Transfer Station and Public Works Office will be Closed January 17th in observance of Martin Luther King Day. Monday’s garbage route will be picked up Tuesday. Tuesday and Wednesday will be picked up on Wednesday. Thursday and Friday will follow the normal schedule.
Category Archives: Announcements
1.9.2022 Mayor’s Message
Hi Everybody,
- A warm thought during a time of cold weather. “Life is like a journey on a train with different routes and sometimes hardships. Enjoy the people on your train and embrace your journey”.
- With very cold temperatures come very “good ice” on our streets and side walks. An all-wheel drive vehicle will help us “get going” faster, however, an all-wheel drive does not stop faster than a two-wheel drive. Please be careful and drive a little slower to help ensure everyone’s safety. Pedestrians have right-of-way at crosswalks.
- SMP Health-St. Raphael, formerly known as Sheyenne Care Center, is “alive and well” in Valley City. The additions and remodeling at the facility are wonderful, allowing for a multitude of quality services. To continue said services, quality employees are currently needed. Please see the address below for job listings and see where you might fit at St. Raphael. Call: 701-845-8222. https://smphealth.org/straphael/careers/
- A reminder; cardboard takes a lot of space in landfills; it is heavy, it is extra work to load into garbage trucks and is more costly than recycling. Help stabilize our garbage rates, please recycle. It is easy.
- COVID-19 numbers are up significantly. The Omicron Variant seems to be exceptionally contagious. Please be vaccinated and use good hygiene, to protect yourself, your family and friends.
- Thank you to contributors again this week.
- “After I hit a homerun I ran the bases with my head down. I figured the pitcher already felt bad enough without me showing him up rounding the bases.” (Mickey Mantle) Blessings, Respect, Kindness and Prayers,
Dave
12.21.2021 Commission Minutes
President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.
Members present: President Carlsrud, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Erickson, and Commissioner Gulmon, Commissioner Magnuson
Others City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Richter, Administrative Assistant Johnson, Fire Chief Magnuson, Police Chief Hatcher, City Engineer Chad Petersen
Pledge of Allegiance
Approval of Agenda
Remove Consent Agenda B.c.
Approval of Minutes
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the minutes from the December 7th, 2021 commission meeting, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Consent Agenda
Approve 2022 License to Sell L.P. Gas for
- Dakota Plains Ag
- Petro Serve USA #071
- CBF Oil Inc dba Vining Oil & Propane
And authorize the Auditor’s Office to issue licenses for applicants who meet all licensing requirements before December 30th, 2021.
Approve 2022 Mobile Home Park License Renewals for
- Rockwater LLC
- Richard Plecity Trailer Court
And authorize the Auditor’s Office to issue licenses for applicants who meet all licensing requirements before December 30th, 2021.
Approve 2022 Tree Trimming and Removal Service License for Pine Country Nursery.
Approve Raffle Permit for Sharp Shooter Showdown on February 5, 2022 at the Eagles.
Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.
PUBLIC HEARING
PH1. Open Public Hearing regarding changes to the official Zoning Map of the City.
President Carlsrud declared the public hearing open.
No comments were received.
Commissioner Bishop moved to close the public hearing, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.
Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1091, an Ordinance approving changes to the official Zoning Map of the City.
City Attorney Martineck stated notices were sent out to property owners within 250 ft. of the small lot north of the tourist park and no comments were received. The proposal today is for that to be zoned as a B2. Lowell Spitzer, the property owner, was in agreement with the change.
Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. Motion passed unanimously.
Ordinance
Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1093, an Ordinance Amending and Reenacting Chapter 20-06 of the Valley City Municipal Code re City Lodging Tax.
City Attorney Martineck stated there have been several changes to the lodging tax. There are no changes on the tax itself, we are making changes for the wording to be consistent with Century Code and removing the Visitor’s Committee from deciding how the funding will be spent.
Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.
Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1094, an Ordinance to Amend and Enact Section 15-01-16.2 of the Valley City Municipal Code regarding Surface Drainage and Storm Sewer System Cleaning and Maintenance Fee.
City Attorney Martineck stated previously this section said the fee for this service was set at $1. There was language in the ordinance allowing us to amend this fee by resolution which is on the agenda tonight. For clarity taking out the language in the ordinance where the fee is set at $1.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.
