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City Council Special Meeting Minutes (Unapproved)
August 23, 2010
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Louis Walz, representatives from Honer Excavating and Geise Tiling and Excavating, Tim Kelly, Linda Breth.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the special meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
First order on the agenda was the opening of bid proposals for demolition of the Old grocery store and the old hardware store next to it.
Bids came in as follows:
Honer Excavating $114,500
Landwehr Construction $94,980
Burski Excavating, Inc. $87,750
Dave Gerads Construction, Inc. $76,250
Lange Trenching, Inc. $57,146
Geise Tiling and Excavating, Inc $44,400
After some discussion, Mike Odden made a motion to accept the low bid from Geise Tiling and Excavating, Inc. with a bid of $44,400 seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
With Tim Kelly selling his restaurant, TKs, the council will be rebating back to him his unused portion of his liquor license. Ten twelve’s of the cost of $600, will be paid back to him after the signing of purchase papers (September 1). He will be rebated $500. Motion to this effect was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Linda Breth came before the council to ask if Helping Hands could put up a movable storage shed that will store their three surrey’s on city property. After much discussion it was decided the best place to put it was on the west side of the alley behind the Helping Hands building, providing this is okay with our maintenance men. They need to have adequate room along there to dump snow in the winter time.
Linda also read a statement from Jeff Fromm regarding River Birch.
With all the weather related challenges the city had the last couple weeks, discussion on brush and tree trimming and where to keep putting it was discussed.
The men’s bathroom at the Wobegon shelter will have some changes made to it. The stool and urinal are in need to be made more efficient. Two bids were looked at. Accepting the bid from Ripplinger for $1,138.90 plus labor was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
The council has changed the date of the October regular council meeting from October 11, 2010 (Columbus Day) to TUESDAY, October 5, 2010 with the meeting starting at its regular time of 7 p.m.
Motion to adjourn was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF Meeting adjourned at 8:14 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk/Treasurer of Holdingford
City Council Meeting Minutes (Unapproved)
August 9, 2010
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Pat Meier, Vicki Statz, Scott Lange, David Drown, Louise Winkler, Louis Walz, Roy Granberg.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Motion to approve checks was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to approve bank reconciliation for July statements was made by Mike Odden seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to approve electronic transfers, debit card purchases was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to approve minutes of the June 14, 2010 regular council meeting was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Motion to approve minutes of the special workshop council meeting of July 26, 2010 was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by manager, Pat Meier. YTD revenue is $209,323.67, with expenses YTD $221,253.55. Lottery YTD is $2,358.33 which leaves a deficit of $9,571.55. Part of this deficit comes from the large liability insurance that was due last month. Also, there is still quite a high beer inventory. Pat asked the council if the L.S. could switch phone companies from Qwest to DTI for a three year contract. There will be a savings for the L.S. if they change companies. Council gave their okay on this. Budgeting for the L.S. will be on August 24th at 5 p.m.
Fire Department report was given by Fire Chief Pat Meier. There have been 44 calls so far this year. Brockway; 13 calls; Krain, 2 calls; Holding, 10 calls; City, 17 calls; 2 mutual aid calls. The F.D. was awarded $9,400 for training of firefighters for this next year. HazMat training is now going on; this training is free. Budgeting for 2011 will be Wednesday, August 18 at 6 p.m. here at city hall. Town clerks will be informed of this so they can let the township supervisors know about the budgeting meeting.
Monday, August 2nd, the new fire truck went into production in Lyon, S.D. It will be 6-8 weeks to finish. The officers will be interviewing two new potential firefighters. F.D. plans to send the rescue one project back to Willow River.
Motion to send two fire trucks to Avon for ISO (Insurance Service Organization) testing was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
City contribution for Fire Relief for 2011 budget will be $5,433; for 2010 it was $4,400.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his mayor’s report. See end of minutes for details.
Old Business
Scott Lange gave a quick update on our water/sewer/street project. He also introduced David Drown, financial advisor for the City on the funding of this project. David walked the council through on how the funding sources, rebates, grant $s will work together to give the city the best rate for this whole project. To review the costs: Sanitary Sewer $2,482,400; Water $1,598,500; Storm Sewer $371,300; Streets $680,800; Curb and Gutter (assessed) $126,000 for a total project amount of $5,259,000. Payment will be through two loans: one 39 year loan at 2.375% and one 25 year loan at 4%; a grant of 25% (578,943). The council is very appreciative of the work Rural Development, SEH and David Drown Associates have been doing to keep our project moving forward.
Council went over a final version of the Surfsota five year contract for antennas on our water tower. Contract will be sent to Steve Woller for his approval and signature.
Motion to approve the Stearns County Criminal Prosecution Contract for 2011-2012 with Janelle Kendall, Stearns County Attorney was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF Contract will run from January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2012 for a cost of $3,000 per calendar year.
New Business
Roy Granberg, resident, came before the council with a request to reduce his utility bill. After some discussion, this was tabled till the next meeting on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF He is to do more checking with different entities addressed in the letter sent to him before the meeting.
Robin and Larry Johnson came before the council and presented their Business Plan as new owners of TKs Restaurant beginning September 1, 2010. They will be calling this restaurant Moonshiner’s Still & Grill. Approval for their liquor license will be given as soon as the city receives a clean report from their background check with the State of MN.
On a motion from Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet, the Middle Sauk River WaterFest request for donation for their activity next May 11, 2011, was turned down. AIF
Principal Life/Dental Insurance was tabled till next meeting when there are new contract numbers on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
The council requested another bid for replacement of toilets, privacy wall, etc at the Wobegon shelter bathroom. This matter will be taken up at the next meeting.
