April 25th, 2011 Special Meeting The Glen Elder City Council met in special session on Monday night at 7:00 p.m., April 25th, 2011 with Council President Carl Fitzgerald presiding and council members Ryan Duskie, Larry Wheeler, Sheila Paxson, and Bob Kastrup, a quorum, present. Also in attendance: Barry McPeak, Doug McKinney from North Central Kansas Regional Planning, KDNS Radio representative, and numerous citizens. Also attending was Brenon Odle, Eldon Behymer and Mary Jo Gruwell.
Community Building Ideas & Housing Rehab. Phase II
The Mayor explained the purpose of the meeting as listed on the agenda is to discuss ideas for a community building and the second phase of the Housing Rehab Project. He explained the city can only submit one or the other of the projects to the Housing Authority for consideration. For example, possibly do homes this year and a Community Center next year.
Doug McKinney from North Central Regional Planning discussed the KAN STEP Program. He first addressed the possibility of submitting an application for a community building. Other communities have used this for similar projects, community building/library, community building/fire station, and fire station alone. For this project you must have community involvement, and a group of coordinating people. The application deadline for this year is August 16th. The plans don’t have to be complete at this time, just ideas and ability to show the need for the facility. The steps to KAN STEP include: Realizing a problem exists, Deciding to do something about it, Generating community support, Securing key people to be sparkplugs for the program (their job is to coordinate volunteer help for the project), Developing a Core Committee (possibly containing 1 or more council members), Signing up volunteers (builders, concrete workers, finish workers), Applying for funds and finally, Build the project.
Mr. McKinney explained if your application is accepted, architects work with the community to shore up the plans for the facility and set projected costs. This is a cost share program roughly 60% of the funds would come from the grant to be utilized for materials, and 40% comes from the community in the way of labor, machinery, and possibly land acquired for the site.
Barry asked what the window or time frame for the project would be. Mr. McKinney stated 2 years from the award date to completion of the project. Citizens must fill out forms regarding income. To be awarded the grant the city must meet the requirements for percentage of low to medium income families. A question was asked as to what percentage of our town fell into those requirements the last time. Mr. McKinney stated about 50-60% did. Carl asked if persons living outside the city limits could fill out the forms. Mr. McKinney said this could possibly be done as they may use the building at some point, but the best thing would be to use those living in the city limits. Daryl Stewart asked about the level of competition for funds for the community building when compared to fire stations, etc. Mr. McKinney felt the community building would be given as much consideration as long as the need and community involvement is demonstrated. Of course there is always the chance we could not be awarded the grant which is true of any submission. Carl asked if the land could be considered part of our matching funds. Doug said yes if the land acquisition occurred at the time of the submission and the city has it all ready to go. Finalizing the matter would need to be done after approval of the grant. Carl asked if time city workers spend on the facility could be counted. Mr. McKinney said yes. Larry asked about donated items, such as air conditioners counting. He said it would be a possibility. Ryan asked if there are any cookie-cutter project costs the state might already have that we could see projected costs for the building. Mr. McKinney said not really as projects vary and there aren’t that many of them completed.
The council and community members present continued to discuss possible costs/square footage of a building. It was stressed this would totally depend on what you want to include on the inside, such as kitchen, bathrooms, etc. and what type of finish on the outside.
Mr. McKinney then mentioned there are other programs the city could consider to help with the cost of building a community building, such as the Community Block Grant Program. This is also a matching funds program and would have a November deadline. This program has more applicants submit for it and usually two times more are submitted than are granted, but you can apply for enough to have a contractor complete the project and not rely on volunteers. It is a 50-50 match program. He also mentioned a Rural Development low interest loan. These run 3 1/2%-4% interest and can be spread over 30-40 years. This keeps the payments down but accrues allot of interest over the life of the loan. There are fewer applications for this and you could use contractors to build the facility.
Mr. McKinney then presented information specific to the submission of homes for Phase II of the Housing Rehabilitation Project. This also has a August 31st deadline. The city must select a target area. To pick all the remaining area of Glen Elder in the state’s mind would show less of an impact. The state wants the target area to be about 50-60 homes. With a large target area the percentage of homes rehabilitated is lower because there are more houses. After the area is selected the state comes out and walks through the target area. The city has to have a group meeting for all interested persons and pre-applications must be filled out and signed. Then the state comes back and looks at the homes who have submitted pre-applications. Carl asked if weatherization process goes along with it. Doug said yes, they are concerned with insulation and furnace needs. The council continued to discuss income level for households to be accepted and possible target areas with no decision being made.
Land Swap
Mr. Art Duerksen discussed the proposed plan for land swap with the City of Glen Elder. He supplied a drawing of the proposed new office area and truck route within the Farmway facility that would utilize the land swapped with the city.
