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2007 minutes 2006 minutes 2005 minutes
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
December 08, 2008
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Dick Paggen, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Louis Walz, Sue Marstein, Jeremy Freudenrich, Jerry Schueler, Gordon Sjaaheim, Louise Winkler, Steve Ebnet, Stephanie Court and associate from New Core Wireless.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Motion to pay all bills was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
Motion to receive bank reconciliation was made by Lloyd Rausch seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Motion to accept electronic transfers and debit/credit cards was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to accept the November, 2008 minutes was made by Kim Ebnet seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by Mayor Ernie Schmit in the absence of Manager Pat Meier.
November, 2008
LIQUOR STORE REPORT
GROSS RECEIPTS
NOVEMBER
2008
$ 26,253.57
GROSS RECEIPTS
$ 26,253.57
OCTOBER
2008
$ 30,923.70
NOVEMBER
2007
$ 30,397.20
PREVIOUS GROSS
$ 322,312.88
Lottery’08 November
$ 371.21
’08 GROSS
$ 348,566.45
’08 YTD
$ 5,656.68
‘08 EXPENSES
$ 333,678.30
PROFIT/(LOSS)
$ 14,888.15
BANK
$ 7,094.75
NET PROFIT LOTTERY
$ 5,656.68
’06 CD
$10,000
’07 CD $10,000
Band Reimbursement
$ 1,440.00
’08 CD
$10,000
TOTAL PROFIT (LOSS)
$ 21,984.83
Year end inventory of the liquor store will be on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2009.
Mayor Ernie Schmit also gave the Fire Department report along with Assistant Fire Chief, Steve Ebnet. The Truck Fund CD is coming up for renewal. Motion to roll over CD 20924 of $42,684.67 to best interest rate was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF Payroll for the Firefighters/rescue squad was discussed. From December 1, 2007 to November 30, 2008 there were 1,951 total hours put in by the Volunteer staff to equal $19,812. Council approved the payroll on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF Budgeted for wages in 2008 was 26,600 including administrative wages. This year the F.D. came in under budget by $6,788. Chief Pat Meier started attending a Fire Inspector I class about codes tonight. Cost is $400 plus mileage costs, possible 44 hours of training. He is willing to pay for it on his own if the city does not. The council agreed to pay for this course for Pat Meier on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
Fire Department’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) are basically complete. Steve Ebnet would like to see a couple changes yet. They will have it ready for the January council meeting.
Received a reimbursement of $70 from Central MN EMS Region toward the EMT refresher course. DNR grant 50/50 match was awarded to the Fire Department for $3,000 ($1,500/$1,500) The contract was signed last week and as soon as the Fire Dept. receives the money, they will be ordering items for the Fire Dept.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his mayor’s report.
The summary of the closed meeting at end of November regular council meeting: The council has taken Jeremy Freudenrich off probation and hired him as a full time maintenance person.
Jerry Schueler and Jeremy Freudenrich came before the council to explain snow removal for the city. For safety and financial reasons the sidewalks should be cleared off first, then the streets. This way all of the snow will be cleared at once. If sidewalks are left to property and business owners, many times that snow gets put back onto the already plowed streets, causing a safety hazard. On a motion by Dick Paggen, seconded by Kim Ebnet all Main Street sidewalks will be cleared as well as heavy pedestrian sidewalks. AIF As time allows all secondary sidewalks will be plowed.
The Maintenance Department is in the process of writing up policy on snow removal.
On a motion by Ernie Schmit, seconded by Dick Paggen, the Maint. Dept. will hire an on call, as needed seasonal person to clear off sidewalks, at $9/hour. The council agreed to a maximum dollar amount for the snow seasonal person of not more than $1,000 for these wages. AIF
A motion was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden to approve the 2009 budget. AIF There was one minor change made; Other Wages under Street Expenses increased by $1,000 to cover snow removal. Other City Expenses in Excess of Revenue was lessoned by $1,000.
New Core Wireless associates Stephanie Court and Paul explained to the council about their company. New Core is a start up company offering wireless phone service and working with Benton Co-op, Sherburne, and Albany Telephone services. They want to use the city water tower to put up their antennas. Preliminary testing for coverage needs to be done by them before approval by either party. They will be working with our Maintenance Dept to set up testing, etc. On a motion by Kim Ebnet seconded by Dick Paggen this preliminary approval was given. AIF New Core Wireless gave the council a copy of their lease agreements they have with other area cities for the council’s information. Further agreement on this is tabled until all information is disseminated by both the council and New Core Wireless.
A city resident has requested the council to extend the summer sewer cut rates to include September for all residents. Many are watering lawns and gardens into September. Mike Odden made a motion to that effect. The motion died for lack of a second. Summer sewer rates will stay as they were; for June, July and August.
City employees salary rates was discussed. The federal Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2008 is 5.8%. Kim Ebnet made a motion to pay city employees 3% of the COLA, seconded by Dick Paggen. Kim Ebnet and Dick Paggen voted yes. Ernie Schmit, Mike Odden and Lloyd Rausch voted no. Motion failed.
Mike Odden made a motion to pay city employees 5% of the COLA, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. Mike Odden and Lloyd Rausch voted yes. Ernie Schmit, Kim Ebnet and Dick Paggen voted no. Motion failed.
Ernie Schmit made a motion to pay city employees 4% of the COLA, seconded by Dick Paggen. Ernie Schmit, Dick Paggen and Kim Ebnet voted yes, Lloyd Rausch and Mike Odden voted no. Motion passed.
Stearns Bank asked the city to release several pledges that had low balances from their security roster. There is ample coverage for the city’s finances with the pledges that will still be on the books. Motion to release pledges was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
Stearns County Board of Equalization asked the council if they want to continue having the Board of Equalization meetings in May for property taxes. The council said yes, there are trained council members to assist the county assessor with this meeting.
Mayor Schmit thanked councilperson Dick Paggen for his years of service on the council. He is stepping down and Susan Marstein will be taking his place starting with the January, 2009 council meeting.
Dick Paggen made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Meeting adjourned at 9:08 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
November 10, 2008
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Dick Paggen, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Louis Walz, Sue Marstein, Jeremy Freudenrich, Jerry Schueler.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Motion to pay all bills was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
Motion to receive bank reconciliation was made by Lloyd Rausch seconded by Mike Odden. .AIF
Motion to accept electronic transfers and debit/credit cards was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Motion to accept the October, 2008 minutes was made by Mike Odden seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by Mayor Ernie Schmit in the absence of Manager Pat Meier.
