Category Archives: Announcements

12.11.2023 Mayor’s Message

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 NEWS & NOTES

12/11/2023

  • Hello Folks,
  • Wow, Friday night took much of North Dakota from late fall to winter and gave our snowblowers a workout!  Christmas seems much closer now that there is snow.  However, I was enjoying the warm weather. 
  • If you still have garbage can racks and wish you didn’t, please call 845-0314 to make arrangements for free pick-up and disposal.
  • Friday night during the storm, there were a number of electrical “blinks”.  The source seemed to be between Valley City and Western Area Power Association (WAPA).  Our Electrical Department has been monitoring the transmission flows.  Thanks guys.
  • Though NOT like the “spring clean-up” program, watch for information about ridding yourselves of excess garbage up to 100 pounds from December 26 to 29 at no charge.
  • Friday BEFORE the storm, I was privileged to attend class at Jefferson School where the curriculum that day included “Coding”.  I had to ask, “What is Coding?  A definition is: “Coding tells a machine which actions to perform and how to complete tasks.”  The kindergarten through 3rd grade students, with their iPads, partnered to helped each other with programing challenges.  Teachers and students, you all are amazing!  Thanks a bunch for including me.
  • The new garbage containers and automated pick-up seem to be working well.  Remember, the containers must have three feet of clearance all around them.  Extra garbage will not be picked up, if it doesn’t fit in the container with the lid closed, it will be left.
  • Neighbors can help each other by sharing when one has extra garbage and the other has room in her/his container.  It might just be fun to visit with your neighbor!
  • Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.                     
  • “There is always a Blessing in disguise in every situation. Something far greater always comes from moments that test us. Keep going. Keep rising. Keep believing.”                           ~ From a Friend

                                                                                                                                                                       Blessings, Pray, be Grateful and Respectful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

11.28.23 Special Commission Minutes

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City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, November 28th, 2023



President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 12:10 PM.

Members present: President Carlsrud, Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop

Members absent: Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Gulmon

Others: City Attorney Martineck, City Administrator Crawford, Finance Director Klein, Administrative Assistant Hintz.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

NEW BUSINESS

Approve Special Alcohol Beverage Permit for The Labor Club for Friday, December 1, 2023 at the NDWS South Building.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.

ADJOURN

Meeting was adjourned at 12:12 P.M.

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

11.21.23 Commission Minutes

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City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, November 21, 2023



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, Finance Director Klein, Administrative Assistant Hintz

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

OATH OF OFFICE FOR POLICE OFFICER BRIAN HAGER

PROCLAMATION FOR SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Add NB11. Approve Proposals for Police Department Vehicle.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve the minutes from the November 7, 2023, Commission Meeting, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion passed unanimously.

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA

Approve Raffle Permit Application for the Following:

  1. Education Foundation for VCPS 11.30.2023 at the HAC
  2. Student Chapter of the Wildlife Society 2.13.2024 VCSU
  3. VCSU American Fisheries Society Student Subunit 2.13.2024 at Rhoades Science Center
  4. Valley City State University Foundation 12.1.2023 at the Eagles

Approve 2023-2024 Contractor License Application for Robert Gibb & Sons, Fargo ND

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.

RESOLUTION

Resolution 2431, A Resolution Amending Infrastructure Renewal and Replacement Fees.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve adding $1.00 to any account that has water service and $1.00 to any account that has electrical service for both Residential and Commercial customers and to review the infrastructure charge on an annual basis, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. Motion passed unanimously.

NEW BUSINESS

Consideration for Appropriating Back the Blue Funds.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve seconded by Commissioner Magnuson for $19,871.00 to be used and allocated for Law Enforcement Officers. $11,000.00 will be allocated for retention bonuses, $5000.00 will be allocated for new recruitment bonuses, the remaining funds will be used for tuition payments.  Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Salary Schedule Amendment to Include Water Plant Operator III with B23 Classification.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. Motion passed unanimously.

