Wayne Byers Show Weekdays on CSi 2

Wayne Byers Show Weekdays on CSi 2

CSi Weather…

TONIGHT…DECREASING CLOUDS. LOWS IN THE LOWER 50S. NORTHEAST

WINDS 5 TO 10 MPH.

.WEDNESDAY…MOSTLY CLOUDY. HIGHS IN THE MID 60S. NORTHEAST WINDS

10 TO 15 MPH.

.WEDNESDAY NIGHT…MOSTLY CLOUDY. LOWS IN THE UPPER 40S.

NORTHEAST WINDS 10 TO 15 MPH.

.THURSDAY…PARTLY SUNNY. HIGHS IN THE MID 60S. NORTHEAST WINDS 10 TO 15 MPH.

.THURSDAY NIGHT…MOSTLY CLOUDY WITH A 20 PERCENT CHANCE OF RAIN

SHOWERS. LOWS IN THE UPPER 40S.

.FRIDAY…CLOUDY WITH A 50 PERCENT CHANCE OF RAIN SHOWERS. HIGHS

IN THE LOWER 60S.

.FRIDAY NIGHT…RAIN SHOWERS LIKELY AND SLIGHT CHANCE OF

THUNDERSTORMS. LOWS IN THE LOWER 50S. CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION

60 PERCENT.

.SATURDAY…MOSTLY CLOUDY WITH CHANCE OF RAIN SHOWERS AND SLIGHT

CHANCE OF THUNDERSTORMS. HIGHS IN THE UPPER 60S. CHANCE OF

PRECIPITATION 40 PERCENT.

.SATURDAY NIGHT…MOSTLY CLOUDY WITH A 30 PERCENT CHANCE OF RAIN

SHOWERS. LOWS IN THE LOWER 50S.

.SUNDAY…DECREASING CLOUDS. A 20 PERCENT CHANCE OF RAIN SHOWERS.

HIGHS IN THE LOWER 60S.

.SUNDAY NIGHT AND MONDAY…MOSTLY CLEAR. LOWS IN THE MID 40S.

HIGHS IN THE 60S.

 

THE NEXT CHANCE FOR THUNDERSTORMS WILL COME FRIDAY INTO THE

WEEKEND.

 

Jamestown (CSi)  The Jamestown City Council’s  Finance & Legal Committee, Building, Planning & Zoning Committee, Civic Center & Promotion Committee, Fire & Police Committee, and Public Works Committee all met in joint session Tuesday afternoon at City Hall.   All members were present.

FINANCE & LEGAL COMMITTEE BUSINESS:

The committee recommends approval of  the South Central Dakota Regional Council request for 2017 dues.

Considered the First Reading of an Ordinance to amend and re-enact a section of the City Code pertaining to dispensing of alcoholic beverages prohibited on certain days.  The item stems from changing on-sale to be able to be served beginning at 11-a.m. to 2-a.m. Off-sale continues at 12 noon, to 2-a.m., in line with state law.  The municipal ordinance would be repealed, with just state law in affect.  Two Ordinance readings will be required.

Considered a clarification of RTS Shearing final balance due of $1,590.27 for the 2004 New Jobs Training Loan. The 2004 agreement had errors, and the new figure is now accurate.

The committee recommends approval of the new amount.

Informational: Departmental and financial reports were presented.

BUILDING, PLANNING & ZONING COMMITTEE:

Informational: Minutes of the September 12, 2016, Planning Commission Meeting was presented.

The committee recommends approval of  a Land Use Plan Amendment for Lots 1 & 2 of Fairview First Subdivision and the South 400’ of the west 1690’, less Highway 281 right-of-way, in the SW ¼ of Section 14, Township 140,

Range 64 West, from Agricultural and Light Industrial Land Use to Commercial Land Use.