Barry stated he had observed Farmway building boxes around the fans in Beloit to control the noise. Art said yes, they had tried mufflers to lessen the noise, but they were not successful. They are actually constructing buildings around the fans to limit the noise. They have done this in Lincoln already with success. The council asked what the roads would be surfaced with around the office. Art said at first they will be gravel. This will have to be used for a while to pack the ground down sufficiently. They would look at asphalt or some other surface after that time. Regarding the land swap involving the zoo and Norris building, Carl mentioned the Mitchell County Museum wants some of the limestone taken from the Norris building to develop a Glen Elder memorial project. There was discussion among council members and community members about whether to keep the zoo or not. It was suggested to bring it up to a vote of the city whether to keep the zoo. Art stated he felt we should break the land swap into two separate situations. The land from the Glen Elder Drive In and the land where the Farmway temporary office is now agreement could be finished so the building that is already in could be erected. The council liked this idea. Mr. Odle said he felt it would be better to separate them into two proposals.
Mr. Duerksen stated he knows we have to make this whole situation into a win-win for both Farmway and the City of Glen Elder. He feels there is a need in Glen Elder for a community building for the Legion, Lions Club, graduations and weddings. He feels Farmway should help in funding this. He stated this proposal for the city: For every bushel taken into Farmway each year they will donate ¼ cent/bushel to the city. This could be as much as $50,000 a year on years that they bring in 20,000,000 bushels. It could be less some years and more on others, but would be a yearly commitment.
Barry mentioned the cost to the city for upgrading the electrical facilities to handle Farmway’s needs. Eldon mentioned one option would be to put a new substation close to Farmway’s facility and that cost would possibly be $700,000 range. The second option would be to upgrade the lines from the existing substation with a cost closer to $200,000. Art mentioned the third option would be to have REA serve them. Eldon mentioned this option would mean a large loss of revenue for Glen Elder.
Art was asked about the projected completion time for the silos in respect to the need for increased electricity. He felt they would be ready to be used by next winter but the need for the electricity would be in 2013. Eldon mentioned if we knew which way we want to proceed we could be doing some of the work ourselves to help save costs. He mentioned we could have Jim Koash come to a council meeting to explain options.
Bob mentioned the city could qualify for Revenue Bonds to help pay for this project. They are at 4% interest at this time. An economic development block grant was also mentioned but that is dependant on jobs created.
Mr. Duerksen discussed further that Farmway does not want to be seen as taking advantage of the city. They have to be able to compete in the changing world market. The grain loaded on train cars here is going overseas. He stated the railroad is an advantage for Glen Elder. Times have changed in agriculture. A discussion continued regarding producers also donating in some way to Glen Elder. Carl mentioned he had thought about making a plaque for those who might donate X amount of money for the new Community Building.
With no further questions or discussion, Bob made the motion to adjourn, Ryan seconded the motion and the motion carried with 4 ayes.
(These are unofficial minutes, until approved at the next council meeting.)
Mary Jo Gruwell Assistant Clerk
April 4th, 2011 The Glen Elder City Council met in regular session on Monday night at 7:00 p.m., April 4th, 2011 at the Lakeside Elementary School Gym in Glen Elder, with Council President Carl Fitzgerald presiding and council members Ryan Duskie, Larry Wheeler, and Sheila Paxson, a quorum, present. Also in attendance: KDNS Radio representatives, Beloit Daily Call representative, MCHS Museum representative, numerous citizens, William Kastrup, Brenon Odle, Eldon Behymer, Mary Jo Gruwell, and Jerri Senger.
Minutes & Claims The minutes of the March 7th, 2011 meeting were reviewed. Larry made a motion to approve the minutes, seconded by Sheila. Motion carried with three ayes. The claims on hand for the month of March amounting to $51,086.44 plus the outstanding Mid-Kansas Electric bill were reviewed. Ryan made a motion to approve all claims. Larry seconded the motion. Motion carried with three ayes.
Resignations/Oath of Office Larry made a motion to accept the resignation from Mayor Jeff Holling. Ryan seconded the motion and the vote carried with three ayes. Carl read an explanation of state statute #15-201, concerning filling the vacancy of the mayor and council members in a city of the 3rd class. Carl took the oath of office for the position of Mayor. As new Mayor, Carl recommended that the council appoint William Kastrup to fill his unexpired term as a council member. Ryan made a motion to appoint William Kastrup to fill Carl’s council seat. Sheila seconded the motion and the vote carried with three ayes. Mr. Kastrup took the oath of office and a seat at the council table. Ryan made a motion to accept the resignation from council member Clay Henningsen. Larry seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes. Mayor Fitzgerald stated that since elections are tomorrow, Clay’s seat will remain open until the regular May meeting when the new candidates take office. Larry made a motion to accept the resignation from City Attorney Bruce Berkley. Sheila seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes. Carl stated that Attorney Brenon Odle has consented to become the Glen Elder City Attorney. Sheila made a motion to appoint Brenon Odle as City Attorney. Larry seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes. Mr. Odle took the oath of office and a seat at the council table.