Appoint Construction Management At-Risk Selection Committee. Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson to appoint the CMAR selection committee as follows: Gwen Crawford- City Administrator, Chad Petersen – City Engineer, Architect- Architect that is selected through the RFQ process, Licensed Contractor-Tim Durheim.

 Motion passed unanimously.

Accept Project No. SU-CVD-2-990(061), PCN 23233-12th St N/8th Ave SW – Mill & Overlay/Turn Lane Improvements.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.

Accept Project No. UGP-2-999(051), PCN 22280-Main Street/Central Ave Urban Grant Project.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Amendment to Task Order for Preliminary Engineering for NW Water Tower Study to include zone 8.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson

Roll call vote: Gulmon – Aye, Bishop – Aye, Magnuson – Aye, Erickson – Nay, Carlsrud – Aye. Motion approved. 

Approve Design Engineering Task Order for 2024 Seal Coat Improvements.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Roll call vote: Bishop – Aye, Magnuson – Aye, Erickson – Nay, Gulmon – Aye, Carlsrud – Aye. Motion approved. 

Approve Design Engineering Task Order for 2024 Sanitary Sewer Point Repair/Manhole Replacement Project.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.

Roll call vote: Magnuson – Aye, Erickson – Nay, Gulmon – Aye, Bishop– Aye, Carlsrud – Aye. Motion approved. 

Approve Preliminary & Design Engineering Task Order for Project No. TAU-2-990(066), PCN 23917 – Winter Show Road Shared-Use Path.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Roll call vote: Erickson – Nay, Gulmon – Aye, Magnuson – Aye, Bishop– Aye, Carlsrud – Aye. Motion approved. 

Approve 2024 Board Meeting Schedule as follows: Tuesday January 2nd will be Thursday, January 4th, Tuesday March 19th will be held Monday, March 18th and Tuesday May 7th will be Monday, May 6th. The Planning & Zoning Meeting will be moved from Tuesday April 9th to Wednesday, April 10th.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.

Consider Proposals for Police Department Vehicle.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon to accept the proposal for the Ford Explorer.

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

CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

City Administrator Crawford gave an update on the Viking Trailer Court the installation of the trailer park’s culverts and will return in the spring to finish seeding and the hydro mulch of the grass. They are putting down straw and mats to help with erosion. David Wick will be working on a budget for the plan to replace the pavement for next summer.

Working on the Public Works budget and seeing what we can do with capital budget items that are in need.

There is an open meeting at the HAC, being put on about a state & federal project for East Main St just outside of City Limits. Regarding the repair of the culvert in 2025.

Reminder about Small Business Saturday, Lighting of the Park as well as the Parade of Lights.

Fire Chief Magnuson wished all a happy thanksgiving & reminded all that turkey fryers are not to be used indoors. He also shared information on the Annual Fireman’s Dance this Friday night the 24th at 8:30PM at the Eagles. Free will donation so come on out and enjoy!

City Engineer Eslinger brought & shared the 2024 Calendars for the departments.

Mayor Carlsrud thanked all who worked on the budget. This year has been tough. Thank you to the Commissioners for working on their portfolios.  Happy Thanksgiving to everyone.

Adjourn

Meeting was adjourned at 5:50 P.M.

12.4.2023 Mayor’s Message

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 NEWS & NOTES

12/4/2023

  • Hello Everyone,
  • We have certainly been Blessed with beautiful late fall weather.  A few years ago, winter arrived early in October forcing construction to stop. From that, a segment of gravel road all winter on Main by the Rosebud Center.  Oh well, that is how we get averages!  Enjoy the above average temperatures for a while.
  • December is a month of celebrations for many.  Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Christmas are three identified on my calendar.  During this time of the year, many homes and businesses have decorative lighting and religious scenes.  With the nice weather, more decorations are showing up almost daily, go for a walk or drive and enjoy the beauty.
  • Light has shown to be a positive therapy for good mental health.  While outdoor light is the best, winter days are short, so those of you who have decorative lighting in your yards may be “making someone’s day”.  Thank you. 
  • Last week the Valley City – Barnes County Development Corporation (VCBCDC) held its Annual Banquet at the Eagles Club.  There was a nice social, a good meal and an informative program.  Representatives from Freedom Machine Group and John Deere Seeding Group shared how the VCBCDC helped bring their businesses here and ways it helps retain businesses.
  • Information about “Community Engagement” opportunities was presented.  There are numerous VCBCDC events where help is needed with many of them being fun.  Contact Trinity at 701-490-9010 to see if there is something you would like.
  • We had four power outages in November all caused by, guess what, squirrels!  Kudos to Public Power, in spite of the squirrels, our power was “on” 99.9999% of the time.  Thank you.
  • December 21, 2023 the Winter Solstice occurs at 9:27 PM.  That means the days will become longer beginning the 22nd, YAY!
  • Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.                     
  • “All you need is love.  But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.”                       ~ Charles M. Schultz                   

