/16 because city offices will be closed on 2/15 for President's Day.
Police Chief Davis advised the council the Fayette Police Department's (FPD) policies have been approved and we have received certification with the Department of Justice for 3 years to receive federal grants. The FPD assisted the Fayette County Public Health (FCPH) on 1/28 when they held its first COVID-19 vaccination clinic at Upper Iowa University (UIU) to complete Phase 1A. The next vaccination clinic at UIU is scheduled for 2/12 and is for Phase 1B. The FCPH will reach out to those eligible for the vaccination at the clinic. The FPD and UIU were approved to host an Active Shooter Response Training (A.L.I.C.E.) Instructor Course. The course will take place on 12/1/21 and 12/2/21. The Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division Tobacco compliance checks were completed, and we had 100% compliance. Davis is working on his end-of-year report. Friday, Feb. 12th is the next scheduled vaccination distribution at the same location at UIU.
This being the time and place published for a public hearing on the proposed property tax levy for fiscal year July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2022, Mayor Wenthe opened the hearing and asked for comments. There being no other comments, Mayor Wenthe closed the hearing.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to discuss Resolution 2021-4. Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve and adopt Resolution 2021-4, adopting the proposed property tax levy for FY 2022. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve the Fayette Finance Committee meeting minutes from 1/21/21. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to discuss granting Nicole Ball an unpaid leave of absence. Ball presented a letter to the council requesting an unpaid leave of absence while she is on maternity leave and asked if the council would consider continuing to pay her single health insurance premium for her 30 days of unpaid leave. Ball was hired in July 2021 and has accrued 32 hours of sick time and 39.6 hours of vacation time and has not used any of the time since she started employment. Ball plans on using all of the time she has accrued but will need an unpaid leave of absence for the remainder of her 6-week maternity leave. City employee Adam Hildebrand advised in 2014 he went on personal medical leave for an injury and was not granted the opportunity or was told he could make a request to the council to have the city continue to pay for his health insurance premium. He advised other city employees were able to donate their sick/vacation time to him. It seemed to be the consensus of the council to research other cities maternity policies to be presented at a future meeting. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to grant Nicole Ball family leave, an unpaid leave of absence and for the city to continue to pay for Ball's single health insurance premium until March 15th, or until she is released to return to work by her medical provider. Post, Tucker and Tenney - ayes; Potratz and Wulfekuhle - nays, motion carried.
Post left the meeting at 18:43 due to a dropped telephone call.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss moving forward with a Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Health Insurance plan for city employees. Eric Willis, the Employee Benefits Consultant for the city of Fayette, answered questions about the options provided to the council. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to change the city employees insurance plan to the Wellmark myBlue HDHP Bronze (partially self-funded) plan and to have the city 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 Potratz, to discuss Resolution 2021-5. Eric Willis explained that payments for the new health insurance plan work best when cities have a separate bank account specifically for employee benefits. Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve and adopt Resolution 2021-5, opening a separate checking account for City of Fayette Employees Health Insurance. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2021-6. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Potratz, to approve and adopt Resolution 2021-6, appointing Paying Agent, Note Registrar, and Transfer Agent, approving the Paying Agent and Note Registrar and Transfer Agent Agreement and authorizing the execution of the Agreement in reference to the $500,000 General Obligation Capital Loan Notes, Series 2021. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to discuss Resolution 2021-7. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve and adopt Resolution 2021-7, approving and authorizing a form of Loan Agreement and authorizing and providing for the issuance, and levying a tax to pay the Notes; approval of the Tax Exemption Certificate in reference to the $500,000 General Obligation Capital Loan Notes, Series 2021. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2021-8. This resolution was recommended by our City Attorney due to recent situations where citizens in area communities are trying to cause problems and create reactions from city employees regarding public spaces. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve and adopt Resolution 2021-8, approving public areas and restricted areas for all city buildings and facilities. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss starting the process in applying for a Homes for Iowa House. McGrane explained this program helps Iowa's housing shortage and trains offenders in skilled trades. Iowa Prison Industries builds the homes near Newton, Iowa. The cities total cost would be $75,000 and includes a new home and delivery. We would work with Upper Explorerland who would receive $2500 administrative fee which is taken out of the $75,000 cost to help find a low to moderate income (LMI) family to move into the home. McGrane feels this would be a great program to put a house at 207 Alexander Street which is owned by the city. The city would have additional costs in preparing the lot for the house, however, the city could use the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) LMI funds for this project. If we apply now, we may be able to get on the list for 2022. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to authorize the City Administrator/Clerk to work with Upper Explorerland and submit an application and $1500 deposit to reserve a Homes for Iowa home. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to discuss setting and letting and holding a public hearing for March 1, 2021 for the W. Water St. Reconstruction Project. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to set and letting and holding a public hearing for March 1, 2021 for the W. water St. Reconstruction Project. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 17:07 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
January 19, 2021
