Category Archives: Announcements

Dave Carlsrud

3.3.2025 Mayor’s Message

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        Hi Everybody,

  • Wednesday the 88th North Dakota Winter Show kicks off with various events throughout the rest of the week.  With FREE admission you will have access to music, food, crafts, Cowboy Church and many displays.  Numerous ticketed events like PRC Rodeo performances, ranch rodeo and horse pulls to name a few.  The weather forecast is extremely good for the week so get out and enjoy the Winter Show and the nice weather.
  • To enhance your mental health; relax to reduce stress, continue learning, invest time in nature, connect with others (call someone) and get quality rest. Blessings.
  • This week, March 3-7, Valley City’s Jefferson Elementary School is celebrating “Kindness Week”.  Themes to be commemorated daily throughout the week are “Sportsmanship Day”, “Brighten the World With Kindness Day”, “Be a Hero Day”, “Be Uniquely Kind Day” and end the week with “Self Love Day”.
  • The 69th North Dakota Legislative Session is ongoing.  You can track bills of interest at: https://ndlegis.gov/legislative-bill-tracking-system.  If you have questions or comments, you are encouraged to contact your District 24 Legislators.
  • March is “National Nutrition Month”.  While nutrition is important for all, we older folks will benefit greatly as well. We require fewer calories now though nutrient rich foods are extremely important for us.  A protein rich diet can help reduce the loss of muscle and strength!  Check with your doctor, City County Health, Barnes County Extension Office or the Valley City Barnes County Library for ideas that could work for you.
  • “Without referees, it is just a scrimmage”!  Give back to the sports you love, become an official.  Officiating is like playing and coaching, you get to “compete”.  Contact the North Dakota High School Activities Association (NDHSAA) at 701-845-3953.
  • Thank you to all who provide and proof material for this column.
  • “People will generally accept facts as truth only if the facts agree with what they already believe.” ~ Andy Rooney

        Blessings, Pray, be Respectful and Grateful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

2.4.2025 Commission Minutes

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City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, February 4, 2025



President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.

Members present: President Carlsrud, Commissioner Gulmon, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Magnuson

Others: City Administrator Crawford via Zoom, City Attorney Martineck, Deputy Auditor Johnson, Police Chief Horner

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

No Changes.

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA

Approve Minutes from the January 21, 2025, Finance and Commission Meeting Minutes.

Approve the Raffle Permit requests for:

      Harvest for Hunger Campaign at CHS Dakota Plains Ag on 3.28.2025                                 

      Sanford Valley City Clinic at The Reserve at Woodland on 2.7.2025

      Ducks Unlimited Barnes County Chapter at Valley City Eagles Club on 3.15.2025

Approve 2024-25 Contractor License for:

      Pine Country Landscaping & Nursery, Valley City ND                                                         

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.

Motion passed unanimously.

ORDINANCE

Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1168, an ordinance to amend and reenact subsection 1 of  

section 4-01-03 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to new alcoholic beverage license for

private golf courses.               

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.

Motion passed unanimously.

RESOLUTION

Approve Resolution 2473, A Resolution to Annex Territory. The annexation on the Bjornson Golf Course and surrounding area.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Roll Call: Bishop – Aye, Magnuson – Aye, Erickson – Aye, Gulmon – Abstain, Carlsrud – Aye.

Motion Passed.

NEW BUSINESS

Approve Letter of Intent for Barnes County Multi Hazard Mitigation Plan. County and State require a yearly renewal to show our intent to continue to work with them.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.

Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Task Order for Valley City NW Water Tower: Environmental Documentation & Final Design.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Roll Call Vote: Gulmon – Aye, Bishop – Aye, Magnuson – Aye, Erickson – Nay, Carlsrud – Aye.

Motion Passed.

Approve Task Order for Final Design for Hyland Park Estates Water, Sanitary Sewer, Storm Sewer and Paving Improvements.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.

Roll Call Vote: Bishop – Aye, Magnuson – Aye, Erickson – Nay, Gulmon – Aye, Carlsrud – Aye.

Motion Passed.