October, 2008 LIQUOR STORE REPORT
GROSS RECEIPTS
OCTOBER 2008 $ 30,923.70 GROSS RECEIPTS $ 30,923.70
SEPTEMBER 2008 $ 28,743.18
OCTOBER 2007 $ 29,043.15 PREVIOUS GROSS $ 291,389.18
Lottery’08 October $ 499.12 ’08 GROSS $ 322,312.88
’08 YTD $ 6,723.54 ‘08 EXPENSES $ 310,261.90
PROFIT/(LOSS) $ 12,050.98
BANK $ 6,723.54 NET PROFIT LOTTERY $ 6,723.54
’06 CD $10,000 ’07 CD $10,000 Band Reimbursement $ 1,440.00
’08 CD $10,000 TOTAL PROFIT (LOSS) $ 20,214.52
The Timmy H. music night went well and so did the Halloween costume party on Oct. 31.
There will be music here on Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, November 28th, the band Corridor.
Pat would like the council to consider allowing the Liquor Store to bundle the phone, internet and TV with US Cable.
Fire Department report was given by Mayor Ernie Schmit in the absence of Fire Chief Pat Meier. There have been 86 calls so far this year; 10 in Brockway, 18 in Holding, 48 in City of Holdingford, 8 in Krain and 2 Avon. The truck fund has $42,684.67, with the passbook $24,728.09. We are considering starting to bill River Birch because of all the calls, many of which could be handled with their own medical personnel. Payroll for our fire/rescue personnel will be next month. The cut off date is Nov. 30 for payroll. We will be seeking approval of the payroll at the December council meeting.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his report. See end of minutes for complete details.
Approval of Wentland Construction invoice for $31,696 for the completion of Washington St. sidewalk repairs was made on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Aggressive Masonry, Inc will have to redo the slope at the end of the sidewalk by the alley and Corky’s Car Wash. Jerry Schueler commented that Aggressive may get to it this week if weather permits. Aggressive will also form up an angle to the squared off steps in front of Heart and Sol. Motion to pay his invoice of $24,145.94 was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF This motion was made with the understanding that the ramp would be done this next week; otherwise the council will withhold $500 until this handicap slope is completed.
Water distribution from our well to the tower was discussed along with the condition of our water mains. Keeping control on the right amount of chlorine in the water is getting harder to adjust because of the old pitted water mains. Jerry Schueler suggested the council start preparing for updating our system to larger water mains. The council can look at grant $s for this undertaking and for a pressurized filtration system at our well. Motion to search for grant $s to replace water pipes and filtration system was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
The council reviewed the list of property owners whose utility bills are delinquent more than 90 days. Payments that have not caught up by November 20th, will be put on the owners’ property taxes. Motion to approve was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Trying to catch loose dogs in the city and protection from bites from these dogs is becoming a problem. Jerry is to check into some kind of dog protection when trying to capture these dogs. Tri-County Humane Society yearly contract will be coming up in December. The city clerk requested a change in the contract to read only dogs that are loose and do not have a dog tag on it to be taken to the humane society, (not cats, and other domestic animals). Motion by Dick Paggen, seconded by Mike Odden for approval for dogs only on the contract with Tri-County Humane Society. AIF
The snow plow truck received a DOT sticker for this year, however, Ramler Trucking said this would probably be the last year they can approve it for DOT. There was an oil leak, but has been taken care of. The box is rusting away. Boyer Ford Truck Co. is where Albany got their dump truck from. They get newer ones in occasionally. Jerry will be talking with them to have them look for the City of Holdingford for a new dump truck. Motion to authorize the Maintenance men to spend up to $50,000 on a good used truck was made by Ernie Schmit, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF.
This year there will not be county training for the Local Board of Review. We have two council members already trained for this review in May of each year.
Motion to suspend the regular meeting to go into a closed meeting was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Motion to open up regular meeting again after closed meeting was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
The end of Jeremy Freudenrich’s probation period was up as of November 5, 2008. Motion to move Jeremy from probation to full time and to move him one step up from I0 to I1 was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
Council members worked on updating Ordinances 93.25 to 150.01.
Meeting adjourned at 10:20 p.m. on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Respectfully submitted by Victoria R. Statz
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved) October 14, 2008
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Dick Paggen Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Pat Meier, Louis Walz, Sue Marstein, Louise Winkler, Cyril Ebnet, Shirley Graveen, Jeremy Freudenrich.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Motion to pay all bills was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
Motion to receive bank reconciliation was made by Mike Odden seconded by Lloyd Rausch.AIF
Motion to accept electronic transfers and debit/credit cards was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
Motion to accept the September, 2008 minutes was made by Lloyd Rausch seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Motion to accept the September 29, 2008 special meeting minutes was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by Manager Pat Meier.
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September, 2008 |
LIQUOR STORE REPORT |
|||
|
|
|
|
|
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|
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GROSS RECEIPTS |
|
|
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SEPTEMBER |
2008 |
$ 28,743.18 |
GROSS RECEIPTS |
$ 28.743.18 |
||
AUGUST |
2008 |
$ 32,552.80 |
|
|
||
SEPTEMBER` |
2007 |
$ 28,112.71 |
PREVIOUS GROSS |
$ 262,646.00 |
||
Lottery’08 September |
$ 469.71 |
’08 GROSS |
$ 291,389318 |
|||
’08 YTD |
$ 6,224.42 |
‘08 EXPENSES |
$ 286,630.38 |
|||
|
|
PROFIT/(LOSS) |
$ 4,758.80 |
|||
|
BANK |
$ 6,224.42 |
NET PROFIT LOTTERY |
$ 6,224.42 |
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’06 CD |
$10,000 |
’07 CD $10,000 |
Band Reimbursement |
$ 1,440.00 |
||
|
’08 CD |
$10,000 |
|
TOTAL PROFIT (LOSS) |
$ 12,423.22 |
|
There will be live entertainment on Saturday, October 25th, and a Halloween costume party on Friday, October 31st.