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Tuesday, January 19, 2021, at 6:01 pm via conference call/online 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 able to attend the meeting via conference call/online 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 (via online), Tenney (via online), Tucker (via online) and Wulfekuhle (via telephone). Absent - Potratz.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 1/4/21 and the claims list of 1/1/21 - 1/15/21. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s recommendation, moved Tucker, seconded Post, to appoint Steve Landry to the Fayette Recreation Board for a 3 year term, expiring 1/19/24. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council that the Fayette County Economic Development & Tourism and the Fayette County Iowa State University Extension is funding and hosting a Fayette County Leading Communities program for 25 area leaders. The program will consist of 6 meetings and they are tentatively looking at holding the classes in September, October and November 2021. The council should let McGrane know of any residents they would want to nominate to attend the classes. McGrane advised he has been working with the owners of the Sugar Bowl in Decorah and they are opening up a new location in downtown Fayette. The Public Works Employees have taken out the old flooring at 9 S. Main Street. McGrane has attended multiple meetings over the last few weeks as we prepare the FY2022 budget. More budget related meetings are planned over the next few weeks.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to discuss the City of Fayette Community Development Block Grant Owner-Occupied Housing Program. This being the time and place published for a public hearing on the status of funded activities for the City of Fayette Community Development Block Grant Owner-Occupied Housing Program, Mayor Wenthe opened the hearing and asked for comments. Lee Balik, the Community Housing Associate with Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Center, provided an update. A. General description of accomplishments to date: To date we have closed out one home (112 Mechanic St.) and 2 projects currently underway. She anticipates bidding out 1 remaining project this spring, with the last 2 projects to follow. B. Summary of expenditures to date: Total expended: $68,811; total rehab: $24,985; total Lead Hazard Reduction (LHR): $6,750; total relocation: $1,251; total admin: $20,216.00; total tech services: $11,874; total LHR admin: $3,735. C. General description of remaining work: Work left consists of initial inspections, historical clearances, contractor walk throughs/bid opening, pre-construction conferences and final inspections. D. General description of changes made to project budget: No changes were made to the budget, targets, schedules, scope, location or objectives. There being no other comments, Mayor Wenthe closed the hearing.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the $500,000* (subject to adjustment per terms of offering) General Obligation Capital Loan Notes, Series 2021 receipt of bids. Maggie Burger, a Financial Advisor with Speer Financial, Inc., advised the council of the bids received. Four bids were received earlier today: Bankers' Bank, Madison, Wisconsin - True Interest Cost (TIC) of 1.3139%; UMB Bank, n.a., Kansas City, Missouri - TIC 1.3441%; United Bankers' Bank, Bloomington, Minnesota - TIC 1.4802%; D.A. Davidson & Co., Denver, Colorado - TIC 1.6961%. It is the opinion of Speer Financial, Inc. that the bid of Bankers' Bank, Madison, Wisconsin, is the best bid received, and Burger shared a 1.3139% is an exceptionally low interest rate. Speer Financial, Inc. recommends that the Notes be awarded to Bankers' Bank, Madison, Wisconsin at a price of $496,500, being at a TIC of 1.3139%. No formal action was taken.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve and adopt Resolution 2021-3 directing sale of $500,000* (subject to adjustment per terms of offering) General Obligation Capital Loan Notes, Series 2021 to Bankers' Bank, Madison, Wisconsin to help fund the Water Street Improvements project. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to discuss the Fayette Personnel Committee meeting minutes. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the Fayette Personnel Committee meeting minutes from 1/13/2021. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss plowing, cleaning, maintaining recreational trails for the remainder of the winter. Wenthe said he has received multiple requests from citizens asking for the recreational trails to be cleaned off for walkers. Wenthe said Tim Frey advised he would volunteer to plow the trails of snow. McGrane contacted the cities insurance companies and area cities to inquire if they clean off trails in the winter. Every city is different, some clean them off and some do not. The insurance company did explain there are some liabilities and the trails would need to be sanded. McGrane advised he spoke with Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand and the cities dump truck would be too big to sand the trails, so we would need to invest in equipment. Wulfekuhle suggested contacting Upper Iowa University about their equipment/brushers for sidewalks. Wenthe suggested Frey or another walker may volunteer to do the sanding. McGrane shared that Hildebrand heard that snowmobilers groom the trail from Klocks Island to the Open Air Market for snowmobiles. McGrane suggested the city start with the trails at Cardinal Park. Wenthe will reach out to Frey to see what level he wants to volunteer to clean the trails around Cardinal Park. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to explore turning the Cardinal Park trails and area to a walking park area this winter. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss adding Non-Statutory Volunteer Coverage to our Iowa Municipalities Workers' Compensation Association (IMWCA) coverage. McGrane explained as he was researching cleaning off the recreational trails for the winter, he discovered a volunteer coverage the city can add to their workers' compensation plan at $100 per year. The volunteers would need to fill out an application prior to volunteering in order to be covered. Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to add Non-Statutory Volunteer Coverage to our IMWCA coverage. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss accepting a bid for painting 9 S. Main Street. McGrane reached out to two local painters to remove the wallpaper and glue/paste, fill in holes, prime and paint most of the interior rooms at 9 S. Main Street before the new floor is installed. The city will provide the wallpaper remover, primer and paint. The bids received: Kane Magnuson - $800 and Cheryl Peterson $1,120. McGrane also received pricing from the Fayette Lumber Yard on wallpaper remover, primer and paint. Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to hire Kane Magnuson at an estimate of $800 to prep and paint 9 S. Main Street and the city to purchase paint, primer and wallpaper remover from the Fayette Lumber Yard. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to discuss directing the City Administrator/Clerk to publish the proposed property tax levy and setting a Public Hearing on the Fiscal Year 2022 proposed property tax levy. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to direct the City Administrator/Clerk to publish the proposed property tax levy and set a Public Hearing for Monday, February 1, 2021, at 6PM on the Fiscal Year 2022 proposed property tax levy. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Wulfekuhle, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:44 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
January 4, 2021