The committee recommends approval of the First Reading of an Ordinance to amend and re-enact section Ordinance No. 329 to change the zoning of the West 1,690’ of the South 400’, less the West 620’ of the SW ¼ of Section 14, Township 140, Range 64 West, located within the One Mile Extraterritorial Area of the City of Jamestown, Stutsman County, North Dakota, from C-2 (General Commercial District) and R-1 (One- Family Residential District) to C-1 (Local Commercial District).

Considered the First Reading of an Ordinance to enact a Section of , and amend and reenact

Sections of the City Code, pertaining to traffic impact studies.

Mayor Andersen said the language has been “softened,” and is not consistent for developers, and is “unfriendly,” toward development.

The committee recommends tabling the issue, pending additional research by the City Attorney.

Considered the First Reading of an Ordinance to amend and re-enact a of the City Code,  pertaining to definitions, allowed uses and parking requirements for senior and assisted living uses.

The proposal comes from SRF.

The committee recommends moving the First Reading forward, pending any changes in the language.

CIVIC CENTER AND PROMOTION COMMITTEE:

The North Dakota Roughrider Association Rodeo Review was discussed concerning the city agreeing to terminate the previous agreement, and the economic impact of the rodeo on Jamestown.

Greg Carlson a member of the Association Board said, the organization puts up prize money, and the Association is a non-profit organization.

He said Tourism funds portions of the rodeo, explained concession funds that come in, and disputes the city lost $17,000, and actually showed a profit.  He pointed out that Tourism recently approved a Grant Request (in the amount of $7,500.) He noted the economic impact to Jamestown, at one million dollars, and that this year’s rodeo has been moved to October, so as not to conflict with other events and activities in September. He said the Association will look at another venue outside of Jamestown if agreements can not be reached with the city, in keeping the rodeo in Jamestown.  City Council Member Pam Phillips disputes the economic impact dollars, and pointed out that the Civic Center acts as a venue, only.

Civic Center Manager, Pam Fosse said without Tourism funding, the monetary loss would have been larger, and noted a small attendance at the rodeos.

Mayor Andersen suggested looking at a revision of the contract, and possible changes, and rental of the Civic Center.

The committee made no decisions, at Tuesday’s meeting.

FIRE & POLICE COMMITTEE

At the request of Police Chief Scott Edinger the committee considered the request from the Police Department to allow payroll deduction for enrollment in the Professional Law Enforcement Association “Legal Defense Plan Coverage.”

He said police officers are in favor of the plan.

The committee recommends approval of the plan.

Informational: The Second Reading of an Ordinance pertaining to sale of tobacco products to minors and use and possession by minors prohibited, is scheduled for the October 3, 2016 City Council meeting.

Informational: The Second Reading of an Ordinance pertaining to use of fire equipment outside of the city, is scheduled for the October 3, 2016 City Council meeting.

PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE:

An Engineering update was given on the Water Main Replacement Construction Project District No. 16-62.  Interstate Engineering says the project may take longer than contracted for, to complete.

Informational: An engineering update was given concerning potential construction of detention pond on University of Jamestown property for 5th Street NE area storm water.

Travis Dillman from Interstate Engineering said the location is ideal for that portion of City of Jamestown.

Materials (dirt) left from construction of the Newman Center will be given to the city to the project.

Darrell Hournbuckle said the detention pond will help reduce peak flows of water runoff during the time of heavy rainfall accumulations, reducing the time of flows by two and a half hours.

The city’s share of Special Assessments will fund the city’s share of costs.

The committee recommends to move forward with the project and cost of $37,000.

From the City Engineers Office, Beth Dooley introduced Marcy Nichols a partner in developing a recreational rink in Southeast Jamestown.  Adjacent landowners, opposed to the project due to drainage issues along Second Avenue, Southeast, presented information.

Mayor Andersen said the city needs to identify issues concerning addressing drainage in that area and identify the Special Assessment District.

Recommendations will likely come before next month’s committee meeting.

The meeting was shown live on CSi Cable 67 followed by replays.

 

Valley City  (CSi)  The Valley City Commission met in Regular Session Tuesday evening at City Hall.

Commissioner Magnuson was not present.  Commissioner Ross was present via conference phone call.