Fire Chief Pat Meier gave his monthly report. So far this year there has been 77 rescue calls. Ten for Brockway Township, 17 for Holding Township, 40 for City Of Holdingford, seven for Krain Township and two for Avon. The Truck Fund has a CD for $42,684.67, passbook savings $24,728.09. Fire Relief donated $500 to the city Fire Department to help cover the cost of having the Safehouse here at the Community picnic and for the kindergartners class. Training applications for firefighters for Stearns County, five for 1st Responder Initial, and for the Region, five 1st Responder Initial, one EMT Refresher. From the Region there may be up to a $700 grant if the F.D. spends $1,400 on training. Half the training would be paid for at the Region level. There are two accident invoices to be sent out. Pat is still gathering information on them.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his report. See end of minutes for complete details.
City sidewalk repair: cement work on Washington St. is complete, there is landscaping and tar replacement to be finished. That should be completed this week. Plymouth St. repair has taken longer. There were three layers of cement in front of the Laundromat that had to be removed. The cement also went under the street tar, so there is a little more repair on the street. Second St. sidewalk repair will be done next spring. It is getting too late in the fall to do this strip of sidewalk.
Raises for the city council and mayor were discussed. Lloyd Rausch made a motion to increase the council salary by 7%, seconded by Mike Odden. Kim Ebnet, Lloyd Rausch, Mike Odden voted yes, Dick Paggen abstained.
Motion to set a moratorium on new outside biofuel burners until an ordinance can be set in place was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
Cyril Ebnet gave his report on Veteran’s Park shelter rental for the season. Cyril is in favor of handing the rental of the shelter over to the city and the council to find another person to be in charge of it. Discussion followed as to how this would be handled. Season revenue for the park shelter came to $970.
Discussion to have our utility person have a city cell phone was discussed. It was decided to not go ahead with this at this time.
Summer Rec program put on by the Holdingford Schools was discussed. The city budgeted $3,000 for this program. Motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet to pay for the city’s part of the program. Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch voted yes, Dick Paggen abstained.
With the upcoming retirement of our Maintenance Supervisor, Herman Ebnet, discussion on Jerry Schueler’s appointment to supervisor was discussed along with a pay scale change. Motion to move his pay scale from I-5 to J-3 was made by Dick Paggen, seconded by Kim Ebnet. Motion failed to pass. Motion to move his pay scale from I-5 to J-4 was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch with a re-evaluation in 2 months. Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch voted yes. Dick Paggen abstained.
Lisa Pfannenstein requested to have the alley just to the east of her property on Plymouth St. (the old laundromat) closed during four days of a craft sale she will be having Thursday Nov. 5th to Saturday Nov. 8th, 2008, for safety reasons. On a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden the council gave approval to close that alley during the day hours she will be having the craft sale. AIF The city maintenance men will provide her with road blocks or cones.
Stearns County League of Cities will have their next meeting at the new St Cloud Library for any council member who may be interested in attending. Meeting is Tuesday, October 21, 8 p.m.
The council tabled discussion of Ordinance updates to next meeting.
Dick Paggen made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF Meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk
Special City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
September 29, 2008
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the special meeting to order at 7 p.m.
Sidewalk repair issue was discussed. The fill and tar patching is to be done by the city. These items were not put out for bids. It was decided to use as fill crushed cement on the hill sections of the sidewalk repair and have gravel on flat section surfaces as the fill.
A letter to Arnold Soltis is to be sent concerning his wall next to the sidewalk. He had been contacted along with all other homeowners concerning walking/driving over the sidewalk once it has been poured. A letter to the property owner of Heart and Sol will also be sent regarding replacement of steps to that establishment.
Repair of the Old Maintenance building was discussed. There was a bid for both the roof repair and the north wall brick repair submitted by Roger Solarz. After some discussion, there was a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch to accept Mr. Solarz’ bid for $896 for labor and materials to repair the brick on the north wall, $990 for labor and materials to repair the roof of the Old Maintenance building, $400 to cover his liability insurance and also the additional cost of the drains. AIF
The council worked on updating city ordinances: 50-54, 70-74, 90-92.
Motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet to adjourn. AIF
Meeting adjourned at 9:55 p.m.
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
September 8, 2008
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Dick Paggen Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Pat Meier, Louis Walz, Sue Marstein, Louise Winkler, Arnie Berscheid, Robb Berscheid, Eric Berscheid, Scott Lange.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Motion to pay all bills was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
Motion to receive bank reconciliation was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Motion to accept electronic transfers and debit/credit cards was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to accept the August, 2008 minutes was made by Dick Paggen, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by Manager Pat Meier.
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September, 2008 |
LIQUOR STORE REPORT |
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GROSS RECEIPTS |
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AUGUST |
2008 |
$ 32,552.20 |
GROSS RECEIPTS |
$ 32,552.20 |
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JULY |
2008 |
$ 48,334.06 |
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AUGUST |
2007 |
$ 31,279.64 |
PREVIOUS GROSS |
$ 230,093.20 |
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Lottery’08 June |
$ 625.14 |
’08 GROSS |
$ 262,646.00 |
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’08 YTD |
$ 4,316.64 |
‘08 EXPENSES |
$ 251,299.56 |
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PROFIT/(LOSS) |
$ 11,346.44 |
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BANK |
$ 15,754.71 |
NET PROFIT LOTTERY |
$ 4,316.64 |
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’06 CD |
$10,000 |
’07 CD $10,000 |
Band Reimbursement |
$ 1,440.00 |
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TOTAL PROFIT (LOSS) |
$ 17,103.08 |
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September 6th was a game day that went well. Sept. 19th there will be a band, Timmy H. There are October events being planned, bands and food. The bingo progressive went out last week so Tuesday bingo may slow down for a short while.
Fire Department report was given by fire chief, Pat Meier. There has been a total of 69 fire/rescue calls so far this year. The Safe House showing at the Holdingford Community picnic went well. Many people went through it. There is $24,728.09 in the passbook savings for the F.D. relief association along with a CD of $42,684.67.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his report. See end of minutes for details.
Scott Lange went over the tab bid sheets for redoing two sections of sidewalks – Plymouth St./2nd St. Curb bid went to Aggressive Masonry with a low bid of $32,162.20, and an alternate bid for steps with a low bid of $2,200 on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
The Washington Street sidewalk bid went to Wentland Construction with a low bid of 29,074 on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF Scott went on to say that the final cost dollars will vary somewhat due to total cement used.