                                                  Blessings, Pray, be Grateful and Respectful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud

Agenda Available

12.5.2023 Commission Agenda

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Tuesday, December 5th, 2023
5:00 PM

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, December 5th, 2023, 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/82220761721 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID:  822 2076 1721.

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:          Gulmon            Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

Approval of Minutes

Approve Minutes from the November 21, 2023, Commission Meeting and November 28, 2023, Special Commission Meeting.

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Monthly Reports from the Fire Chief, Electrical Superintendent, Building Inspector Finance Director and Municipal Judge.
  2. Approve Contractor Application for Bob’s Excavating LLC of Valley City, ND
  3. Approve Public Hearing for Dangerous Building at 1318 9th St SW

Roll Call:    Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             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.

Public Hearing

Ordinance

 

Resolution

  1. Approve Resolution 2432, A Resolution Accepting Bid and Awarding Contract for NDDOT Project No. UGP-2-990(067), PCN 23951 [Paving Imp. Dist. No. 128, Watermain Imp. Dist. No. 105 and Sanitary Sewer Imp. Dist. No. 69]. (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud

  • Approve Resolution 2433, A Resolution establishing Water Utility Rates. (Public Works Accountant Jacobson)

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Carlsrud

  • Approve Resolution 2434, A Resolution establishing Sewer Utility Rates. (Public Works Accountant Jacobson)

Roll Call:          Gulmon            Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

  • Approve Resolution 2435, A Resolution approving plat of Tall Jacks Addition to the City of Valley City – (Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Carlsrud

  • Approve Resolution 2436, A resolution approving plat of TC Subdivision to the City of Valley City – (Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud

New Business

N1. Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $          

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Carlsrud

N2. Accept Consolidated Sewer & Water Improvement District No. 59 (Nextera). (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Gulmon            Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

N3. Approve Amendment to Task Order for Construction Engineering for Consolidated Sewer & Water Improvement District No. 59 (Nextera). (City Engineer)

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Carlsrud

City Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn

Agenda Available

12.5.2023 Finance Agenda

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City Commission Finance Meeting

 The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, December 5th, 2023, 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/82573076220 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 825 7307 6220.

Call to Order

Roll Call

Agenda items

  1. Department reports.
    1. Sanitation Department
      1. Landfill Saturday’s
    1. Water Department
    1. Electric Department
    1. Fire Department
    1. Police Department
    1. Street Department
    1. Administration
  2. Review monthly bills/reports (10 minutes) – (Finance Director Klein)
  3. Commission Duties Review (President Carlsrud) (Attorney Martineck)
  4. Review cost of Special Meetings – (Finance Director Klein)
  5. Appointment of Department Heads and Police Officers (Attorney Martineck)
  6. Review 10 Year Valley City Infrastructure Plan (Administrator Crawford)
  7. YTD Permit Report (Assessor Current)
  8. Discuss Public Works 2024 Proposed Budget – (Public Works Accountant Jacobson)
  9. Discuss PW Water Rate increase – (Public Works Accountant Jacobson) 
  10. Discuss PW South Side Sewer rate increase – (Public Works Accountant Jacobson)
  11. Discuss PW Credit Card Fees – (Public Works Accountant Jacobson)

Adjourn

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

10.11.2023 Planning & Zoning Minutes

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October 10th, 2023 – MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF

VALLEY CITY PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

Chair Mike Schell presided and called the meeting to order at 4:00 on Tuesday October 10th, 2023.