Resolution
Approve Resolution 2328, a Resolution Establishing Electrical Rates.
PW Manager Jacobson stated as they were going through the budget it was determined a rate increase was needed in a couple areas. Jacobson reported the areas that will be increased on the electrical rates.
Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.
Approve Resolution 2329, a Resolution Establishing Rates and Fees for Solid Waste Services.
PW Manager Jacobson stated he estimated with a loss this year of about $28,000 so we definitely need an increase. The proposed increases would bring back a profit margin of 2.9%.
Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. Motion passed unanimously.
Approve Resolution 2330, a Resolution Establishing Rates for Surface Draining and Storm Sewer Cleaning and Maintenance Fee.
PW Manger Jacobson stated this is the final area that needs increases. The ordinance discussed earlier was created in 2001 where $1 was to be collected from each resident. That fee has not changed since but the cost in doing this maintenance has. We’re asking to change that from $1 to $2.50 which would increase our revenues by $62,500.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. Motion passed unanimously.
New Business
Approve Final Copy of the 2022 Employee Policy & Procedure Manual.
City Attorney Martineck stated it has been a couple years since any major changes have taken place to the Policy Manual and gave a brief overview of the changes taking place.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.
Approve Service Agreement with Valley City Parks and Recreation and Valley City Convention and Visitors Bureau for Administration of City Lodging Tax.
City Attorney Martineck stated this is directly related to ordinance 1093. The funds that are collected through the lodging tax will go to the VCPR to manage the day to day operations. The CVB has been the recipient of those funds since the 80’s and will still be involved but they don’t have the capacity to be involved with the day to day operations.
Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. Motion passed unanimously.
Approve Request for Funds from VCBCDC for Resource Development Specialist (3 years).
Jennifer Feist stated this is to approve 3 years to support the Resource Development Specialist position.
Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.
Approve Request for Funds from VCBCDC for Small Projects (2022).
Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion passed unanimously.
Approve Public Works Capital and Operating Budgets for FY22.
PW Manager Jacobson provided a brief summary of the proposed budget.
Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. Motion passed unanimously.
Approve Gaming Site Authorization Renewal for ND Chapters of Delta Waterfowl Inc.
Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop, Motion passed unanimously.
Approve Moving forward with NDDOT Maintenance Contract along I-94 Frontage Road from 12th Ave e to Exit 294.
City Administrator Crawford stated this is the area with Nextera. The cost of the easement we need went up. We talked to the NDDOT about transferring ownership however their executive office is not in agreement with this. We came to an agreement and one of the pieces to that agreement is that we take over the maintenance.
Tracey Eslinger added that they have offered to add this to the Urban Roads program.
Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. Motion passed unanimously.
Approve the NDDOT Urban Roads Project Submittal List for Fiscal Year 2023-2026.
Chad Petersen covered the planned projects for the Urban Roads projects.
Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon. Motion passed unanimously.
City Administrator’s Report
City Administrator Crawford stated they met regarding CLOMR. It looks like we can do everything in the immediate areas we targeted and stay within city limits to do it.
The Little Dam is the Barnes County Water Resource District’s however there are pieces that do affect us. We have been added the County Commission meeting in January to discuss.
Some of the nodes are going bad that we need to do water readings. They are under warranty so will be replaced but there is a large lag time. So for awhile people may need to manually read and submit their readings.
City Updates & Commission Reports
City Assessor Hansen stated we have sent out the exemptions for properties that need to apply every year such as the churches. The Homestead Credit applications for 2022 will go out the week after Christmas.
Fire Chief Magnuson stated to make sure your carbon monoxide detectors work. Merry Christmas and Happy and Safe New Year.
Commissioner Gulmon thanked all the employees and our engineers for their hard work they did this year and wished everyone a Merry Christmas.
Commissioner Erickson wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Commissioner Bishop wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and is looking forward to a great year next year.
Commissioner Magnuson stated it looks beautiful with the snowfall that just came down. We’ve also received some complements on the speaker system now that we have the volumes set. Kudos to all of our employees, commissioners and staff, Merry Christmas.
President Carlsrud stated some of his family that hadn’t been here for a few years and they were amazed at how beautiful the community is and what a nice job everybody has done. As we are getting closer to the holidays there have been several team building activities throughout our group which has been an opportunity to learn and have fun at the same time. Thank you to all that were involved. It seems like every time people get off work, we do something stupid and end up calling fire and rescue. Those people are volunteers and have family they like to spend time with to. Remember to be safe and think before doing something that could be injury. Merry Christmas to all and a blessed New Year.
