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City Council Meeting Minutes (Unapproved)
December 14, 2009
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Scott Lange, Louise Winkler, Gordon Sjaaheim, Shirley Graveen, Pat Meier, Rick Solinger.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Motion to approve checks was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to approve bank reconciliation was made by, Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Motion to approve electronic transfers, debit card purchases was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to approve minutes of the November 9, 2009 regular council meeting and public hearing was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his Mayor’s Report. See end of minutes for complete details.
Old Business
Scott Lange updated the council on MN Rural Water and the utility/street project. We are now being reviewed by MNRW for the project. Scott expects us to hear back from them with the next several weeks. The high school holding pond drainage has been partially taken care of. The county drilled out the drainage pipes and found a lot of tree roots in the pipes. Motion to approve payment of the survey fees of locating all w/s lines for MNRW project was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Cost of the survey is $22,723.
The council went over the 2010 budget. Motion to approve was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Rick Solinger came before the council requesting on behalf of the Commercial Club, Car Show, 2 gambling permits, one for up to 5 meat raffles and one for a cash raffle. Resolution 09-12-14-06 to permit the Holdingford Commercial Club, Car Show to hold up to five meat raffles, to raise money for costs, to be held at TKs Restaurant with dates to be determined was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF Resolution 09-12-14-07 to permit the Holdingford Commercial Club, Car Show to hold one cash raffle to raise money for costs, to be held at TKs Restaurant with date to be determined was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Michele Kiley is working to get banners/flags on the electric poles in our downtown area. Upon approval of design by council she may go ahead with it was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Several resolutions were passed in connection with Stearns County HRA and the purchase of two downtown buildings and another home rehab project. Resolution 09-12-14-01, the City of Holdingford is supportive of Stearns County applying to the Dept. of Economic and Employment Development for small cities grant funding for home rehab and downtown acquisition/demolition of two downtown buildings. Motion was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Resolution 09-12-14-02, that the City of Holdingford is supportive of any repayment from Holdingford SCDP (Small Cities Development Program) grant can be used for eligible SCDP activity upon approval from DEED. This resolution was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Resolution 09-12-14-03, that the City of Holdingford is supportive of the purchase of Holdingford Meat and Grocery, 510 Main St. for $16,000 using HRA small cities grant funding. This motion was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Resolution 09-12-14-04, that the City of Holdingford is supportive of the purchase of the Old Hardware Store at 500 Main St for $48,000 using HRA small cities grant funding was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Closing on these two properties is tentatively set for Wednesday, December 30, 2009.
Mike Odden asked the council for permission to go ahead with an application for grant money to restore the Old Maintenance Shop. Resolution 09-12-14-05, that the City of Holdingford is supportive of the Holdingford Area Historical Society to seek grant monies for the preservation and restoration of the city’s Old Maintenance Shop and to be made into a museum was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
The City of Holdingford received a letter back in October, 2009 that our city remains out of compliance with the Local Government Pay Equity Act. We are working with Kathleen Murphy Consultant on these kinds of challenges. Updating all our job descriptions and points assigned to each job is being looked at and reevaluated.
Tri-County Humane Society presented the city with another one year contract to take in any stray dogs that their owner cannot be found. Motion to accept this Agreement for dogs only was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
BMS (Bureau of Mediation Services) has sent the City notice that it has a Maintenance of Status Quo Order, a petition requesting union status for all its Public Works Department employees. Therefore, as of this time no changes may be made to their wages, hours, etc.as of December 8, 2009 until a determination has been made by the BMS.
Sue Marstein, council person, has requested a key for city hall and the community room.
Liquor Store report was given by Pat Meier, manager. He stated that the net profit so far for the Liquor Store is $4,439.20. The Liquor Store is holding a silent auction this Friday, December 18th. Other events coming up: They will be open Sunday, Dec. 20 starting at 3 p.m. for the Vikings game; will be open until 8 p.m. Christmas Eve, New Year’s eve will have free jukebox and free champagne, food, door prizes.
Inventory of the Liquor Store will be done on Sunday, January 3, 2010 starting at 9:15 a.m. All council is asked to be there.
Fire Department report was given by Pat Meier, Fire Chief. The total Truck Fund, (savings and CD) is $87,064.70. MBFTE awarded the Fire Department $4,000 for FFI training. The council approved the application of Nick Burg to become a firefighter on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF The council approved FFI training class for three firefighters on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF These classes will start January 12, 2010. Council gave approval for FFII classes for two firefighters, and HazMat training at the VoTec. Cost of this class will be paid for by the VoTec. Fire Dept. will be responsible to pay mileage. Motion to allow this was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
There have been no requests for First Responder training at this time. If there is, the Fire Dept. will have to cover the cost.
There will be a meeting discussing the specs and possible purchase of a new fire truck on Tuesday, Dec. 22 at 5:30 p.m.
The EMV (Estimated Market Values) of the Holdingford Fire Dept. area has been calculated: The City: 13.555%; Holding Township, 53.558%; Brockway, 19.828%; Krain, 13.059%. These percentages are very close to 2008. The city clerk will be sending the townships a breakdown of costs and also the 2010 budget.
Payroll for the Fire Department was approved on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF There was $25,000 budgeted; total payroll came to $18,969.50.
State Fire Aid to the Relief Association was approved on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF Fire Relief for this year is $8,854.
Transfer of funds: Fire Relief Pension Contribution of $4,200 was approved. This was in the budget already for 2009. Transferred $7,000 from Fire Department to Truck Fund passbook savings. This also was already in the budget for 2009. City clerk is make these adjustments.
Clerk Items: Rodney Adolph will be helping with snow removal again this winter. Clerk will be taking a two week vacation in February. City clerk informed the council that she will be taking city insurance starting January 1, 2010 because of family changes.
Pat Meier also brought up that the F.D. would like to apply for a FEMA grant and a MN Grant for the Department to hire extra firefighters. Motion to approve application was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Kim Ebnet brought up that she received an anonymous letter with several complaints in it. No action was taken by the council.
Mayor Ernie Schmit thanked the council for a good year and looks forward to next year with the council.
Motion to adjourn was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF. Meeting adjourned at 9:25 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk
City Council Meeting Minutes and Public Hearing (Unapproved)
November 09, 2009
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Scott Lange, Tim Berscheid, Jeremy Freudenrich, Traci Ryan, Robb Berscheid, Eric Berscheid, Keith Bunker, Steve Stoermann, Jerry Schueler, Doug Marstein, Steve Ebnet.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the public hearing to order at 7 p.m. at city hall. The purpose of the public hearing was to hear public comments on the proposed tax abatement for Berscheid Properties, LLC. The city clerk read one letter from a resident. It is on file at city hall. There were no other comments from the public. Mayor Schmit explained in detail what the tax abatement will mean for city residents. Over the next 6 years, there will be a tax abatement of $24,999 to Berscheid Properties, LLC starting in tax year 2010. Traci Ryan from David Drown Associates was on hand to also explain the process. Barring no other public comments, a motion was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet to close the public hearing. AIF Hearing was closed at 7:10 p.m.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. Mike Odden made a motion to approve the tax abatement resolution: RESOLUTION 09-11-09-01 AUTHORIZING A TAX ABATEMENT ON PROPERTY WITHIN THE CITY OF HOLDINGFORD FOR THE PURPOSE OF ASSISTING BERSCHEID PROPERTIES LLC, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to approve checks was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to approve bank reconciliation was made by, Lloyd Rausch seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to approve electronic transfers was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to approve minutes of October 13, 2009 regular council meeting was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by Mayor Schmit in the absence of the manager, Pat Meier. Balance Sheet from Asyst shows a profit of $912.22 for the year. Lottery YTD is $4,215.17. Events coming up: Bar bingo every Tuesday, 7 p.m., Cold cash drawing every Friday, 10 p.m., Foosball Tourney, Friday, Nov. 13, 7 p.m.; Wii Bowling Thurs, Nov. 19 at 7 p.m. and live music on Saturday, November 21, 2009 from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Eagle Valley Playboys is the band.
Fire Department report was given by Mayor Ernie Schmit in the absence of Fire Chief Pat Meier. In the truck fund there is $82,064.70. Training $s have been applied for. There is a possibility of getting up to $12,300 for training from the MN Board of Firefighter Training and Education.
Keith Bunker, sales rep for Heiman Fire Equipment explained the opportunity for the F.D. to purchase a new 2010 chassis and a 2009 Rosenbauer Central Pumper and equip. Three firefighters, along with Mr. Bunker, explained details of the possible truck purchase, how it could be financed, and reasons this truck is needed to the council. Also, starting in early 2010, there will be new emission standards new trucks will have to follow. Mayor Schmit will get a hold of the townships to get their input. Total cost of chassis and pumper equipment will be about $250,000. Motion was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch to pursue the purchase of the fire truck but first getting feedback from of the townships before making any final decision. AIF
The tech support person for our city will look into the computer problems the Fire Department is having with slow internet and getting knocked off the internet.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his report. See end of minutes for details.
Payment of Joe’s Countryside Excavating on St. Hedwig’s Cemetery and River St. Motion made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden to pay $3,332 (holding back $600 till next spring to review vegetation) of total bid. AIF
City center’s bond beam in the front of city hall is near completion. There needs to be some caulking done and drainage lines put in before it is done.
Utility/Street Rehabilitation project status has not changed. SEH engineering will be reviewing any comments from MN Rural Water once it receives the report. The next step beyond that will be to set up a neighborhood meeting to discuss the project and proposed improvements with the residents in an open house setting.
Scott Lange, Jerry Schueler and the council talked about the holding pond that is on county land/Holdingford Schools. Scott will send a letter to the county and the school regarding the plugged lines that need to be cleaned out so there won’t be flooding across Co. Rd. 17 next spring.
Discussion was held on renting out the Old Maintenance Shop. It was decided not to rent out the building.
Bids for the old snow plow truck were opened up. There were five bids. Highest bidder was Steven Becker of Becker Aggregate Trucking in Pierz, MN. His bid was $5,700. Motion to accept his bid was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF City clerk will inform Mr. Becker of his purchase.
We received one bid for the roof repair on the Veteran’s park shelter and south bathroom from St. Rosa Lumber. After discussion a motion was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet to table the reroof until spring. AIF The insurance adjuster said it was okay to wait until then.
Discussion on paying the city clerk the difference between election judge pay and her hourly wage for being an election judge at Holdingford Schools. The council decided not to pay for the difference. The council had allowed her the day off of work to be the election judge.