The proposed sidewalk on Co. Rd. 17 from the corner of 2nd St. and Co. Rd. 17 to the Wobegon Trailhead parking lot was discussed. Jon Halverson will be doing the labor with the city providing fill and the cement. There will be a five foot wide sidewalk. The tree on Halverson’s lawn will have to be removed. A motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden, to allow up to $7,500 for gravel and cement for this project. Mayor Ernie Schmit will be working with Jon to see this project through. AIF
Arnie Berscheid presented to the council a bid for remodeling the bathrooms at the Municipal Liquor Store. There will be ceramic floor and up 4 feet on the walls, then glassboard to the ceiling. Arnie will get bids for the plumbing and carpentry and have that for the next council meeting Total bid for the remodel is $25,654. A motion was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch to accept this bid. AIF The council set January, 2009 to do this work.
The council was also presented with an estimate for a 30’ by 50’ addition to the liquor store on the south side. This estimate was $120,538.40. This was given for information purposes.
Decals quote for city vehicles was discussed. Everything Signs had a quote of $340 for 8 decals including installation of decals. A motion was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet to accept this bid. AIF They will be making and installing these decals within the next few weeks.
The city of Swanville has decided not to pursue an HRA housing project for this year. The city of Holdingford is looking to partner with another city or township to obtain grant money for home repairs.
A motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Dick Paggen to allow the Everything Signs/Berkon Outdoors to be erected on the corner of Co. Rd 151 and 4th Ave. So. Holdingford. AIF
CD 21308 Liquor Store gambling money will be renewed for three months, till December, 2008. There will be an additional $10,000 added to this CD. This renewal and addition was made on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
CD 21326, a motion was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch to do the following:
Starting with $40,028; (not including interest) in CD 21326
Take - $37,222 put in General to cover Sweeper invoice from 5/16/08;
add + 15,000 from F.D. for part of their cost of roof repair from 7/28/08:
we will have approximately $17,806 left on this CD plus interest. AIF
Lawn seeding by the pond area along the Wobegon Trail was discussed. A sprinkler system has been also discussed by the Garden Club and brought before the council as a possibility. Drilling a sand point to get water to that area was discussed. Kevin Feia has submitted to the Garden Club a drawing of what the sprinkler system may look like for that area. On a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Dick Paggen this was tabled until the March, 2009 meeting. AIF
Budget for 2009 was gone over by the council. A motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden to have the levy at $258,663. AIF There were two changes in the budget – adding $500 to the Parks Department, Pedals to Petals to make it $1,000 on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF An addition of $1,000 for FICA in the Fire Department. A motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet to accept the 2009 budget with these changes. AIF
Last year Jerry Schueler overhauled one of the pumps and injector for chlorine in the pumphouse. It is no longer working as it should. A motion was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Dick Paggen to put in a new injector pump for chlorine with a cost of less than $2,500. AIF
Roger Solarz presented a bid to the council for fixing the brick work on the north end of the old maintenance shed. He would spot tuck point, cap chimney for a cost of $896. Questions if he was bonded or if he would sign a release form before doing the work was discussed. Repairing the roof was also discussed, because the roof is the cause of the brick work failing. Two bids will be brought to the next meeting for roof repair, then a decision will be made on both items.
The council received a copy of utility accounts that are more than 60 days past due. Accounts that are more than 60 days past due by the end of October will be put on the property taxes.
Discussion on the fee schedule pertaining to election judges was brought up by the city clerk. The last election with Krain Township the payment per hour was at $8 for judges, $10 for head judge. Krain Township is at this pay scale for this election. A motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch to keep the City of Holdingford at the same pay scale as Krain Township. Kim Ebnet, Dick Paggen and Lloyd Rausch voted yes, Mike Odden abstained.
There was a special meeting set up for Monday, September 29th at 7 p.m. to go over ordinances on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Meeting adjourned on a motion by Dick Paggen, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Meeting adjourned at 9:17 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk
City Council Meeting Minutes August 11, 2008 (Approved)
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Dick Paggen Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Pat Meier, Louis Walz, Jeremy Freudenrich, Sue Marstein, Louise Winkler, Scott Lange, Marie Heitzman and family members.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Motion to pay all bills was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Motion to receive bank reconciliation was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to accept electronic transfers was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
Motion to accept the July, 2008 minutes with correction was made by Dick Paggen, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Motion to approve the May 8, 2008 Board of Appeal and Equalization minutes was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by Manager Pat Meier.
August, 2008 |
LIQUOR STORE REPORT |
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GROSS RECEIPTS |
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JULY |
2008 |
$ 48,334.06 |
GROSS RECEIPTS |
$ 48,334.06 |
|
JUNE |
2008 |
$ 32,031.40 |
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JULY |
2007 |
$ 41,497.75 |
PREVIOUS GROSS |
$ 181,759.14 |
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Lottery’08 June |
$ 468.77 |
’08 GROSS |
$ 230,093.20 |
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’08 YTD |
$ 3,691.50 |
‘08 EXPENSES |
$ 226,277.57 |
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PROFIT/(LOSS) |
$ 3,815.63 |
||||
$ |
NET PROFIT LOTTERY |
$ 3,691.50 |
|||
’06 CD |
$10,000 |
’07 CD $10,000 |
Band Reimbursement |
$ 1,440.00 |
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Total |
$15,129.57 |
TOTAL PROFIT (LOSS) |
$ 8,947.13 |
||
Events planned for the Liquor Store include a Game Day on Saturday, Sept. 6, the band of Timmy H. on Friday night, Sept 19th. Bathroom area remodeling progress report; there is a drawing, but prices were not all in yet to St. Rosa Lumber. Will be discussed again at the September council meeting. Yellow Dog media was discussed. Council will wait and see how other liquor stores in the area are faring with this kind of advertising.
The Fire Department report was given by Fire Chief, Pat Meier. There have been 66 calls so far this year, 8 in Brockway, 14 in Holding, 35 in City, 7 in Krain and 2 mutual aid with Avon. The truck fund has $17,687.61 plus interest, and the $40,000 CD. The Fire Department budget meeting is set for Thursday, August 14th, at 5 p.m.
The council approved on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden to have 2 people go to Fire Fighter I course in Rice. AIF
The EMT refresher course for Pat Meier was approved on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
Thursday, Aug 14th at 7 p.m. there will be a fire truck demo at the Fire Department.
A motion was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Dick Paggen to have the F.D. apply for up to $3,000 50/50match grant from the DNR. This will be used for replaceable product, such as hose, etc. AIF
There will be a Chief’s conference in St. Cloud, October 16-19. Cost will be $160/person. Motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet to approve this convention expense. AIF
By-laws for the F.D. was discussed. Council person, Kim Ebnet wants to see completed by-laws and job descriptions by the December council meeting.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his report. See end of minutes for complete details.