Co-op Building Permits and Land Transfer Mayor Fitzgerald informed everyone present that the lawyers at the League of Kansas Municipalities and our city attorney find that the building permits are legal. City Attorney Brenon Odle explained the building permits can’t be reversed as they are not a contract. He stated you must have a very serious situation to consider rescinding a permit, and a process must be then followed to do so. If the council rescinds a permit after it has been given, they would be liable for all the money spent while utilizing the permit. The League of Kansas Municipalities stated that the permits cannot be voided by the council. Mayor Fitzgerald stated that Farmway Coop withdrew the offer for the land transfer at the last meeting, so it’s not an issue at this time. He mentioned that after the new council is seated following the election, that council can decide if they want to enter into a new legal agreement with Farmway.
Public Comment Mayor Fitzgerald informed those present that each would get two minutes to make comments. He asked that the comments be kept to the topics on the agenda. There was no one that chose to speak.
Contract with Senger Construction LLC Mayor Fitzgerald explained to the public the contract with Senger Construction LLC for the new building was signed without the vote of the council. If the council voids the contract Senger will be stuck with the cost of the building. Ryan made a motion to accept the contract with Senger Construction for the new building. Larry seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes.
ABC Learning Center Mayor Fitzgerald read the First Amendment to the Commercial Lease Agreement with ABC Learning Center. Bob Kastrup made a motion to approve Resolution #11-2 allowing the amendment to the lease agreement with the daycare. Sheila seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes.
Sale of Lot at Kansas and Market The Mayor read Resolution #11-3 selling the south ½ of lot five block fourteen, original town to Kenneth and Roberta Kusler for $1,200.00. Larry made a motion approving the sale of the lot, the signing of the quit claim deed, and passing of Resolution #11-3 as written. Ryan seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes.
CDBG Grant The housing board has a vacant seat due to the resignation of Jeff Holling. Carl asked if any of the council members would volunteer for the position. Ryan made a motion to appoint Carl Fitzgerald to the housing board. Larry seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes. Mayor Fitzgerald informed the public that it was found that the grant still has enough money to do work on one additional home. However, a time extension would be needed from the state to get the job done. Sheila made a motion to send an official request to the state to extend the current grant three months, allowing time for the completion of the additional home. Larry seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes.
Code Report Chris Wagner, Code Enforcement officer, gave a list of properties he is keeping an eye on and will visit with in the next week. He mentioned that he will give these property owners 15 days to clean up their violations.
Pool Manager Mary Jo Gruwell stated that she visited with both girls that applied for the manager position and they would like to share the job. Sheila made a motion to hire Kylie Moore and Shanae Porter as pool managers. Ryan seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes. The Mayor stated that in the past the city has paid for lifeguard training, purchased one suit and one cover-up for each guard. Bob made a motion to pay for training, purchase one suit and cover-up as in the past. Ryan seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes.
Pawnee Lease It was with great regret that Mayor Fitzgerald read the letter from Pawnee Mental Health stating due to a loss in state funding Pawnee would be terminating their lease with the city on May 31, 2011. The letter mentioned they will have all their belongings removed from the building on May 31st.
ATV Permits Bob made a motion to approve the following ATV Permits: #2011-3 for John Cunningham, #2001-4 & 5 for Farmway Co-op, #2011-6, 7, 8, 9 for PPP LLC, and #2011-10 for Art Duerksen. Ryan seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes.
Library Board Sheila made a motion to appoint Casey Coulson to replace Teri Henningsen’s unexpired position as a library board member. Larry seconded the motion, the vote carried with four ayes.
Building Permits Ryan made a motion to approve building permit #11-7, a new fence for Nathan Anderes at 312 N. Hobart, and #11-8 a new fence for Eldon Behymer at 117 N. Mill. Sheila seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes.
Employee Report Eldon asked to extend the application period for summer help. He mentioned that Vincent is planning on coming back again this summer and asked for a .25 cent per hour raise for Vincent. Larry made a motion to extend the application period one more month. Bob seconded the motion and the vote carried four ayes. Ryan made a motion to give Vincent Kresin a .25 cent per hour raise for returning this summer. Larry seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes. Eldon asked for permission to purchase a new John Deere mower from Carrico Implement for $2,499.00. He said that they will not give anything for trade-in on the old mower and he asked to have it put up for sale by sealed bids. Eldon mentioned that he has the money in the equipment reserve fund to make the purchase. Bob made a motion to purchase the new mower and put the old mower up for sealed bids. Larry seconded the motion, vote carried with four ayes.
Clerks Report The Clerk mentioned the thank you notes received from Kay Thompson for the grant work done on her house, and from the ABC Learning Center. The Clerk stated that she transferred $10,000.00 into the swimming pool fund from the electric fund. The Clerk mentioned that the council received copies of the two plumbing repair bills for the daycare last month totaling $516.66. The Clerk informed all present that the employee Blue Cross/Blue Shield health insurance policy came in at a 13.69% increase from last year. It was noted that the policy period begins April 1st each year.
