Category Archives: Announcements

5th Avenue NW Detour Map

Construction Notice: Intersection of 5th Avenue NW & 2nd Street NW Closing 5/26/2020

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Starting May 26th, 2020 the intersection of 5th Avenue NW and 2nd Street NW will be closed. The intersection will remain closed until underground utility work is complete.

The current detour route will remain in effect. The detour runs from Main Street to 9th Avenue NW and then back to 5th Avenue NW via 12th Street NW.

Updated maps for all road closures will be posted on the City of Valley City’s webpage https://www.valleycity.us/engineers/ when they are taking affect. If you have any questions regarding the project, please contact KLJ at (701)-845-4980.

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

05/05/2020 City Commission Minutes

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The City Commission Meeting meet on Tuesday, May 5, 2020 at 5:00 PM CT, via Zoom. Board Members may attend from alternate locations to minimize group size and contact, as recommended by state and federal government officials due to COVID-19 and as allowed in ND Executive Order 2020-16. Members of the public may view the meeting online (https://zoom.us/j/98790731637) listen by calling (312) 626-6799 Webinar ID: 987 9073 1637.

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

Members present: Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Powell, Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Bishop.

Others present: City Auditor Richter, City Attorney Martineck.

Approval of Agenda – Addition of Consent D; N11

Approval of Minutes

Commissioner Powell moved to approve the minutes from the April 21, 23, 28, 2020 meetings; seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. Motion carried.

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Monthly Reports from the Fire Chief, Building Inspector, Auditor, Municipal Judge and Public Works Accountant.
  2. Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $2,291,417.29
  3. Approve Electrician, Plumber and/or Mechanical Contractor licenses for
    1. Kemen Plumbing & Heating, Inc
    1. Tyler’s Electric, LLC
  4. Approve Raffle Permit for ND Appaloosa Horse Club

Commissioner Erickson inquired about Kemen Plumbing & Heating application. City Attorney Martineck stated the Building Inspector is recommending approval.

City Auditor Richter discussed the monthly bills which included $1.1 million for debt service, TIF payments and purchase of 6 roll-off containers for the Transfer Station.

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve the consent agenda, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.

Public Hearing

Public Hearing to Rezone for public use the VCSU Center for the ArtsPresident Carlsrud declared the public hearing open. There were no comments. Commissioner Magnuson moved to close the public hearing, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. Motion passed unanimously.

Approve first reading of Ordinance No. 1055, an Ordinance Rezoning West ½ of Lot 10, East 74.25’ of Lots 11 & 12, Lots 13 and 14 less the North 105’, and Lot 15 of Block 3, Andrus & Sifton’s Addition for VCSU Center for the Arts

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve Ordinance No. 1055, seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously. City Attorney Martineck thanked VCSU for attending the meeting and stated the ordinance will be considered for second reading in two weeks.

Ordinance

Approve second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1053, an Ordinance Rezoning Block 3, Plecity Mobile Home Park Addition

City Attorney Martineck stated that Block 3 will be rezoned from mobile home use to commercial use for a storage building and workshop with no changes from the first reading. Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1053, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1054, the 2020 Infrastructure Funding Ordinance

City Attorney Martineck stated the purpose is to provide up to $150,000 for infrastructure funding for areas newly annexed to the City.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1054.

Commissioner Powell stated he voted no on the previous reading, as he’d like to see access to funding for developers within city limits to pay off special assessments to promote vacant lots. City Attorney Martineck stated if funding is available through Prairie Dog funding, this could be considered. Commissioner Magnuson said he would encourage in-fill development in the future.

The motion passed unanimously.

Resolution

Approve Resolution No. 2251, a Resolution Approving Plat of Waterfront Meadows

City Attorney Martineck stated the plat is for a new subdivision south of I-94 and was previously presented to the Commission. Since that time, the developer agreement has been signed and an agreement with Barnes Rural Water District has been signed. Martineck stated that annexation of 8th Avenue still needs to occur, this will provide access to the subdivision. Martineck stated that proof of insurance and cash bond will be required to move forward. Martineck recommends approval contingent upon annexation of 8th Avenue, proof of insurance and cash bond.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve Resolution No. 2251 with contingencies as stated, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.

Roll Call: Powell – abstain; Erickson – nay; Bishop – aye; Magnuson – aye; Carlsrud – aye. Motion carried.