Council set dates for budgeting; Fire Department will be Wed. August 18th, 6 p.m.; Liquor Store, August 24th, 5 p.m.; Parks, Maintenance, August 18th, 3:30 p.m.
Getting a security camera at the Wobegon park shelter was discussed. In view of all the vandalism that has gone on this summer, the council approved cameras to be put in on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF They approved the bid from Safeguard Security, Inc from Cold Spring for $1,429.72.
Clerk Items:
City hall will be closed Tuesday, August 10, 2010 because the city clerk will be working as head judge at the primary election.
She reminded the council of the special meeting August 23, 2010 to open bids on the demolition of old grocery and hardware stores.
There has been a problem with dogs running loose around town. The clerk is to send a letter to families whose dogs have been picked up more than twice explaining that if their dog is picked up again, the matter will become a misdemeanor and will be turned over to Stearns County sheriff’s department.
Motion to adjourn was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m. A closed meeting followed for discussion on union negotiations. Closed meeting adjourned on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF Meeting adjourned at 10:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk of Holdingford
City Council Special Meeting Minutes (Approved)
July 26, 2010
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Scott Lange, Brian Remer.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the special meeting to order at 7:33 p.m.
Scott Lange, city engineer, along with Brian Remer from SEH laid out a detailed map of the anticipated water/sewer/street project. Details were discussed on the following streets:
On Washington Street the width of the street will remain the same as is now.
Cedar Street will have a 4’ easement on the south side of the street to accommodate the sidewalk. This sidewalk will be replaced from Main St. to 3rd St. The street will not have the power pole in it after completion.
Plymouth St will be 42’ wide from Main St. to the alley behind Stearns Bank, then taper to 32’ from the alley to 2nd St.
On 4th St. the street will be straightened out so there isn’t the bend in the road by 4th and Hill. The fire hydrant in that area will be moved to accommodate the straightening of this street.
The west end of Hill St going into the alley past W. Ebnet will be tarred with curb and gutter.
Where Second Street and Prairie meet there will be curb and gutter put in as will the corner of Meadow Street and 3rd St. to help with storm water run off.
Storm sewer by Washington and 4th Streets will drain to the west. Catch basins will be put on the corner of Spring and Main Streets. Cedar and 4th Street will have a storm sewer that will drain west.
Streets that do not have curb and gutter now, but will after this project, the homeowners will be assessed for this. The project will try to save as much of the good sidewalks as possible when doing this reconstruction.
There will be a slip line put in the sewer lines from the ball park, past Opatz Metals down that alley to Co., Rd. 17.
Taken out of the project is the proposed sidewalk from Co. Rd. 17 on 4th St. to the Pedestrian walk going along the south side of 4th Street.
Scott also went over the financials for this project. He also presented the Engineering Report for the mayor to sign. Motion to accept the Agreement between the City of Holdingford and Engineer for Professional Services, SEH was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Motion to approve a one day liquor license for 3.2 beer at the St. Hedwig’s Bicentennial celebration, Sunday, September 12, 2010 was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Motion to adjourn was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Meeting adjourned at 10:07 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Victoria R. Statz
City Clerk/Treasurer
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
July 12, 2010
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Pat Meier, Vicki Statz, Scott Lange, Gordon Sjaaheim.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Motion to approve checks was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to approve bank reconciliation for June statements was made by Lloyd Rausch seconded by Mike Odden. 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 June 14, 2010 regular council meeting was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to approve minutes of the June 19, 2010 emergency council meeting was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his mayor’s report. See end of minutes for details.
Liquor Store report was given by manager Pat Meier. Gross expenses for the year are $184,717.70. Gross revenue $167,641.19. Lottery YTD is $2,003.20. We are at a net loss of $15,073.31. It needs to be noted that the liquor store has a good amount of stock on hand so there is a deficit of revenue temporarily. The street dance brought in approximately $11,000.
Fire Department report was given by Fire Chief Pat Meier. So far this year there has been 41 calls; Brockway 12; Holding 9; Krain 3; and the city 17. The truck chassis has been paid for which leaves in the Truck Fund a balance of $12,055.64. There was a $200 donation made to the Junior Olympics softball tourney from the Fire Relief Association.
HazMat training is going on now every Thursday evening at city hall. Brett Repulske is working with Pat on the rest of the financing of the new fire truck. Pat has put in for grant $s for Firefighter II training, Tier II and Defensive Driving.
Old Business
Scott Lange gave the council an update on the water/sewer/street project. All paperwork was sent to Washington DC on June 23rd awaiting approval. We will hear of its approval via one of our congress people which should be in five or six weeks.
Scott talked about the engineering agreement for the water/wastewater with Rural Development. Motion to approve Mayor Ernie Schmit to sign off on it when it comes was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
There will be a special meeting to hold a workshop going through details of the street project that goes along with the water/sewer improvements. Motion to hold a special meeting on Monday, July 26, 2010 at 7:30 p.m. was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
A special meeting for Monday, August 23rd, 2010, 7 p.m. was approved on a motion by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch for the opening of bids on the demolition of the old grocery store and the old hardware store.AIF
New Business
The council approved Resolution 10-07-12-01, a bingo permit for St. Hedwig’s Centennial celebration on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Approval of the list of election judges: Laverne Woidyla, Vicki Statz, Jeanette May, Marcy Schmidt, Florence Voss, Diane Konsor, Louise Winkler, Audrey Lange, Kathy Gerads, Kathy O’Hara was made on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Council approved to put in the 2011 budget $250 donation to the Initiative Foundation for their work in Central Minnesota cities. Payment will be made in January of 2011. Motion made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Cities are allowed to make contribution to regional or local organizations that promote, advertise, improve or develop the economic and agricultural resources of the city per MN Stat. 469.191.