Motion to upgrade the pay temporary bartenders got paid for Holdingford Daze from $6/hour to $8.50 was made on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
There was discussion on weed control in front of businesses in the downtown area as well as back up help for the city clerk.
Scott Lange presented the bid package for sidewalk repair to the council. There are three areas of repair in this bid package, Plymouth St. 2 areas and 2nd St; these three areas will be as one bid. Scott will check with Jody at Stearns County for Co. Rd. 17 sidewalk in front of Jon Halverson and Marie Heitzman residences, because of safety issues. Pulling $50,000 from General Reserves was discussed as well as using the Petro Fund reimb. the city received earlier this year. The area of Cedar and 2nd St. can wait for now because of budget restraints.
Scott Lange will also work up a separate bid for Washington St from Main St to 3rd St. and a short area by Co. Rd. 9 on Washington. Kim Ebnet made a motion to go ahead with these bids, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Louis Walz is to submit a copy of his original invoices for payment of concrete sidewalks he put in last year.
The city clerk presented the council with a Public Works contract for delinquent utility bills. In the event residents cannot make full payments on their utility bills, they will be able to set up a payment plan with the city clerk in lieu of having their water shut off for non payment. Motion to accept this contract form was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
At the request of the Mayor, Mike Odden designed a logo to be put on all city vehicles, using the covered bridge image. It was presented to the council for approval. A quote from Everything Signs, to make the signs will be brought to the next meeting.
Tree trimming of trees growing in the easements and that are causing safety hazards was discussed. The city clerk is to send a letter to residents who have trees that are causing safety hazards. If the residents do not take care of trimming them, the city will have it done and charge the home owner ½ the cost. Motion to this effect was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Election judges: From Krain Township; Judy Gerads, Diane Laing, Sandy Meer, Carol Tembruell, Rebecca Gerads, Bob Hare, Sharon Weyer. From City of Holdingford; Laverne Woidylla, Jeanette May, Marcy Schmidt, Florence Voss, Ruth Odden and Vicki Statz were approved on a motion by Dick Paggen, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. Dick Paggen, Kim Ebnet, and Lloyd Rausch voted for, Mike Odden abstained.
The council went over the first half year of budget vs. actual. Budgeting sessions for 2009 for the Maintenance crew will be Monday, August 25th, the Fire Dept. Thursday, August 14th.
Motion to adjourn was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF Meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m.
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
July 14, 2008
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Dick Paggen Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Pat Meier, Louis Walz, Jeremy Freudenrich, Jerry Schueler, Sue Marstein, Duane Shabel, Cyril Ebnet, Ken Buttweiler, Louise Winkler, Dan Kobylinski, Jeanette May.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Motion to pay all bills was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Motion to receive bank reconciliation was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
Motion to accept electronic transfers was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to accept the June, 2008 minutes was made by Dick Paggen, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by Manager Pat Meier.
He asked the council to have the city lawyer look at a potential contract between the Municipal and Yellow Dog Media Network for electronic communication, etc. The clerk will be sending the information to the city lawyer to have it checked out.
Tuesday night bingo is going well for the municipal. There are events being planned for later this summer and into the fall.
July, 2008 |
LIQUOR STORE REPORT |
||||
GROSS RECEIPTS |
|||||
JUNE |
2008 |
$ 32,031.40 |
GROSS RECEIPTS |
$ 32,031.40 |
|
MAY |
2008 |
$ 37,826.94 |
|||
JUNE |
2007 |
$ 32,885.06 |
PREVIOUS GROSS |
$ 149,727.74 |
|
Lottery’08 June |
$ 353.50 |
’08 GROSS |
$ 181,759.14 |
||
’08 YTD |
$ 3,222.73 |
‘08 EXPENSES |
$ 182,284.22 |
||
PROFIT/(LOSS) |
$ (525.08) |
||||
$ |
NET PROFIT LOTTERY |
$ 3,222.73 |
|||
’06 CD |
$10,000 |
’07 CD $10,000 |
Insurance |
$ 3,161.00 |
|
TOTAL PROFIT (LOSS) |
$ 5,858.65 |
||||
Fire Report was given by Fire Chief Pat Meier. There has been 52 calls so far this year. $16,238.47 is the balance in truck fund. Holdingford Municipal share of States unclaimed lottery is $1,449.14. Pat inquired when budgeting for the F.D. will be. Mayor Schmit told him it will be in August. Pat would like to have a couple representatives from the townships at the budgeting process. Mayor Schmit welcomed that idea. He will let Pat know when budgeting will take place.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his report. See end of minutes for complete details.
Ken Buttweiler came before the council to share with them what he is willing to do to improve a tax forfeited property, R58.33675.044. Ken will check into what the cost of the wetland mitigation of the property would be, by inquiring at the county level. He will get back to the council on what he finds out.
Cyril Ebnet asked to have the 3.2 liquor license he gets for the softball association to be lowered from $150. He is only open three evenings a week for four months. The original motion to have the license at $150 was not rescinded by the original motion maker, Mike Odden. Last year, 2007, the 3.2 liquor license was for $93.76. After some discussion, a motion was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Dick Paggen to half the $150 fee to $75. Cyril has the softball vending open 3 days a week, 4 months out of the year. AIF
Mayor Ernie Schmit talked about the Home Improvement Grant available to cities who partner with another community. Swanville has expressed interest in doing this. There is some money available for Holdingford residents through a previous home improvement project. SEH, the city’s engineering firm, is working with both cities to come up with a grant proposal. More will be known about this at our next council meeting. The city clerk has been keeping a list of persons interested in having some home rehab done. If there are any interested residents who have not contacted the city clerk about this, they may do so by calling city hall, 746-2966 to get on the list.