Approve Resolution No. 2253, a Resolution accepting Bid and Awarding Contract to Strata Corporation for UGP-2-999(051) – Streetscape Phase II

Commissioner Erickson moved to reject all bids and re-bid the project in October 2020, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.

City Auditor Richter stated that the project has been reviewed by City Staff as the results are $750,000 over the planned local cost share estimated in 2018. Richter stated more work is needed than anticipated. The R&R fund does not have funding available. Chad Petersen from KLJ stated the extra work is due to ADA requirements; encroachment issues; moving curb lines; and replacing more concrete than originally expected. Petersen will review if additional funds area available to offset the additional expense and plan to re-bid this fall for construction in 2021.

The motion passed unanimously.

Approve Resolution No. 2254, a Resolution Approving Renaissance Zone Development Plan for 2020 – 2025

Emma Tufte reported the Renaissance Zone Authority Board met and provided a do pass recommendation for the Development Plan. Tufte reviewed the process to date which has included a public hearing that was held on December 9, 2019. Property owners within the Zone were notified of the renewal process and no requests were received to change the Zone mapping. The Board considered the possibility of expanding near the University District but chose to take no action. The Zone map remains unchanged from the 2015 version of the map.

The Renaissance Zone Authority Board had received request prior to the renewal process to increase the single-family residence exemption cap to $300,000 and in this renewal process is recommending that change be made. Tufte noted that with the approval of this Resolution, the City Commission policy will be changed to reflect increased cap.

The renewal request has been presented by Chair Knutson to the Barnes County Commission and

Valley City Public School board for consideration and received support.

Commissioner Powell moved to approve Resolution No. 2254, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.

New Business

Approve Recommendations from Renaissance Zone Authority Board for 5 year income tax exemption and 5 year property tax exemption up to $250,000 for the following projects

  1. VC-123 at 461 12 ½ Street NE
  2. VC-124 at 441 12 ½ Street NE
  3. VC-125 at 554 Legacy Lane

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the Renaissance Zone projects, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.

Consider Parade Application for VCHS Class of 2020 on May 13, 2020 at 6:30 PM on Central Avenue from Hanna Field to Main Street
City Attorney Martineck brought the application to the City Commission under New Business due to COVID-19. Gina Thorton was available on Zoom and provided background regarding their plans. Students will be in their own cars. Commissioner Magnuson asked Thorton to advertise the event with request for public to adhere to social distancing guidelines. Commissioner Powell moved to approve the parade, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. Roll call: Erickson – aye; Powell – aye; Magnuson – aye; Bishop – aye; Carlsrud – nay. Motion carried.

Consider Recommendation from Visitors Committee for a Food & Beverage grant in an amount not to exceed $42,079 for Kayak & Bike Kiosk Project from Sheyenne River Valley Scenic Byway

Bobby Koepplin appeared by Zoom, to reviewed the request. The project also includes money from the Bush Grant prize. A kayak kiosk will be installed at Bjornson Golf Course and a bike kiosk at Gaukler Wellness Center. Valley City Park & Rec has agreed to operate and maintain the kiosks for 5 years.
Commissioner Erickson moved to approve the grant request, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve Agreement between City and Bridgetown Builders Inc. for development of Waterfront Meadows Subdivision
City Attorney Martineck reported plat has been approved, infrastructure funding ordinance approved, this agreement now sets forth the requirements for infrastructure development to and within the development. Martineck stated requirements for … Martineck recommends approval. Donny Eberle clarified the agreement is with Bridgetown Develop, LLP.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. Roll call: Bishop – aye; Magnuson – aye; Erickson – aye; Powell – abstain; Carlsrud – aye. Motion carried.

Consider Engineering Agreement with KLJ for Water, Sewer and Roadway Extension to Waterfront Meadows in an amount not to exceed $20,500.

Chad Petersen from KLJ stated that this for engineering work to extend water, sewer and roadway to Waterfront Meadows. This is an hourly not to exceed contract for design and construction engineering work. Commissioner Erickson asked for clarification regarding this expense. Chad Petersen from KLJ clarified that this is included in the $150,000 set aside for the project.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve agreement, seconded by Commissioner Powell. The motion passed unanimously.