Commissioners present: Jim Wright, Bill Carlblom, Jeff Erickson, Dave Carlsrud

Absent: Tim Durheim

Others: City Administrator Gwen Crawford, City Attorney Carl Martineck, City Assessor/Acting Secretary Tina Current, City Planner Joel Quanbeck, City Engineer Chad Petersen (KLJ),              Mike Strom (KLJ), Building Inspector/Asst Fire Chief Lance Coit, Lynn Pederson, Derrick Bopp

Commissioner Bill Carlblom moved to approve the minutes from the July 11th, 2023 and             August 29th, 2023 meetings, seconded by Commissioner Jeff Erickson. Motion passed with unanimous approval.

Building Inspector Report

Building Inspector Lance Coit reported there has been two homes taken down recently. Quentin Murray has started on his garage. Lance also asks the board to think about tiny houses. Lance has got some questions on the guidelines for tiny homes.

Public Hearing regarding application for a variance Clark Erickson – Petro 870 Main ST West.

Chair Mike Schell opened the public hearing. There was no one present to speak on the variance request. City Planner Joel Quanbeck reported his findings.  The variance request was to allow construction of a sign within the area of the Petro parcel that is regulated by VCMC Section 11-06-07. – Corner visibility.  Based on the findings presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission in the meeting packet, the five criteria for variance approval are met.

Commissioner Jim Wright made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Commissioner Dave Carlsrud.

Internal discussion was had about the variance. Chair Mike Schell felt the variance was not an unreasonable request.

Commissioner Jim Wright made a motion to approve the variance for 870 Main ST West. seconded by Commissioner Bill Carlblom. Followed by a roll call vote and unanimous approval.

Public Hearing regarding application for a variance Lynn Pedersen – 902 6th Ave NE.

Chair Mike Schell opened the public hearing. Lynn Pedersen spoke about the variance request. Lynn described her driveway and asked for a variance to widen driveway by 8 – 10ft for better accessibility.

Commissioner Carlblom made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Commissioner Wright.

Internal discussion was had about the amount of green space. The current impervious surface already exceeds the maximum allowable impervious surface of 40%. The additional impervious surface on the lot would be approximately 200 more square feet, raising the total impervious surface to approximately 46.25% of the lot area.

Commissioner Wright made a motion to deny the variance request seconded by Dave Carlsrud followed by roll call.

Roll Call:  Wright – aye   Carlsrud – aye   Carlblom – nay   Erickson – aye   Schell – aye

Public Hearing regarding New TC Subdivision plat. – Tim and Diana Logan

Chair Mike Schell opened the public hearing. There was no one present to speak on the plat.

Commissioner Wright made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Commissioner Carlsrud.

Internal discussion was had about the TC Subdivision plat. City planner Joe Quanbeck reported his findings. The plat would also need to have a variance request and there was not enough time to submit the public notices for the variance. Quanbeck suggested to table the plat until the next meeting. The next meeting the plat and variance can be looked at together.

Commissioner Wright made a motion to table the TC Subdivision plat, seconded by Commissioner Carlsrud. Followed by a roll call vote and unanimous approval.

Public Hearing regarding Valley School Addition plat – Valley City School District.

Chair Mike Schell opened the public hearing. Derrick Bopp from the Sheyenne Valley Area Career and Technology Center spoke about the plat. The Sheyenne Valley Area Career and Technology center would like to add an addition to the building. They have received a grant and had some land donated to the center. The plat is with the donated land added.

Commissioner Carlblom made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Commissioner Wright.

Commissioner Carlblom made a motion to approve the plat as presented, as long as the following conditions are met:

1. Any utility easements determined by the City Engineer as necessary be added to the plat.

2. The applicant shall give satisfactory assurance of the provision of all site improvements for the            proposed development as required by VCMC Section 16-01-06.

