CSi Weather…

.TONIGHT…Mostly cloudy. Not as cold. Lows 15 to 20. West winds 5 to 10 mph.

.WEDNESDAY…Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 20s. Northwest winds 5 to 10 mph.

.WEDNESDAY NIGHT…Mostly cloudy. Lows 10 to 15. North winds 5 to 10 mph.

.THURSDAY…Cloudy. Highs in the lower 20s. North winds 5 to 10 mph.

.THURSDAY NIGHT…Cloudy. Lows around 10.

.FRIDAY…Cloudy. Highs in the lower 20s.

.FRIDAY NIGHT…Mostly cloudy. Lows 10 to 15.

.SATURDAY…Mostly sunny. Highs around 30.

.SATURDAY NIGHT…Partly cloudy. Lows in the lower 20s.

.SUNDAY…Mostly sunny. Highs in the mid 30s.

.SUNDAY NIGHT…Partly cloudy. Lows around 20.

.MONDAY…Partly sunny. Highs in the lower 30s.

 

Precipitation across the western half of North Dakota on Wednesday, either rain or snow, depending on surface temperatures, and accumulations should remain light.

Some of the potential daytime precipitation may persist into Wednesday night across central into eastern North Dakota.

A warming trend develops for the end of the week into the weekend as west coast ridging pushes our way.

 

Jamestown  (CSi)   Jamestown Public Works informs motorists that Wednesday, January 22, 2020, traffic will be restricted to one lane south bound along 1st Ave South in the 200 block area due to construction work at 214 1st Ave South. This lane restriction will continue throughout the day.
Motorist should use extreme caution in this area.

Bismarck  (Gov. Burgum’s Office)  – President Donald Trump has approved Gov. Doug Burgum’s request for a presidential major disaster declaration for the impacts of an October storm that dumped heavy rain and snow on a large swath of North Dakota and caused up to $9.7 million in damage to public infrastructure, according to preliminary assessments.

The declaration covers 16 counties: Barnes, Eddy, Foster, Grand Forks, Griggs, Kidder, LaMoure, Logan, Mountrail, Nelson, Sargent, Sheridan, Stutsman, Traill, Walsh and Wells. A copy of Burgum’s Dec. 13 request letter and supplemental materials can be viewed here.

The presidential declaration unlocks public assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help cities, counties and townships pay for the costs of repairing roads and other infrastructure damaged by the October storm and flooding.

Stutsman County Emergency Manager Jerry Bergquist reported that they were in the process of working through the declaration.

Begquist says, “This is very good news, especially for township governments in Stutsman County that experienced more than 3 million dollars in road related damages last fall.  Details of how this declaration will work have not yet been made known to the Emergency Managers yet. It’s very unlikely that any road repair work will occur until after the snow melt.”

“This declaration will provide critical relief to local governments that incurred substantial costs from the historic early October rain and snowstorm,” Burgum said. “We’re deeply grateful to President Trump and FEMA for granting our request and making assistance available as our local jurisdictions continue to recover from an unprecedented wet fall and prepare for potential spring flooding.”

The period from August to October was North Dakota’s wettest in 125 years of recordkeeping, and it came after spring flooding and a severe summer drought.

“The cost of three disasters this year adds to the financial burden of jurisdictions that have depleted their road and emergency fund budgets,” Burgum stated in the request letter. “Local public works and contractor crews have been struggling to keep up with repairs after sites that had been fixed this spring were once again inundated by fall flooding.”

In addition to the public assistance, President Trump also granted Burgum’s request that the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program be implemented on a statewide basis to help communities pay for flood mitigation projects that increase resiliency and reduce costs in the long run.

This is the second presidential disaster declaration granted for North Dakota for events in 2019. President Trump and FEMA granted Burgum’s request for a presidential disaster declaration in June in response to spring flooding in 19 North Dakota counties. In November, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue also approved Burgum’s request for a secretarial disaster designation for 47 of North Dakota’s 53 counties, triggering the federal Emergency Farm Loan Program and Economic Injury Loan Program for farm-related business.

For more information on flood resource and preparedness information, as well as hotlines and resources for those experiencing depression and/or emotional stress during this extremely challenging period for farmers and ranchers, visit www.ndresponse.gov.

 

Valley City  (USB)  Customers of U.S. Bank in Valley City have been notified that the Valley City Branch will be closing its doors on April 16, 2020.