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, January 4, 2021, at 6:00 pm via conference call/online 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 able to attend the meeting via conference call/online 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 (via online), Tenney (via online), Tucker (via online) and Wulfekuhle (via telephone). Absent - Potratz.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 12/21/20 and the claims list of 12/19/20 - 12/31/20. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised he received an inquiry from a citizen about the city cleaning snow off the Recreation Trails in the winter making it easier for people to walk. Public Works Director Jerry Hildebrand said the snow was always left on it for other winter recreational activities. Hildebrand advised the city could start cleaning the snow off, however, we would have to put sand/salt down to prevent slipping and their would be some added costs for that. Wenthe requested council members to contact him if they would like this on a future city council agenda.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe wanted to mention that he would like to start monthly city supervisor meetings.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council he conducted a walk-through at Donna Wenthe's home for the CDBG Rehab grand project. The project is almost completed. McGrane met with Denny Vandersee at 606 W. Water Street to check on the furnace because it had quit working. A fuse needed adjusted.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to discuss the Water Street Improvements project. It was the consensus not to include in the project extending the sidewalk on Water Street from Volga Street to the convenient store on the north side of the road at this time. It was the consensus to include in the project 5 foot wide sidewalk ramps to allow the city to transition to 5 foot wide sidewalks instead of 4 foot wide. It was the consensus to move forward with keeping the sanitary sewer main in the project. At this time, the city would require property owners to hook-up to the new sanitary sewer main and will start researching financial options for the property owners. A public meeting will also be scheduled for all homeowners along Water Street that may be impacted by the project. No formal action was taken.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Fayette County Economic Development & Tourism (FCEDT) 2020 Annual Report and the FCEDT Meeting Minutes from 12/16/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to discuss Resolution 2021-1. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve and adopt Resolution 2021-1 approving electronic bidding procedures and distribution of preliminary official statement for $500,000* (subject to adjustment per terms of offering) general obligation capital loan notes, series 2021. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to discuss accepting the donation from East Central Iowa REC for the Fayette County Freedom Rock Interpretive Sign. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to accept the donation from East Central Iowa REC for the Fayette County Freedom Rock Interpretive Sign. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2021-2. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve and adopt Resolution 2021-2 authorizing a contract of services by and between the City of Fayette, Iowa, and Resource Conservation & Development for Northeast Iowa, Inc. for designing and fabricating an interpretive kiosk for the Freedom Rock for $1500. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss making a donation to freeconferencecall.com for utilizing their free services in 2020. The consensus felt the service is free and a donation isn't necessary at this time. No action was taken.
There being no further business, moved Wulfekuhle, unanimous, to adjourn at 7:02 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
December 21, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, December 21, 2020, at 6:00 pm via conference call/online 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 able to attend the meeting via conference call/online 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 (via telephone), Tenney (via online), Tucker (via online) and Wulfekuhle (via online). Absent - Potratz.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 12/7/20, the claims list of 12/5/20 - 12/18/20, the October and November 2020 financial reports and correspondence. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of September 30, 2020: Total September Receipts: $159,563.69 (General $49,754.72; Streets $19,614.72; Employee Benefits $20,312.29; Local Option Sales Tax $9,330.63; TIF $956.56; Revolving Loan $231.40; Bolger $6,183.05; Library Fund $44.42; Water $22,398.86; Water T&A $900; Sewer $24,773.54; Water/Sewer Capital $4,421.50; Storm Water $642). Total September Disbursements: $87,390.08 (General $31,658.86; 9 S. Main $107.86; Streets $6,860.86; Employee Benefits $9,118.93; CDBG $7,029.45; Revolving Loan $120.29; Bolger $5,986.24; Water $10,794.75; Water T&A $300; Sewer $15,412.84). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $3,875,365.58.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of October 31, 2020: Total October Receipts: $306,765.53 (General $114,729.14; Streets $12,003.36; Employee Benefits $40,462.47; Local Option Sales Tax $9,330.65; TIF $29,580.56; CDBG $27,602; Revolving Loan $231.40; Bolger $591.56; Library Fund $1.43; Water $31,923.57; Water T&A $300; Sewer $34,250.03; Water/Sewer Capital $5,169.36; Storm Water $590). Total October Disbursements: $121,063.26 (General $56,510.54; 9 S. Main $85.40; Streets $11,858.65; Employee Benefits $9,898.51; CDBG $2,189.73; Revolving Loan $91.10; Water $18,170.37; Water T&A $1,125; Sewer $21,133.96). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,061,053.65.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of November 30, 2020: Total November Receipts: $214,746.40 (General $90,190.17; Streets $17,117.21; Employee Benefits $17,851.81; Local Option Sales Tax $23,595.86; TIF $839.89; Revolving Loan $231.57; Bolger $276.15; Library Fund $0.64; Water $26,226.72; Water T&A $600; Sewer $32,403.18; Water/Sewer Capital $4,817.20; Storm Water $596). Total November Disbursements: $95,613.87 (General $27,545.18; 9 S. Main $78.70; Streets $10,439.48; Employee Benefits $5,267.89; CDBG $24,780.08; Revolving Loan $67.93; Bolger $42.32; Water $12,893.89; Water T&A $900; Sewer $13,598.40). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $4,180,467.93.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s recommendation, moved Post, seconded Tenney, to appoint Janette Garcia to the Fayette Tree Board for a 2 year term, expiring 12/31/22. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s recommendation, moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to reappoint Wade Whitcher to the Fayette Recreation Board for a 3 year term, expiring 11/1/23. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor advised we do need at least one more person to serve on the Fayette Recreation Board. On 12/8 from Noon until 1PM there was an all employee safety training at the Fayette Community Library and safety training topics recommended by IMWCA (the city's workers compensation company) were completed. Wenthe is also working on starting to hold monthly department supervisor meetings.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane was not at the meeting but provided a written report that informed the council most of the garbage is out of the old tourism home (606 W. Water St.) and McGrane has started selling some items on social media. A Fayette citizen volunteered and helped McGrane take a truck load of papers/brochures from the old home up to the Fayette County Recycling Center. McGrane has continued to work with Fehr Graham, Speer Financial and the city's bond attorney's for the Water Street improvements project. Letters were sent out to property owners on Water Street about their private sewer lines. McGrane attended the virtual Fayette County Economic Development & Tourism full board meeting on 12/16. McGrane reminded the council that city offices will be closed on 12/25, 12/26, 12/28 and 1/1/2021 for the holidays.