Adjourn
Meeting was adjourned at 5:54 P.M.
Garbage Notice
Unfortunately this week has been tough on all of us. With working around the snow, sub zero temps and mechanical issues with one of our garbage truck yesterday and today, not all garbage will be able to be picked up this week even on the Wednesday and Thursday routes. If your garbage has not been picked up or you are afraid it won’t be, please feel free to bring your household garbage to the landfill today until 4pm and Friday from 8-3pm. You may also set it out next week for pick up on your regular day and any extra will not be charged.
New Year’s Eve Closure and Garbage Pick Up
The Public Works Office along with City Hall will be closed Friday December 31st, 2021 for New Year’s Eve. Friday’s garbage will not be picked up on Thursday this week. Customer’s with Friday garbage pick up have the option to haul it to the landfill Wednesday December 29th, Thursday December 30th between 8 and 4 or on Friday December 31st between 8-3 free of charge. Otherwise they can set it out at the curb next Friday January 8th, 2022 at no extra charge to them.
12.26.2021 Mayor’s Message
Hi Everyone,
- A “White Christmas”? Yes it was and a storm to boot! It looks like winter may be here for the duration.
- Recently my son, grandson & I visited the Barnes County Museum; it is a wonderful place with something for most everyone. The player piano was one of my grandson’s favorite items with music from “Country” to “Classical”. There is an electric train set that is second to none and Gundy, a large pre-historic Triceratops, greets you when you enter. Additionally Wes Anderson, our museum curator, is always ready to assist visitors and possesses a wealth of information to share. https://barnescountyhistoricalsocietymuseum.com/
- Another special place in Valley City is the Barnes County Library. That it is a Carnegie Library makes it extra special and another great place to visit during the holiday season. For more information see: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valley_City_Barnes_County_Public_Library
- Occasionally I have promoted “volunteerism”. Both the museum and the library can use volunteers at times. Please consider helping.
- Thank you to contributors again this week.
- “A good friend is like a four-leaf clover; hard to find and lucky to have.” (Irish Proverb) Blessings, Respect, Kindness and Prayers,
Dave
12.19.2021 Mayor’s Message
Hello Folks,
- The weather forecast is for cool temperatures this week so we could have a beautiful “White Christmas” weekend if the wind doesn’t blow it all away. As of Sunday evening, it was still white and pretty.
- Recently there have been some pedestrians struck by motor vehicles in our region. While pedestrians have right-of-way in many areas, we as pedestrians must be prudent too. ** Walk against traffic, wear “hi-vis” clothing and remember vehicles cannot stop as readily in slick winter conditions.
- We are approaching the holiday season and our city employees are having fun learning with some “team building” activities. There has been fellowship, lots of food, numerous contests among individual employees and departments. Way to go everyone and thank you for your investment in Valley City.
- In the past year there have been some changes in the MRES Board, two about which I’d like to share a bit. Don Johnston and Harold Schiebout served MRES Members for 43 & 44 years respectively. Harold also served as “Chairman” for 34 years and a year as “Chair Emeritus”. These two men were serving when the Laramie River Station was commissioned in 1980 through the completion of the $400,000,000.00 Red Rock Hydro-Project in 2020. As of the 61 member MRES family, Valley City Citizens can be grateful for folks like Don and Harold. Thanks guys.
- The Salvation Army Kettle Campaign continues through December 24th.
- Thank you to contributors again this week.
- “To us, family means putting your arms around each other and being there.” (Barbara Bush) Blessings, Respect, Kindness and Prayers,
Dave
12.21.2021 Commission Agenda
The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, December 21, 2021 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/83432735861 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 834 3273 5861.
Call To Order
Roll Call
Pledge of Allegiance (please stand)
Approval of Agenda
Approval of Minutes
Approve Minutes from the December 7th, 2021 Finance and Commission Meetings.
Approval of Consent Agenda
- Approve 2022 License to Sell L.P. Gas for
- Dakota Plains Ag
- Petro Serve USA #071
- CBF Oil Inc dba Vining Oil & Propane
And authorize the Auditor’s Office to issue licenses for applicants who meet all licensing requirements before December 30th, 2021.