There has been a request to put a stop sign at the end of the alley behind west end of the church parking lot of St. Mary’s and on the north side of Holdingford Gas and Grocery. HG and G has made changes to their property that now allows cars to drive on the east side of their store and proceed down either alley from their store. Approval of two stop signs was made on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF These signs will need to have the reflectivity finish on them to be in compliance with the state.
The city campground was discussed by the council. It was suggested that putting in a campground could be part of the H.I.P. (Holding In Partnership) Initiative Foundation process. With the use of the Veteran’s Park for camping during Holdingford Daze and other times there has been a growing need for a small campground in this town. All available electrical units at the park were in use during Holdingford Daze.
The south end of town (from Spring St on south), sewer lines will be jetted this year. Motion to have Infratech do up to $5,000 worth of jetting was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
City employee health insurance was discussed. Ron Scegura had given the council a quote from Medica that was less expensive than the Blue Cross/Blue Shield quote for 2010-2011. Motion to have Ron Scegura do the city’s health insurance with Medica was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
The clerk gave a report on the city wide clean up day in June. The cost of the clean up was more than what was collected from the residents, ($689) so we will be putting in for the Stearns County Score Grant Funds to cover the rest of the cost ($546.94). Payment will come to us in December, 2010.
Also brought up was the men’s bathroom of the Wobegon Park Shelter; the stool needs to be replaced (does not flush correctly) along with a better urinal with a privacy wall. Vandalism in this shelter also has become a concern. This building is a great addition to our park system and needs to be cared for. The clerk will contact Stearns County Parks Department to see what can be done for better security.
Motion to adjourn was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF Regular meeting adjourned at 9 p.m. A closed meeting followed for the council to discuss union negotiation items.
Respectfully submitted,
Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk
City Council Emergency Meeting Minutes (Approved)
June 19, 2010
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Jeremy Freudenrich,
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m. at the Old Maintenance Building.
Resolution 10-06-19-01, allowing the Holdingford Commercial Club to hold bingo during Holdingford Daze at the American Legion at 560 Main Street was made on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
There was discussion on Maguire Iron to put in frost proof valve and clean out water tower. They will be here the week of June 21st. $5,000 was put in the 2010 budget for the frost proof valve and installation. Motion to approve the valve, etc., for $3,800 and clean out and inspection of water tank for $1,195 was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Motion to adjourn meeting was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF. Meeting adjourned at 10:05 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
June 14, 2010
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Pat Meier, Vicki Statz, Scott Lange, Louise Winkler, Jeremy Freudenrich, Kelly Strand, Dave Yurczyk, Dorine Rausch, Steve Stoermann, Gordon Sjaaheim, Jon Lentz.
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 Kim Ebnet seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to approve electronic transfers, debit card purchases was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to approve minutes of the May 10, 2010 regular council meeting was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his mayor’s report. See end of minutes for details.
Liquor Store report was given by manager, Pat Meier. Total gross revenue YTD is $138,719.84, YTD expenses $138,955.13. Lottery YTD is $1,603.30, for a total revenue YTD $1,368.01. There was an alcohol training for all bartenders held for 17 bartenders, June 2 here at city hall. July 10 there will be a street dance. Ramblin’ Roads is the band that will be playing. The liquor store will be getting their dram shop insurance from the LMC.
Fire Department report was given by Fire Chief, Pat Meier. The truck fund has a balance of $101,015.64, including the deposit made in early June. Two grants are done, the FEMA and DNR 50/50. The new fire truck chassis has been delivered to Heiman, Inc.to be completed. Council made a motion to pay for the chassis with Sue Marstein making the motion, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF Cost of the chassis is $88,960. Training has been ongoing in ethanol, hazmat, defensive driving. It is time for renewal of contracts with the townships. There is a potential new firefighter that will be interviewed soon. A new key pad lock has been installed on the north side of the fire hall. Four firefighters went to the Fire Convention this past weekend. The F.D. has moved the gambling relief meetings to the 2nd Wednesday of each month to allow more training time at the regular F.D. meetings. Attendance by the firefighters is not mandatory at the Relief meetings, however; they are mandatory for the regular firefighter meetings.
Steve Stoermann requested approval by the council for a piece of DNR excess equipment from Willow River. It’s an ambulance to replace our Rescue 1. They are told that it will need approximately $2,300 to fix it up to be usable. It is the same age as our Rescue 1, but has a lot less mileage. Kim Ebnet made a motion to allow this purchase, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF There is a 90 day window in which the F.D. can use it to see if it will fit our needs.
Dorine Rausch gave a brief review of the Fire Convention that was attended by 4 firefighters. They will be doing more hands on rescue training. Next year’s convention will be at Detroit Lakes the first weekend in June. Former firefighters who will be acknowledged at their memorial service will be Don Kolb, Melvin Muyres, Dick Paggen. Stearns County Emergency Management July meeting will be held here in Holdingford on Monday, July 26, 7 p.m.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his report. See end of minutes for details.
Old Business
Scott Lange gave an update on the w/s project. Not much to report other than the engineers and mayor have responded to the review points made by Rural Development. Scott is hopeful that this will be the last of the review process we need to go through before Rural Development will sign off on the project.
Jon Lentz, Stearns County deputy, talked with the council about how Holdingford Daze will be police covered. There will be traffic control before, during and after the large parade. In the evening, there will be five officers on duty to walk the crowd during the street dance.
Surfsota contract was gone over. Mayor Schmit will make changes to the contract and send it to Steve Woller, Surfsota administrator. The council wants to make it comparable with what we are receiving from Stearns Comsis who also has antennas on our water tower.