Police Chief Davis advised the council new police officer Olivia Hake started last week and is doing well.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 12/9/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss hiring Northway Well and Pump Company to inspect Fayette Well #3. Public Works Director Hildebrand advised this is a budgeted item, however, we did not budget for the televising that was listed in the estimate. Hildebrand recommended not to televise the well at this time. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to approve hiring Northway Well and Pump Company to inspect Fayette Well #3. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to discuss purchasing a booster pump from J&R Supply in the amount of $940. Hildebrand advised this is not a budgeted item, however, the pump has quit working and needs replaced. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve purchasing a booster pump from J&R Supply for $940. All ayes, motion carried.
Council member Potratz arrived at the meeting (via telephone) at approximately 6:13 pm.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to discuss purchasing a replacement flygt mixer from Electric Pump in the amount of $5,235. Hildebrand advised the mixer is for the Sodium Bisulfate. A beaver chewed the power cable and water entered the motor. The price of the mixer increases 3.5% if we wait and order next calendar year. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Potratz, to approve purchasing a replacement flygt mixer from Electric Pump for $5,235. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss approving partial pay estimate number 3 to The Restyling Specialists for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 507 S. Main Street in the amount of $1,160. Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to approve the partial pay estimate number 3 to The Restyling Specialists for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 507 S. Main Street in the amount of $1,160. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Potratz, to discuss and consider choosing a flooring estimate and company for 9 S. Main Street. Estimates were provided by Furniture Showcase for luxury vinyl planks (between $6,569.11 - $6,746.37) and congoleum sheet vinyl (between $4,256.17 - $4,829.69) and by Diversity, Inc. (between $6,203.70 - $8,528.70) for epoxy flooring. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to hire Diversity, Inc. to install epoxy flooring between $6,203.70 - $8,528.70 at 9 S. Main Street. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:20 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
December 7, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, December 7, 2020, at 6:00 pm in the Fayette Community Library and via conference call/online 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 able to attend the meeting in person or via conference call/online 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 (via online), Potratz (via telephone), Tenney (via online), Tucker (via online) and Wulfekuhle (via online). Absent - none.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 11/16/20, the claims list of 11/17/20 - 12/4/20 and correspondence. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s recommendation, moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to reappoint Jeff Bradley as the Fayette City Treasurer for a 2 year term, expiring 1/1/2023. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s recommendation, moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to reappoint David Hanson to the Fayette Tree Board for a 3 year term, expiring 12/31/23. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council the claims report timeframe is going to change from Saturdays through Fridays before regular city council meetings to help with online payments. The Deputy Clerk has been sending out letters and applications to residents and property owners to fill out and return to City Hall to update utility billing records. Many people have replaced landline telephones with cell phones and have email addresses. On 11/18 some UIU students and McGrane worked on cleaning out the old Fayette Tourism home at 606 W. Water St. There's another load or two of garbage left and paper materials to take to the recycling center that McGrane will take care of. McGrane advised the city received the $34,247.62 from the Iowa COVID-19 Government Relief Fund on 11/23, the Annual Urban Renewal Report and the Annual Finance Report were submitted, the Debt Certification for FY2022 was completed and submitted to the County Auditor, the IMWCA Response/Recommendation form was submitted, the tarp was placed on the log cabin to help protect it for the winter, the final paperwork for the sewer repair/lining project was completed, McGrane attended an online seminar on 11/19 for End-of-Year Payroll and started the FY2022 budget process.
Police Chief Davis advised the council another STEP wave is coming up for the GTSB Contract the department will participate in.
Moved Post, seconded Tucker, to discuss the Public Hearing. This being the time and place published for a public hearing on the authorization of a loan agreement and the issuance of notes to evidence the obligation of the City thereunder, Mayor Wenthe opened the hearing and asked for comments. There being no comments, Mayor Wenthe closed the hearing.