Stearns County Criminal Prosecution contract for 2009-2010 is coming up for renewal. The council approved the next two year contract at a price of $3,000/year on a motion from Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
The Lions Club came before the council to apply for a gambling permit for September 7, 2008 to have bingo and a raffle. Motion to approve license was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Maintenance men, Jeremy Freudenrich and Jerry Schueler came before the council to explain the 6 piece cordless tool set they would like to purchase for their use in the city. It will be purchased from Headley Hardware. Motion to approve by Dick Paggen, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Sidewalk repair for the city was discussed at length. Jerry Schueler and Jeremy Freudenrich have drawn up a sketch of areas in the city that most need sidewalk repair. Those areas in most need will be done first. Motion to write up a proposal by our city engineer, Scott Lange, for sidewalk repair and given to local contractors; to include in their bids the use of fiber mesh and without fiber mesh on each section till the money runs out was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
Mike Odden suggested that the city also get a bid from Jon Halverson on putting in a new sidewalk from the Wobegon Trail to the eastern edge of his property. Jon is willing to donate his time to put this in. The council is believing this is a safety feature, given the amount of traffic on Co. Rd. 17 and the location of the trail, etc. There is not place to walk now except on the road.
There is a small oil leak in the John Deere tractor owned by the city. It was suggested that the maintenance men first try an additive to see if that will stop the leak. If that doesn’t work, the men are to take it in to Mies Equipment to have a look at it. If they don’t have to pull the motor to get at the leak the cost will be somewhere around $300, if they have to pull the motor, the cost will be around $600.
It was suggested by the council that Mike Odden design new decals for our city equipment as well as new city letterhead.
Liquor Store renovation was discussed. Arnie Berscheid will be at the next meeting to explain proposals in this renovation and give a proposal as to best improve the Liquor Store.
During the renovation discussion a motion was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden to have the manager clean up the cigarette butts and any other debris outside the liquor store as well as take care of the flowers out front on a daily basis. AIF This motion was rescinded by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden at the August 11, 2008 council meeting. A motion was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden that someone of the Liquor Store employ will daily clean up the cigarette butts, etc. AIF
The maintenance men were asked to paint the west and south sides of the Liquor Store, choosing a color that will complement the rest of the building. The maintenance men said they would be able to get to it in the next few weeks.
Jerry Schueler brought up the Old Maintenance Shop and what to do with it. Some discussion followed.
The council asked the city clerk to put together a list of all donators that have given to the city during the year.
The council revised Public Works Chapters of our ordinances: 50-53.
Mike Odden made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF Meeting adjourned at 10:05 p.m.
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
June 9, 2008
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Pat Meier, Louis Walz, Jeremy Freudenrich, Sue Marstein, Sherry Johnson, Kristy Marstein, Annie Philippi, Debbie Meier, Molly Thompson. (Councilperson Dick Paggen was absent.)
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Being our city auditor was present when the meeting started it was okay with the council to have her present the 2007 yearly audit to the council. She took the council through different parts of the audited financial statement for the city, noting that most spending and revenue remained the same as last year. She gave the council pointers on how to improve operating procedures for both the clerk’s office and the liquor store. She informed the council on a new policy mandated by the legislature. The audited financial statement was approved on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF There are copies in the city hall office for anyone wishing to view the financial statement.
After some discussion, the checks were approved on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Council minutes for May were approved on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
The city clerk is to look into the possibility of the city becoming tax exempt. She will contact the LMC.
Liquor store report was given by manager Pat Meier. He talked about getting an advertising panel for the L.S. and getting internet. He will look into it further. The lottery contract for gambling was approved on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
June, 2008 |
LIQUOR STORE REPORT |
||||
GROSS RECEIPTS |
|||||
MAY |
2008 |
$ 37,826.94 |
GROSS RECEIPTS |
$ 37,826.94 |
|
APRIL |
2008 |
$ 31,511.65 |
|||
MAY |
2007 |
$ 31,272.15 |
PREVIOUS GROSS |
$ 111,900.80 |
|
Lottery’08 April |
$ 424.51 |
’08 GROSS |
$ 149,727.74 |
||
’08 YTD |
$ 2,869.23 |
‘08 EXPENSES |
$ 145,458.35 |
||
PROFIT/(LOSS) |
$ 4,269.39 |
||||
GT BANK |
$ 14,307.30 |
NET PROFIT LOTTERY |
$ 2,869.23 |
||
’06 CD |
$10,000 |
’07 CD $10,000 |
TOTAL PROFIT (LOSS) |
$ 7,138.62 |
|
Procedures on liquor store banking was gone over with the council. Approval of these procedures was made on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF These procedures will become part of the city employee manual.
The city council and Manager Pat Meier did a mid year inventory of the liquor store. The inventory is virtually the same as it was the end of 2007.
Discussion on improvements for the liquor store was discussed, primarily redoing the bathrooms. Mike Odden made a motion, seconded by Kim Ebnet to get estimates for remodeling both bathrooms. AIF
to see what can be done for this remodeling. AIF
CD 20925 Lottery CD will be renewed for a 3 month period. It comes due June 16, 2008. This motion was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Signage on the back of the store advertising the L.S. for bicyclists on the Lake Wobegon Trail was discussed as was painting the west and south sides of the L.S. Mike Odden made a motion, seconded by Lloyd Rausch to paint the west and south sides of the building. AIF
Mike Odden made a motion to have the L.S. obtain internet access, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Fire Department report was given by Fire Chief, Pat Meier. There have been 39 calls so far this year. They have received two reimbursement checks for training of the volunteer firefighters; one from EMS of Central MN for $200, and from Stearns County $298 for training of two people in First Responder Class. One application for a firefighter has been given out.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his Mayor’s report. See end of minutes for his report.
Mayor Schmit reported that Opatz Metals has been working hard in getting the area behind their business cleaned up. They are making good progress.
Behind Opatz Metals is a storm sewer that needs work. It has been busted up for quite a long time. The city received two bids for this storm sewer repair. On a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden, Opatz Excavating with a bid of $1,255 was given the work. Their bid was low bid. AIF
Holdingford sign design for the Wobegon Trailhead was discussed. It will be a sign approximately 6 feet by 18 inches to be put on both ends of the trailhead shelter. A Soo Line sign will also be put just below the Holdingford sign to acknowledge the old Soo Line that used to come through Holdingford. Kim Ebnet made a motion to accept the design and purchase these signs for approximately $1,000, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF The city clerk is to call Robbie Berscheid with this information.
Xcel Energy natural gas line to be brought into the city was discussed briefly. This will be a costly endeavor and the mayor is looking into how we may be able to get this financed.
Ken Buttweiler has sent a letter concerning a tax forfeited property. The council has several questions for him, so this letter and any action sought by Mr. Buttweiler was tabled until he can be here for a meeting.