Council Report Sheila said that the community club would like the city to have a community wide clean-up day. Mayor Fitzgerald spoke favorably toward the request and mentioned that the city would need volunteers to help with the project.
With no other business Ryan made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Sheila seconded the motion and with four council members voting aye, the meeting was adjourned at 7:55 p.m.
(These are unofficial minutes, until approved at the next council meeting!) Jerri Senger & Mary Jo Gruwell City Clerk Assistant City Clerk
March 7, 2011 The Glen Elder City Council met in regular session on Monday night at 7:00 p.m., March 7th, 2011 at the American Legion, with Mayor Jeff Holling presiding and council members Carl Fitzgerald, Ryan Duskie, Larry Wheeler, and Sheila Paxson present. Also in attendance: Marla & Greg Snyder, Dan Winkel, Lee Barnett, Chris & Chandra Wagner, Barry McPeak, Jack Marzolf, Art Duerksen, Denise Jackson, Jeff Bechard, Lee & Karen Brinker, Dennis & Glenda Shoemaker, Allen Eilert, John & Tina Senger, Crystal Cunningham, Brent Cunningham, John Cunningham, Nathan Anderes, Adam Vowinckel, Tom Whoolery, three Lakeside High Government Students, numerous other citizens, Bruce Berkley, and Jerri Senger.
Minutes & Claims The minutes of the February 7th, 2011 meeting were reviewed. Carl made a motion to approve the minutes, seconded by Larry. Motion carried with four ayes. The claims on hand for the month of February amounting to $47,584.44 plus the outstanding Mid-Kansas Electric bill were reviewed. Larry made a motion to approve all claims. Ryan seconded the motion. Motion carried with four ayes.
Public Comment Mayor Holling informed those present that each would get two minutes to make comments. He asked that everyone be respectful of those speaking. Marla Snyder expressed concern about the high volume of trucks on Kansas and Hobart Streets. She spoke in favor of a truck route and thanked the council for purchasing the speed bumps. Barry McPeak talked about his concern with the expansion of Farmway Co-op. He questions the cost and the effect it will have on the community of Glen Elder. A letter submitted from Bob Kastrup was read. He spoke in favor of the property trade, and the demolition of outdated buildings. He stated the new structures should help to increase tax and utility revenue for the city. He also addressed the traffic situation and stated he feels the proper approach would be to hire a qualified person to enforce traffic laws. Others in attendance also asked about the lack of law enforcement in Glen Elder, stating they personally observe traffic violations. The council told the group they are interested in sharing law enforcement with Cawker City, but at this time we have not talked with the Cawker City Council about this matter. Attorney Lee Barnett addressed the council and residents in attendance. He stated his concern with the legality of the land transactions between the City of Glen Elder and Farmway Co-op. He stated concern regarding home and property values being negatively affected. Art Duerksen, CEO of Farmway Co-op talked about Kansas being an agriculture state, and Farmway is there for the producers. He explained with a large grain loading facility they can pass on higher prices to the producers for their crops. Denise Jackson, Housing Manager stated her concern about the moving of the zoo and the demolition of the Norris building. She asked how the housing units would be protected from the increased dust and truck noise. Jeff Bechard, Ag Mark, stated Glen Elder was selected for the loading center mainly because of the railroad. He also spoke regarding the truck traffic.
Executive Session At 7:50 p.m. Carl, acting mayor, moved that the city council - Carl, Ryan, Larry, Sheila, and city attorney go into executive session for ten minutes, pursuant to the attorney client privilege. Ryan seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes. At 8:00 p.m. Carl reopened the regular meeting with no decisions being made in executive session. Ryan moved to have a city wide vote on the exchange of land with Farmway Co-op as soon as possible. Larry seconded the motion, and the vote carried with four ayes. Art Duerksen stated that Farmway Co-op withdraws their offer to exchange land. Marla Snyder expressed concern for a truck route. Chandra Wagner expressed concern for an environmental study. Carl informed those present that without the land exchange the city is now out $89,288.00 in a new building and new zoo that has already been ordered. John Senger, Senger Construction, stated that the proposals have been signed. Part of the fence for the new zoo is already here and the building is on its way. He mentioned that those things can not be returned. He expressed his concern for his business. Tom Whoolery stated that he has worked on the old Norris building and the roof is the only thing of value in it. Ryan made a motion not to proceed with a city vote due to the withdrawal from Farmway Co-op on the land exchange. Larry seconded the vote and it carried with four ayes. Dennis Shoemaker asked about the route study possibilities. Carl addressed the question, stating that Schwab-Eaton is researching several different options. There was more discussion on the land exchange. Carl stated that the truck route will be discussed later after receiving some information from Schwab-Eaton.
The council took a five minute break in the meeting, so they could proceed with the rest of the agenda.