New Business
Kelly Strand asked the council about reduced sewer rate because of his high usage of water to wash down his equipment, etc. The council said he could put in a sand point if he chose to. They did not act on reducing his utility bill concerning sewer.
On a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein, the council approved a community picnic raffle put on by the Lions Club to raise funds for the picnic, Sunday, August 29, 2010.
The Booster club requested a gambling permit, “Half for Cash” raffle to be held before the Holdingford Daze parade, Saturday, July 10, 2010, on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
The council approved the request for the Initiative Foundation grant request for the city for $9,000 on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Mr. John Koch, attorney for Reichert, Wenner, Koch and Provinzino will be our new city attorney. Mr. Tom Wenner is retiring.
Resolution 10-06-14-01. thanking Mr. Tom Wenner for his years of service to the City of Holdingford was made on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Mayor Ernie Schmit requested that the council move $50,000 from its General account to the PF Select General account for the future infrastructure funds. Motion made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
City employee medical insurance rates are slated to go up 17% this year. We have two agents looking into other possibilities for rates for our employees. A decision on this will be at the July council meeting.
It was brought up that Pepsi Cola has matching grants that may be of help with getting our skateboard park enlarged for our youth. In the past two years the Holdingford Legion has donated $2,886 to be used in Veterans Park. On a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch $2,886 donated funds will be used for the skateboard park revamping. AIF
City wide clean up is this Saturday, June 19, from 8 a.m. to 12 noon. Scheduled to work from 8-10 is Sue and Kim; from 10 -12 is Lloyd and Mike. Ernie will be there the entire time as will the city clerk.
Veteran’s park picnic tables/benches was brought up by Sue Marstein. The council looked at several types of tables/benches and it was set aside for now.
PERA for the council members was brought up by the city clerk. Because of the uncertain economic times, a motion was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein to table this discussion for one year. AIF
Interest in seeing if the ceiling tiles in the old hardware store are salvageable was brought up. The maintenance men will look at the tiles this week to see what shape they are in. If they are salvageable, they will be used in the restoration of the Welna building for the museum. The Welna building may be better known as the Old Maintenance Shop.
Motion to adjourn was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Meeting adjourned at 10:05 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
May 10, 2010
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Pat Meier, Vicki Statz, Scott Lange, Louise Winkler Travis and Sheila Lenarz.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Motion to approve checks was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Motion to approve bank reconciliation was made by Lloyd Rausch seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to approve electronic transfers, debit card purchases was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to approve minutes of the April 12, 2010 regular council meeting was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his mayor’s report. See end of minutes for details.
Scott Lange gave the council an update on the water/sewer/street project. There will be three separate bids, one on the street and utility project, one for the waste water plant upgrade and one for water meter replacement. All the water meters in our city will be replaced. Some of them are very old and may not be accurately recording the amount of water used. There was also discussion doing streets with asphalt or cement. The cost is very comparative right now. Discussion on storm sewers/drainage also took place.
Dan Fiedler discussed with the council our liquor liability insurance premium. Our current insurer will not re-insure because of an open case. Dan found one carrier willing to write our insurance and he is also looking at the LMC (League of Minnesota Cities) as a possibility.
Motion to go with lowest bid for liability insurance for the liquor store was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Surfsota contract with the city is coming up for renewal by October, 2010. The council saw the new proposal sent by Steve Woller of Surfsota. Discussion points and possible changes with the contract were pointed out. There will be more on this at the June meeting.
Pat Meier gave the Liquor Store report. They had a Game Day last Friday that went very well, having 11 teams. They grossed over $2,900 for this game day. They will be open Sunday, May 16, 2010 for the NASCAR races.
Gross revenue for the month of April was $27,146.75, bringing the total YTD to $111,265.99. YTD Lottery proceeds are $1,301.81. Expenses YTD are $116,918.83 leaving the Liquor Store account in the negative of $4,351.03. A new one year $10,000 CD was purchased with Lottery proceeds this month.
There is free internet “hot spot” at the Liquor Store. You can bring in your laptop and have free internet.
Fire Department report was given by Fire Chief Pat Meier. There have been 25 calls so far this year; 9 for Brockway; 6 for Holding; 2 for Krain; 8 for City of Holdingford. Current truck fund balance is $97,508.73. Pat talked about warranting the pagers the F.D. uses, but not the radios. Cost for the pagers would be about $2/pager. Radios to warranty are more expensive. They will be applying for a FEMA grant to purchase air packs, a DNR 50/50 grant for hose for the new fire truck that is being built for Holdingford.
He asked the council for clarification on firefighter training payment. Motion was made by Ernie Schmit, seconded by Mike Odden that when a firefighter does not pass tests for all mandatory training classes as prescribed, the person is immediately dismissed. AIF
Pat will call Marv’s Repair on repainting the doors on the Fire Department.
Mayor Schmit gave an update on the two buildings the city purchased. We have gotten back the asbestos report. He will be contacting our city attorney to see how we can do the bid in demolition of these buildings.
Travis and Sheila Lenarz came before the council asking for a variance or possibly closing the alley on the south side of their property at 310 River St. There are already trees growing in the alley and a shed has been built on the east end of it. After some discussion, a decision was tabled till more information is brought forth.
Motion to respond to the IF (Initiative Foundation) request of $250 was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF The city has benefited greatly from the IF over the past several years, getting a $10,000 matching grant each year.
The water/sewer/garbage issue with a resident was tabled. The city clerk has had a discussion with this resident and they are working out a payment plan.
The blue Veteran’s Park signage on Co. Rd 17 coming into town from the south and the west will be replaced with brown signs via Stearns County at no cost to the city. The blue sign on the old Maintenance shop will stay there.