Approve the 2025 Contract for Custodial Maintenance Services. K&S was significantly lower then the other two quotes.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Motion passed unanimously.

CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

City Administrator Crawford shared that Fargo has approved the Landfill Extension Agreement with Valley City. The other item discussed was a leak in the standpipe. The team is aware and currently working on the situation.

Police Chief Horner explained “Holes” training which was brought up at the last Commission Meeting. The training is about the Juvenile Court System & its processes as well as Community Service. This is taught by the School Resource Officer.

Mayor Carlsrud thanked all the Employees for working out in this weather, battling the winds and cold temperatures. Please be safe. Also thank you to our Commissioners for serving, you are greatly appreciated.

ADJOURN

Meeting was adjourned at 5:21 P.M.

3.4.2025 Commission Agenda

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City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, March 4, 2024
5:00 PM

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at 5:00 PM CT, at the City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND.

The meeting is also available to view online https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88970721414 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID:  889 7072 1414.

Call To Order

Roll Call

Pledge of Allegiance (please stand)

Approval of Agenda (Roll Call Vote needed when changes made to the Agenda)   

Roll Call:          Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Minutes from the 2.14.2024 Special Commission Meeting and the 2.20.2025 Finance and Commission Meetings.                                                                                                                                      
  2. Approve the Site Authorization request for:

      Update – Valley City Hockey and Figure Skating Club at North 9 Bar and Grille            

C. Approve the Raffle Permit Request:                                                                            

VCSU Foundation/VCSU Scholarship Auction Fundraiser on 4.11 at the Eagles                     

Disabled American Veterans Drawing at the Eagles, 1 Day Each Month 7/2025 – 6/2026

Sheyenne Valley Friends of Animals on 4.19 at the Eagles

Mary Jones Benefit on 5.3 at the Eagles

D. Approve 2024-25 Contractor License for:                                                          

 Roger Koble Contracting Valley City

 Roll Call:          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

Public Comments

Attorney General’s “A Citizen’s Guide to North Dakota Open Records & Open Meetings Laws” *A member of the public does not have the right to speak to the governing body at an open meeting.  The public is only entitled to see and hear what happens at a meeting, and to record or broadcast those observations.

  • No personal attacks to persons present or not
  • No inflammatory language used during time that you have the platform
  • 5-minute maximum or as directed by the chair
  • Thank you for participating in City Government.

Ordinance

  1. Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1169, an ordinance to amend and reenact Title 7, create and enact title 7.1, and repeal chapter 15-06 and section 17-04-23 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to use of the public rights of way. (City Attorney Martineck)    

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Carlsrud

2. Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1170, an ordinance to amend and reenact chapter 11-08 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to zoning nonconformities. (City Attorney Martineck)    

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson           Gulmon           Bishop             Carlsrud

New Business

N1.      Approve the Valley City-Barnes County Development Corporation request of $45,000 to increase childcare capacity with funds sourced from the City Sales Tax dedicated to economic development. (VCBCDC Feist)

Roll Call:          Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud

N2.      Approve revision to allocation of funds for “Back the Blue” grant money. (Police Chief Horner)

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

N3.      Approve ND DWR Pre-Construction Cost Share Application for Preliminary and Design Engineering for Northwest Standpipe – Emergency Repairs. (City Engineer)                                                                  

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Carlsrud

N4.      Approve GMP Amendment to McGough’s Contract for the Valley City Public Works Building to be completed by Olaf Anderson in the amount of 1,635,532 for the Pre-Engineered Metal Building (PEMB). (City Administrator Crawford)         

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson           Gulmon           Bishop             Carlsrud

N5.      Approve Settlement Agreement for Damage to Garage Door – 1416 East Main Street. (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud

City Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn

Dave Carlsrud

2.24.2025 Mayor’s Message

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NEWS & NOTES

2/24/2025

        Hello Folks,

  • FINALLY, a nice break in the weather!  We have endured a tough stretch, kudos to all of you.
  • Thank you to all the city, county and state employees who work outdoors keeping roads passable, water and sewers flowing along with a plethora of other tasks as well.
  • Last week we attended “Capitol Connections” in Bismarck where a number of state associations gathered.  The North Dakota League of Cities (NDLC), the North Dakota Association of Counties (NDACo), the North Dakota School Boards Association (NDSBA), the North Dakota Township Officers Association (NDTOA) and the North Dakota Recreation and Parks Association (NDRPA) were present.  That there were over 1,000 bills introduced this year, it was an opportune time to network and collaborate on bills affecting the groups.  A number of our legislators and governor graciously made time to address the group and answer some tough questions concerning numerous bills.  Thank you to the organizers, legislators and other presenters, it was an invaluable event.
  • A North Dakota personality about whom you may enjoy reading is Darin Erstad of Jamestown High School, University of Nebraska Football & Baseball and Los Angeles Angels.  Google “Darin Erstad” and enjoy.
  • Thank you to Deb Birgen with Missouri River Energy Services (MRES) who drove from Sioux Falls solely to testify in Bismarck at the ND  Legislature supporting Valley City and all North Dakota Municipal Power Communities.
  • The North Dakota High School Activities Association’s (NDHSAA) State Wrestling was held at the FargoDome over the weekend.  It is great event in a wonderful venue where you can easily watch wrestling to your heart’s content and for us old timers to re-hash “old war stories”.  Some stories may be somewhat embellished …… imagine that! 
  • Thank you to all who provide and proof material for this column.
  • “Once you have wrestled, everything else in life is easy.”  ~ Dan Gable

        Blessings, Pray, be Respectful and Grateful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud

Dave Carlsrud

2.17.2025 Mayor’s Message

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NEWS & NOTES

2/17/2025

        Hi Everyone,

  • It has been quite a cold spell recently though it appears to be mellowing as the week goes forward.  “Hang in there”!
  • Last week a number of our city employees exercised their culinary skills in their 3rd Annual Soup-er Bowl Event.  There was a good number of contest entries and all were of superior taste!  This year’s “selectee” was the Valley City Fire Department’s (VCFD) Cheeseburger Soup.  Congratulations to the VCFD and thank you to all who competed.
  • Will you please carry a garbage box/bag in your car/pickup to hold garbage (cigarette butts too) until you can dispose of it in a proper receptacle? Thank you.
  • We are into the winter sports season tournaments already!  Tournaments are exciting and lots of fun though usually only the game winners advance which bring sudden ends to seasons.  As parents and spectators, it can be “hard”, so be good examples of sportsmanship for your children.  “One person practicing sportsmanship is far better than a hundred teaching it”.  ~ Knute Rockne
  • With all that is happening in the world today, consider praying to the God of your choice that good will overcome evil.
  • We are under a National Energy Emergency declaration.  The order emphasizes the need to enhance the nation’s power grid for addressing fuel shortages, increasing energy demands and the impacts of extreme weather events. (Sam McDonald, Kanner & Associates) Thank you Sam.
  • Dickey County is housing a data center just west of Ellendale.  Some of the A.I. facilities there will be a 175,000 sq. ft building, 400,000-gallon diesel tanks, nine diesel generators and will need over 800 megawatts of power.  That is really big stuff with more to come!
  • It was reported at our last Missouri River Energy Services (MRES) that the “whole electrical grid” is scrambling to secure adequate electric power due to growing demand.
  • Thank you to all who provide and proof material for this column.
  • “Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”  ~ The Special Olympics Motto recited by Special Olympians at competitions.

        Blessings, Pray, be Respectful and Grateful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud

2.20.2025 Finance Agenda

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City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Thursday, February 20, 2025

2:30 PM

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Thursday, February 20, 2025 at 2:30 PM CT, at the City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND. 