ABC Learning Center Crystal Cunningham stated that their board had met with the council in a work session a couple weeks ago and wanted to know what the council had decided about their requests. The city paying for all utilities and doing all the maintenance was discussed. There was some discussion on how the city would do payroll for the center and how much it would cost for the clerk to do their payroll. Ryan made a motion to pay accountant Brenda Tietjens for the daycare payroll expenses. Sheila seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes. A contract amendment which will include paying all the utilities, the maintenance, and the insurance will be reviewed by the council next month. Larry made a motion to pay the city utilities for the daycare this month. Carl seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes.
Code Report Chris Wagner, Code Enforcement officer, didn’t have anything new to report. He mentioned that he is keeping an eye on a couple properties.
Pool Manager Mayor Holling stated that Mary Jo Gruwell and Sarah Miller had turned in a resignation as pool managers. Carl made a motion to accept the resignations of Mary and Sarah. Ryan seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes. The council has two applications for the manager position. They would like to conduct interviews. Ryan made a motion to have Jeff contact the applicants and set up interviews with both applicants. Carl seconded the motion and it carried with four ayes.
Lot at Kansas & Market Ken Kusler has offered to purchase the city lot located next to his building at the corner of Kansas and Market streets. His offer stated that he would give $1,200.00 for the lot and he would use it for a yard. Carl made a motion to accept the offer for $1,200.00 for the lot at Kansas and Market. Larry seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes. Bruce will draft a deed for next month.
Building Permits Sheila made a motion to approve building permit #11-4, a new garage for Eldon Behymer. Larry seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes.
Clerks Report The Clerk asked the council about the donations to Lakeside After Prom and Beloit’s Project Graduation, she stated that $100.00 has been given to each in the past. Carl made a motion to give $100.00 to each Lakeside and Beloit. Ryan seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes. The Clerk informed the council about the reimbursement request from Sandy Webster. A disconnect order was taken for the electricity in November and it didn’t get turned off, resulting in an unusually high gas utility bill for the Webster’s. The reimbursement request is for $308.84. The council agreed that it should be paid since it was an oversight on the city’s behalf. The Clerk asked the council to replace Luke Thompson on the KMEA board of directors and informed them that her term would expire next month. Larry made a motion to appoint Eldon to replace Luke and renew Jerri’s appointment to the KMEA board. Carl seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes.
Council Report Jeff informed those present that the council will be meeting with John Cashett about the potential truck routes. There was concern from residents on receiving the agenda before meetings. The council asked the clerk to post the agenda on the local cable channel and the website. There was a brief discussion on the possibility of relocating the zoo and its future location. Adam Vowinckel and Nathan Anderes asked if the city implements a new truck route, how it would affect those parking trucks in front of their homes. There was more discussion on a truck route.
With no other business Carl made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Ryan seconded the motion and with four council members voting aye, the meeting was adjourned at 9:12 p.m.
(These are unofficial minutes, until approved at the next council meeting!) Jerri Senger City Clerk
February 7, 2011 The Glen Elder City Council met in regular session on Monday night at 7:00 p.m., February 7th, 2011, with Mayor Jeff Holling presiding and council members Carl Fitzgerald, Ryan Duskie, Larry Wheeler, Clay Henningsen, and Sheila Paxson present. Also in attendance: Karen Pahls, Tracy Anderes, Crystal Cunningham, Jim & Jan Slate, Doug McBlair, Kevin & Kenneth Noller, Mike Riley, Delicia Zimmer, Creighton & Shauna Remus, Bill Eberle, Newt Eberle, Jerry Clark, Bruce Berkley, Chris & Chandra Wagner, Eldon Behymer, and Jerri Senger.
Minutes & Claims The minutes of the January 3rd, 2011 meeting were reviewed. Carl made a motion to approve the minutes, seconded by Sheila. Motion carried. The claims on hand for the month of January amounting to $49,444.74 plus the outstanding Mid-Kansas Electric bill were reviewed. The mayor informed the council that a 10% down payment was made on the new building and zoo. Larry made a motion to approve all claims. Clay seconded the motion. Motion carried with four ayes.
ABC Learning Center Crystal Cunningham addressed the council. She stated that they are now a group home; however they need to get back to a licensed childcare center. She said a group home is limited to just twelve kids and they need to have that increased back to 23 kids. She said that their kid count is up and in fact they have a waiting list. She said they do not have a director at this time and they lost the state food program which reimbursed the center approximately $400 to $500 per month. She asked the council if the city would help with utilities, maintenance, doing their payroll, or even hire a director be a city employee with benefits. Crystal introduced Karen Pahls from the Early Learning Center in Beloit. Karen informed the council that the City of Beloit and the Beloit School District helps their daycare. She said that their employees are employees of the school district. They do pay the city a monthly set payment, instead of utilities, and they are in city buildings. Chandra Wagner asked the council to support the daycare and mentioned that it is as important as having a city pool. Chandra asked the city to get grants for the daycare. The council decided to have a work session with the daycare board on Monday, February 21st at 7:00 pm. They asked the daycare to have a list of needs.