The annual lift station inspection service by Electric Pump was approved on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
MaGuire Iron cleaned out the inside of our water tower in May. They suggested the city put in a flush valve to drain the tank periodically. The sediment was even with the stand pipe inside the tower and needs to be drained more often than every two years to keep the sediment at the bottom of the tower cleaned out. The council decided to put this valve installation in the 2009 budget.
Blue Cross/Blue Shield medical insurance renewal is due in August. The council received the new rates. Nationally the rates have gone up 12 – 15%, Holdingford’s rate is going up 3 – 6 %. It was decided to go with the small increase from BC/BS for the coming year.
Our new maintenance person, Jeremy Freudenrich will be going to Brainerd for MPCA wastewater training in August. This is a three day conference.
Mayor Ernie Schmit talked about a revolving loan fund for businesses. We would have to re-activate the Economic Development Authority here in Holdingford. Mayor Schmit will be looking into this effort.
The Maintenance Department will be painting the fire hydrants in town, as well as doing yellow stripping on curbs where it is needed. They will also be painting the north bathroom in the ballpark, the dugouts and well house #2 to match the color of the Veteran’s Park shelter.
Mayor Schmit will look into having Surfsota hook up the internet at our Maintenance Shop.
Meeting was adjourned at 9:42 p.m. on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Respectfully submitted by Victoria R. Statz
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
May 12, 2008
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Dick Paggen, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Louise Winkler, Gordon Sjaaheim, Pat Meier, Tim Berscheid, Louis Walz, Laverne Woidylla, Mary Ann Hartung, Jeremy Freudenrich, Sue Marstein, Scott Lange, Pat Rogosheske, John Ellering, Gerard Wentland, Brett Repulske, Jesse Scepaniak..
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.
After some discussion, Lloyd Rausch made a motion to approve payment of bills, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Minutes of the April, 2008 council meeting were approved on a motion by Dick Paggen, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Liquor store report was given by manager Pat Meier. One CD is coming due in June, ’08. The council tabled what to do with it until after the June 1, 2008 inventory is done. The Game Day the liquor store put on on May 10th, turned out very well. Upcoming event: Friday, May 16th, the band Pie Hole will be playing.
May, 2008 |
LIQUOR STORE REPORT |
||||
GROSS RECEIPTS |
|||||
APRIL |
2008 |
$ 31,511.65 |
GROSS RECEIPTS |
$ 31,511.65 |
|
MARCH |
2008 |
$ 28,375.68 |
|||
APRIL |
2007 |
$ 25,828.04 |
PREVIOUS GROSS |
$ 80,389.15 |
|
Lottery’08 April |
$ 678.73 |
’08 GROSS |
$ 111,900.80 |
||
’08 YTD |
$ 2,444.72 |
‘08 EXPENSES |
$ 103,417.12 |
||
PROFIT/(LOSS) |
$ 8,483.68 |
||||
GT BANK |
$ 13,882.79 |
NET PROFIT LOTTERY |
$ 2,444.72 |
||
’06 CD |
$10,000 |
’07 CD $10,000 |
TOTAL PROFIT (LOSS) |
$ 10,928.40 |
|
Fire Department report was given by Fire Chief, Pat Meier There were six calls for April, 2 rescue, 2 Holding, 1 cancelled in route and 1 city. So far this year there has been 27 calls. The refresher course put on by the St. Cloud Technical College cost $2,641. The Fire Department got a reimbursement of $2,394 from Region and Stearns County. There was no activity in the Truck Fund. It has a balance of $16,238.47. There is also a $40,000 CD for the F.D.
Dick Paggen made a motion, seconded by Lloyd Rausch to renew the CD 20924 $41,381.72 for another term. The city clerk is to find out the best rate and renew at that rate. AIF
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his mayor’s report. See end of minutes for details.
Scott Lange went over last year’s water usage and wastewater treatment. The charts showed water usage by each well and the sanitary sewer treatment. Wastewater treatment is about 750,000 gallons per month. The city’s capacity is 2,500,000 gallons per month, so we are well below capacity.
Kim Ebnet made a motion to give $250 to the Initiative Foundation, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF The IF has been a great help in supporting community initiatives here in Holdingford.
The city has received a letter from the MN Dept of Commerce giving us a determination from the Petro Fund for clean up of a fuel spill back in 2000 at Pump House #1. The city clerk will write a letter of intent to not appeal the amount approved for reimbursement. In this case, the city should receive their reimbursement of $13,274.82 in three to four weeks after they receive our written notice.
Aflac Insurance agent, Pat Rogosheske came before the council seeking their okay to approach employees on the Aflac insurance benefits package she has. She was seeking the council’s approval that if the employees choose this insurance, they may have this insurance premium taken out of their paychecks. The council okayed this on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
USDA employee, Brett Repulske shared with the council grant opportunities for the possibility of getting water/sewer lines to part of Wentland Addition where Country Community Church has purchased land. In going over the information, it was found that the city would not qualify for a grant. Brett also explained another grant possibility from DEED, called the Public Facilities grant, which can be used for public facilities and equipment. The council will keep this in mind should the need arise in the future for the use of these grant possibilities.
Tim Berscheid talked about the signs that will be made for the Wobegon Shelter. Mike Odden will be drawing up a logo for him. Tim will bring several designs to the June meeting so this was tabled till then. Cost for each sign will be approximately $450. This will be paid for out of the Park budget.
Tim Berscheid also talked about his tax assessment on two of his properties on Rivercrest Road. Because of the way special assessments are put on taxes, his tax statement had on the special assessment now instead of 2009. The council okayed his paying what would be the interest on this special assessment in 2008 to go to principle. Starting in 2009, his assessment will be reduced by that interest amount. Mike Odden made the motion to allow Tim Berscheid’s payment for 2008 to all go to principle, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
The street sweeper from Environmental Equipment and Services, Inc. from Elko, MN was discussed. It’s a 1993 Tymco 600 BAH mounted on a Ford cargo chassis. Included as options among other items is a vacuum and pressure washer. The price is $34,950 plus $2,271.75 tax for a total of $37,221.75. A motion was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden to purchase this street sweeper. AIF
Mr. John Ellering from Select Associates Realty came before the council asking if the city has plans for Industrial/Commercial/Residential expansion. He is exploring the possibility of purchasing land northwest of town and wanted the city council input as to what they are looking for in future development. Mayor Schmit said for Mr. Ellering to put together his preliminary plan, and then come to the council for their input.