Members of the public may view the meeting online https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87565654734 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 875 6565 4734

Call to Order

Roll Call

Agenda items

  1. Review monthly bills/reports (10 minutes) (Finance Director Klein)                  
  2. 2024 Yearly Assessor Review. (City Assessor Current)                                     
  3. 2024 Yearly Review – Valley City Police Department. (Chief Horner)               
  4. Discuss the Purchase of Service Agreement between the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, Behavioral Health Division and the City of Valley City. (Police Chief Horner)
  • Consider Designating Reserve Funds for Future Building Updates/Remodeling (Finance Director Klein)                                                                                                             
  • Request for Quotes for Appraiser for remaining buyout properties. (City Administrator Crawford)
  • Discussion NOI – Soil Conditions SU-CPU-2-990(062) & SU-2-990(063) PCN: 23571 & 23572. (City Administrator)                                                                        
  • Standpipe Discussion (Operations Supervisor Klemisch)
  • Discuss Hotel Liquor License. (City Attorney Martineck
  1. Settlement and release agreement for property damage – 711 5th Ave NW. (City Attorney Martineck)                                                                                                      
  1. Department reports (3:30PM)

            Department Spotlight – Electrical Department

  1. Sanitation Department                                                                         
    1. Water Department
    1. Electric Department                                                                             
    1. Fire Department/Dangerous Buildings                                                  
    1. Police Department                                                                               
    1. Street Department
    1. Administration

                        Building Permit Report                                                            

                        Court Report                                                                           

Adjourn

2.20.2025 Commission Agenda

Posted on by

City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Thursday, February 20, 2025
5:00 PM

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Thursday, February 20, 2025 at 5:00 PM CT, at the City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND.

The meeting is also available to view online https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84254739455 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID:  842 5473 9455.

Call To Order

Roll Call

Pledge of Allegiance (please stand)

Approval of Agenda (Roll Call Vote needed when changes made to the Agenda)

                                                                                                                                                Page 1

Roll Call:          Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Minutes from the 2.4.2025 Commission Meeting.                                                   Page 3
  2. Approve the Site Authorization request for:

      Valley City Hockey and Figure Skating Club at North 9 Bar and Grille                           Page 5                   

  • Approve the Raffle Permit requests for:                                                                                                      

      St. Catherine’s School at St Catherine’s School on 5.19.2025                                          Page 6                   

      ND Skills USA, Valley City ND Chapter at Sheyenne Valley Area Career and Tech Center on 4.14.25

      Valley City Fire Department at the Eagles on 3.22.2025

  • Approve 2024-25 Contractor License for:                                                                            Page 12

      Your Home Improvement Company LLC

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

Public Comments

Attorney General’s “A Citizen’s Guide to North Dakota Open Records & Open Meetings Laws” *A member of the public does not have the right to speak to the governing body at an open meeting.  The public is only entitled to see and hear what happens at a meeting, and to record or broadcast those observations.

  • No personal attacks to persons present or not
  • No inflammatory language used during time that you have the platform
  • 5-minute maximum or as directed by the chair
  • Thank you for participating in City Government.

Ordinance

  1. Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1169, an Ordinance to require a franchise before operating public utility in city. (City Attorney Martineck)                                                                                                        Page 17

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Carlsrud

  • Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1170, an Ordinance to require certification of zoning nonconformities. (City Attorney Martineck)                                                                                                            Page 57

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson           Gulmon           Bishop             Carlsrud

New Business

  • Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $1,645,050.             

                                                                                                                                          Page 63

Roll Call:          Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud

N2. Valley City Christian School abatement application. (Assessor Current)                                Page 64

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

N3. Approve Purchase of Service Agreement with North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services,             Behavioral Health Division and the City of Valley City. (Police Chief Horner)                Page 70

            Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Carlsrud

N4. Approve settlement on Soil Conditions SU-CPU-2-990(062) & SU-2-990(063) PCN: 23571 & 23572. (City             Administrator Crawford)                                                                                            Page 80

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson           Gulmon           Bishop             Carlsrud

N5. Approve Final Review and Acceptance of Paving District 126, Sanitary District 68, Storm Sewer District 55 and             Water Main District 104 – Phase 2 NW Storm Sewer (City Engineer).                             Page 81

Roll Call:          Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud

N6. Approve Extension of the Alcohol License start date for Casa Mexico Restaurant. (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

N7. Approve sale of detached garage – flood buyout – 823 2nd St NE (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Carlsrud