American Legion/Lions Club Request Jim Slate informed the council that the Legion and Lions groups would like to see a new community building put up on the south side of the square. He stated that something similar to the building in Jewell would be nice. He mentioned that due to the current condition and problems with the Legion building, it could be torn down. Doug McBlair suggested that if we added information about including a daycare in the new building it might help to get a grant to build it. It was mentioned that a building approximately 25’x 50’ would be needed. Several events were listed that could be held in such a building. Newt Eberle expressed his concerns.
Truck Route Study The Mayor informed the council that he received two quotes from engineers to conduct a truck route study for the city. Schwab-Eaton in Beloit will present three route possibilities and will give the pros and cons of each, for $1,000.00. Wilson & Company in Salina will do a very in-depth, very involved study on route possibilities for $16,000.00. There was some discussion on the topic. Carl made a motion to hire Schwab-Eaton to conduct the truck route study. Ryan seconded the motion and the vote carried with five ayes.
Housing Grant The council discussed new target area possibilities. Jeff will talk to Carol Torkelson about possible areas. Pre-applications will be mailed out to residents. It was noted that in the past, the area with the most completed pre-applications is selected for the target areas. The council asked the clerk to put an ad on the local cable channel concerning the importance of the pre-applications.
Code Report Chris Wagner, Code Enforcement officer, didn’t have anything new to report. He mentioned once the weather warms up things will get busy again.
Land Contract The Mayor informed the council that he has received a contract from Farmway Coop for the exchange of real estate and payment of $89,288.00 to the city for the new building and zoo. The attorney mentioned that the contract reads just like the verbal agreement that was made a couple meetings ago between the city and Farmway. There was some discussion on the vacation of the alley in block six. It was noted that the city will need to keep easements to the utilities in that alley. It was also mentioned that in the future, the council needs to be sure not to approve putting up any structures over the utilities in said alley. Larry made a motion to give permission to Mayor Holling to sign the real estate exchange contract. Carl seconded the motion and the vote carried with five ayes.
Playground Material Grant Mayor Holling informed the council that the grant for the playground material was written, ready to be signed and sent off. However, it was discovered that the area where our new zoo would be located didn’t qualify due to its previous use.
Housing Board Clay made a motion to re-appoint Crystal Cunningham for a one-year term, Rick Gruwell for a two-year term, and Dan Geist to a four-year term on the Glen Elder Housing Board. Sheila seconded the motion and the vote carried with five ayes.
Building Permits There was a discussion on the building permit application for Farmway Coop. The council would like for a second application to be filled out for the temporary office and scale since it is located across the street. Carl made a motion to approve building permit #11-2 for new grain storage bins, a new dump pit and shed for Farmway Coop and with an additional permit for the temporary office and scale. Sheila seconded the motion and the vote carried with four ayes and Larry voting no. Carl made a motion to approve building permit #11-1, a new car port for Joe Smith. Larry seconded the motion and the vote carried with five ayes.
Employee Report Eldon informed the council that Leland Tice called him and invited him to a meeting in Beloit on March 10th. The meeting will be concerning the bridge north of town on highway 24. Larry, Jeff and Carl said that they would go with Eldon to the meeting. Eldon mentioned that he would like to keep the trucks off of Hobart Street. He said due to water under the street from the hill, it is a weak street and can not take the heavy truck traffic on it. He would like to visit with KDOT about widening the turn from the north onto Felix Trail. Jerry Clark said that he would like to have some of the space in the new building to keep the fire trucks, but would give more thought to the idea. He said that vehicles continue to park in front of the fire station blocking their exit, and it is quite a problem. The council discussed this issue and told the fire chief to get tag numbers and turn in complaints to the clerk and the violators will be taken to municipal court. Eldon informed the council that it would cost an extra $10,000.00 to accommodate the fire trucks in the new storage building.
Clerks Report The Clerk informed the council that the annual pet inoculation clinic has been set for Saturday, March 19th from 1:30 to 3:00 at the Fire Station. The Clerk asked for permission to mail out a library survey with the utility bills to customers. The council okayed this. The council reviewed an email from Neil Rowland, Kansas Municipal Energy Agency, concerning the decrease in the WAPA “B” pool energy for the city. The Mayor asked for 2010 expense and income figures on electricity. There was a brief discussion on sick leave. It is to be accrued and awarded monthly for the previous month worked. Council Report Jeff informed the council that Pawnee Mental Health has contacted him concerning their contract which expires in June 2011. He said that they love the building and want to renew the lease, however due to cut-backs in state funding they can only renew one year at a time.
With no other business Carl made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Ryan seconded the motion and with five council members voting aye, the meeting was adjourned at 9:15 p.m.
(These are unofficial minutes, until approved at the next council meeting!) Jerri Senger City Clerk
January 3, 2011 The Glen Elder City Council met in regular session on Monday night at 7:00 p.m., January 3rd, 2011, with Mayor Jeff Holling presiding and council members Carl Fitzgerald, Ryan Duskie, Larry Wheeler, Clay Henningsen, and Sheila Paxson present. Also in attendance: Kim Gaston, Mark Marzolf, Jerry Clark, Garry Clark, Bruce Berkley, Chris Wagner, Eldon Behymer, and Jerri Senger.