Motion to approve two different designs of street flags for the downtown area was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF These flags were designed and will be made by Everything Signs.
A sealer coat put on the boxcar west side to cover the artwork was discussed by the council. The city clerk will call Mr. Goziak, the artist, to see what kind of paint he used and what sealer he would recommend.
Clerk items: the city has been approved for their pay equity report until January, 2012. The maintenance crew requested that a cement apron be put in front of the Veteran’s Park shelter. Council said they could go ahead with getting that set up. Hopefully it will be completed by Holdingford Daze.
Three picnic tables have been requested to be placed between the Veteran’s Park Shelter and the softball field and the playground. Council asked that city employees look into doing this. Council and maintenance crew would like to have them on a cement base.
To clarify if the school should be charged for using the Veteran’s Park Shelter at the end of the school year, when elementary students come down for the day. Council said no charge to the school for these kinds of outings.
Meeting adjourned on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF Meeting adjourned at 10:10 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
April 12, 2010
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Pat Meier, Vicki Statz, Gordon Sjaaheim, Gary Lange, Brian Remer, Scott Lange, Janelle Kendall, Matthew Quinn, Linda Breth, Michelle Kiley, Dorine Rausch.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Stearns County attorney, Janelle Kendall gave the council her report from 2009. Prosecutions in 2009 went down from each of the previous four years. We had a total of 21 misdemeanors and three gross misdemeanors. She gave words of encouragement to the council that overall in the county crime was also down for 2009.
Motion to approve checks was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF A question came up as to why the Liquor Store refuse is more than the Parks. City clerk is to find out why. (It’s based on frequency and volume.)
Motion to approve bank reconciliation was made by Sue Marstein seconded by Mike Odden. 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 March 8, 2010 regular council meeting with corrections was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Motion to approve public hearing meeting minutes with correction of March 15, 2010 was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by manager, Pat Meier. March gross sales $32,700.67 which included 3 days of April. Total net profit for the L.S. is $1,528.23 plus the YTD lottery $1,086.68 bringing total net profit YTD to $2,614.91. There is $13,912.25 in the bank lottery account. The council approved to have $10,000 of the lottery account put into a CD at best rate on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF Upcoming events for the Liquor Store are: Game Day, May 8. Bar Bingo every Tuesday night, 7 p.m. and Cold Cash every Friday night at 10 p.m. They will be open at noon the next two Sundays in April, (18th and 25th) for NASCAR races. There had been damage to the L.S. men’s bathroom that has been fixed. The council wants to see restitution from the person who caused the damage. The costs would otherwise have to come off the net profit from the L.S.
Fire Department report was given by Fire Chief, Pat Meier. There has been 19 calls so far for 2010. Pat is working on a FEMA grant. The Fire Relief breakfast brought in a net profit of about $775.
Dorine Rausch has updated the payroll. She also explained that by 2013 our city sirens will have to be narrow banded from 25 Mhz to 12.5 Mhz. They will work with the county to get this done. Cost will be about $500 for each siren, the city has three.
The F.D. has $97,115.12 in CDs. One of them is coming due April 14. The council will roll this CD over when it is due on a motion by Sue Marstein, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Dorine Rausch reported that F.D. activity, meetings, etc. are now on the city web site calendar. www.holdingfordmn.us Click on Community Calendar. She asked permission to take an EMT class starting in August. The F.D. is to help pay for the class that is not covered by grant dollars. Motion to fund this class unless funding can be gotten from grants was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. Voting yes was Sue Marstein, Mike Odden, Kim Ebnet. Abstaining was Lloyd Rausch.
She also requested to be paid mileage for a free class at Metro Hospital in the Twin Cities on Training the Trainer. Okayed by the council.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his report. See end of meeting minutes for details. One of the items he brought up was the generous donation to our food shelf from Blattner Energy of over 3,400 lbs of food, and paper products for our community. Resolution 10-04-12-02 to this effect was made on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Old Business
Scott Lange gave the council an update on the water/sewer/street project. He, Brian Remer and Ernie had walked the area of the city where the project will be done. Several areas that were first noted as non eligible expenses through Rural Development are now included by Scott working with Rural Development. He also stated that David Drown will be working with us, SEH and Rural Development to put together the payment plan for this whole project.
On a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet the council approved the plans and specs for the curb and gutter portion of the project. AIF
A motion to put future capital charge amount (specific dollars unknown as this time) to take care of non eligible costs in the water/sewer/street project on resident utility bills was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Two public neighborhood meetings for all residents on the water/sewer/street project have been set. There will be an open house for those who are north of County Road 17 at city hall on Monday, April 26th from 6 – 7:30 p.m. The open house for those who are south of County Road 17 the open house meeting will be at city hall on Thursday, April 29 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. Anyone who cannot make it to their open house meeting time may come to the other meeting. The council wants to make sure all the residents have a full understanding of what will be involved in this project and if there are questions to be sure to address them to the engineering team or the city council at this time.
Mayor Ernie Schmit requested permission to do a feasibility study on wind energy. Our engineering firm SEH will do a wind feasibility study for $15,000. The Mayor will ask the Initiative Foundation for 50% grant funds of $7,500 with the City and S.E.H. splitting the remaining costs.
Molly Thompson, the city’s auditor from Schlenner, Wenner, & Co. gave the 2009 audit for the city. She went over several parts of the audit, stating that in comparison to 2008, the city was very comparable in revenue and expenses. Approval of the audit was made on a motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Resolution 10-04-12-01 retiring the Revenue Refunding City Hall Bond was made on a motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
New Business
Michelle Kiley presented to the council three drawings for flags in our downtown area. She was looking for support from the council to go ahead with this project. The council made no decision on this and asked if there might be more involvement from the community in coming up with designs for the flags. Michelle will be meeting with various business owners later this week to share and get ideas from them as to this project.
Linda Breth representing Helping Hands came before the council to request a gambling permit for a raffle during Holdingford Daze. Motion to approve permit was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF Last year the tickets were sold for $10 each and 600 tickets were sold.
Mayor Ernie Schmit talked about the demolition of the two buildings the city purchased a few months ago. There is an issue of asbestos in each building. Jacob Fisher from Assessco Environmental Services, from Sauk Rapids came to assess how much asbestos is actually in each building. There was a preliminary assessment made prior to the city purchasing them. Mayor Schmit will be contacting Stearns County to see how this can be handled. A request has come to take out some items from the old hardware store. The council has tabled this so as of now nothing will be allowed to be taken out of either of these buildings.
Union negotiation representation for the city was discussed. There were several consultants the city has looked at. Mayor Schmit will be contacting one of them to help with this first negotiation process.
LGA for the city will be cut for this year, 2010, however; the final amount has not yet been determined by the state legislature. 2011 will also see our LGA cut for our city.
The city clerk explained about the classes she attended at the March MCFOA conference in St. Cloud. She will have follow up at a later council meeting.
The city wide clean up sheet was gone over and this will be included in the May utility billing along with the Consumer Confidence Report that is sent out yearly. City wide clean up this year will be Saturday, June 19th, at the old Maintenance shop from 8 a.m. to 12 noon.
The city clerk shared with the council the vandalism that has been occurring at our Wobegon Shelter bathrooms. In the men’s bathroom the stool has been purposely plugged several times and also a fire with burning leaves was discovered in the men’s bathroom. Outside the shelter, two of the flower pots have been overturned, the bike rack and one of the benches have been moved several times. It is prudent for all city residents to keep an eye on our public property to see that it is well taken care of. If there is any vandalism, please report it to our Stearns County Sheriff’s department or any city employee or council member.
Motion to adjourn was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF Meeting adjourned at 10:23 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Victoria Statz, City Clerk of Holdingford
PUBLIC HEARING
MEETING MINUTES (Approved)
MONDAY, MARCH 15, 2010
UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS
AND
UTILITY RATE INCREASE
Present at the meeting: Sue Marstein, Kim Ebnet, Lloyd Rausch, Mike Odden, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz and twenty six residents from the community.
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the public hearing to order at 7 p.m.
Mayor Schmit welcomed everyone and then gave the floor to the city engineer, Scott Lange. He explained both projects, why needed, cost, etc.
This is a two fold public hearing: on utility improvements that include curb and gutter and possible utility rate increase on water/sewer.
Starting with Washington St. from Main St to Co. Rd. 9 north to Meadow St., all old lines of water/sewer are sited to be replaced. The current water mains are of cast iron, they are not efficient any longer. The sewer lines have leakage from storm waters, putting a burden on the wastewater plant. Fire hydrants are not efficient any longer.
There is potential funding from Rural Development for the water/sewer lines and the parts of the street that will be dug up for these replacements. What will not be covered by Rural Development is repaving the whole street, curb, gutter, and any streets that are not affected by water/sewer lines. Interest rate as of March 15 is 2.7/8%. This may go lower yet as the year progresses.
Preliminary costs to include:
Water $1,520,000
Sewer 1,100,000
WWTP 1,040,000
Non Eligible 790,000
Drainage 260,000
Curb/gutter 124,000
Total Cost $4,834,000
In figuring all the costs, what Rural Development does not allow as eligible costs, there is a shortfall of approximately $1,300,000 or about $52,000/year, over a 25 year period. With taking 311 resident/commercial users, this comes to about $14/month.
The council took comments from those present and will consider them in making a final decision.
There was one mailed-in comment: “…wish to decline the curb and gutter project proposed by the City of Holdingford at the hearing on June 8, 2009. So today, March 15, 2010 we decline again the curb and gutter project proposed.”
Motion to close the public hearing was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF Meeting adjourned at 8:12 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Victoria Statz
Holdingford City Clerk
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
March 8, 2010
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Pat Meier, Vicki Statz, Gordon Sjaaheim, Louise Winkler, Louis Walz, Gary Lange, Bryan Remer, Cheryl Foster.
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 Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to approve electronic transfers, debit card purchases was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to approve minutes of the February 8, 2010 regular council meeting with corrections was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Liquor Store report given in part by Mayor Ernie Schmit, until Pat Meier came to the meeting. A sign on the back side of the Liquor Store is now up for snowmobilers and summer bikers informing them of Liquor Store hours, etc.
Gross revenue for Feb. 2010 $25,379.45, YTD gross $51,418.57. Expenses for YTD $53,740.66, Lottery YTD $746.59 for current net loss YTD $1,575.50. March events there will be a meat raffle, March 19th, from 7 – 9 p.m. as a fundraiser for Fire Relief, then there will be live music from 9-close. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the evening.
The Liquor Store received notification that the Dram Shop insurance will not be renewed with its current carrier. Dan Fiedler, the city’s insurance agent is looking into this and will report back to the council. There has been damage done to the men’s restroom. It was brought up that whoever caused the damage needs to do restitution to the Liquor Store.
Fire Department report was given by Fire Chief Pat Meier. There has been 15 calls so far this year, 14 of them medical and one false alarm. Truck fund has $97,115.12, including the interest from 12-31-2009. DNR generators are available to the FD, for sewer plant, well house, firehall, etc. Chief Meier will be going to the Safety and Loss Workshop in St. Cloud on April 27th.
There will be the annual Fire Department Relief breakfast, Sunday, March 14 at city hall starting at 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.. Cost for adults is $6.50 presale; $7.00 at the door. Children pay at the door.
Motion to support the Fire Department pursuing a FEMA grant for 2010 was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF May be used for air packs.
Mayor Schmit stated he has sent all the necessary paperwork to Brett Repulske from Rural Development for financing of the new fire truck.
Dorine Rausch has put all the fire department classes and other pertinent dates on our community calendar.
Mayor Schmit gave his Mayor’s Report. See end of minutes for details.
Bryan Remer, from SEH reported on our water/sewer/street project. Soil borings have been done, there are a couple areas that the soil is contaminated, one with an unknown contaminate as this time. Tests are being done to determine what needs to be done.
Next Monday, March 15, 2010 will be the city’s public hearing on our water/sewer/street project. All residents are encouraged to attend this meeting to find out specifics of the project and for the council to hear from the public on this process. SEH, our engineering firm will be on hand to answer specific questions.
Bids for reroofing the Veteran’s Park shelter and the south bathroom were opened. Three bids were received. Scotty’s Exteriors, LLC came in with the lowest bid for asphalt shingles of $4,234.50. Scotty’s included dumpster costs. Other bids: St. Rosa Lumber $4,059.39 without dumpster charge; Voss Builders, $4,100 without dumpster costs. Motion to approve Scotty’s Exteriors, LLC to do the repair was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Bids to tear down the old Holdingford Meat/Grocery and Hardware Store will be sent out within the next month. Mayor Schmit will be putting the bid together.
Cheryl Foster, Stearns County Assessor for our area shared with the council the sold homes in our city from this past year and our tax capacity for 2010. She will also be on hand for our Board of Equalization meeting on Tuesday, April 13 here at city hall, 7 p.m. Anyone who has a question about their 2011 property valuations may come and comment. Please call Cheryl to set up an appointment so she may have all your pertinent information with her for the meeting. Her phone: 320-656-3682.
Council was asked to have someone as their representative for union negotiations with the Maintenance Department union. No one wanted to be the representative for the council. Mayor Schmit will get in contact with the LMC (League of Minnesota Cities) to see if they do representation. Otherwise, our city attorney will be asked to be the negotiator for the city.
Lloyd Rausch commented on the cracks that are happening on the new sidewalks on Washington St. Also, it was brought up the new sidewalk on Plymouth has cracks in it also. This will be looked into.
Gary Lange asked about street lights along their road. Being they are in the city they are requesting one or two lights along their road.
The clerk brought up that Janelle Kendall will be at the April council meeting to go over 2009 prosecutions for the city. The city clerk will be out of the office March 17,18, 19 to attend the MCFOA (MN Clerks and Financial Officers Association) conference at the St. Cloud Civic Center.
Motion to adjourn was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF Meeting adjourned at 9 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
February 8, 2010
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Scott Lange, Pat Meier, Jon Lentz, Robb Berscheid
Mayor Ernie Schmit called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Motion to approve checks was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to approve bank reconciliation was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. 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 January 11, 2010 regular council meeting with corrections was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Liquor store report was given by Pat Meier, Liquor Store manager. He did not get the print out from the city clerk, so he did not have a complete report to give the council. March council meeting will have current information.
Fire dept report was given by Fire Chief, Pat Meier. There has been ten calls so far for this year, five in December. There is $97,064.70 in the truck fund.
Motion to accept Heiman bid on new fire truck for $160,523 was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Pat Meier investigated finance options for new truck, found USDA Rural development had lowest interest rates (4%) and also possibility of partial grant, Mayor to check into this, and other loan options.
The Fire Department will be sending 3 fire fighters to fire fighter II.
Renew gambling permit for Fire Relief was made by Sue Marstein seconded Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Old business
Scott Lange gave an update of utility project, preliminary review came back, have deemed approximately $700,000 worth of items ineligible for grant and low interest loan program. This will make monthly payments approx. $170,000 per year. Council discussed options of either reducing size of the project or adding a monthly capital charge to utility bills. A motion was made by Mike Odden seconded by Lloyd Rausch to have a public hearing, Monday, March 15 at 7 p.m. to discuss the above and for curb and gutter. AIF
Scott said he would charge approx $900 to set up bid for old hardware store and grocery buildings teardown. He also stated it would not break his heart if we did not have him do it. Council asked Mayor to check with HRA and other options.
Council ok with getting bids for roof repair on bathrooms and shelter. Mayor is to ask for the bids.
Motion to discontinue ‘cash in lieu’, that any employee who is currently receiving payments under the ‘cash in lieu’ program will continue to do so but the City will no longer accept employees into the ‘cash in lieu’ program; when all employees currently receiving ‘cash in lieu’ are no longer employed with the city, this option becomes obsolete was made by Kim Ebnet seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Motion by Kim Ebnet seconded by Sue Marstein to make changes in employee manual in regard to HCSP; “The City will provide its current and future full time employees participation in the Minnesota State Health Care Savings Plan. AIF The change reflected is from “all” employees to “all full time” employees only (40 hours/wk).
New business
Lt. Jon Lentz came to the meeting to discuss law enforcement in Holdingford, took questions from the council, about why Freeport dropped contract, and what amount of policing is done with a contract versus without a contract. He talked of other communities that contract with Sheriff’s Department and how many hours they contract. He will meet with Holdingford Daze committee this spring to iron out problems we have had in the past. Hours contracted for the City of Holdingford: $45/hour, 11 hrs/week
Robb Berscheid came to talk about adding lights to the volleyball court and setting up leagues.