N8. Approve Settlement and Release Agreement for Property Damage – 711 5th Ave NW (City Attorney Martineck)

                                                                                                                                    Page 89

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Carlsrud

City Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn

Dave Carlsrud

2.10.2025 Mayor’s Message

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NEWS & NOTES

2/10/2025

        Greetings All,

  • Dad Joke: “Of all the technological advancements over the years, the ‘Dry Erase Board’ is still remarkable!!”  Hehehe.
  • The NW Water Tower project to replace the standpipe is underway with environmental documentation, preliminary design, final design and bidding being addressed.
  • CHI Mercy Hospital now offers state of the art mammography and cataract surgery.  The digital mammography provides crystal clear images for accurate diagnosis and the specialized cataract procedures both allow us to have great services in Valley City.  Call 701-845-6400 for further information.
  • Saturday our local chamber of Commerce facilitated “Souper Saturday” at Brockhopp Brewing where a good time was had by all.  Eleven contestants brought outstanding soups for everyone to enjoy.  I tasted all of them and any one would be a satisfying meal for me, they were really good.  Additional sponsors were BEK Communications, Leevers and Pizza Corner.  Thank you all.
  • Some ways to beat the “Winter Doldrums” are:
    • Invest in time with friends and family, perhaps host a gathering. Enjoy the sun and fresh air even though it may be cold!
    • Eat well, whole grains, fatty fish, fruits, veggies and try some seasonings different than you usually use.
  • Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love and affection that originated as a Christian feast day.  It honors Saint Valentine, a martyr who was executed for marrying couples in secret. The holiday has evolved into a cultural and commercial celebration of love and romance. People send cards and flowers, have date nights and generally invest time with each other.  Share your gratitude by making it a “special time” for you and those about whom you care.
  • Cliff Cushman was a noted North Dakotan from Grand Forks who served as a pilot in the United States Air Force and was an Olympian.  You may enjoy, https://www.google.com/search?q=quote%2C+cliff+Cushman&oq=quote%2C+cliff+Cushman&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIHCAEQIRigATIHCAIQIRigATIHCAMQIRigATIHCAQQIRigAdIBCDk2NjFqMGo0qAIAsAIA&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8.
  • Thank you to all who provide and proof material for this column.
  • “Rather than focusing on the obstacle in your path, focus on the bridge over the obstacle.”  ~ Mary Lou Retton

        Blessings, Pray, be Respectful and Grateful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud

Agenda Available

2.14.2025 Special Commission Agenda

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Special City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Friday, February 14, 2025
12:00 PM

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Friday, February 14, 2025 at 12:00 PM CT, at City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND.

Members of the public may view the meeting online https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85085364313 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 850 8536 4313

Call To Order
Roll Call

New Business

  1. Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1168, an ordinance to amend and reenact subsection 1 of section 4-01-03 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to new alcoholic beverage license for private golf courses. (City Attorney Martineck) 

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

Public Hearing 1

  1. Open Public Hearing Regarding Application for Alcoholic Beverage License for North 9 Bar & Grille.                                                                                                    

Motion to Close Hearing.

Roll Call:    Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud

  • Approve Application for Alcoholic Beverage License for North 9 Bar & Grille.

Roll Call:    Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Carlsrud

 Public Hearing 2

1.Open Public Hearing Regarding Application for Alcoholic Beverage License for Texkota, LLC.                                                                                                      

Motion to Close Hearing.   

Roll Call:    Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Carlsrud

  • Approve Application for Alcoholic Beverage License for Texkota, LLC.

Roll Call:    Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

Adjourn

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

1.21.2025 Finance Minutes

Posted on by

City Commission Finance Meeting

Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

2:30 PM

Called to Order

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 2:30 PM.

Roll Call

Members present: President Carlsrud, Commissioner Bishop via Zoom, Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Gulmon.

Other present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Police Lieutenant Rustebakke, Administrative Assistant Hintz

Agenda Items

Review monthly bills/reports. Finance Director Klein reviewed the monthly bills and reports.

Review Change Order #1 for Paving Improvement District No. 126. Engineer Peterson reviewed the change order for Paving Improvement District No 126. Each item was discussed.