There was discussion on Cash in Lieu for employees not taking city insurance. On a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden, this was tabled until the December meeting. AIF
Tree trimming was again discussed. The maintenance men and Kelly Strand of Strand Tree Service canvassed the city to see what trees needed to be trimmed. It was decided on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch to have Strand Tree Service do all the trimming for a cost of $650 total. There are about 17 streets that need to have trimming done and the trimming includes cutting and chipping. AIF
There was discussion of changing the name of 4th Street West here in Holdingford. A resident living on that street says it is confusing for people to find her home because of 4th St. and having some of the same house numbers on both 4th St. and 4th St. West. On a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein the city will consider this proposal if this resident gets 100% of the residents living on that street to sign a petition requesting the change. Voting yes: Sue Marstein, Lloyd Rausch, Kim Ebnet. Voting no: Mike Odden. Motion carried.
Motion to pay the summer recreation community education to Holdingford Community Education was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF The city had budgeted $3,000 for this. There were many different sports activities for the youth in this summer rec program; among them, swimming, softball, basketball camp, track, drivers training to name a few.
Motion to put on property taxes any delinquent utility bills that are 90 days or older was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF There are currently 17 residents who may have part of their utility bill put on their taxes. Payment must be made to the city clerk by November 20, 2009 to avoid having the delinquent utility bills put on their property tax.
Motion to allow Stearns County Ag Pesticide Collection to be held at St. Mary’s parking lot here in Holdingford on Wednesday, April 14, 2010 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF This is for the farming community to get rid of larger sized containers and volumes of pesticides and also their triple rinsed plastic containers for recycling.
Motion to allow Mary Stalberger have our maintenance men put up a shelf in the Food Shelf Room was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Looking at difference in weekly uniform costs for the maintenance men was gone over. Currently we have Aramark and are looking at changing to AmeriPride. Motion to approve the change was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein, if the change saves the city money. AIF The city clerk will go over total charges again with AmeriPride to make sure of the savings.
The city received a bid to reshingle the Veteran’s Park shelter… check minutes?????
The city is again doing pay equity, comparable worth. Every three years the state recertifies we are in compliance with pay equity.
From the previous Holdingford housing rehab project done several years ago, there is a limited amount of money the city gained when families sold their homes before completing their commitment on the home rehab contracts. The council is considering how to use these funds. Motion was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein to use these funds for commercial use. AIF
Motion to adjourn was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Meeting adjourned at 9:55 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk of Holdingford
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
October 13, 2009
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Scott Lange, Louise Winkler, Tim Berscheid, Gordon Sjaaheim, Tony Cotton, Jeremy Freudenrich, Tracy Ryan.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Motion to approve checks was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Motion to approve bank reconciliation was made by, Sue Marstein seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to approve electronic transfers was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Motion to approve minutes of September 14, 2009 regular council meeting was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by Mayor Schmit in the absence of the manager, Pat Meier. Right now there is a high inventory of beer, and there was a liability insurance payment; this is in part the reason for negative revenue for October. October 31 there will be a costume party at the liquor store. Lottery YTD is $3,687.99.
Fire Department report was given by Mayor Schmit in the absence of the fire chief, Pat Meier. The truck fund has $80,469.82, plus interest. CD passbook ***24 comes due 10/14/09. Motion made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein to add $30,000 to this CD ***24 from the passbook savings account F.D. truck fund. AIF
Motion made by Sue Marstein to renew the CD passbook ***24 for 6 months, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF The break down after these transactions will be: passbook savings FD truck fund ****510 $7,861.80, CD **24 rolled over to CD***86 with a balance of $74,202.99.
There have been 79 calls so far this year. The department is requesting to have the service door lock changed to a combination digital lock. Ernst’s Locksmith gave an estimate of $691.61 to install a digital lock. Motion made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Kim Ebnet to have this combination lock installed on the front entrance service door if the financing comes from the gambling funds. AIF There was a $700 donation made to the city for Safe House rental, items for the Holdingford Daze parade, kindergarten teaching, etc.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his report. See end of minutes for details.
Scott Lange reported on ongoing engineering projects with the city. There has been no change in the Rural Water, street and utility rehabilitation project so far. The city hall bond beam repair is to start the week of October 12th. Landmark Stucco and Plaster will be doing the work. Phase one of River St., St. Hedwig’s cemetery flooding is complete, including the grass seeding. Quotes for phase two were received October 8, 2009. Three quotes were received. Two of the bidders were at the pre-quote meeting; therefore, their quotes were qualified. Low bid went to Joe’s Countryside Auto, St. Joseph, MN for $3,932.00. The other accepted bid came from Opatz Excavating, LLC, in the amount of $4,261.00. Scott Lange is to take care of notifying the winning bidder and set up the time for the work to be done. Motion made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden to accept Joe’s Countryside Auto bid of $3,932. AIF
The SEH surveyor has been working on doing locates of lines here in the city. He is currently working in the Hill Street area of town.
Selling the old snow plow truck was discussed. On a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein, the city will be putting the truck up for bids with advertising in the Peach, Enterprise, Morrison Co. Record and on Craig’s List. The city will have the right to refuse any and all bids. Sealed bids must be in to the city clerk’s office by Friday, Nov. 6, 2009. AIF
Tony Cotton, owner of Sunset Electric is interested in renting the south half of the old maintenance shed. If the city does that, it would have to pay property taxes on that property. We are to find out what those costs would be. Tony said he would be willing to pay $100/month rent. This item was tabled on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF The city needs to find out more information before offering it for rent.
Insurance adjuster information on the roof repair on the Veteran’s Park shelter and the south bathroom was discussed. The adjuster is allowing $7,403.75 for this repair work. Will need to get quotes from local roofers. Quote requests will go out to several area roofers: Scotty’s Exteriors, Craig Voss, Arnie Berscheid, Rod Pilarski. They are to give quotes for architectural shingles and for steel roofing. Bids are to be in before the November meeting. Motion to get bids for the roof repair was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
The city has on loan a skid loader from Ziegler. This loader comes with a bucket, has new tires. Price on this is $18,500 plus tax. Motion to purchase this loader with bucket was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Tracy Ryan from David Drown Associates came before the council to work through the process of tax abatement. Berscheid Properties LLC had asked the council at the September council meeting to abate city taxes since the JOBZ program for Berkon Industries did not work out. It was tabled until this meeting. The city council will hold a public hearing at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, November 9, 2009 for public input on tax abatement for Berscheid Properties LLC. The city intends to provide annual abatement payments, the total of which will not exceed $24,999 collected over a period of not more than six (6) years, commencing with taxes payable 2010. The tax parcel proposed to be included in the proposed tax abatement: 58.333636.0000, at 470 Industrial Drive So. Holdingford, MN 56340. Anyone wishing to see the Resolution setting the public hearing may come to city hall to view it. Ms. Ryan will take care of publishing the public hearing in the Enterprise.
Home owners who have trees whose branches are arching over streets and sidewalks are asked to please trim the branches per our City Ordinance 92.18 (C). The council is asking that tree branches be trimmed to a height of 15 feet for branches overhanging street and curbing; branches trimmed to 8 feet for sidewalks. This is so the snow plow truck and blower will not get scratched from overhanging branches when plowing the streets/sidewalks this winter. Motion to send letters to homeowners to this effect was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Board of Equalization training is set for October 28, 2009 in St. Cloud. Kim Ebnet and Sue Marstein will be attending this training.
Allowing the school to use the Holdingford city voting machines, (scanner and HAVA) was made on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
The city clerk will be working as an election judge on November 3, 2009 at the Holdingford Schools. The question came up if the city needs to pay the difference between the election judge pay and her salary. It will be looked into.
Mayor Ernie Schmit came before the council seeking a gambling permit for up to five meat raffles for the Commercial Club to be held at TKs Restaurant. Dates to be determined. Motion to approve this gambling permit was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Michelle Kiley has requested the opportunity to put up fall decorations in the downtown area. She will put these up and take down. Council approved.
Resolution 09-10-13-01 Hiring of Stearns County Sheriff’s Department to render services within the City of Holdingford for year 2010 was approved on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. They will be hired at $45/hour and 11 contract hours per week. AIF
Stearns County League Meeting will be Tuesday, October 20 at Paynesville. Any council person wishing to go needs to contact Mayor Schmit.
Compensation for those employees eligible for insurance, but opting not to take the insurance was discussed. Currently two employees do get compensation, two employees take city insurance. For those not taking insurance, it benefits the city with lower insurance rates and benefits the employee who does not take insurance with a monthly pay out. Kim Ebnet made a motion to cap an employee per month pay out at $284. Any employee hired from now on, or opting not to take the insurance will have a pay out of BC/BS Plan 181, a payout one time per year to be determined. This motion failed for lack of a second. More discussion followed on this topic and was then tabled on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein until the November meeting, when more information on what other cities do, would be available. AIF
The city council was shown the park rentals for the year: a total of $890 was collected.
Inquiry on uniform rental from two businesses was asked about. The city clerk has the information, but has not had time to go through each one thoroughly yet; will have it for the November meeting.
Parking spaces on the south side of Co. Rd. 17 by the funeral home is very obstructive. It is very hard to see down Co. Rd. 17 to the west when cars are parked there. The mayor will look into having these parking spaces removed.
Lloyd Rausch brought up to the council that Dorine Rausch can get regular flu shots for the Fire Department and city employees for $20/shot. Cost is usually $25/shot. Motion to offer the Fire Department and city employees these shots free of charge was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF Dorine is to pick a date when she would be able to do these shots; the Fire Department and city employees will need to let her know if they will be getting the shot, so she knows how many she needs.
Motion to adjourn was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Meeting adjourned at 10:10 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
September 14, 2009
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Pat Meier, Scott Lange, Gary Lange, Louis Walz, Louise Winkler, Robb Berscheid, Eric Berscheid, Tim Berscheid, Dorine Rausch.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.
Motion to approve checks was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to approve bank reconciliation was made by, Lloyd Rausch seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to approve electronic transfers was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Motion to approve minutes of August 10, 2009 regular council meeting was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by manager, Pat Meier. August lottery netted $414.49 with a YTD net of $3,309.79. Game day between the bars went fairly well. One of the games took longer than expected, but overall it was well attended.
The Fire Department report was given by Fire Chief, Pat Meier. There have been 73 calls so far this year. The truck funds have a total of $80,469.82. The county website, www.co.stearns.mn.us has a lot of good information on the H1N1 virus. Pat sought approval of two new firefighters, Chad Panek and Tony Stalberger who have passed all required testing and background checks. On a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein, both firefighters were approved. AIF They will be started as of September 1, 2009.
Fire hall doors painting was discussed. Marv’s Repair put in a bid of $1,536.25 for four 12 X 12 doors. The council approved this bid on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet AIF. Marv’s Repair is also to include the kitchen door and service doors for additional pro rated cost. Total will be approximately $1,920.31.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his mayor’s report. See end of minutes for details.
Scott Lange, our city engineer, discussed the drainage ditch by St. Hedwig’s Cemetery. Opatz Excavating got the bid for drainage work. He will be putting in flared ends on the western driveway culverts. A motion was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch to use Option 2 of Opatz Excavating bid. AIF.