3. The applicant shall ensure that all site improvements are consistent with all applicable design   standards and infrastructure requirements.

seconded by Commissioner Carlsrud. Followed by roll call vote and unanimous approval.

Other Business

Chair Schell asked if there has been any interest in the opening on the planning and zoning board.


Joel Quanbeck talked about changing the November meeting date, the board agreed to change the November meeting to Thursday Nov 16th at 4:00

Adjourn

With no other items to discuss, Chair Schell called the meeting to close at 4:30pm.

11.27.2023 Mayor’s Message

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 NEWS & NOTES

11/27/2023

  • Hi Everybody,
  • I hope you all had a Blessed Thanksgiving weekend with your family and friends.
  • Scams have become more prevalent recently.  Earlier, scams were predominantly through phone, mail & e-mail, but now texting has been included.  That I am an “older” person, I am a target regularly receiving “Phishing” attacks.  The scammers will pose as your bank, a hospital, IRS, as one of your relatives or friends!  If you are contacted through one of the aforementioned mediums and you aren’t sure, DO NOT open!  Delete it and/or contact someone you know who is knowledgeable & can provide guidance for you.  
  • Having 2nd Avenue NE open again is pretty handy and the new look around Leevers is really attractive.  Please be careful around the edges of the parking lot, STAY OFF the newly seeded grass.  Thank you.
  • Small Business Saturday was a busy day in Valley City.  The “Light Parade” took place at 6:00 followed by the “Lighting Ceremony” and hot chocolate in Veterans Park.  Thanks to everyone who made the “day” happen and to all the people who came out in the beautiful “crisp” evening.  
  • Thank you to our Electrical Department for expanding and “tweaking” our Christmas lighting.  There are new decorative light hangings illuminating over Main Street East and West.  The “Selfie Wreath” is also new and located in Veterans Park ….. great photo opportunities.  Please enjoy.
  • Former Division II North Central Conference schools, University of North Dakota, North Dakota State University, South Dakota State University and University of South Dakota currently play football in the Division I Missouri Valley Conference.  All four made the NCAA FCS Championship Play-offs.  It is quite an achievement, congratulations to all.
  • Friday evening was the Firemen’s Dance Fundraiser.  Thank you to all who made it a successful event.
  • Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.                     
  • “Perhaps no custom reveals our character as a Nation so clearly as our celebration of Thanksgiving Day.”                       ~ Ronald Reagan                   

                                                  Blessings, Pray, be Grateful and Respectful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud

11.7.2023 Commission Minutes

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City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, November 7th, 2023


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

ROLL CALL

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

Member Absent: Commissioner Bishop

Others: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Administrative Assistant Hintz

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Add New Business Item 6. Approve Contract for Public Auction Services.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. Motion passed unanimously.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve the minutes from the October 17, 2023 Commission Meeting, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion passed unanimously.

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA

Approve Contractor License for Dirt Dynamics, Fargo ND

Approve Raffle for Sheyenne Valley Friends of Animals, December 15, 2023 at Handy Hardware

Approve Raffle for ND Hereford Assn, December 2, 2023 at the ND Winter Show Building

Approve Parade for VC Area Chamber of Commerce Parade of Lights, November 25, 2023 at 6pm

Approve Block off the Street Application for the VC Area Chamber of Commerce Parade of Lights, November 25, 2023 from 2pm until 9pm, Event is from 4pm until 9pm

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion passed unanimously.

ORDINANCE

Second and Final Reading of Ordinance No 1145, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Section 5-03-11 of the VCMC related to disposition of owner-surrendered animals. There are no changes to the Ordinance.

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion passed unanimously.

Second and Final Reading of Ordinance No 1146, an Ordinance to Amend and Reenact Sections 15-05-01 and 15-05-04 of the VCMC related to use of City Dumpsters. There are no changes to the Ordinance.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  Motion passed unanimously.