Minutes & Claims The minutes of the December 6, 2010 meeting were reviewed. The council asked the clerk to reword the paragraph concerning the speed bumps. The amended minutes will read, “The council asked Eldon to order two sets of rubber speed bumps.” Carl made a motion to approve the minutes with the amendment, seconded by Sheila. Motion carried. The claims on hand for the month of December amounting to $39,374.70 plus the outstanding Mid-Kansas Electric bill were reviewed. Clay made a motion to approve all claims. Larry seconded the motion. Motion carried with five ayes.
Speed Bumps Kim Gaston addressed the council and said he is concerned about the speed bumps on the east end of town. He asked the council to either remove them or give them another truck route. He stated that the speed bumps tear up their trucks. Jeff informed everyone that he is currently in contact with two engineering firms concerning a new truck route. Mark Marzolf said that the speed bumps have increased traffic on the other streets and simply make everyone mad. There was some discussion as to why Mitchell County Law Enforcement will not write tickets within the city. Kim and Mark both thought there is another way to control the speed of the traffic on the two main streets into town. However no good solution was determined. The Mayor asked each council member what they would like to do with the speed bumps. Eldon presented the council with a quote on new speed “humps”; these would be 24 inches wide and only 1.2 inches tall. Eldon informed the council that the existing bumps are 12 inches wide and 2 ½ inches tall. There was some discussion about relocating the existing bumps to the school zone on Nash Street. Carl made a motion to keep the existing bumps and put them both on Hobart Street and purchase the two new speed humps for Kansas Street. This motion died for lack of second. Larry made a motion to buy the new sets and put them on Kansas and Hobart Streets, and move the existing bumps to the school zone, with discussion from Mr. Green. Clay seconded the motion. The vote carried with four ayes and one opposed from Ryan.
Fire Department Jerry Clark addressed the council and informed them that they can be short handed during the day hours along with area towns. He asked the council for permission to work with area towns on structure fires only. The council liked the idea of small towns helping each other out.
Housing Grant Jeff presented the council with a list of contractor bids on the final five homes. He informed the council of the housing board recommendations. He noted that the council needed to waive the bid irregularities on the Cline house for M&R Building. Clay made a motion to award the contractor bids as suggested by the housing board and waive the bid irregularities. The motion was seconded by Carl and carried with five ayes. It was noted that work on these homes is expected to begin immediately and must be complete by April 15th, as the grant deadline is April 30th. The Mayor said that we should come close to spending all the grant money and this will look good for the City. The Mayor asked the council to think about a new target area to be set at the next council meeting. He said that the next deadline for the grant application is July 1st, 2011.
Code Report Chris Wagner, Code Enforcement officer, reported that he hasn’t received any new complaints.
ATV Permits Ryan made a motion to approve the 2011 ATV Permits #1 for Rodger Williams, and #2 for Darrell Parker. Clay seconded the motion and the vote carried with five ayes.
GAAP Resolution Clay made a motion to approve Resolution #11-1, authorizing the wavier of the requirements of using generally accepted accounting principles for the year ending December 31, 2011. Carl seconded the motion, motion carried.
Ordinance #641 Larry made a motion to approve Ordinance #641 establishing salaries for the full-time employees. Ryan seconded the motion and the vote carried with five ayes.
Employee Report Eldon informed the council that he hasn’t heard if we will be getting the grant on replacing the old tornado siren. He suggested that the council approve to move the location of a new siren closer to the middle of town. He also asked permission to purchase a new small siren for a noon whistle, around $500.00. The council did not wish to purchase a whistle at this time. Eldon expressed his concern about dogs running at large and not being able to catch some of the dogs to put in the pound. The council and attorney instructed the city crew to write complaints on these problem animals. Then the owners will be taken to municipal court.
Council Report Jeff asked the council for several different ideas on possible new truck routes to present to the engineers this week.
With no other business Carl made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Larry seconded the motion and with five council members voting aye, the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
(These are unofficial minutes, until approved at the next council meeting!) Jerri Senger City Clerk
December 6, 2010 The Glen Elder City Council met in regular session on Monday night at 7:00 p.m., December 6th, 2010, with Mayor Jeff Holling presiding and council members Carl Fitzgerald, Ryan Duskie, Larry Wheeler, Clay Henningsen, and Sheila Paxson present. Also in attendance: Art Duerksen, Wes O’Bannon, Rod Barker, Dan Winkel, John Cunningham, Mike Riley, Tom Whoolery, Bruce Berkley, Chris Wagner, Eldon Behymer, and Jerri Senger.