Moved Tucker, seconded Potratz, to discuss Resolution 2020-20. Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to approve and adopt Resolution 2020-20, a Resolution instituting proceedings to take additional action for the issuance of not to exceed $500,000 general obligation capital loan notes instituting proceedings to take additional action. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 11/11/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Potratz, to discuss hiring Olivia Hake as a full time Fayette Police Officer at an hourly wage of $17.26. Chief Davis advised council members Tucker and Tenney were a part of the hiring process and both recommended Hake. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve hiring Olivia Hake as a full time Fayette Police Officer at an hourly wage of $17.26. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss abating the nuisances at 101 King Street and 701 S. Main Street. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to look into contracting someone to clean up the properties at 101 King Street and 701 S. Main Street. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss Resolution 2020-18. Davis explained the policy originated from the President's actions for law enforcement's agencies across the country. Most departments, including the Fayette Police Department, have policies in place, however, wording needed updated and included in the formal policies. Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to approve and adopt Resolution 2020-18 adopting an addition to the Fayette Police Departments Policy and Procedure Manual. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss Resolution 2020-19. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve and adopt Resolution 2020-19 adopting a contract for services between the City of Fayette, Iowa, and Upper Exporerland Regional Planning Commission requesting assistance in administering the City of Fayette's Revolving Loan Fund. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to discuss moving the 1/18/2021 city council meeting to 1/19/2021. This is at the request of Speer Financial, the cities Financial Advisor, because the bond market is closed on 1/18/2021. Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to move the January 18, 2021 city council meeting to January 19, 2021 at 6PM. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to discuss approving partial pay estimate number 2 to The Restyling Specialists for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 507 S. Main Street in the amount of $8,330. Moved Potratz, seconded Tenney, to approve partial pay estimate number 2 to The Restyling Specialists for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 507 S. Main Street in the amount of $8,330. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Potratz, to discuss Resolution 2020-21. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to approve and adopt Resolution 2020-21 adopting the new commercial business marketing incentive program from January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2021. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to discuss Resolution 2020-22. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve and adopt Resolution 2020-22 adopting the new home and new commercial construction incentive program from January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2021. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to discuss updating the flooring and painting 9 S. Main Street. McGrane advised he has shown 9 S. Main Street to a few different potential future tenants. The carpet and walls are very outdated and McGrane feels it will be more marketable if we do some updates. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to have McGrane provide some ideas and costs at a future meeting. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to discuss accepting the donations for the Fayette County Freedom Rock Interpretive Sign. McGrane advised he was notified that the city will be awarded $500 each from Allamakee Clayton REC, Dairyland Power Cooperative and Black Hills Energy to be used for a Fayette County Freedom Rock Interpretive Sign. The quote for the sign was $2,000. Mallory Hanson (Fayette Co. Economic Development and Tourism Director) and McGrane are working on securing the last $500 needed for the sign. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve accepting the donations from Allamakee Clayton REC, Dairyland Power Cooperative and Black Hills Energy for the Fayette County Freedom Rock Interpretive Sign. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:39 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
November 16, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, November 16, 2020, at 6:00 pm in the Fayette Community Library and via conference call/online 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 able to attend the meeting in person or via conference call/online 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 (via telephone), Tenney (via online), Tucker (via online) and Wulfekuhle (via online). Absent - none.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 11/2/20, the claims list of 11/2/20 - 11/16/20, approval of Annual Financial Report FY2020, and approval to renew the Class C Liquor License (LC) with Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales for Downtown Lounge, pending dram shop insurance endorsement. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised the council he presented John Winke the Mayor's Award for 2020 on 11/6 for watering and caring for the flowers in downtown Fayette for most of the summer and early fall. Wenthe and McGrane are working with Upper Iowa University on possibly offering a Marketing internship for the City of Fayette. There would be no cost for the City and the intern could work on marketing the City and events. Wenthe also provided an update on the status of the Fayette Owner Occupied Rehabilitation Projects. Wenthe received some feedback of having a dog park in town. Tucker advised the idea had come up in the past and the citizen advised they would help researching the project, but we have not heard anything back yet. Wenthe also briefly updated everyone on a new proclamation the Iowa Governor just released tonight.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council he completed the Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS) compliance review on 11/4 and no findings were found for 2019, meaning everything was properly reported and handled with no concerns. McGrane attended the Iowa League of Cities Annual Budget Workshop online on 11/10 to gain information for the FY2022 Budget. McGrane completed the Annual Finance Report for FY2020 and the Annual Urban Renewal Report for FY2020. McGrane advised he just received a notice today that the City of Fayette will receive the entire $34,247.62 allocated for Fayette for the Iowa COVID-19 Government Relief Fund.