- Approve 2022 Mobile Home Park License Renewals for
- Rockwater LLC
- Richard Plecity Trailer Court
- Plecity Park
And authorize the Auditor’s Office to issue licenses for applicants who meet all licensing requirements before December 30th, 2021.
- Approve 2022 Tree Trimming and Removal Service License for Pine Country Nursery.
- Approve Raffle Permit for Sharp Shooter Showdown on February 5, 2022 at the Eagles.
Roll Call: Magnuson Gulmon Erickson 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
PH1. Open Public Hearing regarding changes to the official Zoning Map of the City. (City Attorney Martineck)
Declare Public Hearing Open.
Close Hearing.
Roll Call: Gulmon Magnuson Erickson Bishop Carlsrud
Approve Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1091, an Ordinance approving changes to the official Zoning Map of the City.
Roll Call: Bishop Gulmon Magnuson Erickson Carlsrud
Ordinance
- Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1093, an Ordinance Amending and Reenacting Chapter 20-06 of the Valley City Municipal Code re City Lodging Tax. (City Attorney Martineck)
Roll Call: Erickson Bishop Magnuson Gulmon Carlsrud
2. Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1094, an Ordinance to Amend and Enact Section 15-01-16.2 of the Valley City Municipal Code regarding Surface Drainage and Storm Sewer System Cleaning and Maintenance Fee. (City Attorney Martineck)
Roll Call: Gulmon Erickson Bishop Magnuson Carlsrud
Resolution
- Approve Resolution 2328, a Resolution Establishing Electrical Rates. (PW Manager Jacobson)
Roll Call: Erickson Gulmon Magnuson Bishop Carlsrud
2. Approve Resolution 2329, a Resolution Establishing Rates and Fees for Solid Waste Services. (PW Manager Jacobson)
Roll Call: Bishop Erickson Gulmon Magnuson Carlsrud
3. Approve Resolution 2330, a Resolution Establishing Rates for Surface Draining and Storm Sewer Cleaning and Maintenance Fee. (PW Manager Jacobson)
Roll Call: Magnuson Bishop Erickson Gulmon Carlsrud
New Business
- Approve Final Copy of the 2022 Employee Policy & Procedure Manual. (City Attorney Martineck)
Roll Call: Magnuson Gulmon Erickson Bishop Carlsrud
2. Approve Service Agreement with Valley City Parks and Recreation and Valley City Convention and Visitors Bureau for Administration of City Lodging Tax. (City Attorney Martineck)
Roll Call: Bishop Magnuson Gulmon Erickson Carlsrud
3. Approve Request for Funds from VCBCDC for Resource Development Specialist (3 years). (Jennifer Feist)
Roll Call: Magnuson Gulmon Erickson Bishop Carlsrud
4. Approve Request for Funds from VCBCDC for Small Projects (2022). (Jennifer Feist)
Roll Call: Bishop Magnuson Gulmon Erickson Carlsrud
5. Approve Public Works Capital and Operating Budgets for FY22. (PW Manager Jacobson)
Roll Call: Erickson Bishop Magnuson Gulmon Carlsrud
6. Approve Gaming Site Authorization Renewal for ND Chapters of Delta Waterfowl Inc. (Finance Director Richter)
Roll Call: Gulmon Erickson Bishop Magnuson Carlsrud
7. Approve Moving forward with NDDOT Maintenance Contract along I-94 Frontage Road from 12th Ave e to Exit 294. (City Administrator Crawford)
Roll Call: Magnuson Gulmon Erickson Bishop Carlsrud
8. Approve the NDDOT Urban Roads Project Submittal List for Fiscal Year 2023-2026. (City Engineer)
Roll Call: Bishop Magnuson Gulmon Erickson Carlsrud
City Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn
Holiday Closures and Garbage Plans
The Public Works Office will be closing at 12:00 noon on Thursday, December 23rd and closed Friday December24thin observance of Christmas Holiday. Transfer Station will be closing at 11:30am on December 23rd and closed December 24th.Wednesday and Thursday’s garbage will be picked up Wednesday. Friday’s garbage will be picked up by noon on Thursday December 23rd.
Snow Removal
As the snow comes and goes please remember to clear the snow from around your garbage cans and dumpsters to make it easier on our crew to pick it up.