Consider Amendment to Agreement for Permanent Flood Protection Phase IV – Preliminary Engineering for CLOMR

Chad Petersen from KLJ stated the State Water Commission has approved reallocation of funding to provide for CLOMR with a cost share of 85% SWC; 15% local cost share. The contract is hourly not to exceed.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the agreement, seconded by Commissioner Bishop. The motion passed unanimously.

Consider bid for cable in conduit from Resco in the amount of $11,070 for 5th Avenue NW lighting project

President Carlsrud presented the request to purchase on behalf of Marshall Senf. Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the purchase, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.

Consider ending 2020 Spring Flood declaration

City Auditor Richter reported that on March 3, the City made the 2020 spring flood declaration. City Auditor Richter stated there was $35,000 in expenses from VCPW for pump usage and some overtime; with minimal engineering. Differding does not anticipate additional expenses as pumps have been pulled. Commissioner Powell moved to end the 2020 Spring flood declaration, seconded by Commissioner Erickson. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve Annual Gaming Site Authorization for Thundering Saints, Inc. at Boomer’s Corner Keg for July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021

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

Consider waiving alcoholic beverage licenses fees for six months for businesses closed by the Governor’s order

Commissioner Magnuson stated the Commission has been approached by licensees to consider waiving licensing fees. Magnuson recommended waiving the first six months of the license fees [July 1, 2020 – December 31, 2020] and then re-evaluate.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve waiving alcoholic beverage licensing fees forsix months for businesses closed by governor’s order, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson. The motion passed unanimously.

Approve employment contract with City Administrator appointee Gwendolyn Crawford
President Carlsrud stated a contract has been offered for the City Administrator position to Gwendolyn Crawford. Commissioner Bishop expressed concern regarding the starting salary as $80,000 discussed but the contract reads $82,000. Candidate requested one more year step increase which raised it by $2,000.

Commissioner Powell moved to approve as stated; seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Roll call: Magnuson – aye; Erickson – nay; Powell – aye; Bishop – nay; Carlsrud – aye. Motion carried.

City Updates & Commission Reports

Commissioner Powell thanked Gina Thorton for organizing the parade for high school seniors and encouraged the public to use common sense.

City Attorney Martineck expects conversation about the [COVID-19] employee policy that employees are under that are tighter than state requirements.

City Auditor Richter stated city hall is working towards a smart restart including installation of Plexiglas.

Chad Petersen from KLJ reported work continues for Phase IIA & III Permanent Flood Protection. 5th Avenue NW project will begin May 11. KLJ is working with VCPW to adjust garbage pickup and communicate with property owners this week.

Commissioner Bishop thanked city employees.

Commissioner Magnuson acknowledged VCPD & VCFD for efforts. Enjoyed the banners on city streets for the 2020 seniors.

President Carlsrud stated that things are more open, but requires continued discipline for wise decisions. Thanked Kristi Brandt and VCPW Electrical Department for efforts in putting banners up around town. Thanked employees.

President Carlsrud welcomed Gwen as new City Administrator.

Adjourn  at 6:00 PM.

COVID-19 Briefing Wednesday at 5:30 PM with City of Valley City and City County Health District logos

05/20/2020 COVID-19 Briefing

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City of Valley City Hosting COVID-19 Response Briefing on May 20

WHO: Officials from City-County Health District, City Government, and Barnes County Senior Services are expected to speak.

Speakers will include:

  • Theresa Will – Administrator for City-County Health District
  • Scott Magnuson – Valley City Fire Chief
  • Pat Hansen – Director of Barnes County Food Pantry
  • Dave Carlsrud – Valley City Mayor

WHAT: Each organization will provide updates and information pertaining to recent developments in the COVID-19 community response. All officials will be available following the briefing for questions from media partners.

WHEN: Wednesday, May 20 at 5:30pm

WHERE: City of Valley City – City Hall, 254 2nd Ave NE, Valley City, ND 58072

The briefing is closed the public to honor social distancing. Members of the public can view live on City-County Health’s Facebook page, KOVC 1490 AM, BEK Channel 26 and CSI Cable 68.

Memorial Day Closures & Garbage Plans overlaid on garbage truck

Offices & Transfer Station Closures: Memorial Day

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Office & Transfer Station Closings:

  • Transfer Station will be closed on Saturday, May 23
  • Public Works, City Hall & Transfer Station will be closed on Monday, May 25.

