VCcommissionValley City (CSi) The Valley City Commission met in Regular Session Tuesday evening at City Hall.  All members were present.

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS;

A New House Movers Permit for Victory Home Sales, Inc.

A Parade Application for VC Area Chamber of Commerce on December 5.

A Game of Chance Raffle Permit for VCSU Golf Team and ND Winter Show.

 

Public Forum:  No one spoke.

ORDINANCES :

Approved the first reading of an Ordinance of Animals and Fowl.CityAttorney Myhre said changes in technology and legislative approval regarding animal cruelty have been addressed, noting limits city ordinances have. He pointed out that Sheyenne Valley Friends of Animals added imput.

RESOLUTIONS:

Approved Resolution Accepting Bid and Awarding Contract to Swanberg Construction for Permanent Flood Protection Phase I, and selected alternates, contingent on approval from the State Water Commission.

Approved a Resolution designating depositories and authorizing officers to make deposits and withdrawals.

NEW BUSINESS

Approved fixed CROD Exhibit for WAPPA contract.

Approved a Special Alcohol Beverage Event permit for Bridges Bar & Grill for the Bull Ride at Winter Show on November 21 and 22.

 

 

Approved both, the Classification and Compensation Study Final Report prepared by Fox Lawson & Associates and approved the 2015 proposed increases in salaries. Commissioner Magnuson said the changes have been budgeted for in 2015. Mayor Werkhoven said the process needs to be reviewed every five years, and pointed out that the salaries range mid-point would be $47,000. The vote was unanimous.

Approved a language agreement with Certified Languages International. Police Chief Thompson said an language other than English is sometimes required in questioning individuals by police, and recommends approval.

Approved a Retail Image Enhancement Grant for Barnes County Health for an amount not to exceed $7,500.00, for transforming the former Community Credit building.

Considered approving a Retail Image Enhancement Grant for Lawn Realty, Inc. for an amount not to exceed $5,395.79, in the former Movieland Video location. Commissioners voted to approve.

Approved the purchase of three properties, 439 4th Ave SW, 492 6th St SW, and 651 5th Ave SW, for the flood buyout in the amount of $252,525.00. City Administrator Schelkoph said the purchases completes Phase One of the buyouts, and allows implementation of Phase One permanent flood control plans.

Approved a policy on Utility Service Ownership. City Administrator Schelkoph said there is an inconsistency in the current policy. He asked for a policy be established to allow all utilities to be under the policy concerning property owners responsibilities and costs that may be incurred. The property owners responsibilities include the boulevard.

Considered a Police Officer Hiring Contract that includes paying for academy training for new police hires. Police Chief Thompson said sending the new hires through the academy will aid in having qualified police officers. The Commission tabled a decision until the December 2, 2014 City Commission meeting.

CITY ADMINISTRATORS REPORT :

David Schelkoph said MRES has and 8% rate increase in store of 2015.

A WAPA contract extension is proposed.

The former Armory location now has a pedestrian cross walk.

 

 

CITY UPDATE & COMMISSION REPORTS:

City Assessor Sandy Hansen said the property assessments have been essential completed for 2014.

Fire Chief Retterath reminds residents to be cautious as ice forms on the river.

Commissioner Pedersen thanked voters for approving the ballot issues of permanent flood protection and supporting the wellness center.

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