Wiring for lighting is already there, just need poles and lights, approx $2,000 for wood poles; $4,000 for nice steel poles. Motion by Mike Odden, seconded by Kim Ebnet to go with steel poles and City would pay $2,000 from Antenna fund towards poles if Robb can raise other $2,000. AIF
Motion by Mike Odden seconded by Sue Marstein to continue Urban Conversationalist. AIF
Okay for Cheryl Foster to have Board of Equalization meeting Tuesday, April 13, 7 p.m. city hall.
Motion by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein to block Main Street from Washington to Co. Rd. 17 and Plymouth from Main to Second St. for car show during Holdingford Daze. AIF
Mayor Ernie Schmit asked the council for a gambling permit for the Commercial Club, Pot of Gold, Holdingford Daze. Motion to allow this gambling permit was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Council was informed that Krain Township will use voting machines for their election in March.
Kim Ebnet reported on SHIP, (Statewide Health Improvement Plan) has to do primarily with nutrition, some schools in program, some cities can be.
Motion by Kim Ebnet seconded by Sue Marstein to take accident insurance coverage for volunteers through League of MN Cities Insurance Trust, Accident Plan for city volunteers. AIF
Motion to adjourn made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Meeting adjourned at 9:35 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Victoria Statz
City Clerk of Holdingford
City Council Meeting Minutes (Approved)
January 11, 2010
Present at the meeting: Kim Ebnet, Mike Odden, Lloyd Rausch, Susan Marstein, Ernie Schmit, Vicki Statz, Scott Lange, Gordon Sjaaheim, Pat Meier, Louis Walz.
Acting Mayor Mike Odden called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Motion to approve checks was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Motion to approve bank reconciliation was made by, Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Motion to approve electronic transfers, debit card purchases was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Kim Ebnet. AIF
Motion to approve minutes of the December 14, 2009 regular council meeting was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Motion to approve minutes of the Emergency council meeting, December 29, 2009 was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Liquor Store report was given by Pat Meier. Balance Sheet from Asyst shows a profit of $12,474.44 for the year. There are some bills that need to be accounted for in 2009, so this balance is not the EOY total. Lottery for the year is at $5,178.28 and interest on CDs is $544.71. Inventory difference from 2008 to 2009 is $4,393.12 less than 2009. The silent auction held in November has netted $2,500 so far with a few more items left to be picked up. The Liquor Store has been open on Sundays for the Vikings football games.
Fire Department report was given by Fire Chief Pat Meier. There has been only a couple calls so far in January. The Truck Fund has a total of $97,064.70, including the $3,000 donation from Fire Relief at the end of the year. The department has placed ads for the new fire apparatus. Bids will be opened at the Annual Fire Board meeting, Wednesday, January 27, 2010 at city hall at 7:15 p.m.
Mayor Ernie Schmit gave his Mayor’s Report. See end of minutes for complete details.
Scott Lange has received comments back from the Rural Development on the proposed water/sewer project late today and did not have time to go over the report in detail. He will have comments for the council at the next council meeting. He, Mayor Schmit and a renewable energy engineer from SEH have met to discuss the possibility of implementing such energy sources for the city.
Motion for mayor to look into grant $s for renewable energy was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF Mayor Schmit will work with SEH and their grant writers to this end.
The old Hardware Store at 500 Main St. was purchased by the city on December 29, 2009. There were asbestos issues with purchasing the Holdingford Meat and Grocery at 510 Main St., so that purchase was put on hold for now.
Pay equity was discussed at length. In order to be in compliance with the State of MN. several changes needed to be made to our structure. Kathleen Murphy from Murphy Management Consultants is working with the city to meet state requirements. Approval in pay equity information, steps, rates as amended was made on a motion by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. Rausch, Marstein and Ebnet voted yes, Odden voted no.
Further discussion on this subject resulted in LloydRausch rescinding his motion, Sue Marstein seconding the rescission and council voted in favor of rescinding motion.
Motion to accept salary range changes in H, I, and J salary ranges was made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF
Motion to accept ranking city employees in the matching position, group, step and salary documentation was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Sue Marstein. AIF The council asked the city clerk to seek questions on job evaluations from the LMC and the clerk’s list serve.
Motion to look for a different building inspector was made by Kim Ebnet, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
List of charges was gone over by the council. Minor changes were made to the list. Motion to accept List of Charges as amended was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Local Board of Review Transfer Agreement was discussed. Motion made by Lloyd Rausch, seconded by Kim Ebnet to keep the local board or appeal and equalization in our community. AIF
The next Stearns County League of Cities meeting will be at St. Martin, Jan. 19, 2010.
No action was taken on resolution on Policy on Fire and Rescue Service Areas given out by the City of Richmond.
Skid loader snow bucket and snow blower attachments were discussed. Motion was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Sue Marstein to purchase both the 8’ snow bucket from MidSota, Avon, for $1,350 and the 85” Erskin snow blower from Ziegler Cat, St. Cloud, for $6,465. AIF
The annual Fire Board meeting will be Wednesday, January 27, 7 p.m. at city hall.
Water bill from a resident was discussed. No change to the bill.
The city clerk’s HSA is to be prorated to be in line with other employees HSA accounts. Motion to approve such was made by Mike Odden, seconded by Lloyd Rausch. AIF
Senior citizen monthly hall rental fee was discussed. No action was taken. Hall rental fee stays at $100/month.
Mike Odden shared with the council that the city of Holdingford now has a Twitter website. Go to www.holdingfordmn.us click on “Follow us on Twitter” just below the covered bridge picture.
Motion to adjourn was made by Sue Marstein, seconded by Mike Odden. AIF
Meeting adjourned at 9:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Victoria R. Statz, City Clerk