Police Chief Davis advised the council the city had 11 applicants for the open full-time police officer position, and he is continuing to move forward with the process. The department has partnered with Hawkeye Community College for another internship next year. Updates to the Fayette Police Departments Policy and Procedure manual will be provided to the council soon to approve. The updates help with applying safe policing recommended by the United States Justice Department and will help to secure future federal funding.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to discuss approving and adopting the annual Urban Renewal Report for FY2020. McGrane briefly explained the report. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to approve and adopt the annual Urban Renewal Report for FY2020. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Post, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:12 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
November 2, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, November 2, 2020, at 6:00 pm in the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post (via telephone), Potratz (via telephone), Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent - none.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 10/19/20, the claims list of 10/20/20 - 11/2/20 and approval to renew the Class C Liquor License (BW) with Outdoor Service & Sunday Sales for Shrubb's Street Eatery LLC. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Potratz, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised the council he heard positive feedback for Fayette's trick or treating and having it during the day on Saturday.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council he received communication to update the application and include the June and July wages for the Police and Ambulance for the Iowa COVID-19 Government Relief Fund to potentially receive the entire $34,247.62 allocated for the city of Fayette. McGrane gathered all the information and resubmitted the information on 10/28. The city received a refund of $1,243.12 from the former Fayette County Economic Development Commission that was dissolved. The sidewalk and lighting are completed for the Freedom Rock. The Tourist Oriented Directional Signing (TODS) on HWY 150 for the Freedom Rock was approved and the Iowa Department of Transportation will get signs made and installed at no cost. The city will be responsible to replace the signs if they are ever damaged. Mallory received a quote for $2,000 from RC&D to design and place a kiosk for the Freedom Rock explaining the paintings. We will be applying for a cost-sharing program to help with costs. We will not take any action on getting the kiosk until we can see how much money we can secure through grants and donations. McGrane met with Roger Post and he will place a tarp on the log cabin roof to get it secured for the winter. McGrane, some Fayette community members and business owners attended a virtual Economic Development meeting on 10/27 with U.S. Representative Abby Finkenauer's legislative team. Each participant was able to voice their concerns and the team took notes. The team pointed out a few things that could help if the next COVID-19 "Heroes 2.0 Act" gets passed.
Police Chief Davis was not present at the meeting but provided the following information to the council: The city has been posting the snow removal ordinance that includes the winter parking information around town, on the website, in the newspaper and on our social media pages. Warnings will be issued for about 14 days before citations will occur. The city has received some good applicants for the open police officer position.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 10/14/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to discuss approving the JUS annual software (utility billing) assurance/support hours contract terms and contract. McGrane advised nothing has changed in the contract from previous years. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Potratz, to approve the JUS annual software assurance/support hours contract terms and contract. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss Resolution 2020-16. McGrane advised this fixes a date for the proposition to authorize the $500,000 General Obligation loan for the Water Street Reconstruction project. A notice will be published in the newspaper advising the public of the December 7th meeting. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve Resolution 2020-16, fixing date for a meeting on the proposition to authorize a Loan Agreement and the issuance of Notes to evidence the obligations of the City thereunder - Not to Exceed $500,000 General Obligation Capital Loan Notes. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to discuss and review the Iowa Municipalities Workers Compensation Association (IMWCA) annual site visit and recommendations. McGrane walked through the recommendations and explained the steps the city is taking as well as the responses the city will be submitting to IMWCA. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the recommendations.
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to discuss Resolution 2020-17. McGrane advised this is an update to the cities Return-to-Work policy that was recommended by IMWCA. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to approve Resolution 2020-17, adopting an updated Return-to-Work Policy as part of the General Safety Manual for the City of Fayette. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Potratz, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:19 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
October 19, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, October 19, 2020, at 6:00 pm in the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Potratz (via telephone), Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle. Absent - Post.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Potratz, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 10/5/20, the claims list of 10/6/20 - 10/19/20 and the September 2020 financial reports. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the agenda as presented. All ayes, motion carried.
Upon recommendation from the Fayette Fire Department, the Fayette Ambulance Service and Mayor Wenthe, moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to appoint D'Andre Brown to the Fayette Fire Department and to appoint Arianna Rausch to the Fayette Ambulance Service. All ayes, motion carried.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council he attended the online Alliant Energy Leadership Roundtable discussion on 10/15 and worked with First State Bank on some automatic payroll changes. McGrane advised he has submitted the application and supporting documentation for the Iowa COVID-19 Government Relief Fund to potentially receive up to 50% of payroll costs for public safety employees (Police and Ambulance) for the months of August and September. The sidewalk around the Freedom Rock is being completed now. The wiring for the lighting has been completed and the lights will be installed once the sidewalk is finished. Fayette County Economic & Tourism Director Mallory Hanson is working on a quote from RC&D to help us work on a sign/kiosk for the Freedom Rock. Hanson has received information from Allamakee Clayton Electric Cooperative on a possible cost-sharing program we may be able to apply for to help with costs on the sign/kiosk.
Police Chief Davis advised the council the toy drive is currently going on. Davis received a compliment regarding Officer Nicole Ball. The department was selected to house another intern from Hawkeye Community College again. The intern would start in January. The background check and paperwork has started for the intern process. Davis reminded the council that the intern only shadows the officers and is on Hawkeye Community Colleges' insurance.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2020-15. McGrane advised he had the city attorney review the agreement. McGrane also presented the council with Speer Financial's engagment letter and estimated timeline for the Bond Issuance for the Water Street project. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to approve Resolution 2020-15, authorizing an agreement for professional services with Fehr Graham Engineering and Environmental. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Fayette Ambulance Service meeting minutes from 8/4/20 and 9/30/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss financial transfers for FY17 Water Improvement Capital Project, FY17 Sewer Lining Project and CDBG Downtown Project. McGrane explained some of the options on where the city could transfer the money and requested some guidance for a Resolution that would be drafted and presented at a future meeting. The council suggested the funds to cover the CDBG Downtown Project should be split 50/50 from the Water and Sewer fund. No formal action was taken.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to discuss 606 W. Water Street. McGrane and Wenthe updated the council on the old Fayette County Tourism house and the log cabin. They advised there is much needed cleaning needed in the house. The counil suggested contact Roger Post to look at the roof at the log cabin to see if he can patch for the winter at a low cost and have some UIU students help clean out the tourism house at a low cost. McGrane suggested there may be some desks, filing cabinets and furniture the city may be able to post online to sell at a low cost. McGrane and Wenthe will move forward from the guidance they received from the council. No formal action was taken.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to discuss partial pay estimate number 1 to The Restyling Specialists for CDGB Rehabilitation project at 507 S. Main Street in the amount of $21,825. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve partial pay estimate number 1 to The Restyling Specialists for CDBG Rehabilitation project at 507 S. Main Street in the amount of $21,825. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to go into Closed Session per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i). Roll call, all ayes, motion carried. Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to open regular session. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Tenney, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:55 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
October 5, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, October 5, 2020, at 6:00 pm in the Fayette Community Library pursuant to law and rules of said council, Mayor Wenthe presiding.