The bond beam repair at the front entrance of city hall was bid by Landmark Plaster and Stucco, Inc, out of Avon, MN. They will remove the existing bond beam face, install EIFS foam with drain vents, paint and caulk and recaulk other areas that may need it. Approximate cost for this process will be $5,850. Motion to accept bid was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Street utility rehab project set for 2010 is moving along with Rural Development according to Scott Lange. He is waiting for comments on the Preliminary Engineering Report and the Environmental Report from the USDA Rural Development. He proposed to the city that the design surveying that needs to be done for this project get started within the next couple weeks, so it can be completed before winter snows come. He is estimating it will take 250 man hours to complete. He would like SEH to be paid for this surveying as it gets completed. The city will be putting this cost into the final project costs when the project is completed. Motion made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch to pay for the surveying as it gets completed. AIF
The 2008 sidewalk project is completed with the change by the steps at Heart and Sol and the Laundromat and the handicap ped installed by Corky’s Car Wash.
Eric Berscheid came before the council to ask if the city would be willing to continue the JOBZ property tax abatement. Because of the economy, the number of positions he was to have had by December 31, 2008 did not occur. The Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has rescinded Berkon Industries JOBZ status. Before the council can make a decision, more information is needed, so this was tabled until the October council meeting on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
The Fire Hall Alcohol Policy for the Holdingford Fire Department was discussed. The council looked at what the League of MN Cities has for its policy and what the Holdingford F.D. has in its Standard Operating Guidelines. The council found the policies to be similar. Alcohol can be brought in and can be consumed after a fire training meeting as long as no alcohol is left in the fire hall. No alcohol may be served to minors who may be a volunteer firefighter.
Preliminary budget for 2010 and the property tax levy was gone over. On a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden, the property tax levy will stay at $258,663 as it has since 2003. AIF The final tax levy will be adopted at the December 14, 2009 council meeting, when the final budget numbers will also be adopted.
The city clerk will be taking three days’ vacation in October.
The city clerk is to check on the county’s ruling on using the trail area for a garage sale. There was a group of people having their yard sale on the trail and people were blocking the trail for bikers, roller bladders, etc during our city wide garage sale in August.
Motion to adjourn was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Meeting adjourned at 9:46 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
And Public Hearings on Adult Entertainment Fees and Bio Fuel Burners
August 10, 2009
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Gordon Sjaaheim, Pat Meier, Scott Lange, Gary Lange, Mary and Gene Cipala, Jerry Winkler, Jr., Janice Paggen, Marie Hoppe.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Motion to approve checks was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to approve bank reconciliation was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to approve electronic transfers was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to approve minutes of June 8, 2009 regular council meeting was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden with correction. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by Manager Pat Meier. Game days are scheduled for August 22 and Sept 12. The Sept. 12 one is going to be the Liquor Store vs. TKs. Budgeting for 2010 is set for 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 18. Pat is working with C & L Distributing to get a sign for the back of the L.S. Final finishes for the bathrooms have been ordered and will be installed as soon as they come in. The council discussed remodeling the back of the L.S. A bid came in to paint the south and west outsides of the L.S. Lloyd Rausch made a motion to paint the south side of the L.S. only, seconded by Sue Marstein AIF
Fire Department report was given by Fire Chief Pat Meier. There has been 62 calls so far this year. Pat went to an H1N1 county wide meeting in St. Cloud. He came back with several ideas that the city needs to look at implementing. Budgeting for the Fire Dept. is set for Thursday, Aug. 27 at 6 p.m. Township supervisors have been invited to this budget meeting.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his Mayor’s Report. See details at the end of the minutes.
Mayor Schmit suspended the regular council meeting at 8 p.m. to hold two public hearings. This public hearing was on the fee schedule for Adult Entertainment for the application fee and also a fee schedule for the annual license. One person thought the suggested $10,000 annual license fee was too high. This amount is modeled after another city that has had experience in this area and was noted that the $10,000 would begin to cover the extra costs of enforcing the ordinance.
The second public hearing was on public input for a Biofuel Burners within the city limits. The City of Holdingford has modeled its Biofuel ordinance after a city in our area. This ordinance prohibits Biofuel burners from being installed within the city limits unless there is followed certain conditions. Several changes were suggested by the public, among them, to take out verbage as to dates when wood can be stored on personal property and also the amount of wood storage. Another suggestion was to take out the use period of when biofuel burners can be used. Upon no further discussion, a motion to close the public hearing was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Mayor Schmit resumed the regular council meeting at 8:43 p.m. A motion was made by Lloyd Rausch to set the non refundable application fee for Adult Entertainment business at $1,000, seconded by Kim Ebnet and the annual license fee of $10,000 One point of discussion by Councilperson Mike Odden was that the $10,000 fee was “over the top.” Voting yes was Kim Ebnet, Lloyd Rausch, Sue Marstein, voting no was Mike Odden. Motion passed.
The Biofuel Ordinance 92.50 was adopted on a motion by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch, with changes from the original ordinance offered. AIF This ordinance will become effective upon publication. Anyone wishing to view this ordinance may do so at city hall any time the city offices are open. It is also published on our city web site: www.holdingfordmn.us
Scott Lange gave an update on the water/sewer project. It will be a couple months out before MN Rural Water will be acting on our project. The bond beam at the front of city hall was discussed on how to best repair the bricks that have fallen off this past spring. Scott will look into repair options further and will get back to the council.
The large amount of rain that fell over the past weekend has again caused run off problems on River St by St. Mary’s Cemetery. Scott has come up with a proposal to help alleviate water running over the road and washing out lawns, etc. Putting in better culverts, digging out around the culvert areas, diverting runoff toward the creek east of the homes, taking the silt and soil out of the ditch by St. Mary’s Cemetery and moving it back on the field after harvesting this fall are all in his plan.
Gardening plots for the city – pursuing this has been dropped for lack of interest.
Mayor Schmit has met with our building inspector to get details of what she does as our inspector. He shared that information with the council.
Community wide hazard waste pick up is scheduled for Saturday, August 29, 2009 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Mary’s parking lot. There will be volunteers on hand to help with your disposal of hazardous materials. Included in the list of hazards you may bring: paints, garden chemicals, poisons, mothballs, mercury, auto chemicals, cleaners, roofing tar, fuels, sealers, adhesives, solvents, pool chemicals, fluorescent bulbs and photo chemicals.
Home Rehab was discussed. Mayor Schmit and the city clerk met with HRS to discuss this possibility. Holdingford and the city of Belgrade will be going together in this rehab project. The pre-application will be sent in by September 3, 2009. The city clerk has a list of potential homes. If anyone else is interested in being listed as a possible home for rehab, please call city hall 746-2966. We will let people know what steps to take as soon as we find out the next procedures also.
Principal Life Dental/Life insurance is up for renewal. The increase this year is less than three percent.
The city was notified of 2010 Local Government Aid (LGA). We are seeing a small increase over 2009.
CD 21518 (Maintenance Equipment) is up for renewal. It was decided on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet to transfer this CD to a regular savings and adding $44,996. from our reserve account, $7,940 borrowed to the Fire Department (pay back for its roof repair) to this CD. AIF This is for the purchase of a new snow plow truck and a bob cat. Our maintenance crew is to start looking into getting these two new pieces of equipment.
The parking lot behind the Liquor Store was discussed. The Lions Club is waiting for final approval from Stearns County Parks department before going ahead with the wheelchair accessible path to the trail. Paving the whole area may take between $20,000 - $25,000.
New Core Wireless Lease re-assignment was discussed. On a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein that if after calling Mr. Wenner to find out why he is suggesting a financial statement from Central Stearns Comsis, when one was not requested from New Core Wireless, that there is not a legitimate reason for asking, and if they provide proof of insurance the city may sign the agreement. AIF
DOT physicals for the maintenance crew will be paid for by the city.
There will be a motorcycle rally fund raiser for Helping Hands put on by Cold Spring Granite on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2009. All proceeds from this fund raiser goes to our area Helping Hands.
Sue Marstein reported on starting a farmer’s market here in town. She checked on the markets in St. Joe and Cold Spring, finding out there is a lot more to having a farmer’s market, than just setting up a stand. The new owner of the Korner Mart, (now called Holdingford Gas and Grocery) has started having more fresh produce.
Mike Odden has sold some of the styrofoam from resurfacing the city hall/fire department roof. On a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet, proceeds from selling this styrofoam will go to the Holdingford Area Historical Society. AIF
Motion to adjourn was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Meeting adjourned at 10:25 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Victoria Statz, Holdingford City Clerk
City Council Meeting Minutes (Unapproved)
July 13, 2009
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Gordon Sjaaheim, Pat Meier, Scott Lange, Jerry Schueler, Jeremy Freudenrich, Gary Lange, Rod Harren.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.
Motion to approve checks was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to approve bank reconciliation was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to approve electronic transfers was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to approve minutes of June 8, 2009 regular council meeting was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch with correction. AIF
Motion to approve minutes of the July 6, 2009 special meeting on HSA information was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. Mike Odden, Sue Marstein, Kim Ebnet, and Mike Odden voted yes. Lloyd Rausch abstained.
June Liquor report was given by manager Pat Meier. See end of minutes for details. YTD Lottery $2,546.13.
Invoices for the liquor store remodel were presented to the council for payment. Motion to pay these was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF The remodel is complete, but the council would like to see either (or both) for the bathrooms yet, hooks on the doors to hang coats, purses and /or shelf by the sink. Also a pole in the men’s bathroom to hold the partition in place.
Fire Department report was given by Fire Chief Pat Meier. The fire relief donated $300 for the Safe House that was used during Holdingford Daze. Truck fund has $75,469.82. Training has been taking place this past month.
Mayor’s Report was given by Mayor Ernie Schmit. See end of minutes for complete report.
Scott Lange reported that there are no new details on the water/sewer project. He stated there probably won’t be anything new for a couple months. The council talked to him about the streets on the south end of town. They are in poor shape. They will be looking into the possibility of redoing them if it can be worked in with the project next year.
River St. on the east end of town was talked about. During the last big rain, there was a large wash out on Gary Lange’s property because of poor ditching on the south side of River St. Over the years silt has filled in the ditch and the culvert that is there could not handle the amount of rain. The council talked with the maintenance crew and Scott Lange on how to change the water run off. They will be working on that this fall after the fall crop is harvested.
Rod Harren asked the council for a gambling/raffle permit on behalf of the Lion’s Club for the community picnic to be held on September 13, 2009. Proceeds from this raffle help pay for food and incidentals associated with the picnic. Motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden to approve this permit. AIF
The maintenance men talked to the council about the storm water catch basin that is in front of My Salon. It is in need of repair. Scott Lange said this belongs to Stearns County because it is on a county road. Scott will talk to Stearns County about it.