Minutes & Claims The minutes of the November 1, 8, & 11, 2010 meetings were reviewed. Clay made a motion to approve the minutes, seconded by Carl. Motion carried. The claims on hand for the month of November amounting to $56,868.59 plus the outstanding Mid-Kansas Electric bill were reviewed. Larry made a motion to approve all claims. Ryan seconded the motion. Motion carried with five ayes.
Daycare Lease Carl made a motion to approve resolution 10#4. A four year extension on the daycare lease payments of $25.00 per year. Ryan seconded the motion and the vote carried with five ayes. The Clerk will draft a new agreement and resolution to be signed.
Code Report Chris Wagner, Code Enforcement officer, reported that he hasn’t received any new complaints. There was a brief discussion on the Doyle property.
Farmway Coop Farmway Coop representatives Art Duerksen, Wes O’Bannon, and Rod Barker were present and addressed the council on their plans to relocate their office building and scales to the city block where the zoo is currently located. It was mentioned that Coop has already obtained the west half of the block. Rod presented the council with a proposal to trade city owned property for Farmway owned property. He said that the zoo and playground would be moved to where D&S Repair is currently. Rod stated that a new 40’x 100’ building would be put up at the former Tasty Freeze building site and that would be traded for the City’s old Riley garage. Art Duerksen stated that new, larger bins and state-of-the-art dump pits would be put in where the old office is now located. Ryan Duskie asked about their additional long-term goals for expansion. He also asked if they have had an economic study done for the town of Glen Elder in relationship to their expansion plans. Tom Whoolery asked if a survey could be put into utility bills asking the residents how they feel about Farmway’s expansion plans. There was a lot of discussion on the traffic. It is expected that the truck traffic will still come down Kansas Street to the new office and scales. Attorney Bruce Berkley suggested that the city contact an engineer to help determine the best truck route. Art said that Farmway supports a truck route and would finically help with the engineering study. With council permission, Mayor Holling stated that he would contact an engineer. There was some discussion on the dust the elevator creates, not just from the grain but also from the truck traffic. Art informed those present that Glen Elder will be one of their first locations to treat the grain with an edible oil to cut down on the dust. There were a few resident comments asking why Farmway doesn’t financially help with road repairs or improvements. Art mentioned that Farmway tried to pay for an oiler, but that oiler was returned. Basically the streets are the city’s responsibility, but they would support a truck route. Art stated that tonight’s issue is the swapping of land and cleaning up a city block that is a mess. Carl made a motion to accept the relocation proposal for land presented by Farmway. Larry seconded the motion and the vote carried with five ayes. Carl made a motion to immediately begin the steps to conduct a truck route study with Jeff contacting Swab-Eaton in Beloit and Wilson in Salina. Ryan seconded the motion and the vote carried with five ayes.
CDBG Update The Clerk read an email from Carol Torkelson updating the council on the progress of the CDBG housing grant. Eight homes are now complete and work is beginning on the ninth. Lead assessments will be done on the final group of homes and a bid opening will be scheduled soon.
Old Tractor The Mayor opened eight sealed bids on the 1985 545 Ford tractor. Harley Gerdes Auctions was the high bid at $5,100.00 and Martin Blad’s bid came in second at $4,653.00. Clay made a motion to accept the high bid from Harley Gerdes Auctions. Larry seconded the bid and the motion passed with five ayes.
CMB License Larry made a motion to approve the on and off premises cereal malt beverage licenses for Wayne’s Sporting Goods. Ryan seconded the motion and the vote carried with five ayes.
Library Board Appointment Ryan made a motion to appoint Charla Monty to the library board beginning immediately with her term to expire in June of 2012. Larry seconded the motion and the vote carried with five ayes.
Wage Review At 8:35 p.m. Ryan made a motion to go into executive session for ten minutes to discuss non-elected personnel with the mayor, council and attorney present. Larry seconded the motion, motion carried. At 8:45 p.m. with no decisions made in the executive session, Mayor Holling reopened the regular meeting. Carl made a motion to increase Eldon, Jim and Jerri’s wages by .25¢ per hour, leaving all other wages the same. Ryan seconded the motion and the vote carried with five ayes.
Employee Report There was some discussion on the large number of stray cats in town. The current ordinance on running at large was discussed and fining folks that allow their cats to run free was also discussed. The council would prefer residents to have their cats spayed or neutered to keep the population under control. Putting up a camera overlooking the new playground/zoo site was briefly discussed. The new tractor has arrived and the council was invited to look it over after the meeting.
Clerk’s Report The clerk informed the council that in 2011 Ryan, Larry, and Clay’s council terms will expire.
Council Report Larry wants two sets of rubber speed bumps ordered. Eldon said he would get them priced again, the council informed him to go ahead and order them if they are less than $1,200.00. The KDHE waste tire mulch grant for the playground was mentioned. Jeff will contact NCRPC and see if they would help the city apply for the grant.
With no other business Carl made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Larry seconded the motion and with five council members voting aye, the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
(These are unofficial minutes, until approved at the next council meeting!) Jerri Senger City Clerk
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