VCcommValley City (CSi) The Valley City Commission met in Regular Session on Tuesday evening at City Hall.  Commissioner Luke was not present.

Recognition of Eagle Scouts, Mickey Meester, and Lucas Jury.

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS INCLUDED:

A Game of Chance Raffle Permit for American Legion Auxiliary, ND Chapter of Delta Waterfowl, Inc.

Liquor License Renewal for Main Street Off Sale,

Slaughterhouse Renewal License for Valley Meats.

Tree Trimming License Renewal for Belling Tree Service, Ross’ Tree Service and Ground to Sky.

Mobile Home Park Renewal for Viking Drive Estates and Plecity Mobile Home Park.

And all license renewals received before January 1, 2016.

 

PUBLIC FORUM No one spoke

　

ORDINANCES

The City Commission voted 4-0 to approve the second and final reading of an Ordinance an ordinance amending the City Zoning Ordinance Zoning Matrix allowing “assembly from previously prepared or manufactured products, including food, plastic, electronics and metal products including sub-assemblies” in a B-2 District (Highway Business District).

Opposition came from the audience saying more industrial opportunities will arise, citing expansion of Pizza Corner, and pointing to an increase in property taxes.

Commissioner Magnuson said the city intends to limit the effects on residential areas.

He added that any zone changes would require a public hearing.

Valley City/ Barnes County Economic Development Director, Jennifer Feist said the thrust of the Ordinance is to allow assembly in a B-2 zone.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Commissioners reviewed and considered the 2016 Housing Incentive program for City of Valley City.  Commissioners then unanimously approved the program.

Considered placing a moratorium on the Service Retail Image Enhancement Grant funding for 2016. Visitor’s Committee’s George Gaukler said, it’s intended to enhance the historic value of downtownValley City. The City Commission voted to approve the moratorium.

Considered approving property tax exemption for improvements to a residential building. Assessor Hansen explained the location saying improvements will double the value of the structure. She also explained how the program works. City Commissioners voted to approve.

City Commissioners approved a Gaming Site Authorization for the ND Chapter of Delta Waterfowl Inc. at the Eagles Club on February 20, 2016.

The Police Department Third Quarter report review was given by Police Chief Thompson, with stats for the quarter.  He sees no major trends in crime during the time period.

Approved an Urban Roads & Urban Regional project requests for FY 2017-2020, as explained by KLJ concerning planned projects and revisions from the original plans.

Approved a Renaissance Zone application for Fred & Betty Jorissen for a 5 year exemption on property tax not to exceed $250,000 and 5 year exemption on income tax for a new residential purchase, and designate it as VC-88.

Also approved was a Renaissance Zone application for Michael & Debbie Kohler for a 5 year exemption on property tax not to exceed $250,000 and 5 year exemption on income tax for a new residential purchase, and designate it as VC-89.

Both applications were recommended by the Renaissance Zone, Committee.

 

CITY ADMINISTRATOR SCHELKOPH’S REPORT

He said at the January 5th Finance Committee meeting the 2016 budget will be presented.

He added that MRES is planning a rate increase which will be addressed by the city.

 

CITY UPDATE & COMMISSION REPORTS

City Building Inspector, Dave Andersen noted that five house have been demolished.

He reminded residents that snow is required to be removed from sidewalks with 24 hours of a snowfall.

Fire Chief Retterath restated fire safety during the holidays.

Police Chief Thompson said nine applications have been received for an officer position.

He reminded motorists to slow down during slippery driving conditions.

Commissioner Nielson note the Courthouse Carol Sing planned for Tuesday evening was cancelled due to the impending storm.

It was noted that in January a series of public meetings will be held in January, to address permanent flood control.

Mayor Werkhoven reminded residents to remove vehicles to allow efficient snow removal.

He said the city was able to hold the line on taxes, as reflected in the recent property tax statements.

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