Xcel Energy transformer outage that happened the weekend of June 6-7, 2009 in Freeport affected our control panel at the wells. Preferred Controls came out and said there needs to be a replacement of the panel. Talked about turning this in to the insurance; however, with our deductible and being able to prove this outage from the Freeport transformer may be hard to prove. We did get a good explanation from Preferred Controls on how these outages affect the panels that run the well.
Health Savings Account (HSA) was discussed. It was decided on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden to go with BC/BS HSA for medical insurance starting August 1, 2009. AIF On a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch the city will be putting in to the eligible employees accounts $2,000 each. AIF These $s come from the savings from going to an HSA. There will be a savings of $700 for the city in doing this. The city clerk will work with Primary Benefit Services to get this set up this week.
Hazardous waste pick up is scheduled for the City of Holdingford for Saturday, August 29, 2009 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Volunteers are being sought to help with this collection. Gordon Sjaaheim and Gary Lange volunteered to help out. The rest of the volunteers/crew needed was tabled until the August council meeting on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
A public hearing is scheduled for August 10, 2009 at 8 p.m. on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF This public hearing will cover the ordinances of Biofuel and the Adult Entertainment annual fees and application fee.
Paul Solsrud from Albany Mutual Telephone has requested a support letter on behalf of Broadband Technology Opportunities Program. They are seeking a grant to put in broadband services in rural areas and rural towns that have a lack of such services. A motion was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein stating the City of Holdingford supports increased broadband technology for rural areas by Albany Mutual Telephone seeking grant money. AIF
Having another person to help out in the city clerk’s office was discussed. Currently the city clerk works 33 hours per week. It was decided that the city clerk will go full time starting January 1, 2010.
Home rehab was brought up by Mayor Ernie Schmit. There is around $100,000 in the rehab account that can only be used to rehab homes. He stated that Belgrade may be interested in partnering with us as is Stearns County. He stated the county is having a hard time finding cities to go together on rehab. The city clerk also said that Freeport may be interested in working with Holdingford on this home rehab. A motion was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden to go ahead with HRA to do this home rehab. AIF Mayor Schmit will also put this information in his newsletter.
Scott Lange talked with the council on redevelopment of our downtown area. He said there are funding opportunities with grants available. He will continue to look into this for us.
Mike Odden put the styrofoam that was removed from our reroofing of city hall onto Craig’s List to sell. The 1.25 inch 4’ x 8’ sheets are $2/sheet. The 4 inch 4’ x 8’ sheets are $20/sheet. Anyone interested in any of the styrofoam may call city hall for more details.
There was a request to have a couple more waste baskets in the hallway of city hall.
The city brush pile, that is now located between the new maintenance shed and the wastewater treatment plant has had a lot of use so far. The maintenance men had the brush chipped once already. There is a member of the community who has a chipper and was hired to do the chipping for us at $40/hour.
Lloyd Rausch explained how the Paynesville garden plots work, the tilling, sprinkler system, community participation. We are looking into getting community garden plots for city residents for next year.
Sue Marstein brought up the idea of a farmer’s market. She was invited to find out more how they are run.
Gary Lange complimented the maintenance men for the work they did in cleaning up the ditches beside River St. after the heavy rain/hail storm a couple weeks ago
Motion to adjourn was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk
Special City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
July 6, 2009
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Pat Meier, Jerry Schueler, Jeremy Freudenrich, John Holthaus, Kevin and Nancy Headley.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:08 p.m.
John Holthaus, the city’s medical insurance agent presented the council and employees with information on HSAs (Health Savings Account). The council and employees will think about their options and a decision will be made by the council at the next regular council meeting on Monday, July 13, 2009. John will check on renewal dates and get back to the city clerk.
A question from residents who have purchased a building permit within the last year for doing work that needs to be redone because of the recent hail storm have asked if they need a new permit. The city building inspector states that it is up to the council if they require a new permit. A motion was made by Mike Odden seconded by Sue Marstein to allow those who have paid for a permit within the time frame the first permit is valid for the same kind of work do not have to purchase a new permit. AIF
Nancy and Kevin Headley came to the council to request that the 4-car train built by community members be placed north of Co. Rd 17, west of the trail, across from the two picnic tables by the map area. Several reasons were sited for this placement, among them; it keeps with the railroad theme, will have greater exposure to more people, is a photo opportunity, better security, and play value for children of families coming to use the trail. The question of traffic safety came up by the council.
In the June council meeting, the council had made a motion to put the train in Veteran’s Park. Motion to rescind original motion for Veteran’s Park placement was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF Resolution 09-07-06-01 stating in part that the Wobegon location will be for one year and after that they will reassess this placement. A motion was made by Mike Odden seconded by Sue Marstein to put the train in the Wobegon area for this specific time period. AIF
Weed growth behind the old laundromat was discussed as well as evergreens growing in the alley next to the old laundromat.
Motion to adjourn was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF Meeting adjourned at 10:30 p.m.
City Council Meeting Minutes and Public Hearing on Infrastructure Project (Approved)
June 8, 2009
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Pat Meier, Scott Lange, Greg Waletzko, Dorine Rausch, Sandra and Everett Olson, Karen Solarz, Lou Ann Pilarski, Marie Heitzman, Diane Konsor, Brian Remer, Gerald Klug.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Motion to approve payment of invoices was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Motion to approve the May bank rec was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to approve electronic transfers, debit/credits was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Ernie Schmit. AIF
Motion to approve May council minutes was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his mayor’s report. See end of minutes for his report.
City wide clean up day is scheduled for Saturday, June 20, 2009 from 8 a.m. to 12 noon by the Old Maintenance Shed. On duty from 8 – 10 a.m. will be Mike Odden and Sue Marstein. From 10 a.m. to 12 noon will be Lloyd Rausch and Vicki Statz. One of the maintenance crew will be on hand during the entire time also. Included at the end of these minutes is a list of items that WILL be accepted, along with what WILL NOT be accepted.
Karen Solarz came before the council to request a gambling permit for St. Hedwig’s Church, Pot-O-Gold raffle called “Harvesting a Heritage of Charity” to be held October 18, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. (after church). Motion made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden to allow this permit. AIF Resolution 09-06-08-02.
The American Legion gave a generous donation to the city: $1,000 for the band for Holdingford Daze; $1,000 for Veteran’s Park; $250 for the car show at Holdingford Daze; $597 for the Garden Club; $598.86 for the new Volleyball courts at the south end of Veteran’s Park. Motion was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein to purchase another piece for the skateboard park. AIF
When the city roof was repaired, there were many sheets of Styrofoam taken off. Mike Odden asked the council if the city should sell them. On a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein, the council gave permission to Mike to sell them. AIF
Rodney Ebnet and the MN Central RR Club will be having their monthly meeting here at city hall on Wednesday, July 8. They will also be using the community center to set up an intricate train set for Holdingford Daze. They have asked the council to waive the $5 meeting charge and also waive the rental for setting up the display. This will be an added attraction for the city for Holdingford Daze. A motion was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein, to waive the meeting cost and the hall rental costs for this display. AIF
Discussion on where to put the 4 car train community members are building. A motion was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein to have the kiddie train put in Veteran’s Park. AIF
BC/BS insurance rates for the coming year will increase between 1.6 and 1.7%. The council asked the city clerk to look into getting a HSA (Health Savings Account) instead of the insurance. The city clerk will set up a meeting for our insurance agent, the eligible employees and the council.
Approval for renewal of liquor licenses for TKs was made on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Approval for renewal of liquor licenses for the American Legion was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Approval for renewal of the Softball Association 3.2 beer license was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Last fall the LMC (League of MN Cities) did an appraisal on all city owned property. Included in the council packet was the updated replacement information.
Electric Pump Service submitted a bid for annual inspection of the two lift station pumps. We have used them in the past. On a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet, the city will commit to a one year agreement with them for a cost of $585. AIF
At 8 p.m. Mayor Ernie Schmit suspended the regular council meeting in order to call to order the Public Hearing on Preliminary Assessment for proposed infrastructure upgrade of water and sewer lines as well as some streets.
City engineer, Scott Lange, gave a detailed power point presentation on areas of the city need water and sewer line updating. Most of the infrastructure was done in the 30s, 40s, and some in the 60s. With putting in new water and sewer lines, streets will be dug up and replaced. Curb and gutter will be replaced where it is now and will be put in place where it presently is not. Those home owners who do not have curb and gutter where the new lines will be going in, will have an assessment to their property.
Discussion followed Mr. Lange’s presentation and all questions from the public were answered.
Motion to close the public hearing was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF Public hearing closed at 8:58 p.m.
Mayor Ernie Schmit reopened the June regular council meeting.
Resolution 09-06-08-01 to Authorize SEH to complete preliminary engineering and environmental report was passed on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
New sprinkler heads for the softball park was discussed. There were two bids presented to the council to replace two steel heads and 16 plastic ones. On a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein, bid #1, the Rain Bird Falcons brand will be installed by Kevin Feia for a total cost of $940. AIF
Fire Department report was started by Dorine Rausch. She presented the SOG (Standard Operating Guidelines) to the council. Sue Marstein will look it over to see that the changes previously talked about are instituted. The by-laws are not quite finished yet and will be brought to the council when they are.
There are three new firefighters going through the hiring process. The firefighters will re-evaluate the Tuesday night Bingo games in September. Fire Chief Pat Meier continued with the F.D. report saying there have been 46 call so far this year. Truck Fund has $75,469.82. Donations by the Fire Relief were made to the Student Council ($200) and the DNR Grant match of $1,820.99.
St. Stephen F.D will be doing a practice mass casualty incident. Two of our firefighters will be attending. Two training sessions for our department will be in June.
MAY, 2009 LIQUOR STORE REPORT
GROSS RECEIPTS
MAY 2009 $ 31,990.62 GROSS RECEIPTS $ 31,990.62
APRIL 2009 $ 31,276.95 $
MAY 2008 $ 37,826.94 PREVIOUS GROSS $ 113,067.42
’09 GROSS $ 145,058.04
Lottery’09 MAY $ 254.46 ‘09 EXPENSES $ 162,826.06
’09 YTD $ 2,031.88 PROFIT/(LOSS) $ (17,768.02)
BANK $ 9,679.17 NET/PROFIT LOTTERY $ 2,031.88
3 CDs matured and $
Put into a Passbook TOTAL PROFIT (LOSS) $ (15,736.14)
Sav. Acct for remodel $32,447.27 Total includes interest
The council is requesting that letters be sent out to homeowners who need to clean up junk cars, junk in general and brush piles on their property. These are havens for skunks, rats, mice and other vermin.
Painting of light poles around city hall and the Fire Department was discussed. Mike Guenin has given the council a bid on this as well as repainting the Fire Department doors. The council decided on painting only the light poles at this time. Motion was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Painting of the doors has been put off till another time.
Motion to adjourn meeting was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Meeting adjourned at 10:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Victoria Statz, City Clerk of Holdingford
Special Meeting of City Council(Unapproved)
At Veteran’s Park
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Present at the meeting: Ernie Schmit, Mike Odden, Kim Ebnet, Sue Marstein, Vicki Statz, Rob Berscheid.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the special meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. at Veteran’s Park. Rob Berscheid explained his plan for putting in two league sized volleyball courts for two different areas in Veteran’s Park. One area is where the present volleyball court is and extending to the west. This plan would need to have two trees taken out to make room for the courts. The second plan is to locate both courts south of the skateboard park in the area where the old ice rink was located.
In discussing the best possibility, the council agreed on a motion by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch to have both courts located south of the skateboard park with all costs covered by donations from various organizations and private donations. AIF
Motion to adjourn special meeting was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Meeting adjourned at 6:47 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Victoria Statz
City Clerk of Holdingford
City Council Meeting Minutes and Public Hearing on Ordinances(Approved)
May 11, 2009
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Gordon Sjaaheim, Pat Meier, Scott Lange, Louise Winkler, Jerry Schueler, Jeremy Freudenrich, Louis Walz, Janelle Kendall, Matthew Quinn, Rob Berscheid, Tim Berscheid, Dan Fiedler.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Mayor Schmit asked the council to allow Ms. Kendall, Stearns County attorney, to present 2008 prosecutions for Holdingford to the council ahead of regular business. Crimes in the City of Holdingford were virtually the same as in 2007. Proof of Insurance was up 10 over 2007, while DUI/DWI was down by 4. (5 in 2007, 1 in 2008). In 2008 there were 34 Misdemeanors, compared to 30 in 2007; Gross Misdemeanors in 2008 were 38 compared to 33 in 2007. Our contract with the county prosecutor will be up the end of 2010.
Mayor Schmit asked the council to also allow Scott Lange, our city engineer to go ahead of our regular business and public hearing. He reported that there will be a power point presentation of the water/sewer line improvements at the June 8, 2009 public hearing at 8 p.m. at city hall. Residents who are going to be directly affected with assessments for curb and gutter will be getting a letter in the mail about this. Motion to send letter with June utility billing was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Mayor Schmit asked the council to also allow Rob Berscheid to come before the council before all other regular business. Rob presented to the council plans for two league volleyball courts in order to hold a league tournament during Holdingford Daze. Because there are two different areas that are a possibility for these courts the council approved an emergency meeting for Tuesday, May 12, 2009 at 6:30 p.m. at Veteran’s Park on a motion by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Rob has already gotten a financial commitment from the Commercial Club of $1,000, piping donated from Opatz Metals worth $450. Total cost for the courts are about $5,270.This total amount will come from donations, no cost to the city. Because of the urgency of time, and help from Scepaniak Company, the council felt that the meeting on Tuesday was necessary to come to a decision for the volleyball courts.
Motion to pay all bills was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to accept electronic transfers and debit/credit cards was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to receive bank reconciliation was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marsten. .AIF
Motion to accept the April, 2009 minutes was made by Lloyd Rausch seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to accept the minutes from the Board of Equalization and Taxation was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by Pat Meier, Liquor Store manager. There was a large purchase of beer, because of pricing, therefore the profit at the liquor store for April is in the negative. Remodeling is progressing. Plumbing is complete; a new water softener was purchased and installed by Hommerding Plumbing. They are currently putting in the tile.
Dan Fiedler presented updated information on insurance for the L.S. Renewal is up in June. We will be staying with Capitol Specialty Co. The rates have gone up because of a pending lawsuit and because of periodic live entertainment.
April, 2009 LIQUOR STORE REPORT
GROSS RECEIPTS
APRIL 2009 $ 31,276.95 GROSS RECEIPTS $ 31,276.95
MARCH 2009 $ 28,705.95 $
APRIL 2008 $ 31,511.65 PREVIOUS GROSS $ 81,790.47
’09 GROSS $ 113,067.42
Lottery’09 April $ 555.01 ‘09 EXPENSES $ 119,090.42
’09 YTD $ 1,777.42 PROFIT/(LOSS) $ (6,023.42)
BANK $ 9,424.71 NET/PROFIT LOTTERY $ 1,777.42
3 CDs matured and $
Put into a Passbook TOTAL PROFIT (LOSS) $ (4,245.58)
Sav. Acct for remodel $32,447.27 Total includes interest
Mayor Ernie Schmit suspended the regular council meeting at 8 p.m. to call to order the public hearing on updating ordinances taken from the MN Basic Code of Ordinances: General Provisions 10; Administration 30, 31, 32; Public Works 50, 51, 52, 54; Traffic Code, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74; General Regulations, 90, 91, 92; Business Regulations 110, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116; General Offenses 130.
There was no public comment on any of the ordinances. However, there was discussion by the council on Ch. 32, Emergency Management. Right now the Holdingford Fire Department has the NIMS program and the city will go with that, until the Stearns County Emergency Management program is completed.
Taken out of the ordinances was Ch. 112, Liquor Regulations. This ordinance was updated July 18, 2005.
Ch. 73.08 was amended to include ATVs along with golf carts.
On a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet the public hearing was closed. AIF
Mayor Schmit reopened the regular council meeting at 8:20 p.m.
Motion to adopt the new ordinances with changes and rescinding all old ordinances pertaining to same was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his mayor’s report. See end of minutes for details.
Maintenance men, Jerry Schueler and Jeremy Freudenrich asked the council about purchasing 2 new chlorinator heads for the wastewater plant and 2 new sampler heads. The current ones are not working properly and Jerry is unable to fix the old ones. He has used up all the old parts of other heads. Total cost for the chlorinator heads will be around $2,000, cost of the sampler heads will be similar. Motion to allow purchase was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
There is a committee looking into the possible purchase of a new marquee for the city. There is wide interest from businesses. It is still in the discussion phase with the committee.
Developing a compost pile for the city was discussed by the council and maintenance men. The maintenance men will set one up for this year and see how it goes before investing funds for barriers between the different composting areas.
Corner Pizza sidewalk hazard was discussed. It has become a trip hazard. There were three bids brought before the council to fix 3 sections in front of this business. Motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet to accept the lowest bid of $783 by Pueringer Cement Work. AIF Work will commence as soon as weather permits.
Jeremy Freudenrich one year employee evaluation was discussed. He has been employed for one year as of May 5, 2008. He was okay with an open meeting on his evaluation. His supervisor gave him high marks on job duties. He is ready to take his “D” tests in wastewater. Test schedule is in October. Motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch to move Jeremy from Step 1 to Step 2. AIF
Pat Meier gave the Fire Department Report. There have been 40 calls so far this year. The Truck Fund has a balance of $75,469.82. There are three new recruits for firefighters. All three have cleared the background check. They are scheduled for physicals. MN Darkhouse and Angling Association has donated $750 to purchase a cold water rescue suit or any other type of rescue equipment. They are from Melrose, MN.
Pat requested approval for him to pursue a 50/50 grant from the DNR for 2009. Motion made to that effect by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF Dollar value has not yet been determined.
Six people will be going to the firefighter convention. This year it is being held in Owatonna.
Repainting of the Fire Hall overhead doors was discussed. They keep peeling and were last painted about five years ago.
Mayor Schmit requested the NIMS procedures from Pat Meier so the procedures can be included in our ordinances. He will get them to the mayor.
When land owned by Mark Rodenwald and Scepaniak LLC. was annexed into the city, it was decided that a portion of the real estate taxes would be given back to Holding Township. Those three years are almost up (end of 2009 for Rodenwald land) and the total taxes owed to Holding Township for all parcels is $3,159.06. The city realized taxes on these parcels of $4,507.74. Motion to approve payment to Holding Township for $3,159.06 was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Training for the city clerk on pay equity and job evaluations in Alexandria on Friday, June 5, 2009 was approved on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Letter from the Initiative Foundation requesting support for 2009 was discussed. On a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch, the city will lend support of $250. AIF
Membership in the MAOSC (MN Association of Small Cities) was approved on a motion by Sue Marstein, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF Annual membership for 2009 is $462.
Stearns League of Cities next meeting will be Tuesday, May 19, 2009 at 8 p.m. in Cold Spring. Any council member wanting to go needs to let Mayor Schmit know.
The League of MN Cities will have vacancies on their board this year. Any council member wanting to be considered for the board is to let Mayor Schmit know.
Initiative Foundation funds transfer from one committee to another needs to be decided by the HIP committee. Garden Club member, Vicki Statz requested such transfer, but council does not make that decision. The HIP committee meets Monday, May 18, 2009 and she is to request the transfer from them.
Motion to adjourn was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF Meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk
Board of Equalization and Taxation Meeting Approved
Present at the meeting: Ernie Schmit, Mike Odden, Kim Ebnet, Sue Marstein, Vicki Statz, Joe and Bill Scepaniak, Tim Berscheid, Rick Solinger, Heidi Bias, Louis Walz, Gary Grossinger.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7 p.m.
Rick Solinger asked to have his non buildable land value (2.4 acres) lowered to $3,150. Motion by Ernie Schmit, seconded by Mike Odden to keep it the same as last year, $3,400. AIF
Joe Scepaniak asked about Lots 2 and 3, (58.33636.0001, 58.33636.0002) each valued at $31,800 to be lowered to $20,000. These lots are 2.1 acres each. They are valued as commercial, and classified as ag. Motion to set land value at $25,000 was made by Ernie Schmit, seconded by Kim Ebnet. Ernie Schmit, Kim Ebnet, Sue Marstein voted yes, Mike Odden voted no. Motion carried.
Joe Scepaniak asked about Outlot A, 11.69 acres (58.33636.0004) requested it be reduced from $58,500 to $38,000. Motion to reduce Outlot A to $38,000 was made by Ernie Schmit, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Joe Scepaniak asked about Outlot B, 3.89 acres (58.33636.0005) requested it be reduced from $48,900 to $31,100. This lot has 1.89 acres not buildable. Motion was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein to lower it to $31,100. AIF
Joe Scepaniak asked about Lot 4 (58.33636.0003) requested it be reduced from $814,700. This value increase of 5% over 2007 is in line with other values within the county. A motion was called but not forth coming. He may appeal at the county level to have a reduction.
Gary Grossinger brought up Scepaniak parcel 58.33536.0000. On a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein property to be reduced from $20,100 to $12,600. AIF
Robert Lane came before the board to question the increase in property value for the American Legion ($133,200). City of Holdingford commercial/industrial property values went up across the board 3.5 to 5%. He requested that it be reduced. No motion was made.
Robert Lane requested the board take a look at his home parcel (58.33559.0000). On his property taxes it showed that he had vinyl siding put on in 2008. This was not done until early 2009. A motion was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden to reduce his value from $88,700 to $81,200. AIF
Alphonse Bias requested the board take a look at his property taxes. His went from Homestead to Non-homestead according to the county. The county has made a mistake on this and will make the adjustment back to Homesteaded. His first half tax payment will be adjusted and any amount due Mr. Bias will be credited to his second half payment.
Tim Berscheid requested his parcel 58.33575.0000 commercial property be valued at the same rate as other commercial in the city. On a motion by Sue Marstein, seconded by Kim Ebnet to lower the value from $32,300 to $31,600. AIF
Louis Walz questioned the increased value on his parcel 58.33728.0000. Mr. Grossinger stated that since the land was now considered decontaminated, and there was land added to this parcel, the value doubled. Mr. Walz’ request to have it lowered failed for lack of a motion.
Motion to adjourn was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF Meeting adjourned at 8:56 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Victoria Statz, City Clerk
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
April 13, 2009
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Gordon Sjaaheim, Pat Meier, Scott Lange, Bryan Remer,(SEH), Louise Winkler, Eugene Ostendorf, Ralph and Carol Harlander, Jerry Schueler, Jeremy Freudenrich, Gordon Sjaaheim, Shirley Graveen, Gary Lange, Molly Thompson.
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 Sue Marstein. AIF The clerk is to invoice Dick Kiley for time and supplies spend on oil spill from his property.
Motion to receive bank reconciliation was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. .AIF
Motion to accept electronic transfers and debit/credit cards was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to accept the March, 2009 minutes with correction in Liquor Store Report was made by Kim Ebnet seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his mayor’s report. See end of report for details.
Presentation by Scott Lange and Bryan Remer from SEH was given to the council on the preliminary infrastructure updating of old water and sewer lines, working with US Rural Development. Along with the infrastructure there would be street and curb and gutter renovation in addition to this. The US Rural Development has a financial package that includes Grant and Low Interest Loan Monies that is beneficial to the city. There was a public hearing set on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet to be held on Monday, June 8, 2009 at 8 p.m. at the city hall. More information will be forthcoming as to details on this infrastructure updating. AIF
A compost pile/mulch area was discussed by the council. With the closing of the city compost at Euteneuer’s there are several residents interested in making a compost pile here in the city. Jerry Schueler stated he would look into this and also ask Butch from Tom’s Refuse for direction in setting one up down by the wastewater plant. This would be made with the express clarification that ONLY leaves and grass clippings could be put in this compost pile. Branches and tree debris would be a separate area at the wastewater plant. Jerry was asked to come up with a plan for the next council meeting in what this all would look like.
Shirley Graveen came before the council because of debris left on her lawn/ditch by Stearns County highway over the winter. She stated she called them and they will be cleaning it up.
Resolution 09-04-13-01 on “Elected Official Out-of-State Travel policy was adopted on a motion by Ernie Schmit, seconded by Sue Marstein. Lloyd Rausch, Kim Ebnet, Sue Marstein voted yes, Mike Odden voted no. Resolution passed.
Public hearing to adopt updated ordinances was set for Monday, May 11, 2009, at 8 p.m. City Hall on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
TULIP (Tenant User Liability Insurance Program), will be offered to all people renting city hall or the park shelter. It provides private individuals and groups with access to low-cost liability coverage for events held at city facilities, the city is automatically named as an additional insured. A statement will need to be signed stating they have been given the opportunity to take out this extra insurance. Information on this will be provided.
Resolution 09-04-13-02, Attorneys Contract Regarding Upgrade to the City’s Water and Sewer Lines, was approved on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Board of Equalization meeting on property taxes has been set for Tuesday, May 5, city hall from 7 to 8 p.m.
The council would like to see townships also included in our annual city wide clean up. This year our clean up day is set for Saturday, June 20th, from 8 a.m. to 12 noon. A list of acceptable items will be included in the May water report/utility billing.
The city rented a pump from Larson Excavating during our spring thaw and flooding March 23, 2009. The city used the pump for 1.5 hours at the lift station by Co. Rd. 17 and Main St. and for 3 days at the pond by the high school. The council believes Stearns County highway is responsible for the pond overflow by the high school because the plugged storm sewer is in the County Road Right of Way.
The council approved having Pedals to Petals Garden Club dollars that were not spent in 2008 put in the 2009 budget to help keep track of its revenue/expenses on an ongoing basis. The Covered Bridge project from the Lion’s Club also had unexpended dollars from 2008 to be put in the budget for 2009 for finishing up the park area for the bridge.
CPA city auditor, Molly Thompson went over the city’s 2008 audit. 2008 was very similar to revenue and expenses as was for 2007. Areas that Molly will be helping the city clerk in are in AP reconciliation as to the Liquor sales tax, having the Personnel Manual read each year by city employees and them signing off each year to that effect, any contractual work done in the city by licensed companies must sign off on form IC134, Withholding Affidavit for Contractors to be in compliance with the state. Accepting the 2008 audit by the council was made on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by Manager Pat Meier.
March, 2009
LIQUOR STORE REPORT
GROSS RECEIPTS
MARCH
2009
$ 28,705.95
GROSS RECEIPTS
$ 28,705.95
FEBRUARY
2009
$ 25,841.06
$
MARCH
2008
$ 28,375.68
PREVIOUS GROSS
$ 53,084.52
’09 GROSS
$ 81,790.47
Lottery’09 March
$ 501.15
‘09 EXPENSES
$ 88,299.70
’09 YTD
$ 1,222.41
PROFIT/(LOSS)
$ (6,509.23)
BANK
$ 8,869.70
NET/PROFIT LOTTERY
$ 1,222.41
3 CDs matured and
$
Put into a Passbook
TOTAL PROFIT (LOSS)
$ (5,286.82)
Sav. Acct for remodel
$32,447.27
Total includes interest
To recap, the Thursday Wii League was with 14 people and on lookers, it went well. The card tourney and band went well. Events coming up are Game Day, April 25th, NASCAR race April 26th, (Sunday).
Hommerding Plumbing has been working with the state to be in compliance with state regs. The tobacco license fee is due May 15th, cost will be $200. Motion to pay this fee was made on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Liquor Store is looking into a new water softener that could save about $1,000/year. Pat is to bring prices to the next meeting.
Fire Department Report was given by Fire Chief, Pat Meier. There have been 34 calls so far this year. The truck fund has $72,469.82. Donations for the month include $3,000 for the Truck Fund, bringing the total to $75,469.82; $1,000 for scholarships; $100 for Cystic Fibrosis. The Fire Chief asked council permission to process three firefighter applications; they gave the okay for background checks, physicals, agility tests. Motion to go ahead with this processing was made on a motion by Sue Marstein, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
The Firefighters breakfast was very well attended, serving about 850. The Fire Chief’s County meeting will be held Tuesday, April 14, 2009 at TKs Restaurant. Lake Region meeting will be Monday, April 20, 2009 in Glenwood. The LMC will be having a Safety and Loss workshop, Tuesday, April 28th at the Civic Center. Cost is $20/person. Motion to send firefighters to the workshop was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF The F.D. will send two or three people. Thursday, April 23 is Tornado Awareness day at 1:45 p.m. and 6:55 p.m.
The city clerk gave a brief summation of the MCFOA conference she attended in March at the St. Cloud Civic Center. There was Vista Excel spreadsheet training included in this conference. One thing the city council may want to think about is to have a city Mission Statement. Updating the 5 and 10 year long range goals for the city. Vicki Statz was part of a panel that gave one of the classes: “One-person or Small Staffed Office: A Job with Many Hats.”
Lloyd Rausch brought up the idea of community garden plots. He said the city of Paynesville is doing this and has had good success. Mayor Schmit asked Lloyd to bring more information on this to the next council meeting.
Clean up along the river and park area was brought up by Sue Marstein. Suggestions for workers are the FFA, Boy Scouts, church youth groups. Sue is to pursue this and bring information back to the council at the May meeting.
Motion to adjourn was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF Meeting ended at 10:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk of Holdingford
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
March 9, 2009
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Gordon Sjaaheim, Pat Meier, Heidi Peper (SEH).
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.
Motion to pay all bills was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to receive bank reconciliation was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. .AIF
Motion to accept electronic transfers and debit/credit cards was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Motion to accept the February, 2009 minutes was made by Mike Odden seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by Manager Pat Meier.
February, 2009
LIQUOR STORE REPORT
GROSS RECEIPTS
FEBRUARY
2009
$ 25,841.06
GROSS RECEIPTS
$ 25,841.06
JANUARY
2009
$ 27,243.46
$
FEBRUARY
2008
$ 24,335.10
$
’09 GROSS
$ 53,084.52
Lottery’09 February
$ 341.83
‘09 EXPENSES
$ 47,861.00
’09 YTD
$ 721.26
PROFIT/(LOSS)
$ 5,253.52
BANK
$ 8,368.55
NET/PROFIT LOTTERY
$ 721.26
3 CDs matured and
$
Put into a Passbook
TOTAL PROFIT (LOSS)
$ 5,974.78
Sav. Acct for remodel
$32,447.27
Total includes interest
Events scheduled for Liquor Store are a Thursday night Wii League, March 14th card tournament. Will have the band “Corridor” playing on Saturday, March 14th after the card tournament.
Annie Philippi yearly performance appraisal was discussed. On a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch, Annie was moved from E3 pay grade to E4. AIF Her grade move will happen after her April 6, 2009 anniversary date.
Fire Department report was given by Fire Chief, Pat Meier. They have had 23 calls so far this year. The EMS grant is completed. They have one applicant for firefighter; they would like to see a couple more. There are 21 firefighters on the force now and would like to have up to 25. There will be the Holdingford Firefighter’s annual breakfast, Sunday, March 15th, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Talked about the SOP (Standard Operating Procedures) manual for the Fire Department.
Mayor’s report was given. Complete details are at the end of the minutes.
City of Holdingford’s maintenance men will be receiving a Certificate of Commendation for outstanding operation, maintenance and management of our wastewater treatment system from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) on Thursday March 26, 2009. Thank you for a job very well done.
There was a slight oil spill (about 3 gallons) on Cedar Street on Monday afternoon, March 9, 2009. MPCA was called as well as the owner of the property. Our maintenance men were able to get it all taken care of before any went into our storm sewers.
Heidi Peper from SEH was on hand to answer questions from the council on the possibility of replacing the old water and sewer lines that were put into our city in the 1930s. The city has been working with USDA Rural Development and SEH to come up with a proposal for this to get done, using grant dollars and loan money from USDA R. D. A motion was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden to proceed with the PER (Preliminary Engineering Report) with SEH heading it up for the city. AIF Detailed information on this proposal will be coming in the next several months. A motion was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden to make payment to SEH at the end of this project when the city receives its grant and loan. AIF
Mike Odden rescinded Resolution 09-02-09-01 Supporting the city of Holdingford’s Pedals to Petals Garden Club underground water sprinkler project. Kim Ebnet rescinded her second to this resolution. The resolution was redone to include the words: “Whereas, the City of Holdingford accepts responsibility for all maintenance and liability.” And change “Soo Line” to read Stearns County Regional Rail Authority in paragraph 8. Motion to accept Resolution 09-02-09-01-A was then made by Mike Odden seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
The council agreed not to make any changes to the clerks division of payroll to the enterprise funds.
The council was updated with the softball park manager ship. It will be the responsibility of the softball association to hire the manager and to take care of all the requirements that position requires. On a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein the council will move the $700 wage to maintenance upkeep in its budget. AIF The city will pay up to $700 for upkeep of the ball park especially safety issues, when it receives invoices to that effect.
Council person, Sue Marstein gave the council her report on attending the new council person’s training held in Mpls. last month. She said she learned a lot, is absorbing as much as possible, and it was very interesting.
Water tower antenna revenue the city will be getting from New Core Wireless was discussed. A motion was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet to set up a revenue account called Antenna Fund and the money will be used as needed. AIF
Mike Odden asked Pat Meier to have someone teach him (Pat) how to extract or copy parts of the video tape from the liquor store surveillance camera.
2010 Census is coming up early next year. It is very important that every household member is counted in this census. Our city’s Local Government Aid (LGA) is based on our population.
Kim Ebnet agreed to be recertified for the Local Board of Equalization (property taxes) later this year. This recertification is good for four years.
Resolution 09-03-09-01 was passed on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch to permit the Holdingford Commercial Club to hold up to five meat raffles to raise money for fireworks at Holdingford Daze at TKs Restaurant. AIF Dates to be determined.
Liquor store bathroom remodel was discussed. Arnie Berscheid had given estimated $s for this process; for tear out of the old; plumbing; tiling. Total estimated $s is $25,724. Motion to accept these estimates was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF. Mr. Berscheid is to send the remodel plans to the State Health Department for their approval. It was requested that they also be sent to Stearns County Health Department, John Tracy.
Department of Homeland Security grant deadline is coming up. Fire Chief Pat Meier is working on getting this finalized, requesting the money for air packs and other supplies. Motion to have Pat go ahead with this grant was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
The liquor store is looking into getting a credit card machine. Initial cost is approximately $260. Pat will go ahead with this process.
Motion to adjourn was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF. Meeting adjourned at 9:56 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by City Clerk, Victoria R. Statz.
City Council Meeting Minutes (approved)
February 9, 2009
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Louis Walz, Louise Winkler, Scott Lange, Stephanie Court, Paul Vershure, Gordon Sjaaheim, Dan Bieniek, Rob DuMont, Daniel Ferche.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Discussion on changing the percentages of city clerk’s wages taken out of the General Account and divided into the Enterprise funds, Liquor Store, Water, Sewer, and Refuse. City clerk will look into percentages and will report back at March meeting.
Motion to pay all bills was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to receive bank reconciliation was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. .AIF
Motion to accept electronic transfers and debit/credit cards was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to accept the January, 2009 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.
January, 2009
LIQUOR STORE REPORT
GROSS RECEIPTS
JANUARY
2009
$ 27,243.46
GROSS RECEIPTS
$ 27,243.46
DECEMBER
2008
$ 31,964.61
$
JANUARY
2008
$ 27,678.37
$
Lottery’09 January
$ 379.43
’09 GROSS
$ 27,243.46
’09 YTD
$ 379.43
‘09 EXPENSES
$ 24,198.27
PROFIT/(LOSS)
$ 3,045.19
BANK
$ 8,026.72
NET PROFIT LOTTERY
$ 379.43
’06 CD
$10,000
’07 CD $10,000
$
’08 CD
$10,000
TOTAL
$ 3,424.62
$
TOTAL PROFIT (LOSS)
$ 3,424.62
Events coming up for the Liquor Store, a Fun Run, Saturday, February 14th, a 500 card tournament, Saturday, March 14th, and a Thursday Wii bowling league during March and April.
Annual performance review for Pam Voss, Assistant Manager at the Liquor Store was gone over. On a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch, Pam was moved from Step F4 to Step F5 retroactive to the beginning of 2009. AIF
Annual performance review for Anna Philippi was tabled until the March council meeting on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF There were questions about the review for the manager.
Fire Department report was given by Mayor Schmit in the absence of the fire chief Pat Meier. There have been 18 calls so far in 2009. Seventeen in January. Truck Fund has a balance of $72,469.82. The City and townships had their annual Fire Board Meeting on Wed. Feb. 4, 2009. The SOG (Standard Operating Guidelines) was tabled. No one from the Fire Department was on hand to answer questions on these guidelines. Sue Marstein will talk to the Fire Department regarding questions on the SOG.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave the mayor’s report. See details at end of council minutes.
Scott Lange reported that he has not yet been able to meet with MN Rural Water on the infrastructure stimulus proposal for our water lines. He will let us know when that meeting will take place. He met with our Maintenance personnel on the sewer plant. His report will be forthcoming. He is also meeting with energy savings people for City Hall in the next week. He will give us his report at the next council meeting.
Pedals to Petals Resolution 09-02-09-01 regarding an underground sprinkler system was adopted by the council on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Ron Hylla from the Holdingford Athletic Booster Club requested resolutions for the renewal of their gambling licenses at the Municipal Liquor Store and TKs Restaurant. Resolution 09-02-09-02 for license at the municipal was approved on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Resolution 09-02-09-03 for license renewal for the Booster Club at TKs Restaurant was approved on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Helping Hands Outreach to Elders requested a resolution to have a gambling “Get Away Raffle” during Holdingford Daze on Saturday, July 11, 2009. Resolution 09-02-09-04 was approved on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Having a car show on Friday night, July 10, 2009, the beginning of Holdingford Daze was discussed. There is concern that other events going on that evening will be hampered by having the car show. The council stated that it would hopefully bring in more people to Holdingford by having the car show. Rick Solinger has requested closing off Main St. Motion to close off Main Street from Plymouth St. to Washington St. was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Adeel Ahmed, from the University of Minnesota gave a presentation to the council on Community Economics Programs available to the city in helping develop strategies for growth. The mayor suggested that our Commercial Club may be interested in his presentation also.
The New Core Wireless lease with the city was discussed. It was given to our city attorney to look over and make any changes that he deemed in the best interests of our town. Most of those changes were incorporated into the lease and the city has accepted it. On a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden the City of Holdingford accepts the lease agreement for Wireless Communications Venture LLC to construct up to 4 antennas attaching them to the handrail on the top of our city water tower. AIF
Rob DuMont of New Horizons Aerial and Architectural Photography showed the council aerial photos of the city. After some discussion, it was decided on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch to purchase one 17” by 36” print unmatted and unframed for a price of $195 plus tax. AIF The view selected is a west to east photo with the covered bridge and the down town area in the center of the photo.
Mayor Ernie Schmit, on behalf of the Commercial Club requested a gambling permit for Holdingford Daze “Pot O Gold” raffle. Resolution 09-02-09-05 was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. All voted yes, Ernie Schmit abstained.
Mayor Ernie Schmit, on behalf of the Commercial Club requested a gambling permit for Holdingford Daze to play bingo at the American Legion on Saturday, July 11, 2009. Resolution 09-02-09-06 was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. All voted yes, Ernie Schmit abstained.
The council authorized on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet the HIP (Holding In Partnership) committee to pursue another $10,000 IF grant. AIF
The council approved a motion made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch to pay Stearns County Soil and Water Conservation District the city’s portion of the Urban Conservationist Assistance Program for 2009. ($500) AIF
Liquor Store approximate bids for remodeling the bathrooms will be at the March meeting.
CD21506, Liquor Store gambling profits, for $32,015.14 will be moved to a passbook savings account until it is needed for the remodeling of the Liquor store. Motion made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Approval for Jerry Schueler and Jeremy Freudenrich to go to the Annual Water/Wastewater conference in St. Cloud in March and the Innovative Approaches to Wastewater on Feb. 24th was made on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Local Board of Equalization on property taxes meeting was set for Tuesday, May 5, 2009 here at city hall from 7 to 8 p.m.
The council discussed with a resident an issue with an employee.
The mayor made the council aware of the increased work load of the city clerk and has requested that her hours be increased as needed to complete her tasks.
Softball manager position was discussed. The committee will meet with an applicant at the earliest convenience to go over qualifications, job duties, etc.
Motion to adjourn was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Respectfully submitted by Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk/Treasurer
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
January 12, 2009
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Louis Walz, Jeremy Freudenrich, Louise Winkler, Jerry Schueler, Scott Lange, Dorine Rausch, Steve Feldewerd, Kathy O’Hara, Steve Ebnet.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Swearing in of incumbent mayor, Ernie Schmit, as well as incumbent Kim Ebnet and new council person, Susan Marstein was handled by city clerk, Victoria Statz.
Motion to pay all bills was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. 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 Mike Odden. AIF
Motion to accept the December, 2008 minutes was made by Mike Odden seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by Mayor Ernie Schmit in the absence of Manager Pat Meier.
December, 2008
LIQUOR STORE REPORT
GROSS RECEIPTS
DECEMBER
2008
$ 31,964.61
GROSS RECEIPTS
$ 31,964.61
NOVEMBER
2008
$ 26,253.57
Pre Inventory Jan.1,2,3
$ 4,273.85
DECEMBER
2007
$ 31,619.39
PREVIOUS GROSS
$ 345,566.45
Lottery’08 December
$ 552.54
’08 GROSS
$ 384,804.91
’08 YTD
$ 6,209.22
‘08 EXPENSES
$ 379,472.44
PROFIT/(LOSS)
$ 5,332.47
BANK
$ 7,647.29
NET PROFIT LOTTERY
$ 6,209.22
’06 CD
$10,000
’07 CD $10,000
Band Reimbursement
$ 1,440.00
’08 CD
$10,000
TOTAL
$ 12,981.69
Inventory increase
$ 2,036.88
TOTAL PROFIT (LOSS)
$ 15,018.57
Inventory as of 1-04-2009 $46,962.66
Inventory as of 12-31-2007 $44,925.78
Increase of $ 2,036.88 as reflected in Inventory increase listed above.
Fire Department report was given by Mayor Ernie Schmit along with Dorine Rausch, Steve Ebnet, and Steve Feldewerd. For all of 2008 there were a total of 101 calls: 15 to Brockway; 10 to Holding; 56 to City of Holdingford; 9 to Krain and 2 to Avon. Breakdown of these: Fire: 14; Rescue and emergency medical: 61; Hazardous condition: 2; Service call: 1; Good Intent: 5; False alarm: 12; Severe weather/natural disaster: 3; Special incident: 3. The Relief Association donated $5,000 to the city for the Truck Fund. Chain of Command for 2009 was established by the F.D. at their last regular meeting: Chief: Pat Meier, Assistant Chiefs, Doug Marstein and Steve Ebnet; Trainers, Dean Sowada and Keith Hommerding; Maintenance, Bruce Gerads and Dan Gerads; Medical, Dorine Rausch; Safety, Bill Brinker.
Truck fund has a total of $72,412.76 which includes the CD of $42,684.67; Passbook savings $24,728.09 and a $5,000 donation from Fire Relief given to the city early January.