RESOLUTION

Resolution 2427, A Resolution Declaring Sufficiency of Protest for Paving Improvement District No. 128. Finance Director Klein reported that we did not receive any protests on this project. A NW Reconstruction for 2024 map was included in the materials. An Informational Meeting was held on October 16, 2023 with no attendees. Protests were due on November 6th and we did not receive any protests.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion passed unanimously.

Resolution 2428, A Resolution Approving Final Plans, Specifications, and Estimate of Probable Costs and Authorizing Engineer to Advertise for Bids for Paving Improvement District No. 128, Watermain Improvement District No. 105, Sanitary Sewer Improvement District No. 69. City Engineer Petersen shared that this project is scheduled to be bid through the NDDOT on November 17th. The total estimated construction cost is approximately 4 million dollars. We did receive approximately 2.63 million dollars from Urban Grant Funds through the NDDOT. We will be requesting approximately 550 thousand dollars of funds through the Department of Water Resource for the water main replacement portion of the project. The Final Plans & Specs are on file at City Hall.  

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion passed unanimously.

Resolution 2429, A Resolution Approving Urban Limits Boundary for City of Valley City. City Engineer Petersen reported this is a paper trail catch up as you previously approved the Urban Limits Boundary at the last Commission meeting. The NDDOT requires this in the form of a Resolution so requesting the approval of this Resolution for the Urban Limits Boundary as per the map.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion passed unanimously.

Resolution 2430, A Resolution Approving Use of Construction Management At-risk Delivery Method for New Public Works Service Center. City Administrator Crawford is asking for approval of the use of Construction Management At-risk Delivery Method for the New Public Works Service Center that will go along with them being the General Contractor and also the way to help with the process to go get all the bids, instead you go through this process and they get all the fees together and end up with 1 rate.

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion passed unanimously.

NEW BUSINESS

Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $ $2,405,467.61. Finance Director Klein reviewed the October Expenditures.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Preliminary & Design Engineering Task Order for Project No. UGP-2-990(068), PCN 24181-2025 Urban Grant Reconstruction Project. City Engineer Petersen reminded the Commissioners that the City was awarded 2.99 million dollars in Urban Grant Funds for the reconstruction of 2nd ST N from 3rd Ave NW to 4th Ave NE as well as 3rd Ave NE from Main ST to 2nd St. We requested that this project be programmed for planned delivery August of 2024. In reviewing other projects adjacent to the project corridor, specifically along the 4th Ave NE. You may recall that we have had several watermain breaks in the area. As this was a high priority for Public Works to get that watermain replaced we requested to the DOT that they add 4th Ave NE & 1 additional block of 2nd St NE to the project. The request before you are the preliminary design and engineering for the described project. A proposed bid opening in November of 2024 for anticipated construction in 2025. They will do the survey now through the spring, get the environmental documentation, cultural work and the public involvement done over the winter months. Design Engineering will be done from the Spring through August of 2024 time frame. This will be bid through the NDDOT possibly next November.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. Roll Cal Vote: Commissioner Gulmon – Aye, Commissioner Magnuson – Aye, Commissioner Erickson – No,

President Carlsrud – Aye. Motion Carried.        

Approve RFQ for Architect for Pre-Design Services for the Service Center. City Administrator Crawford asked, as required by Century Code, we have to approve an RFQ for the Architect for Pre-Design Services for the Service Center.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  Motion passed unanimously.

Approve MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) with VCSU for Emergency Management. There were no changes to the Memorandum, just a new signature was needed so must again be approved by the Commission.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion passed unanimously.

Approve MOU with VCSU for Campus Safety. There were no changes to this Memorandum, just a new signature was needed so must again be approved by the Commission.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Contract for Public Auction Services. City Administrator Crawford shared this has to do with the extra items the different departments throughout the City had. There will be an online auction, with the details being printed twice in the newspaper, then the online auction will be held. The smaller items will be sold the first week, there will be a set date, and larger items, some with reserves, will be the second date. The other piece to this is that the Auction Service is responsible for all the advertising, listing, photos and descriptions. There will also be a time that the Public will be able to walk through and see the items.

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion passed unanimously.

CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

City Administrator Crawford started off with the Construction Project on 2nd Ave NE. Basically they will continue working on the project this week and next. If the weather holds out, they hope to have the sidewalks completed, signs installed and other things completed. The goal would be to have it ready to go by the end next week, so November 18th. There are still items that need to be checked on but will update after the next construction meeting. Check social media and the website for the latest update. On Wednesday, November 15th City Administrator Crawford will be representing the midsize cities at a Committee Hearing on Retirement in Bismarck. Also, continuing to work on a lot of grants. There are some new Transportation Grants that we will be working on for the 2025 projects. There are also some Electrical Grants that just came up so working on getting them completed.

Finance Director Klein shared that every November we send the annual installment for Special Assessments to the County. If you have any questions on the special assessments come to the Auditors Office at City Hall. Please do not reach out to the County. You will also find a list of remaining balances of special Assessments at ValleyCity.US.

City Assessor Current updated the Commissioners on what she has been working on. About 320 homes were visited and reviewed this summer. A lot of people have been in the office inquiring about the Homestead Credit with 39 new people signing up.  Valley City has over 167 people currently signed up. The State reimburses us for the credit. Houses are still selling well, there were 72 sales this year. Prices seem to be staying high, but sales have slowed.

Commissioner Gulmon shared the Financial report through the end of September. Very positive report with revenues outpacing expenses in both the General Government and Public Works. Sales Tax is down 1.5% compared to the numbers from last year. Food & Beverages Tax is up 7.5% over last year. The Occupancy Tax is up 11% compared to last year

Mayor Carlsrud thanked all the city employees for their work especially with the change in season and all that comes with that. If you have not been to the Vo-Tech Center, go up and take a tour. They do some amazing things there. Please Thank a Veteran this weekend and a “Special Thank you” to our Veterans. Be careful to all the Deer Hunters out there as well. Enjoy the weekend.

ADJOURN

Meeting was adjourned at 5:27 P.M.

11.20.2023 Mayor’s Message

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 NEWS & NOTES

11/20/2023

  • Hello Folks,
  • This is a time to give thanks for: Blessings we sometimes take for granted, all those who are in our lives and bountiful harvests to name a few.  I hope you all have a Blessed Thanksgiving with family and friends.
  • Thank you to our Electrical Department and all involved with placing our city’s Christmas Lighting.  Central Avenue lighting is amazing with more coming on Main.  There are numerous sites for photo ops throughout the downtown, check’m out & enjoy.
  • Friday the 24th is the VALLEY CITY FIREFIGHTERS BENEFIT DANCE FUNDRAISER at the Eagles Club with music by “Karma”.  It is a free will donation event. 
  • SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY, showcasing our local businesses, is this Saturday along with the Chamber’s Light Parade and a Christmas Lighting Ceremony in Veterans Park.  Make it a day to be uptown enjoying people and the holiday spirit.  
  • With the sun being lower in the sky, darkness comes early.  PLEASE wear Hi-Viz reflective clothing and walk or jog facing traffic.  There are so many distracted drivers, you’ll be safer if you wear Hi-Viz reflective clothing/vests and are facing oncoming traffic.  
  • The Behavioral Health Coalition met last week with special guest Dr. Nizar Wehbe, North Dakota State Health Officer.  Dr. Wehbe was gracious in listening to the needs and concerns of Barnes County Citizens, schools and healthcare organizations.  Addictions to vaping, tobacco, alcohol and various other drugs were discussed.  Availability of suitable housing is also a growing concern in our immediate area and statewide.
  • Last week Sue and I attended the VCPS production of Frozen.  The talented young people made the event delightfully entertaining.  Thank you to all who made it happen.
  • Last week’s VCHS “Friday Flyer” shared some benefits of exercise: weight control, cardio, less stress & diabetes control to name a few.  A little exercise goes a long way.  Think about it.
  • Thanks to all who provide and proof material for this article.                     
  • “Give thanks for a little, and you will find a lot.”                       ~ Hausa Proverb                   

                                                  Blessings, Pray, be Grateful and Respectful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud