Category Archives: Announcements

12.15.2020 Commission Meeting Agenda

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The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, December 15th, 2020 at 5:00 PM CT, via Zoom.

Members of the public may view the meeting online https://zoom.us/j/97836212283 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 978 3621 2283

Call To Order
Roll Call
Approval of Agenda

Approval of Minutes

Approval of the Finance and Commission Minutes from December 1st Meetings.

Approval of Consent Agenda

A.  Approve 2021 Permit to Sell L.P Gas for

            1.  CHS Inc. dba Dakota Plains Ag

            2.  Petro Serve USA #071

B.  Approve 2021 Tree Trimming and Removal License for Ross’ Tree Service.

Roll Call:  Gulmon          Erickson         Magnuson        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.

Ordinance

Resolution

New Business

1.  Approve 2021 Application to Operate Mobile Home Park for 

            a.  Rockwater LLC

            b.  Richard Plecity Trailer Court  (City Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:     Bishop            Gulmon           Erickson         Magnuson        Carlsrud

2.  Discuss 2021 Application to Operate Mobile Home Park for Viking Drive Estates. (City Administrator Crawford)

Roll Call:     Magnuson       Bishop             Gulmon           Erickson         Carlsrud

3.  Approve Public Works Capital and Operating budgets for FY21.  (PW Manager Jacobson)

Roll Call:     Erickson         Magnuson        Bishop             Gulmon           Carlsrud

4.  Review and Award bids for 2021 Vehicle Purchase.  (Police Chief Hatcher)

Roll Call:     Gulmon          Erickson          Magnuson        Bishop             Carlsrud

5.  Approve Engineering Committee Recommendations.  (Commissioner Magnuson)

Roll Call:     Bishop            Gulmon           Erickson          Magnuson        Carlsrud

6.  Approve the NDDOT Urban Roads Project Submittal List for Fiscal Year 2022-2025 (KLJ)

Roll Call:     Magnuson        Bishop             Gulmon           Erickson          Carlsrud

7.  Approve City Administrator’s Review.  (President Carlsrud)

Roll Call:     Erickson          Magnuson        Bishop             Gulmon           Carlsrud

8.  Consider Emergency Orders 2020-02.4 and 2020-05.3 re extension of City COVID Plan.  (President Carlsrud)

Roll Call:     Gulmon           Erickson          Magnuson        Bishop             Carlsrud

City Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

11/17/2020 Commission Meeting Minutes

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

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

Others present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Richter, Deputy Auditor Klein, PW Accountant/Manager Jacobson, Fire Chief Magnuson, Police Chief Hatcher, Chad Petersen from KLJ, City Assessor Hansen.

Approval of Agenda

Remove Consent Agenda A.

Approval of Minutes

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the 10/20/2020 minutes seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion carried.

Proclamation

Shop Small Proclamation was read by President Carlsrud.

Approval of Consent Agenda

A.  Approve Chamber of Commerce Parade Permit. -Removed

Public Comments

There were no public comments.

Ordinance

1.  Approve first reading of Ordinance No. 1067, an Ordinance creating and enacting Section 19-01-08 of Valley City Municipal Code re penalty for violation of City emergency orders. (City Attorney Martineck)

City Attorney Martineck stated our emergency declaration ordinance lacks a penalty clause.  This would allow the city to enforce the emergency orders that are in place.  Recommendation violation of any emergency order now or in the future would be an infraction with a maximum penalty of $1,000.

Commissioner Gulmon motioned to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.  Motion carried.

2.  Approve first reading of Ordinance No. 1068, an Ordinance Amending and Reenacting Sections 8-06-07 and 8-06-12 of the Valley City Municipal Code, related to removal of stumps and renewal of licenses.  (City Attorney Martineck)

City Attorney Martineck stated it was recommended earlier this year that some changes be made to the ORD.  The first change would be when a tree is removed the stump has to be removed within three weeks.  There would be consequences for any licensed tree remover failed to comply.  They could lose their license, suspend or not renew for the following year.

Commissioner Bishop motioned to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.  Motion carried.