There was discussion about the numerous rescue calls from River Birch. Will be discussing this with the townships at the annual Fire board meeting later in January.
Dorine Rausch shared with the council the F.D. Standard Operating Guidelines (SOG) book. There is a copy in the clerk’s office for anyone who may wish to view it.
Grant from CMEMS will be starting in the next few weeks. The DNR grant is all signed so the F.D. may start spending that down.
Fire Relief Officers have been decided upon: Dorine Rausch is President, Steve Feldewerd is Secretary, Steve Stoermann, Vice President, Bruce Gerads and Keith Hommerding, Trustees; David Yurczyk is gambling manager.
EMV (Estimated Market Values) from Stearns County came in late December. Will be discussed with the townships at the annual Fire Board meeting later this month.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his report. Details are at the end of the meeting minutes.
Old Business
Scott Lange reported on the economic stimulus project potential for our city. SEH is working with MN Rural Water and us to put together this package to be ready in case the federal stimulus package comes through. The city would like to upgrade its water lines (4inch to 10 inch) from the well to Co. Rd. 17. There is a fire safety issue in that a 4 inch line does not provide adequate water pressure for fire fighting. Chlorine distribution has also become an issue with these old water lines. Scott will have more information at the February council meeting.
Mayor Schmit talked to Lange Trenching on sidewalk removal from Plymouth St. last fall. The council agreed on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet to pay half the cost ($315) remaining on the concrete removal. $157.50. AIF
New Core Wireless lease will be handled by our attorney on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF Kim Ebnet suggested that the city see if they can get free cell phones with this lease.
List of Charges for 2009 was completed by the council. A change in dog tags was made. On a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch to have a two year dog tag instead of each year. AIF. Rates for tags: $10/2 year tag, $40 for non neutered or non spayed for 2 year tag; Council member monthly pay was increased last fall for 2009; $107 for council members, $214 for mayor. Other charges remain the same. A complete list of charges is attached at the end of these minutes.
There was discussion on who will handle the Veteran’s Park shelter reservations. It was decided that Kathy O’Hara will take care of all park shelter reservations since she also takes care of the city hall center reservations. A motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein to have a city cell phone available for Kathy’s use in handling these reservations. AIF
Softball park was discussed. Cyril Ebnet has retired from serving as manager. The city is looking for a replacement for him. A job description and application for manager ship will be forthcoming. There will be an ad in the Stearns-Morrison Enterprise in the next couple weeks seeking his replacement. Mike Odden made a motion, seconded by Kim Ebnet, to set up a committee to come up with a job description for ball park manager and after mayor okays, an ad will be placed. AIF
New Business
Stearns County sheriff’s yearly contract was discussed. On a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet the city will have 11 hours/week coverage at a rate of $45/hour. AIF This is one hour less per week than in 2008. The city budget was already set before we received this contract information. Hourly rate has increased by $5/hour over 2008.
Maintenance Supervisor, Jerry Schueler pay level was re-evaluated per a two month probation period. One a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch Mr. Schueler goes from J4 ($19.72) to J5 ($20.11) per hour. AIF
Since there was no performance appraisal from the manager, Pat Meier, Assistant Manager for the Liquor Store, Pam Voss’ evaluation for a step increase from F4 to F5 was tabled until the February council meeting on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. Lloyd Rausch, Mike Odden, Ernie Schmit and Kim Ebnet voted yes, Sue Marstein voted no.
City Clerk, Victoria Statz pay level was raised from I4 to I5 on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Her anniversary date was January 10.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009 is the first meeting for the Stearns County League of Cities for 2009. It will be in Freeport at Charlie’s Café. Any council person wanting to attend is to notify Mayor Schmit.
Pedals to Petals Garden Club has requested authorization from the council to proceed with the underground sprinkler system at the Triangle Garden area. There are several conditions to be met by the council from Stearns County before this can go forward. Because of the lateness of the January meeting, this was tabled on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet, until the February meeting. AIF This will give the council time to go over the list the county is requesting.
Meeting adjourned on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Respectfully submitted by Victoria Statz, City Clerk
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
January 12, 2009
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Louis Walz, Jeremy Freudenrich, Louise Winkler, Jerry Schueler, Scott Lange, Dorine Rausch, Steve Feldewerd, Kathy O’Hara, Steve Ebnet.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Swearing in of incumbent mayor, Ernie Schmit, as well as incumbent Kim Ebnet and new council person, Susan Marstein was handled by city clerk, Victoria Statz.
Motion to pay all bills was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. 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 Mike Odden. AIF
Motion to accept the December, 2008 minutes was made by Mike Odden seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by Mayor Ernie Schmit in the absence of Manager Pat Meier.
December, 2008
LIQUOR STORE REPORT
GROSS RECEIPTS
DECEMBER
2008
$ 31,964.61
GROSS RECEIPTS
$ 31,964.61
NOVEMBER
2008
$ 26,253.57
Pre Inventory Jan.1,2,3
$ 4,273.85
DECEMBER
2007
$ 31,619.39
PREVIOUS GROSS
$ 345,566.45
Lottery’08 December
$ 552.54
’08 GROSS
$ 384,804.91
’08 YTD
$ 6,209.22
‘08 EXPENSES
$ 379,472.44
PROFIT/(LOSS)
$ 5,332.47
BANK
$ 7,647.29
NET PROFIT LOTTERY
$ 6,209.22
’06 CD
$10,000
’07 CD $10,000
Band Reimbursement
$ 1,440.00
’08 CD
$10,000
TOTAL
$ 12,981.69
Inventory increase
$ 2,036.88
TOTAL PROFIT (LOSS)
$ 15,018.57
Inventory as of 1-04-2009 $46,962.66
Inventory as of 12-31-2007 $44,925.78
Increase of $ 2,036.88 as reflected in Inventory increase listed above.
Fire Department report was given by Mayor Ernie Schmit along with Dorine Rausch, Steve Ebnet, and Steve Feldewerd. For all of 2008 there were a total of 101 calls: 15 to Brockway; 10 to Holding; 56 to City of Holdingford; 9 to Krain and 2 to Avon. Breakdown of these: Fire: 14; Rescue and emergency medical: 61; Hazardous condition: 2; Service call: 1; Good Intent: 5; False alarm: 12; Severe weather/natural disaster: 3; Special incident: 3. The Relief Association donated $5,000 to the city for the Truck Fund. Chain of Command for 2009 was established by the F.D. at their last regular meeting: Chief: Pat Meier, Assistant Chiefs, Doug Marstein and Steve Ebnet; Trainers, Dean Sowada and Keith Hommerding; Maintenance, Bruce Gerads and Dan Gerads; Medical, Dorine Rausch; Safety, Bill Brinker.
Truck fund has a total of $72,412.76 which includes the CD of $42,684.67; Passbook savings $24,728.09 and a $5,000 donation from Fire Relief given to the city early January.
There was discussion about the numerous rescue calls from River Birch. Will be discussing this with the townships at the annual Fire board meeting later in January.
Dorine Rausch shared with the council the F.D. Standard Operating Guidelines (SOG) book. There is a copy in the clerk’s office for anyone who may wish to view it.
Grant from CMEMS will be starting in the next few weeks. The DNR grant is all signed so the F.D. may start spending that down.
Fire Relief Officers have been decided upon: Dorine Rausch is President, Steve Feldewerd is Secretary, Steve Stoermann, Vice President, Bruce Gerads and Keith Hommerding, Trustees; David Yurczyk is gambling manager.
EMV (Estimated Market Values) from Stearns County came in late December. Will be discussed with the townships at the annual Fire Board meeting later this month.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his report. Details are at the end of the meeting minutes.
Old Business
Scott Lange reported on the economic stimulus project potential for our city. SEH is working with MN Rural Water and us to put together this package to be ready in case the federal stimulus package comes through. The city would like to upgrade its water lines (4inch to 10 inch) from the well to Co. Rd. 17. There is a fire safety issue in that a 4 inch line does not provide adequate water pressure for fire fighting. Chlorine distribution has also become an issue with these old water lines. Scott will have more information at the February council meeting.
Mayor Schmit talked to Lange Trenching on sidewalk removal from Plymouth St. last fall. The council agreed on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet to pay half the cost ($315) remaining on the concrete removal. $157.50. AIF
New Core Wireless lease will be handled by our attorney on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF Kim Ebnet suggested that the city see if they can get free cell phones with this lease.
List of Charges for 2009 was completed by the council. A change in dog tags was made. On a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch to have a two year dog tag instead of each year. AIF. Rates for tags: $10/2 year tag, $40 for non neutered or non spayed for 2 year tag; Council member monthly pay was increased last fall for 2009; $107 for council members, $214 for mayor. Other charges remain the same. A complete list of charges is attached at the end of these minutes.
There was discussion on who will handle the Veteran’s Park shelter reservations. It was decided that Kathy O’Hara will take care of all park shelter reservations since she also takes care of the city hall center reservations. A motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein to have a city cell phone available for Kathy’s use in handling these reservations. AIF
Softball park was discussed. Cyril Ebnet has retired from serving as manager. The city is looking for a replacement for him. A job description and application for manager ship will be forthcoming. There will be an ad in the Stearns-Morrison Enterprise in the next couple weeks seeking his replacement. Mike Odden made a motion, seconded by Kim Ebnet, to set up a committee to come up with a job description for ball park manager and after mayor okays, an ad will be placed. AIF
New Business
Stearns County sheriff’s yearly contract was discussed. On a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet the city will have 11 hours/week coverage at a rate of $45/hour. AIF This is one hour less per week than in 2008. The city budget was already set before we received this contract information. Hourly rate has increased by $5/hour over 2008.
Maintenance Supervisor, Jerry Schueler pay level was re-evaluated per a two month probation period. One a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch Mr. Schueler goes from J4 ($19.72) to J5 ($20.11) per hour. AIF
Since there was no performance appraisal from the manager, Pat Meier, Assistant Manager for the Liquor Store, Pam Voss’ evaluation for a step increase from F4 to F5 was tabled until the February council meeting on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. Lloyd Rausch, Mike Odden, Ernie Schmit and Kim Ebnet voted yes, Sue Marstein voted no.
City Clerk, Victoria Statz pay level was raised from I4 to I5 on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Her anniversary date was January 10.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009 is the first meeting for the Stearns County League of Cities for 2009. It will be in Freeport at Charlie’s Café. Any council person wanting to attend is to notify Mayor Schmit.
Pedals to Petals Garden Club has requested authorization from the council to proceed with the underground sprinkler system at the Triangle Garden area. There are several conditions to be met by the council from Stearns County before this can go forward. Because of the lateness of the January meeting, this was tabled on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet, until the February meeting. AIF This will give the council time to go over the list the county is requesting.
Meeting adjourned on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Respectfully submitted by Victoria Statz, City Clerk