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS INCLUDED:

An electrical license for Red River Electric, Inc.

A Parade Application from VCSU for Homecoming on Sept. 24th at 10:30 A.M.

A Raffle Permit for VCSU Student Chapter of the Wildlife Society

A Parade Application from VC High School for Homecoming on Sept. 23rd at 4:00 P.M.

A Raffle Permit for 24th District Republican Party.

Blocking off a street  for Sheyenne Valley Backing the Badge event.

PUBLIC FORUM :   No One Spoke.

PUBLIC HEARINGS:

A public hearing was held  for the Valley City Barnes County  Development Corporation to discuss Vacation of Street of property at New  Horizon  Subdivision.  The vacation is in conjunction with the construction of a new building for new apartments.

 

Following the Public Hearing the City Commission  approved  a Resolution approving the Petition for Vacation of the Street.

 

A public hearing was held for Meridian Addition, a plat submitted by Valley City Barnes County Development Corporation.

 

Following the public hear Commissioners  approved   a Resolution approving plat of Meridian Addition.

 

An  Open public hearing was held  for the 2017 City Budget.

Finance Director Avis Richter said there is no increase in city property taxes, and no Mill Levy increase.

The 2017 budget is $1,288,700, an increase of $30,000.  She said the increase will be absorbed by continued development in the city.

 

The City Commission then approved the First Reading of Ordinance No. 1014, an ordinance adopting the 2017 City Budget.

 

RESOLUTIONS        

Approved a  Resolution increasing water utility rates.  City Administrator Schelkoph said increased costs stem from improvements to the water system. He said the increase is 15%, or an average increase of $3.52 per month.

 

Approved a  Resolution increasing electric utility rates.  City Administrator Schelkoph said there is a winter rate, and summer rate, due to different costs of purchasing electricity by the city.

The residential rate is an increase of 6.6%, on average an increase of $3.14 per month the lwest cost residential rate in North Dakota.

After hours re-connects will now cost $100 per hour to the customer.

 

Approved a Resolution increasing sewer utility rates.  City Administrator Schelkoph said, the residential rate is to increase by 24%, or $6.28 per month per residence.  The first increase in over two years.

An amended Resolution, approved was to cut the construction fee to $2 and thus the rate increase will be 12.65%

 

Approved a Resolution providing that the Police Chief shall be appointed by the Board of City Commission. City Administrator Schelkoph read the language in the Ordinance providing for the hire, and possible termination, or suspension, and appointment an interim Police Chief.  It also established duties of the Police Chief and term of office.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Commissioners considered participation in the Red River Valley Supply Project and pipeline.

City Administrator Schelkoph recommends a participation rate of 1.5 cfs of water, at an initial cost of $21,000.

The city is not committed to a long-term involvement.  He said the project is completely separate from the Garrison Diversion Project.

The City Commission voted to participate in the project.

 

 

The City Commission then approved the Amendment between the ND State Water Commission and the City for Cost share participation for Phase II Flood Control Master Plan and Preliminary Design Engineering.

This is an amendment to the original plan.

 

 

Considered next was the Amendment between the ND State Water Commission and the City for Cost share participation for Permanent Flood Protection Property Acquisition Project…the Phase III buyout program.

 

 

The City Commission then Approve Attachment A, the Financial Agreement for the 2017 Blue Savers 100 Healthcare Insurance.   Finance Director Avis  Richter said, the attachment allows Blue Cross Blue Shield to change the present contract.  Employees will meet with city officials later this week for explanations to the plan.

 

City Commissioners then considered appointing an appraiser for Phase III Permanent Flood Protection buyouts.  City Administrator Schelkoph recommends the appointment of Broadway Appraisers, and accept their bid of $625 per property, and was approved by City Commissioners.

 

The 2016 Tree Report was received from the City Forester Willis Wagar. He said that 85 tree were identified with Dutch Elm Disease and marked for removal.

 

CITY ADMINISTRATORS REPORT:

David Schelkoph said the city will meet with the State Water Commission on cost sharing.