The statement from District Leader, Kathryn Astrup says, “ Customers Banking preferences and behaviors are changing influencing  how and where we operate.”

It adds, that the change will not affect accounts, and there will be no interruption of service.

The statement points out that customers can still manage their money anytime with their convenient online, mobile, and phone access.

A bank representative was fairly certain the ATM will be available after the Valley City Branch closes, and will contact CSiNewsNow.com with a more definitive answer.

A full list of U.S. Bank branches and ATM’s can be found at usbank.com/locations.

For more information contact the call center, at 888.713.9299

 

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

Commissioner, Magnuson, was not present.

PROCLAMATION

Mayor Carlsrud read a Proclamation declaring January 26 – February 1 as Catholic Schools Week.

 

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS:

A Raffle Permit for Sheyenne Valley Friends of Animals, Valley City High School Music Boosters

 

PUBLIC COMMENTS:  No One Spoke

 

RESOLUTION

Commissioners approved Refinancing of 2008 Bonds by Essentia Health.  Ronni Tansey, Chapman & Cutler, LLP joined the meeting by phone.

 

The City Commission approved a Joint Powers Agreement by and among Cass County, cities of Jamestown, Wahpeton, and Valley City, North Dakota for Issuance of Revenue Bonds under Municipal Industrial Development Act.

 

Approved was a Resolution Approving the Issuance of Bonds by Cass County, North Dakota on behalf of Essentia Health and its Affiliates under the Municipal Industrial Development Act.

 

Commissioners approved a Resolution Approving the Replat of Lots 2 Through 17, Walkers Addition. City Attorney Martineck said 10 feet of each lot will now be dedicated for a permanent flood control wall.

 

Approved were Resolutions for 2020 Valley City Public Works utility rate increase. Public Works Accountant Jacobson.

Resolutions included:

Establishing Electric Utility Rates an increase of three percent.

Establishing Water Utility Rates an increase of nine percent.

Establishing Sewer Utility Rates an increase of four percent.

Public Works Department Manger, Gary Jacobson said the last increase was in 2016.

 

Approved were Resolutions for Paving Improvement District No. 120.

 

Approved was a Resolution Creating Paving Improvement District No. 120 (NDDOT Project# UGP-2-999(051), PCN 22280), a mill and overlay project on Central Avenue S

Approved was a Resolution Approving Engineers Report & Directing Preparation of Detailed Plans, Specifications & Estimates of Probable Cost for Paving Improvement District No. 120

Approve Resolutions for Paving Improvement District No. 121.

 

A Resolution Creating Paving Improvement District No. 121 (2020 Seal Coat)

A Resolution Resolution Approving Engineers Report & Directing Preparation of Detailed Plans, Specifications & Estimates of Probable Cost for Paving Improvement District No. 121 (2020 Seal Coat)

 

 

NEW BUSINESS

Approved was a Construction Engineering Contract for 5th Avenue NW Reconstruction Project in an amount not to exceed $339,500.00 (Paving Improvement District No. 118; Sanitary Sewer Improvement District No. 65; Storm Sewer Improvement District No. 53; Watermain Improvement District No. 101.

The project is estimated to start in May this year, or sooner if weather permits. The public will be informed what areas will be worked at, and when.

 

City Commissioners approved the purchase of EZ-Screen 1200XLS in the amount of $45,898.79 for the screening of compost. Public Works Accountant Jacobson recommends approval.

 

The City Commission approved a Gaming Site Authorization for North Dakota Winter Show at the North Dakota Winter Show Event Center. City Auditor Richter said the authorization was standard allowing raffles to be conducted.

 

Approved was the 2020 Employee Policy & Procedure Manual. City Attorney Martineck explained the changes, including sick leave policy, and strengthening  background checks, and conducting random drug testing.

 

CITY UPDATES &COMMISSION REPORTS

City Attorney Martineck said a transition team will be formed in seeking a successor for City Administrator, David Schelkoph.  He said a job posting for the position will be made. He expects a new City Administrator to be in place in 60-90 days.

Dave Andersen reminded residents that it is unlawful to place snow in city streets.  He said piles of snow on street corners will be removed, as soon as crews finish clearing alleys.

Commissioner Powell and Mayor Carlsrud said city crews did a timely job of clearing snow from last weekend’s blizzard, and praised fire and police, and first responders in getting to calls through difficult conditions.

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

 

Valley City  (Chamber)  The Valley City Area Chamber of Commerce reminds members that the Annual Chamber Meeting is coming up Tuesday January 28th. This meeting is an opportunity to have input in the direction of your Chamber and discuss plans for the upcoming year. As part of the meeting, discussion will include current needs of Chamber Member businesses and brainstorm ideas as to how the Chamber can meet those needs within our current abilities. This will also be a great time to network your business.
Those wishing to attend the  meeting is asked to RSVP by Thursday January 23rd.

 

Jamestown  (Chamber)  Members of the chamber Young Professionals of Jamestown and the Chamber Ambassadors recently presented the Business of the Month Award to Premium Property Management, Inc. for their outstanding customer service and continued commitment to the community.

The nomination stated, “Tim Perkins has grown his business from working out of his home to his current location in downtown Jamestown. I have had the privilege of working alongside Tim for three years. He is so kind, thorough and delivers timely and kind customer service. Truly believe that him alongside his business is exactly the type of professionalism that is needed in Jamestown.”

 

The Young Professionals of Jamestown honor businesses that provide superior customer service, exhibit community spirit and provide a positive economic impact to the community.  This award provides recognition throughout the month with a plaque and a recognition banner for the month. Monthly award winners will be considered for the Business of the Year to be awarded at the Chamber’s Annual Banquet in January of 2021.  Business of the Month award nomination forms are available at the Chamber office and online at www.jamestownchamber.com .  Call 701-252-4830 for more information.

 

Jamestown  (CSi)  Prairie Paws Rescue invites the community to support their efforts by attending the “Raise The Woof,” stand-up comedy show, Saturday, February 1, at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Downtown Jamestown.  Doors open a 7-p.m., and the show starts at 8-p.m.  Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 the day of show.  Only 200 tickets are available.

Advance tickets available at Dr. Dawn’s Pet Stop, Country Acres Vet, Southwood Vet, the Knights of Columbus Hall, or any Prairie Paws Rescue volunteer.

Prairie Paws Rescue Co-Founder and Organizer, Kaye John says, proceeds raised go toward costs  for food, spaying/neutering, and other needs. Prairie Paws is non-profit and depends on on donations and volunteers to operate.   Volunteers include, Wells Fargo Bank Team Members, Tractor Supply Team Members, Walmart Associates, and Kiwanis Club members.

Raise the Woof will include raffles and silent auction items.

News this year is the Balloon Pop Game of Chance, where participants buy a dart for a $10 donation, allowing them to throw until they pop a balloon, and keep the prize inside.  Prizes range in value from $2 to $100.

 

Jamestown  (CSi)  The 2020 Polar Pig, Walk The Plank to support the JRMC Hospice program will be on Saturday, February 1, at Stutsman Harley-Davidson in Jamestown.

Don Wegner says, the event will include, a Silent and Live Auction from 10-a.m to 1-p.m.

Registration begins at 10:30-a.m., and Walk The Plank begins at noon.

Sponsors include:  Stutsman Harley-Davidson, the local Harley Owners Group (HOG) Chapter, and ABATE North Dakota.

(NDHP)  North Dakota Highway Patrol Troopers in the Fargo area have responded to over 20 crashes and more than 20 calls for vehicles that slid off the roadway in the metro area since 7AM Tuesday.

No serious injuries have been reported as of 3:00 pm. Roads in the metro area have been icy all day and will continue to be icy Tuesday night and into early Wednesday.Motorists are urged to slow down and drive according to the road conditions. Motorists should also be aware of ‘black ice’, which is a clear coating of ice on the roadway. Bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas are especially prone to black ice; please be extremely cautious in these areas.

Bismarck (BND)   The North Dakota Industrial Commission Tuesday approved a second Bank of North Dakota (BND) loan program to help the state’s farmers and livestock producers cover operating shortfalls and term debt payments, and to restructure existing debt.

The Ag Disaster Relief Loan Program allows up to a 10-year amortization for chattel and up to a 25-year amortization for real estate; both have a 5-year balloon and the first 12 months may be interest-only. The previously approved program, the Livestock Feed Loan Program, assists livestock producers to purchase feed; pay expenses incurred for remote haying, hauling hay or hauling livestock to a feedlot; pay feedlot fees; and cover the cost of harvesting cash crops. Both programs address the needs of farmers and ranchers negatively affected by extreme weather conditions in 2019.

“The effects of extreme weather last year were devastating for our farmers and ranchers. North Dakota producers were challenged by drought, a cool spring, heavy rains in late summer and early frost in November,” the Industrial Commission said in a joint statement. “These Bank of North Dakota programs can help relieve some of the financial stress.”

BND staff held meetings with stakeholders including trade associations, livestock producers, farmers, bankers and state agencies to determine needs before developing the programs.

Agriculture producers may access the program by working with their local lender. More detailed information is available at www.bnd.nd.gov.

(AP)  Iowa regulators have gone beyond their counterparts in North Dakota by requiring owners of the Dakota Access Pipeline to provide expert analysis to back up the company’s claim that doubling the line’s capacity does not increase the potential of a spill. Energy Transfer wants to double the capacity of the pipeline to as much as 1.1 million barrels daily to meet growing demand for oil shipments from North Dakota, and is seeking permission for additional pump stations in the Dakotas, Iowa and Illinois to do it.

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Hundreds of electronic devices aimed at adding speed and security at the voting polls in North Dakota will be distributed to the state’s 53 counties in the coming weeks. The 990 poll books replace the paper process to check in voters that are used in most counties. North Dakota has no voter registration, but maintains a central voter file which is a database of who has voted. The Bismarck Tribune says the state’s six or seven larger counties have been using the poll books already and by February every county will have them. Training sessions on new poll books begin next week for election officials.

 

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — A former intern for the Democratic-NPL Party in North Dakota has been named as its new executive director. The party’s Policy Committee voted unanimously for Michael Taylor. He worked as caucus director for the House and Senate Democratic-NPL caucuses during the 2019 legislative session and also was a legislative assistant to House Minority Leader Josh Boschee. The Bismarck Tribune says Taylor, a native of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, was an intern for the party in 2016 and was later hired as a field organizer and then operations director in 2017. His family has lived in Bismarck since 2015.

In world and national news…

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell abruptly changed his proposed rules for President Donald Trump’s impeachment trial after senators objected. He is now offering three days, rather than two, for opening arguments from each side. Democrats objected strongly to rules proposed by the Republican leader for compressed arguments and a speedy trial. Chief Justice John Roberts gaveled in the session. Democrats warned that the rules package could force midnight sessions that would keep most Americans in the dark. Trump said anew that the whole thing was a hoax, and he said he was sure it would “work out fine.”

 

WASHINGTON (AP) — John Roberts is starting to juggle two jobs as the impeachment trial of President Donald Trump gets underway. Roberts has held the job of chief justice of the Supreme Court for 14 years, but now he’s presiding over Trump’s trial, too. On Tuesday morning, Roberts put on his black robe and oversaw two arguments at the Supreme Court before heading across the street to the Senate. Roberts’ added responsibilities shouldn’t affect the work of the court. That’s because the justices generally conduct their joint business in the mornings, giving him time to preside over oral arguments and lead the justices’ regularly scheduled private conferences before beginning his Senate duties in the afternoon.

 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Hillary Clinton says “nobody likes” her former presidential rival Bernie Sanders, even as the Vermont senator remains among the front-runners in the 2020 Democratic race. In an interviewed posted Tuesday with “The Hollywood Reporter,” Clinton was asked about a comment she makes in an upcoming documentary where she says Sanders was “in Congress for years” but, “Nobody likes him, nobody wants to work with him, he got nothing done.” Clinton replied that the criticism still holds and refused to say she’d endorse him this cycle if he wins the party’s nomination. Sanders campaign said it had no comment. Clinton’s sentiments may only energize Sanders loyalists who believed the Democratic establishment rigged the 2016 primary in her favor.

 

SEATTLE (AP) — The U.S. has its first case of a new virus that was found only last month in China, and health officias say they expect to see more around the world in the coming days. A U.S. resident who recently returned from a trip to central China has been diagnosed with the new virus. Health officials said Tuesday that the man returned to the Seattle area in the middle of last week after traveling to the Wuhan area, where the outbreak began. The man is in his 30s and is in good condition at a hospital in Everett, outside Seattle.

DAVOS, Switzerland (AP) — Greta Thunberg has wasted little time in pushing back against President Donald Trump’s description of climate campaigners as “the perennial prophets of doom.” The Though Trump didn’t call her out directly in his speech at the World Economic Forum in the Swiss resort of Davos, it was clear he was talking about activists like the 17-year-old Swede. She shot to fame a year ago by staging a regular strike at her school, sparking a global movement that recently saw her beat the U.S. president to receive Time Magazine’s award as the 2019 Person of the Year. Thunberg told the Davos crowd that they were “giving up” on fighting climate change.