Discussion on the Annexation of the Oxbow Addition/Woodland Park area into the replat of the Woodland Park. This is the entrance and was not part of the original annexation. The Park Board has been reached out to regarding adding the golf course to the annexation. This does not affect the replat but makes sense to take care of when we are working on the replat. The consensus is to move forward.

Discuss creation of golf course alcoholic beverage license. Discussion took place on creating a new golf course alcoholic beverage license lead by Attorney Martineck. The consensus was to move forward with the license process.

Alternative subdividing and platting procedures. Valley City already has one of the quickest subdivisions and platting processes in the state. Questions came up whether we should have some exemptions to the platting process on the joining of 2 lots, lot split or a lot line adjustment. In those cases, as long as it was per code, it would not need to go to the Boards for approval, the planning administer would approve it would go forward without formal action of either Commission. This will be sent to Planning & Zoning for their view. 

Discuss application process for zoning nonconformities. After some discussion,this item will be sent to Planning & Zoning for their view. 

Discuss Paving Improvement District 130 Protests. A Protest with signatures was received with over 52% of the area protesting. James Jensen, Todd Ingstad and Cory Ravnaas shared their reasoning for the protest. The Commission’s consensus was to accept the protests, start the paving project over with a new paving district and move the official bid date to October.

Department Reports

Sanitation Department

Sanitation Supervisor Swart reported on the Electronic Disposal Week and how well it went. She hopes to have another week later this year. Reminder to have your garbage out by 7AM.

Electric Department

Electrical Superintendent Senf reported that his crew has taken down most of the holiday lighting. He has a couple guys monitoring load management 24/7. Review of last year’s outages showed that the power was on 99.999% of the time. Discussion was had on power to the new light posts. No special circuits will be added.

Fire Department

Fire Chief Magnuson shared a review of 2024’s calls. On dangerous buildings, the building on currently in Viking Trailer Court is in the process and being removed and there is one on Viking Drive that the owner has secured a crew for a spring demolition & removal. Assistant Fire Chief Coit gave a report on the 2024 Fire Extinguisher Service Report and we are up in receivables. He discussed that the more he does with servicing he has less time for inspections. As this is covered in our code, it was discussed and will be brought up at the next Finance Meeting. Coit also gave the 2024 Building Report. Residential builds were up, additions were down. Renovations were also up for the year. Commercial builds were down as well as additions but the renovations were up. New & Institutional builds and additions were both up. Total permits in general were all up.

Police Department

Police Lieutenant Rustebakke went over the Calls for Service Report for the Police Department. There was a compliance check held and 10 of the 14 establishments passed. The annual Fraternal Order of Police Kids & Cops Event was held and the majority of the Department helped. They are currently working an Active Shooter Training with CHI Mercy Hospital. There are several people going through back ground checks for hiring as well as they did hire 1 person who will be starting in February.

Street Department

Operations Supervisor Klemisch (via Zoom) shared that he signed with Pittsburgh Tank & Tower to have the John Deere tower painted this summer. VCSU will be paying a share to put their logo on the tower. He also signed an agreement with Midco Marine & Diving to dive the towers this summer. The Water Crew has been working on the Lead Line Inventory. The Street Crew is working on Christmas Tree pickup and painted the inside of the Pole Shed for housing of the sewer truck when the new shop is built. The Osh Kosh snow blower has been returned.

Administration

City Administrator Crawford discussed the Bills and Legislative Hearings that they will be attending that effect our City and Residents.

Agenda Items Continued

Discussion related to a Single-Family Housing Pilot Program. Jennifer Feist, with the Development Corp. explained the new program. The goals of the program are to increase housing inventory, increase our tax base, increase home ownership and increase population in Valley City and Barnes County. The proposed investments from the City were discussed. Invest $10,000 per new home that meets the program guidelines sourced from City funds, waiver of water and sanitary sewer tap fees including temporary meter charges, approve $118,750 sourced from the City Sales Tax dedicated to economic development, and fund up to six (6) homes initially.

Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 4:50PM.