New Business

1.  Approve Small Projects Funding for Oct. 1, 2020-September 30th, 2021- $20,000. (Jennifer Feist)

Jennifer Feist stated we use these dollars to help pay for taxes and special assessments.  The balance is then used for new projects and a little bit of maintenance.

Commissioner Gulmon motioned to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion carried.

2.  Approve Resource Development Specialist – Funding Increase – $4,000.  (Jennifer Feist)

Jennifer Feist stated we typically secure for 3 years at a time.  This is the last year for that time frame and we would like an increase.  We will look at the next three years when we get a little closer to that time.

Commissioner Bishop motioned to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion carried.

3.  Approve R&R Coordinator – Funding Increase – $10,000/year for two years.  (Jennifer Feist)

Jennifer Feist stated this is a recruiting and retention position.  This has been funded internally for the first two and a half years to make sure it is a valuable position and people would use it. It has proven very valuable and companies are wanting and needing.  We have had significant changes with the overhead, specifically we are adding healthcare benefits for this position.

Commissioner Bishop motioned to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion carried.

4.  Consider Accepting Project No. UGP-SU-2-990(057), PCN 22043-CPR-Streetscape Phase I – Central Ave N.  (KLJ)

Chad Petersen from KLJ this project was completed in 2019.  A final review was completed last fall with the NDDOT and city representatives.  All work has been completed and as a final project close out for the NDDOT the city needs to accept the project.

Commissioner Magnuson motioned to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion carried.

5.  Consider Accepting Project No. SU-SS-2-990(053)057, PCN 21095 – Storm Sewer Improvement District No. 50 (KLJ)

Chad Petersen from KLJ stated this project was an NDDOT Urban Roads project finished in 2019.  A final inspection has been completed.  In order to close out the project we need the City to accept it.

Commissioner Gulmon motioned to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.  Motion carried.

6.  Approve City Engineer Selection Committee Final Report.  (City Administrator Crawford)

The City created a description of the proposed project and prepared a formal invitation to the firms that submitted.  The City determined that three were entitled to interviews based on the qualifications.  The firms were all asked the same questions and ranked based on the responses.  KLJ/Moore Partnership was ranked number one.  From here if approved the City commences with negotiations.  If we are unable to come to an agreeable contract we would move to the second party. 

Commissioner Erickson commented that he feels KLJ should be taken out of it for number 9 (regarding the willingness to forego submitting RFP/Q’s for City projects).  He feels there will be conflict of interest if they are the City Engineer and doing the projects.

Commissioner Magnuson stated he is finding it difficult to spend the money on any firm to hire as a consultant to tell us what needs to be done.  There is a way to request RFP/Q’s the same way we are doing on 6th street.

Commissioner Bishop questioned if the building inspecting fees were passed on to the person building.

City Attorney Martineck stated the City recently passed a resolution allowing those fees to be passed on to the builder for commercial projects.  On residential we still see the costs.

Commissioner Gulmon motioned to approve, seconded by President Carlsrud.

Roll Call: Magnuson-aye          Bishop-nay      Gulmon-aye     Erickson-nay    Carlsrud-aye

Motioned carried.

Next steps will be to assemble a negotiation and set up a meeting with KLJ and Moore reps.

7.  Discuss Mask Plan Emergency Order.  (President Carlsrud)

President Carlsrud stated one of the discussions was going to be to address the penalty but that was already done so this can be a discussion for anything related to the mask mandate.

City Administrator Crawford commented on the committee that was formed for the large group events stating the committee is fine but the final decision should still be brought in front of the Commission.

President Carlsrud requested City Administrator Crawford develop a form based on the questions they have seen come through and see where it goes from there.

City Administrator Crawford also mentioned with the mandate that we can be stricter but not more lenient so with the Governors changes to the emergency we need to decide what we want to do.

Commissioner Gulmon motioned to follow the Governor’s order.

City Attorney Martineck stated he would draft an amendment to the emergency order.

Commissioner Erickson motioned to abide by the Commissioner’s orders and amend the agenda, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.  Motion carried.

President Carlsrud stated in a previous discussion it was mentioned partnering with City County Health on sharing expenses on the campaign for the masking but since that time we have the Governor’s order.  That has changed some of the necessity for the marketing.

Commissioner Bishop questioned if the Governor was going to help with the funding to advertise.

Finance Director Richter stated she was not aware of any additional funding being available.

President Carlsrud stated he support collaborating with the CCH but feels the numbers need to be reevaluated due to the recent changes.

8.  Discuss Liquor Licenses.  (Commissioner Magnuson)

Commissioner Magnuson stated he was asked due to the recent deduction in capacity and earlier closings if the City would be willing to waive the liquor license for the remainder of the year.

Commissioner Magnuson motioned to forgo the second half of the liquor licenses for bars and restaurants excluding off sales, Commissioner Gulmon seconded.

President Carlsrud asked if there was any thought regarding as previously mentioned waiving a portion.

Commissioner Magnuson amended his original motion to reflect waiving half of the second installment, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.

Motion passed.

9.  Approve Preliminary Engineering Reimbursement Agreement with NDDOT (Project No. NHU-2-094(175)928, West I-94 Business Loop hill slide).  (City Administrator Crawford)

City Administrator Crawford stated the cost will be about $1 million broken down as $809,300 federal, $90,700 state and our local share would be $100,000.  We have to sign the agreement going forward stating we will take care of our local share.  If we backed out of the agreement we would be responsible for the DOT share along with our portion.

Commissioner Bishop motioned to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion carried.

10.  Approve Tobacco Permit for Loves Travel Stop & Country Stores, Inc.  (Finance Director Richter)

Finance Director Richter stated we are allowed to have 14 tobacco licenses in town, Love’s would be the 14th due to Shopko closing.  They have submitted the application but no payment.

Commissioner Magnuson motioned to approve pending payment, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.  Motion carried.

City Administrator’s Report

City Administrator Crawford stated evaluations will be completed on the anniversary dates of the employees.

Tina is working on a recycling campaign.

December 15th the metal recycling bin will be moved across from the City Dump.

City Updates & Commission Reports

Public Works Manager Gary Jacobson sated he will be setting up meeting with the portfolio holders for the Public Works budget so that can be on the Finance agenda.

Police Chief Hatcher stated Brandi has been out and about, there have been a lot of vehicles out on the street and she is working on getting them cleaned up.  Several of the big projects we have had are getting cleaned u, some of the other properties are coming up on their 30 days so we will be counting on the city crew to help with those if needed.  If you see junk piling up on the street or properties give the Police Department a call.

Commissioner Gulmon thanked Theresa and staff at City County Health for providing the assistant to the community and council for us.  Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.

Commissioner Erickson commented for everyone to be safe and wear your mask.

Commissioner Bishop wishing everybody a happy and blessed Thanksgiving and stated to be safe. 

Commissioner Magnuson stated to have blessed Thanksgiving and wear your mask.  We still have some beautiful days so get out and walk.

Mayor Carlsrud thanked the cities and employees for their efforts in regards to the mask mandate. Thanksgiving is coming, be safe.  Household spread is one of the biggest downfalls we have.  Make sure you take the cautions that are available to you.

Meeting was adjourned at 6:50 PM

12/6/2020 Mayor’s Message

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Hi Everyone,

  • Heartfelt:  A “Blue Christmas Tree” in Veterans Park on Main Street is decorated with blue lights in remembrance of community members who died this past year.  Those who carry grief with them in this season are invited to visit the tree, be sad, be grateful be prayerful, and remember those you loved.  Sponsors are: The Barnes County Ministerial Association, Oliver-Nathan Funeral Chapel, and Lerud-Schuldt-Mathias Funeral Home.  Thank you all.
  • There seems to be more walkers and joggers out around town enjoying the nice weather.  Please remember to face traffic when running or walking, wear bright colors and reflective gear for protection from distracted drivers.
  • Thank you to all you motorists who have been stopping for pedestrians at intersections. 
  • COVID is really raising havoc around our country and our county.  Our positive cases per10K are about 100.  This is pretty high so please protect yourself and others.       Mask-UP in respect for those you are near.
  • That we are a relatively small community in a smaller county in a smaller state, we need to work together for success.   So, kudos to Valley City Public Works and NDDOT as the two partnered to clean the ditch plugged by erosion from Exit 290 south towards the Landfill.  Great job everyone & thank you.
  • Religious Faiths recognize a number of holidays this time of the year.  Some traditions include illuminated decorations.  Light can help our behavioral health too so if you have a little urge to display some holiday lighting, please do.  You may help someone feel better, maybe you as well.
  • PLEASE RECYCLE CARDBOARD:  Cardboard thrown in the garbage costs ALL CITIZENS as we must pay for landfill disposal.  Please recycle all you can, especially cardboard.  Thank you.

“It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.”                               (Lou Holtz)                                                   

Blessings, Pray and Be Safe,

Dave

12.10.2020 Special Meeting Agenda

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The City Commission & Procurement Services Selection Committee will meet on Thursday, December 10, 2020, at 8:15 AM CT. This meeting will be recorded and preserved, but will be closed pursuant to N.D.C.C. §§ 44-04-18.4 and 44-04-19.2.  Recordings will be made available after a contract is awarded.

Call To Order
Roll Call
New Business

  1. Preliminary, Design, and Construction Engineering – Street Reconstruction, Water Main Replacement, Partial Sanitary Sewer Main Replacement – 6th Street NW from 5th Avenue NW to Central Avenue N.
  • a. Interviews
    1. Interstate Engineering-8:30 AM
    2. Ackerman-Estvold-9:30 AM
    3. KLJ/Moore Engineering-10:30 AM
    4. Bolton & Menk-11:30 AM

Adjourn

11/30/2020 Mayor’s Message

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Hello Folks,

  • Act of Valor:  Our Police and Fire Departments were called to the scene where there was a person in the river.  A number of citizens and a police officer utilized a rescue disc to help the person from the icy water.  Thank you everyone and watch for details.
  • We have 143 active cases as of today’s report, slightly fewer than last week at this time.  Keep up your good work, *masking up works!  Thank you.
  • I hope you were able to be uptown Saturday to “Shop Small”.   Small shops have so many unique items, it is just fun to shop them.  Go downtown and look through our local stores.  “Shop Local”.
  • Our weather is cooling some though there is no snow or ice so it is still fun to get out and enjoy some fresh air and exercise.  With the wonderful cold weather clothing available, being outside can be comfortable. 
  • Please Recycle:  Cardboard thrown in the garbage costs ALL CITIZENS money as landfill disposal costs us.  Please recycle all you can, especially cardboard.  Thank you.
  • Our City County Health Department has Mask-UP Kits with signage available for use in your building(s).  Please call CCHD at 845-8518.

 “To keep a lamp burning, we have to keep putting oil in it.”           (Mother Teresa)                                                  

Blessings, Pray and Be Safe,

Dave

12.01.2020 Commission Meeting Agenda

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The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, December 1st, 2020 at 5:00 PM CT via Zoom.

Members of the public may view the meeting online https://zoom.us/j/94367884351 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 943 6788 4351

Call To Order
Roll Call
Approval of Agenda

Approval of Minutes

Minutes from November 17th meeting.

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 $                      
  3. Approve 2021 Pawn Shop License for Northwestern Industries.
  4. Approve 2021 Tree Trimming and Removal License for
    • Johnny B’s Trees and Service.
    • Z’s Trees
    • Mike’s Construction and Repair
    • Ground to Sky
  5. Approve 2021 Vehicles for Hire License for South Central Adult Services.         
  6. Approve Block off Street Request for Our Savior’s Lutheran Church on December 24, 2020 on 3rd St. NW between 2nd Ave NW and alley or Central for a Christmas Event mini-worship gathering on 12/24/2020.
  7. Approve Permit to Sell L.P. Gas for CBF Oil, Inc. dba Vining Oil & Propane.

Roll Call:  Gulmon          Erickson         Magnuson        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.

Ordinance

  1. Approve second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1067, an Ordinance creating and enacting Section 19-01-08 of Valley City Municipal Code re penalty for violation of City emergency orders. (City Attorney Martineck)

Roll Call:          Erickson         Magnuson        Bishop             Gulmon           Carlsrud

  1. Approve second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1068, an Ordinance Amending and Reenacting Sections 8-06-07 and 8-06-12 of the Valley City Municipal Code, related to removal of stumps and renewal of licenses.  (City Attorney Martineck)

      Roll Call:          Gulmon          Erickson         Magnuson        Bishop             Carlsrud

Resolution

New Business

1.  Approve Special Alcohol Event Permit for Bridges Bar and Grill at North Dakota Winter Show for Cattleman’s Ball and Sale on December 4th-6th, 2020 (City Auditor Richter)

      Roll Call:          Bishop            Gulmon           Erickson         Magnuson        Carlsrud

2.  Approve the Scoring & Ranking Criteria for the Main Street Program.  (Jennifer Feist)

      Roll Call:        Magnuson        Bishop            Gulmon           Erickson         Carlsrud

3.  Approve Valley City Water Purchase Agreement.  (City Administrator Crawford)

     Roll Call:          Erickson          Magnuson        Bishop            Gulmon           Carlsrud

4.  Approve State Water Commission Agreement for Cost-Share Reimbursement for Mill Dam Rehabilitation Project (KLJ).

     Roll Call:          Gulmon           Erickson          Magnuson        Bishop             Carlsrud

City Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn

12.01.2020 Finance Agenda

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The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, December 1st, 2020 at 3:30 PM CT via Zoom.

Members of the public may view the meeting online https://zoom.us/j/98766209616 Listen by calling (1-253-215-8782) Webinar ID: 987 6620 9616

Call to Order

Roll Call

Agenda Items

  1.  Department reports.
    1. Out of State Travel Requests
  • Review monthly bills/reports (10 minutes) – (President Carlsrud)
  • Review proposed Public Works Capital and Operating budgets for FY21. (PW Manager Jacobson)
  • Discuss 2021 Application to Operate Mobile Home Park for
    • Rockwater LLC
    • Richard Plecity Trailer Court                 (City Administrator Crawford)
  1. Discuss State Water Commission Agreement for Cost-Share Reimbursement for Mill Dam Rehabilitation Project (KLJ).

Adjourn


11/23/2020 Mayor’s Message

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Greetings Everyone,

  • Good Samaritan:  The other day I walked the Broken Road and on the west end by the picnic tables (wire reels), there is a nice bench.  Thank you to our benefactor.  “The easiest way to make an impact on your community is to just be kind”.  (Joshua Williams, Menard’s Flier)
  • COVID is running rampant here and all over the world.  For quite awhile we were spared the larger numbers of infections affecting areas around us.  It was as though we were insulated, but no longer, we are in the middle of it.  Practice the safety measures; you know them.
  • Friday Governor Burgum held a Press Briefing.   Superintendant Johnson shared procedures being utilized in the VCPS to slow the spread.  Procedures being utilized by the “VCSU Team” are similar and are slowing the spread as well.  I share that because the two institutions seem to have the lowest numbers of positives per capita in Valley City.  That said our “community’ and its “households” are our worst spreaders.  We who are outside the educational institutions would likely reduce the spread if we’d utilize the procedures schools are.  People in schools Mask-UP religiously.
  • In an effort to help clarify, the Valley City Commission amended its Emergency Order to match the Governor’s Order.  The orders are to protect us, let’s respect them versus challenging them. 
  • Our City County Health Department has Mask-UP Kits with signage available for use in your building(s).  Please call CCHD at 845-8518.
  • Happy Thanksgiving.  In spite of the many difficulties, let’s be grateful for the many Blessings in our lives.

“There are two ways of spreading light; be the candle or be the mirror that reflects it.”        (Edith Wharton)                                                   

Blessings, Pray and Be Safe,

Dave

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

11.03.2020 Finance Meeting Minutes

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Called To Order at 3:02 PM

President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 3:02 PM.

Roll Call

Members present: President Carlsrud, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Erickson, and Commissioner Gulmon.

Others present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Richter, Deputy Auditor Klein, Public Works Accountant/Manager Jacobson, City Assessor Hansen, Police Chief Hatcher, Chad Petersen from KLJ, Gloria Swart,

1.  Department Reports:

Gloria Swart reported they are getting some compost screened so that will be available come spring.  They have also been cracking down on oversized garbage cans and general violations.

2.  Review monthly bills/reports.

Finance Director Richter reported $1,566,701.00 in bills for the month.  Nothing out of the ordinary.  Had some PFP and other infrastructure construction costs, payroll and other regular maintenance charges.

Deputy Auditor Klein questioned approval process of bills due to meetings taking place via Zoom.  Consensus was to approve via emails.

3.  Discuss Tree Ordinance Change.

 City Administrator Crawford recommended changing the ORD to state stumps must be removed within a certain timeframe of removing the tree and/or clarify that the tree also includes the stump and include any contractor that does not abide by ORD is to not be licensed the following year.        There have been instances where the stumps have been forgotten and when they are diseased they      need to be or they are still spreading the disease.

Consensus was to start with 3 weeks.  City Attorney Martineck will draft the ORD for the first    reading.

4.  Discuss 2021 Employee Benefits.

            City Attorney Martineck stated it’s more of an update as the change has already been approved.  Benefits will be changing to ND Public Health Insurance Trust.  Premiums will stay the same for 2021 with the possibility of being reduced by 1%.  Going forward we are looking at 3-6%     increases.  This is good for our employees and will also save the City some money.  Will also have new dental and vision.

5.  Discussion around recycling cardboard. 

 President Carlsrud stated he has seen lots of cardboard while he has been walking around the city that we pick up.  Gloria stated they do see lots of cardboard come in at the Transfer Station.

Commissioner Gulmon recommended some type of education on why the cardboard should be brought to recycling.  President Carlsrud agreed to start with education.

6.  Consider Placing Vacant City Lots for Bids. 

City Assessor Hansen stated she received a request to put together city lots which has been added to the packet.  There are very few that are considered buildable.

Commissioner Magnuson questioned a why a few of the lots were considered unbuildable.

Commissioner Bishop questioned if they were “unbuildable” and sold to an adjacent landowner if that would then make them buildable.

Assessor Hansen said that is possible if they replatted.  Some are unbuildable only because they don’t meet the size outlined in order to make them a buildable lot.

Finance Director Richter also mentioned we do have an agreement for the FEMA lots for adjacent landowners to maintain it and use it.  We cannot sell FEMA lots.  WE own them but we        have an ORD that prohibits any building on them.

Attorney Martineck will create a RES to allow the sale of the vacant properties that are buildable not including the lot on 4 Bottle Drive.

7.  Review bids for Streetscape Phase II.

Chad Petersen form KLJ stated the DOT received three bids for the project ranging from $2.2-2.5 million, the Engineers estimate was $2.18 million.  Total project cost is $2,868,000 with the local share approximately $725,000.

 Commissioner Gulmon commented that Finance Director Richter sent out information and the City identified we are short about on the local share about $254,000.  Also sent out were projections of Care’s Act relief fund coming in $450,000 coming in before the end of the year. For discussion we plugged in about $140,000 of the $254,000 and we think we could also take some out of the R&R fund.  Commissioner Gulmon requested City Administrator Crawford speak on the approximately $389,000 of prepaid engineering funds that will have to be paid back if we don’t complete the project.

 City Administrator Crawford stated basically when the project was approved in order to move ahead there was engineering, some was paid by a full grant some was 90/10.  We paid to engineering and they reimbursed us but if the project isn’t completed the State will bill us.

8.  Discuss Urban Roads Program Solicitation

 Valley City receives approximately $555,000 annually from the DOT through the Urban Roads funds.  With that the DOT puts together a statewide 5 year improvement plan.  Valley City      submits annually the projects for the next 5 years.  The deadline for the update is December 31st. Just wanted to make you aware that was coming up.

9.  Discuss NDDOT Urban Grant Program (UGP) Solicitation

 Deadline is December 31st.

10.  Discuss NDDOT Transportation Alternative Program (TAP) Solicitation

Deadline is December 31st.

11.  Discuss NDDOT Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Solicitation

In 2024 the City has a plan to place flashing beacons by the Wellness Center going to the Bubble as well as one on 4th Street by the Rec Center.  Some other programs that were talked about were adding signage in student crossing areas, high crash areas.

City Administrator Crawford brought up that there was previous discussion about putting a turn   lane in at Petro but it didn’t happen.  She feels we should still move forward with it but it would     be at our cost and maybe we could add it to this program with approval.

 Chad will get a cost estimate for the project.

12.  Discuss Elks Building

 City Attorney Martineck stated this is a Commission decision at this point.  After discussion it  seems the consensus is that we should follow the denial by the Insurance Reserve.  The City has      already paid out a significant amount.  Century Code strictly limits the liability on cities.  We pay        into insurance companies so we don’t have to resolve our own claims and they have handled this         for us in the past.  The financial and legal opinion is to not pay out any more.  If the Commission          desires to move forward with some type of settlement we did look at a couple of options, one being a property tax exemption.  The other is to negotiate a cash settlement.

Commissioner Magnuson stated his initial thought is that he wants to help but to what extent.

Commissioner Gulmon stated he would like to make a “good Faith” payment not accepting or acknowledging any liability to make us all feel better about moving on with this thing. That may be the $30,000 they are asking for or maybe $20,000, can that be done?

City Attorney Martineck stated if they were to make a payment that is what he would      recommend.

President Carlsrud feels there is a moral obligation but is unsure to what extent.

City Attorney Martineck stated if there is a consensus to move forward the next step is to have a conversation on what we would like to offer and present that to the Commission.

13.  Form a committee for PFP storage.

Moved to Commission Meeting.

14.  Discuss Future Outlook of the City.

Moved to Commission Meeting.

15.  Discuss Coronavirus        

President Carlsrud said the numbers are on the rise and he will be limiting his time at the office. 

Commissioner Magnuson stated they went to a mandate at work and now he sees more    customers without masks.  When you have massive amounts of testing with very long times before you get the results back people are walking around in the meantime instead of staying home.  We need to get the tests back faster.

Commissioner Gulmon stated he would like to place a mandate for at least 30 days.

City Administrator Crawford stated we have a lot of people with differing opinions but until we   get the direction of what we are supposed to do from the Commission we can’t do make that decision.

City Attorney Martineck added that there had been discussion about wearing masks in city buildings before.  We just put something in place about 10 days ago so we need justification to move to a mandate already.

Commissioner Erickson said if we mandate it in City buildings we will have to provide masks at the building.  You’re seeing the numbers go up because they are testing more.

Commissioner Gulmon recommends changing to a mandate.

President Carlsrud stated there had been some discussion previously and it was decided to wait until the end of the week to see what the numbers are doing.

Adjourn The meeting was adjourned at ­4:54 PM.

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11.06.2020 Special Commission Meeting Minutes

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Valley City Special Commission Meeting

Friday, November 6th, 2020

12:00 PM Meeting, via Zoom


President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 12:00 PM.

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

Others Present: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Richter, Deputy Auditor Klein, Police Chief Hatcher, VCSU President, Dr. Buhr, CCH Director Theresa Will

Approval of Consent Agenda

1.  Approval of Raffle Permit for the Art Club Valley City High School.

Commissioner Bishop motioned to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion carried.

New Business

1.  Discuss COVID

President Carlsrud stated we are now in orange.  The bullets were sent as to where we should be with our rulings and procedures at the orange level. 

Information on the orange level:

 -Only essential workers and essential travel are recommended.

-For businesses choosing to remain open the following is recommended:  Wear facemasks and all non-essential businesses are limited to 25% rated room capacity while social distancing.

-Limit individual family groups, party sizes to one household or 10 people per party.

-Outdoor spaces follow industry specific Smart Restart protocols.

-Operators should post their temporary occupancy limit on all entrances.

-High risk individuals and their care givers should avoid crowds and large gatherings.

-Cancel gatherings of all size where social distancing cannot be maintained.

The next thing is to discuss group events, any thoughts?

Commissioner Bishop stated he’s not sure where churches are at right now but that may need to be addressed for them to cut back to the 25% and encouraging masks for everybody including restaurants and bars.

Dr. Buhr stated when you read some information it says where a mask when you can’t stay 6 feet apart.  That doesn’t hold because if you cough that can go further than 6 feet.  I say you are very close to shutting down bars and restaurants again.  I feel nothing will work if you don’t see a sign requiring you to wear a mask.  Some enforcement of that is a good idea of course but this facility requiring you to wear a mask is the biggest thing.

Theresa Will added she agrees with Dr. Buhr but there are some common sense things people are ignoring.  If you get in a vehicle with someone that is not in your household, you need a mask.  If you are in employment somewhere and you have other employees, you need to wear a mask.  That will help keep your business open.  Don’t go for lunch or sit at a meal with people that aren’t in your group.  As City and County employees we can be examples, I encourage us to mask.  We are working on a Mask Campaign and will be going door to door with information for businesses offering hand sanitizer, masks and a poster for their window.

Josh Johnson at the school district emailed they have very few cases but they have a number that are in quarantine and kids are going home and getting it from their parents.

VCSU President Al Lafave stated they have been doing okay as a campus.  They have a mask requirement and several protocols in place.  The number that is impacting them is the quarantine.  11 students on campus 38 off campus and 11 employees because of close contact.  Our dashboard will also include a tab that shows recovered cases.  We are looking at carefully post-Thanksgiving, we are concerned about what could happen after due to students traveling home.  We have a large number of students that have chosen to synchronous in their course delivery post-Thanksgiving.  We are here to support the City & County in what we can do to help get that message out.  I do see a higher use of mass in the community.

City Attorney Carlsrud questioned a requirement for anybody planning for a larger event would need to receive permission prior and discuss what restriction they are putting in place to follow the guidelines.

Commissioner Bishop feels it’s a good idea to know what is going on.  What’s the number we put on that they have to get permission.

Commissioner Gulmon feels it is time to implement a mask mandate.  We should also, along with CCH and the Chamber, send information to our businesses to hang.  We don’t’ want our businesses to close again.  Also, other places have imposed an 11 PM bar closing, is that something we should we discuss?

Commissioner Magnuson stated he is in favor of 11 PM bar closings.  From what I seen there are a lot of issues with the healthcare.  Until you get those fixed you have walking time bombs out there that don’t even know it.  Testing earlier and getting test results back earlier than 7 days is a must.  If you don’t have to go out, don’t.  If you or your kids aren’t feeling well, don’t go to work or school.  We are becoming complacent and passing things off as allergies or a cold.

President Carlsrud stated a comment from the Governor was that they were partnering with additional places to help speed up the results.

City Attorney Martineck stated under the previous COVID 19 emergency that was signed we have the ability to make any additional restrictions or guidelines necessary.

Sharon Buhr, Chair of the CCH Board, stated she would like to bring up two things.  We will be going door to door to businesses with the words mask up but we need the words to come from you in order to say “mandate.”  Also the money.  We won’t be charging anything to go door to door but we do need funds so we can do mass media campaigns.  So I am asking from our board to your board for some monetary support.

Commissioner Gulmon motioned to form a committee to assess large group requests, close bars and restaurants at 11 PM and enact a mask mandate for a 30 day timeframe; seconded by Commissioner Bishop.

Commissioner Bishop- aye Commissioner Gulmon-aye Commissioner Erickson-nay Commissioner Magnuson –aye Commissioner Carlsrud –aye

Motion carried.

President Carlsrud requested thoughts around actions keeping our employees safe.

Commissioner Magnuson requested the same as last spring. Social distance, spread out breaks, wash hands, wear masks.  Not proposing closing buildings at this time.

Meeting adjourned at 1:10 PM