Liquor Store procedures were discussed. The procedures will be clarified and next month will be officially adopted by the council. In the meantime, we will be implementing these procedures.
The next Stearns County League of Cities meeting will be in Kimball at the Willow Creek picnic shelter on Tuesday, May 20th, 2008 at 8 p.m.
Mayor Schmit asked the council if they want to have the Old Maintenance Garage building insured. It hasn’t been insured for the last couple years. The contents inside, however, are covered by insurance. The council said not to have the building insured.
UC Lab, who the city has for wastewater testing, will be changing their procedures. The City of Holdingford will now be taking the water testing vials to Avon for pick up once per week. In order to stay in compliance with water temperature, this change needed to be done.
The alley/ditch by Marie Heitzman needs to be cleaned up. Maintenance crew to look into this.
Jeremy Freudenrich explained to the council that Opatz Metals will have a roll off at the old maintenance shop for the June 21st clean up day for any metals people bring in. This will free up Herman’s time that he used for taking the metals down there during the clean up time.
Tom’s Refuse has requested a $1/month fuel surcharge for garbage pick up. Tom’s rates were renegotiated last fall for another 5 year contract with no increase since 1990 when they first contracted with the city. A motion was made by Dick Paggen seconded by Mike Odden to have a $1/month non taxable fuel surcharge on the garbage pick up starting with the July billing for June. AIF
Several residents who attended the council meeting requested that Opatz Metals clean up their business along the river. With the covered bridge being built, Opatz Metals is an eye sore along the river.
Herman Ebnet gave the council a list of his vacation and comp times he will be using before his last day of work. He will be working until October 31, 2008.
Council has in their packet the revenue and expenses spent so far for the covered bridge. No city funds have been expended on the covered bridge.
Louis Walz requested the possibility of setting up a newspaper stand. The council is not aware of any ordinance, so they are allowing this stand to be put up.
Kim Ebnet requested that the city patrol time also include regularly patrolling the Industrial Park. Mayor Schmit will call the sheriff’s department to start doing this.
Mike Odden made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Council meeting adjourned at 10 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Victoria Statz, City ClerkPresent at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Dick Paggen, Ernie Schmit, Cheryl Foster, Pat Meier, Bill Scepaniak, Jeremy Freudenrich, Louise Winkler, Gordon Sjaaheim.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7 p.m.
Cheryl Foster from Stearns County Assessors Office gave her report for the City of Holdingford’s home sales for 2007. There were 11 sales of homes. Tax rate for Holdingford has gone down this past year. We are now in 4th place. May 8, at 7 p.m. will be the Board of Equalization meeting for the public. Two changes in home values have come about with veteran’s. See mayor’s report for details.
There was discussion on the Wobegon Trail account. The city clerk will keep a revenue and expense amount for the council.
Checks were approved on a motion by Dick Paggen, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Minutes from March 10, 2008 regular meeting was approved on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Minutes from the April 3, 2008 special meeting was approved on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by manager Pat Meier. Remodeling the bathrooms in the Liquor Store came up for discussion, using the lottery money.
Upcoming events on Friday April 18th is Sparky and Leon and Saturday, May 10th is Game Day.
April, 2008
LIQUOR STORE REPORT
GROSS RECEIPTS
MARCH
2008
$ 28,375.68
GROSS RECEIPTS
$ 28,375.68
FEBRUARY
2008
$ 24,335.10
MARCH
2007
$ 27,057.68
PREVIOUS GROSS
$ 52,013.47
Lottery’08 March
$ 658.79
’08 GROSS
$ 80,389.15
’08 YTD
$ 1,765.99
‘08 EXPENSES
$ 74,525.77
PROFIT/(LOSS)
$ 5,863.38
GT BANK
$ 13,204.06
NET PROFIT LOTTERY
$ 1,765.99
’06 CD
$10,000
’07 CD $10,000
TOTAL PROFIT (LOSS)
$ 7,629.37
Fire Chief Pat Meier gave the Fire Department Report. There have been 22 calls so far this year. Truck Fund has $16,238.47, with also a $40,000 CD.
The department is busy with the Standard Operating Procedures manual, bylaws, etc. Ernie Schmit and Kim Ebnet gave out awards for longevity service. See mayor’s report for details.
Purchase of a new fire truck was discussed.
Mayor Schmit gave his report. See end of minutes for complete report.
Xcel Energy representatives sent the city a letter saying they are doing a feasibility study to bring in natural gas. They should have the study completed in the next month or so and will then meet with the mayor and city staff to review the project economics in detail.
James Gruenes home had a broken water line in his basement. MN Rural Water came to the city to help find this water leak. Over 20 hours of our maintenance crew went into finding this leak. A motion was made by Dick Paggen, seconded by Kim Ebnet to have James Gruenes pay for the water and time of our maintenance crew working on this problem.
Center roof replacement for the salt shed was discussed. The current salt shed’s center part of the roof is torn and rotting. Salt shed was free from Columbia Gear, the county paid for the tar inside. Holding Township has agreed to pay for half the center of the roof, the center part is what needs replacing. The end pieces are in okay shape, never torn. Mike Odden made a motion to replace the center section of the roof, at a cost of $2,192.60 seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Opatz Metals wants to put a sign on our old Maintenance shed indicating direction to their business. The council decided against having a sign put there.
Wastewater Chlorinator, was new in 1990, but now needs to be replaced. New ones are around $1,100. Jerry has kept patching it, but it needs to be replaced and he can install the new one. Mike Odden made the motion to purchase the wastewater chlorinator for approximately $1,100, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
To fix up the old sweeper for the John Deere will cost around $1,900. New Sweeper for the John Deere from Mies, a 60” broom will be about $2,550 including the trade in value of the old one. Kim Ebnet made the motion to purchase the new 60” brush for the John Deere, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Initiative Foundation sent a letter asking for a $250 donation. Tabled until next meeting. The council needs to find out if this has already been done this year.
Motion to hire Jeremy Freudenrich as the new maintenance man starting May 5th, as long as his physical and background check comes back okay. Motion made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Dick Paggen. AIF
Crackfill was budgeted for $5,000 this year. A motion was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden to have Scepaniak Construction do the crack fill for the city this summer. AIF
Herman/Jerry to move pile of dirt, cement etc. that is between the maintenance shed and oil bulk plant. Herman will be getting a price from Opatz Excavating on what it will cost to move this pile. Other things on the pile will be taken care of at clean up day in June.
Motion to adjourn was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m.