Garbage Schedule: Week of May 25

  • Monday’s garbage will be picked up on Tuesday.
  • Tuesday & Wednesday’s garbage will be picked up on Wednesday.
  • Regular schedule resumes on Thursday.
President Dave Carlsrud

05/18/2020 Mayor’s Message

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GOOD NEWS TOO

Good day everyone, we have had a good week in Valley City.  With weather patterns becoming more “normal” and some sunshine, get out and enjoy some of the activities that provide good social distancing. 

  • Bridge City Cruisers have had a couple successful Cruise Nights; there was a “Senior Parade”, along with walking, biking and maybe some chalk art.
  • Cass County and other areas in out state have been hit with more cases of the virus so BEWARE, essential travel only.  We will increase our chances of avoiding the virus only if we continue a good job of social distancing.
  • For Fun:  The VCFD is doing “Birthday Calls”; check them out.
  • Thursday night the VCFD used its drill night to clean “The Broken Road”.  Along with the VCFD, a number of Public Works Departments contributed to the clean up as well; an aesthetic improvement for our community.
  • Thank you to all teachers and administrators at VCPS and VCSU for making distance learning successful this spring.
  • Census 2020 is a big deal for you all.  Please complete the form mailed to you, or complete it online so no one has to “knock” on your door; BE COUNTED!
  • Please Read Measure #1 on your ballot.  It is important for the completion of your Permanent Flood Protection.
  • We will have another 5:30 Press Briefing Wednesday, our guests are Pat Hansen and Scott Magnuson. Please join us.
  • “The most beautiful way to begin and end the day is with a Grateful Heart. (Charlie Brown)

Blessings, Pray and Be Safe,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud

City Commission Meeting

05/19/2020 City Commission Agenda

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The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, May 19, 2020 at 5:00 PM CT, at City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND. Members of the public are not permitted in the Commission Chambers due to COVID-19 and as allowed in ND Executive Order 2020-16. Members of the public may view the meeting online (https://zoom.us/j/97740454720) or listen by calling (669) 900-9128 Webinar ID: 977 4045 4720.

Call To Order
Roll Call
Pledge of Allegiance (Please Stand)
Approval of Agenda – Addition of N8; O3 Moved to N9

Approval of Minutes

Minutes from May 5, 2020 meeting

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Raffle Permit for Fraternal Order of Police James Valley Lodge #4, ND Red Knights
    Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson          Powell              Bishop             Carlsrud

Public Comments

During the COVID-19 emergency, members of the public may request to make a public comment regarding city business by contacting City Hall (701) 845-1700 by 12 NOON on the day of the meeting to make arrangements.

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 second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1055, an Ordinance Rezoning West ½ of Lot 10, East 74.25’ of Lots 11 & 12, Lots 13 and 14 less the North 105’, and Lot 15 of Block 3, Andrus & Sifton’s Addition for VCSU Center for the Arts (City Attorney Martineck)

    Roll Call:          Erickson          Powell              Magnuson        Bishop             Carlsrud
  2. Approve first reading of Ordinance No. 1056, an Ordinance Amending Title 2, Administration (City Attorney Martineck)

    Roll Call:          Powell              Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

Resolution

  1. Approve Resolution No. 2255, a Resolution Approving Plat of Love’s Addition (63-2601150) (City Attorney Martineck)

    Roll Call:          Magnuson        Bishop             Powell              Erickson          Carlsrud
  2. Approve Resolution No. 2256, a Resolution Approving Replat of Lot 5, South Valley Addition (City Attorney Martineck)

    Roll Call:          Erickson          Magnuson        Bishop             Powell              Carlsrud

New Business

  1. Approve proposed Ordinance No. 1058 for publication, an Ordinance Creating Title 20-04.01 to Extend City Sales, Use & Gross Receipts Tax dedicated to Permanent Flood Protection (City Attorney Martineck)

    Roll Call:          Powell              Magnuson        Erickson          Bishop             Carlsrud
  2. Approve July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2021 Annual Gaming Site Authorization for the following (City Auditor Richter):
    • Valley City Baseball Association at The Clubhouse Lounge
    • Valley City Hockey and Figure Skating Club at Valley City Town & Country Club
    • Valley City Hockey and Figure Skating Club at Youth Sports Complex

      Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Powell              Carlsrud
  3. Consider Police Officer COVID-19 hazard pay (Police Chief Hatcher)
    Roll Call:          Powell              Bishop             Erickson          Magnuson        Carlsrud
  4. Consider options for street light fixtures on 5th Avenue NW
    Roll Call:          Erickson          Magnuson        Bishop             Powell              Carlsrud
  5. Consider Construction Engineering Agreement with KLJ for Paving Improvement District No. 121 – 2020 Seal Coat (KLJ)

    Roll Call           Magnuson        Erickson          Powell              Bishop             Carlsrud
  6. Consider Construction Engineering Agreement with KLJ for Water Main Improvement District No. 101 – 5th Ave NW (KLJ)
    Roll Call:          Bishop             Powell              Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud
  7. Consider projects for 2021 North Dakota Water Development Plan (KLJ)
    Roll Call:          Powell              Erickson          Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud
  8. Approve Purchase Agreement re Auditor’s Lot 1 in the SW ¼, Section 27, Township 140, Range 58, between George Gaukler and Bridgetown Development LLP (City Attorney Martineck)
    Roll Call:          Erickson          Bishop             Powell              Magnuson        Carlsrud
  9. Discuss Ordinance Creating a  Mobile Vendor License (City Attorney Martineck)

City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn

City of Valley City Logo with COVID-19 Briefing below

05/13/2020 COVID-19 Briefing

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City of Valley City Hosting COVID-19 Response Briefing on May 13

WHO: Officials from City-County Health District, City Government, the Development Corporation and Chamber of Commerce are expected to speak.

Speakers will include:

  • Theresa Will – Administrator for City-County Health District
  • Jennifer Feist – Director of Development for Valley City Barnes County Development Corporation
  • Kay Vinje – Executive Vice President for Valley City Area Chamber of Commerce
  • Dave Carlsrud – Valley City Mayor

WHAT: Each organization will provide updates and information pertaining to recent developments in the COVID-19 community response. All officials will be available following the briefing for questions from media partners.

WHEN: Wednesday, May 13 at 5:30pm

WHERE: City of Valley City – City Hall, 254 2nd Ave NE, Valley City, ND 58072

The briefing is closed the public to honor social distancing. Members of the public can view live on City-County Health’s Facebook page, KOVC 1490 AM, BEK Channel 26 and CSI Cable 68.

05/11/2020 Mayor’s Message

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CONGRATULATIONS

  • Hello area high school and university seniors.  Your school year is ending and life will be opening doors to the next chapters of your lives.  With the Corona Virus, graduations will differ from the norm, they will likely be unique and the classes of 2020 will always be remembered.  There will be some fun “activities”; please respect the virus, your friends, your family and practice Social Distancing to ensure good health.  “CONGRATULATIONS & ENJOY”

COVID-19

  • Local Businesses are opening … PLEASE support them so they can support you.  Usually our local businesses are the first ones we visit for donations for good causes so they need sufficient profits to help you. 
  • The City Commission hired Gwen Crawford to serve Valley City Citizens as our City Administrator/Manager.  She is scheduled to begin work here within 30 days.  Watch for her and please offer a warm Hi-Liner/Viking welcome.
  • Please Read Measure #1 on your ballot.  It is important for the completion of your Permanent Flood Protection.
  • We will have another 5:30 Press Briefing Wednesday and our guests are TBD. Please join us.
  • Charlie Brown said, “We only live once Snoopy”.  Snoopy said, “No, Charlie Brown, we only die once, we LIVE every day.”
  • Pray

Blessings and Be Safe,

Dave Carlsrud

05/06/2020 COVID-19 Briefing

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City of Valley City Hosting COVID-19 Response Briefing on May 6

WHO: Officials from City-County Health District, Valley City Public Schools and City Government are expected to speak.

Speakers will include:

  • Theresa Will – Administrator for City-County Health District
  • Tyler Jacobson – Director of Valley City Parks and Recreation
  • Keith Heuser – President of CHI Mercy Health Valley City
  • Joshua Johnson – Superintendent for Valley City Public Schools
  • Dave Carlsrud – Valley City Mayor

WHAT: Each organization will provide updates and information pertaining to recent developments in the COVID-19 community response. All officials will be available following the briefing for questions from media partners.

WHEN: Wednesday, May 6 at 5:30pm

WHERE: City of Valley City – City Hall, 254 2nd Ave NE, Valley City, ND 58072

The briefing is closed the public to honor social distancing. Members of the public can view live on City-County Health’s Facebook page, KOVC 1490 AM, BEK Channel 26 and CSI Cable 68.