Roll call: Present - Council members Post, Potratz (via telephone at 6:01), Tenney, Tucker and Wulfekuhle (arrived at 6:01). Absent - none
Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 9/21/20 and the claims list of 9/22/20 - 10/5/20. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to amend the agenda to move item 6A to the end of the meeting and approve the agenda as amended. All ayes, motion carried. Potratz and Wulfekuhle joined the meeting at this time.
Upon Mayor Wenthe’s recommendation, moved Potratz, seconded Tucker, to appoint Jeff Butikofer to the Fayette Tree Board for a 3 year term, expiring 12/31/23. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor Wenthe advised the council on the Fayette Owner Occupied Rehabilitation projects and where they currently stand. The city of Fayette has an opening for one more resident to apply for the program. They may contact City Hall or Upper Explorerland for more information. The North Fayette Valley (NFV) Superintendent sent a newsletter out explaining the NFV Spark program is a high school elective course focused on project-based learning. If there are any community ideas for the program to let Wenthe or the NFV high school know.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council Public Works Director Hildebrand and him participated in the IMWCA Workers Compensation site visit on 9/24.
Police Chief Davis advised the council an update on the current city ordinance violations that are scheduled for court. The Fayette Police Dept. (FPD) started their toy drive for this year. They will be accepting new toys at the FPD and donors will receive a unique FPD patch while supplies last.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss Ordinance 511. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 511, amending Section 3, Permit Process, to Chapter 162, Solar Energy Systems, to the Fayette City Code, by removing the part of having the Planning and Zoning Commission approving the request. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the Fayette Community Library Board of Trustees meeting minutes from 9/9/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tenney, to approve the Fayette Planning and Zoning Commission meeting minutes from 9/24/20. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to discuss and consider allowing Nick Serra and Tereasa Lenius to install a solar energy system at 301 E. State St. Serra was at the meeting to answer questions. They will have about 10 panels installed. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve Serra and Lenius to install a solar energy system and solar panels as presented on their property located at 301 E. State St. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and consider allowing Dennis and Arlene Vandersee to install a solar energy system at 802 Washington St. The Vandersee's were present at the meeting to answer questions. They will have about 54 panels installed. Moved Potratz, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve Dennis and Arlene Vandersee to install a solar energy system and solar panels as presented on their property located at 802 Washington St. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss and approve the purchase of a new ambulance from LifeLine Emergency Vehicles in an amount not to exceed $225,000. Ambulance Crew Chief Roger Post provided a written statement stating the ambulance crew has approved the purchase of a new ambulance at a special meeting on 9/30/20. A quote was provided in the amount of $216,274 and they could receive up to $24,000 for 735-2 as a trade-in. Chief Post advised there may still be minor changes to the quote with additional features. McGrane recommended approving the purchase not to exceed $225,000. The Ambulance Crew is looking to use the $216,197 in their city savings account and may use some of their CD's or fundraiser money to cover anything over that amount. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tenney, to approve the purchase of a new ambulance from LifeLine Emergency Vehicles in an amount not to exceed $225,000 and using the Ambulance Service savings. Nathan Post abstained, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss and consider promoting door-to-door trick-or-treating on Saturday, October 31, 2020. McGrane provided Halloween 2020 COVID-19 guidance from the Iowa Department of Public Health as well as what some area communities are doing for Halloween. Moved Tucker, seconded Post, to approve promoting door-to-door trick-or-treating in Fayette scheduled for Saturday, October 31, 2020, from 2:30PM to 4:30PM as well as safety precautions due to COVID-19. Anyone interested in participating should turn on their porch light during the event. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the final report from Larry Webb on the PFC. James Lee Memorial Bench Fund. Webb provided a report stating the $930.73 left in the bank account for the PFC. James Lee Memorial Bench Fund was donated to the City of Fayette to help pay for the lighting of the bench and the Freedom Rock. Mr. and Mrs. Larry Webb also donated $69.27 to make it an even $1,000 donation. Webb thanked the city for allowing him to honor Jim Lee and his family with the memorial. No action was taken.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2020-14. McGrane explained this is a Resolution the city must pass if we decide to apply for reimbursement of funds from the Iowa COVID-19 Government Relief Fund. McGrane explained he will need to continue to research and make sure we have enough expenditures to make it worth the city's time and effort to apply for the reimbursements. Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve Resolution 2020-14, requesting reimbursement from the Iowa COVID-19 Government Relief Fund. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss the Fiscal Year 2020 City Examination. Rachelle Thompson, CPA, PLLC, provided a booklet to each council member that provided her independent accountant's report on applying agreed-upon procedures for the period of July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2020. McGrane presented further explanations for the detailed recommendations. Moved Potratz, seconded Post, to accept the Fiscal Year 2020 City Examination from Rachelle Thompson, CPA, PLLC. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the reconstruction and repair project of Water Street. Jon Biederman from Fehr Graham was present to discuss the engineering expenses and the project. Biederman will provide an agreement for their engineering services at the next council meeting. McGrane provided three General Obligation Capital Loan options that were prepared by Speer Financial. The options included a $995,000 borrowing size, a $165,000 borrowing size and a $500,000 borrowing size for the $1,000,000 estimated project cost. McGrane explained the options and advised the council may also request other examples if they so choose. McGrane advised the city currently has a bonding capacity of $1,531,747. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to continue to move forward with the process of a General Obligation Capital Loan in the amount of $500,000. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Wulfekuhle, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:57 pm.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
September 21, 2020
The City Council of the City of Fayette, Iowa, met Monday, September 21, 2020, at 6:00 pm in 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 Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve the consent agenda items consisting of the regular meeting minutes of 9/8/20, the claims list of 9/9/20 - 9/21/20, the August 2020 financial reports and the renewal of the Class C Beer Permit, Class B Wine Permit and Sunday Sales for Dollar General/Dogencorp,LLC. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Treasurer’s Balance for Fund Accounts as of August 31, 2020: Total August Receipts: $128,391.58 (General $45,010.72; Streets $14,763.26; Employee Benefits $286.27; Local Option Sales Tax $9,330.63; TIF $13.33; Revolving Loan $231.56; Bolger $356.47; Library Fund $6.47; Water $23,528.38; Water T&A $2,850; Sewer $27,609.20; Water/Sewer Capital $3,901.29; Storm Water $504). Total August Disbursements: $135,786.95 (General $69,377.80; 9 S. Main $814.46; Streets $7,312.45; Employee Benefits $9,150.01; CDBG $20,642.91; Revolving Loan $132.03; Bolger $1,674; Water $9,515.08; Water T&A $377.70; Sewer $16,790.51). Transfers in: Sewer Fund $9,575.50; Transfers out: Sewer $9,575.50. Treasurer’s Balance: $3,803,286.27.
Moved Tucker, seconded Tenney, to amend the agenda so item 6B states the second reading of Ordinance 511 instead of the first reading and approve the agenda as amended. All ayes, motion carried.
Mayor advised the Freedom Rock revealing went well and the city is still seeking donations at City Hall.
City Administrator/Clerk McGrane informed the council he submitted the Street Financial Report on 9/9/20 and attended online presentations for the Iowa League of Cities Annual Conference 9/16-9/18. McGrane has finished providing all the necessary information to the auditor and the council should be seeing her report soon. McGrane has been working with Larry Webb and closed the James Lee Memorial Bank account with the remainder of the money being transferred to the City of Fayette for a donation toward the Freedom Rock. The Freedom Rock "Revealing" was well attended on 9/18 and was livestreamed on Facebook. McGrane advised the Fayette County Economic Development and Tourism Director is working with the Iowa DOT on getting a sign placed along HWY 150 about the Freedom Rock.
Police Chief Davis advised the council the drive-in movie went very well last weekend with about 45 cars in attendance. The car computer installation is complete and the car cameras were also installed.
Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss the reconstruction and repair of Water Street. McGrane provided a proposal for design and construction engineering services from Fehr Graham for the Water Street improvements project. McGrane reached out to the cities financial advisor and they will provide more financial information/options at a later date. No action was taken.
Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to discuss Ordinance 511. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to approve the second reading of Ordinance 511, amending Section 3, Permit Process, to Chapter 162, Solar Energy Systems, to the Fayette City Code, by removing the part of having the Planning and Zoning Commission approve the request. Roll call, all ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss allowing Brian Stepp to paint the watermelon sculpture. McGrane advised Mr. Stepp contacted city hall inquiring if his sister and him could repaint the Stepp watermelon sculpture. Moved Tucker, seconded Wulfekuhle, to have it painted after moving the watermelon sculpture to a new location at the Fayette community garden. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Post, to discuss approving the proposal from Kluesner Construction, Inc. for asphalt repairs. Kluesner provided an estimate of $1,775 to repair the asphalt at six locations around Fayette. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve the proposal from Kluesner Construction, Inc. for asphalt repairs in the amount of $1,775. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Wulfekuhle, to discuss Resolution 2020-13. Davis advised the city attorney has already reveiwed the service agreement. Once we approve the service agreement, then OptoTraffic, LLC, will start building our custom-made camera. Davis advised there are still more steps to take before the speed cameras will be set-up, this is just part of the process. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve Resolution 2020-13, authorizing a service agreement by and between the city of Fayette, Iowa, and OptoTraffic, LLC. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Post, seconded Tucker, to discuss researching Homes for Iowa through the Iowa Prison Industries and using low to moderate income finances. McGrane provided the council with more information about Homes for Iowa. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Tucker, to approve starting the process to research Homes for Iowa. All ayes, motion carried.
Moved Tenney, seconded Tucker, to discuss a proclamation to recognize National Clean Energy Week, September 21 through the 25. Moved Wulfekuhle, seconded Post, to approve a proclamation to recognize National Clean Energy Week, September 21-25 of 2020. All ayes, motion carried.
There being no further business, moved Tucker, unanimous, to adjourn at 6:47 pm.