He pointed out the street closures and detours, as street projects start to wind down starting next week.

 

 

CITY UPDATE & COMMISSION REPORTS:

Avis Richter thanked election workers for their help in the recent Mayoral Election, noting the vote canvass will take place starting at 9-a.m. on Wednesday.

 

Building and Fire Inspector Dave Andersen said, Valley City’s building permits issued so far this year has exceeded the total of 2015’s $35,850,000, presently at $35,945,774. He added there may be an additional two permits issued yet this year.  He reminded residents about the purchase of Flood Insurance, and the map that rates levels of risk and policy costs.  Northeast sidewalk replacements are being determined. Northwest sidewalks have been replaced.

 

City Fire Chief Gary Retterath said another smoke alarm distribution is to be made in Valley City.

 

Police Chief Thompson said a new officer is headed to the academy and then sworn into office.

The recent spray paint vandalism to the flood wall, cost $3,300 to remove.

He asks anyone with information is asked to call Valley City Police.

 

President Pedersen thanked city officials for their support in the time he served as Interim Mayor and congratulated

In-coming Mayor Dave Carlsrud on his election.

 

The meeting was shown live on CSi 68 followed by replays.

 

Valley City  (CSi- VCSU)  Valley City State University has set an enrollment record with a headcount of 1,452 students for Fall 2016, surpassing the previous high mark of 1,422 set in Fall 2015.

VCSU’s Fall 2016 graduate enrollment headcount of 157 ties the record set in Fall 2011.

VCSU President Tisa Mason says “We’re proud to see our numbers increase. More and more students are choosing to pursue a VCSU education because they recognize the quality of our academic offerings and the value we provide for their investment. I commend our faculty and staff for the work they do to make us a top choice for students and their families.”

Part of VCSU’s growth is due to increases in its first-to-second-year retention rate each of the last four years. In addition, a Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) degree program has been added to the VCSU graduate offerings to complement a Master’s in Education degree program.

The university has also begun offering three-year bachelor’s degree programs in business administration, elementary education, English education, mathematics education and professional communication. To help keep college affordable, VCSU faculty are increasingly using free OER (Open Educational Resources) in place of textbooks in many of their courses.

VCSU was recently named the No. 1 Public Regional College in the Midwest by U.S. News and World Report for the second consecutive year and the fourth time in the last six years. The university has been recognized as a U.S. News “Best College” for 19 consecutive years.

Jamestown  (CSi)  Freedom Resource Center for Independent Living in Jamestown is offering informational meetings on voters rights, including rights for those with disabilities.

The dates are, October 27, 2016, and November 3rd, to be held at the James River Senior and Community Center, at 419  5th Street Northeast. Jamestown.

To register call Beth Dewald at 701-252-4693.

Presented by the Stutsman County Auditor’s Office, the session topics will include:

Reviewing the current ballot

Learn what each measure means

Adaptations for people with disabilities

What is needed to show a valid current ID

 

Washington  (CSi)   Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, has announced that the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has awarded a grant of $779,400 to the Jamestown Regional Airport Authority, as well as a total of $3,678,033 in funding to the City of Williston and Bismarck Municipal Airport. Today’s funds come in addition to more than $37.4 million in funding for the Williston and Bismarck airports that Hoeven announced last week. The total award amounts for the three airports are as follows:

 

  • Jamestown Airport – $779,400 – The funds will be used to mitigate the risk of wildlife collisions as identified by a wildlife hazard assessment.
  • Williston Airport – $1,556,670 in funding today – Combined with last week’s $26 million grant, total airport funding is $27,556,670. The funds will support the airport’s expansion and relocation project.
  • Bismarck Airport – $2,121,363 in funding today – Combined with last week’s $11.5 million grant, total airport funding is $13,582,856. The funds will be used to replace the airports longest runway, 13/31, which has reached the end of its useful life.

 

Hoeven says, “North Dakota’s airports are a critical component of the economic health of our communities. Today’s grant for the airport in Jamestown will help keep pilots and passengers safe by protecting aircraft from birds. The funds for the Williston airport will provide additional support for the monumental relocation project they are working on. The Bismarck airport’s main runway needs to be replaced, and today’s funds will help ensure that effort can be completed as quickly as possible.”

 

MINOT, N.D. (AP) — A civil jury trial is scheduled to begin Tuesday in the case of a woman who sued Target Corp. and the Dakota Square Mall in Minot after she fell on ice and broke her wrist four years ago.

The Minot Daily News reports that Teri Nelson is asking for at least $75,000 in damages. She says Target and the mall had a duty to remove the compacted ice in front of the store, where she fell on Dec. 23, 2012.

Nelson at the time worked as a hospice nurse. In court documents, she claims that she has suffered economic damages by having to pay medical bills and medications.

The mall and Target deny Nelson’s claims and say she was negligent.

 

FARGO, N.D. (AP) — A joint task force of North Dakota and federal officials is investigating a clash between Dakota Access pipeline protesters and private security guards this month. The Morton County Sheriff’s Department is heading up the probe of the Sept. 3 incident, after which security guards and protesters reported injuries. The task force includes members of two sheriff’s departments and the state Bureau of Criminal Investigation. The federal Bureau of Indian Affairs is representing Native American tribes.

UNDATED (AP) — Neil Young is joining the protest against the four-state Dakota Access pipeline with his new song, “Indian Givers.” The music video for the song shows clips of Young driving his car and footage of the recent anti-pipeline protests, including a man who chained himself to construction equipment last week. “There’s a battle raging on the sacred land/ Our brothers and sisters have to take a stand,” Young sings.

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Two criminal justice reform bills that the North Dakota Legislature is expected to debate when it convenes in January will include proposals meant to curb the state’s growing prison population. However, the Bismarck Tribune reports, few of the proposals come from recommendations made by researchers who analyzed the issue during the past year. Two committees met Monday to consider provisions suggested by their members and researchers from the Council of State Governments Justice Center.

 

In world and national…

NEW YORK (AP) — Two New Jersey police officers who were wounded in a shootout with the man suspected of setting off bombs in New York and New Jersey have been released from the hospital. Linden police say Officer Angel Padilla went home Monday night, several hours after he was shot in the torso while wearing a bulletproof vest. Linden Officer Pete Hammer, whose head was grazed by a bullet, was released Tuesday.

NEW YORK (AP) — A law enforcement official says the FBI looked into Ahmad Khan Rahami two years ago after his father called with concerns his son was a terrorist, but the father later took back the claim and said he just meant his son was hanging with the wrong crowd. Still, the official says the FBI checked its databases and found nothing connecting the man now suspected in bombings in the New York area to any terror groups. The father contacted the FBI after Rahami was charged with stabbing his brother.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump is again blaming Hillary Clinton for the rise of the Islamic State group, and he’s denying the notion that what he calls his “toughness” may serve as a recruitment tool for the militants. Trump spoke to a crowd in North Carolina. Clinton, on a conference call with national security advisers, says now is not the time for “extreme proposals,” adding “that’s what the terrorists are aiming for.”

BOSTON (AP) — A Rhode Island man charged with conspiring to help the Islamic State group has decided to plead guilty to charges he plotted to kill conservative blogger Pamela Geller. Prosecutors say Nicholas Rovinski planned to behead Gellar after she organized a Prophet Muhammad cartoon contest in 2015. Rovinski’s lawyer says his client is a vulnerable man who fell “into a rabbit hole of extremist ideology” but has since renounced any sympathy for the IS group. A change-of-plea hearing is set for Thursday.

BEIRUT (AP) — Moscow is angrily denying activists’ claims that the Russian or Syrian air force were involved in an overnight attack on a humanitarian convoy. The Russian Foreign Ministry says neither country’s air force conducted any strikes on the U.N. aid convoy on the outskirts of Aleppo. It suggests the allegations could be meant to distract attention from an earlier strike on Syrian army positions by the U.S.-led coalition.