Category: Minutes

November 9, 2015

 

Those Present:  Matt Argyle, Ada DeClark, Joe DeClark, Glenn Hunter, Clerk Lynette Smith, Doug Thompson, Mayor Bob Van Cleave, DeLoy & Stephanie Kunz, Tim & Jean Neuman, Suzann Stoddard, Cynthia Harrison-Thomas and Shawn Lloyd from Ireland Bank

 

Meeting called to order:  7:00 pm                            Invocation:  Councilmember Ada DeClark

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Joe DeClark that the council accepts the published agenda. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Minutes from the October 6, 2015, regular council meeting were read aloud by Clerk Smith. The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle the council accepts the minutes as read. Councilmember Joe DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried.

 

Cynthia Harrison-Thomas and Shawn Lloyd representing Ireland Bank brought a proposal before the council to make sure our banking needs are being met. They said they are also able to offer municipal loans which include loans for equipment. Clerk Smith recommended that the only fund to be moved at this time would be the water funds which are currently at Wells Fargo Bank. The Mayor and Lynette will discuss it further and get back in touch with Ireland Bank once a decision has been made.

 

Keller Associates emailed a progress report for the wastewater project and the drinking water study. The reported that all of the pay applications have been submitted and paid out so the loan should be ready to move forward with all of the closing documents. Keller’s also recommended that the City apply for a water loan to help pay for the costs of improvements needed following the findings from the study. The City will not be obligated to accept the loan if one is awarded and funds would not be available until July 2016. Councilmember Glenn Hunter made the motion to have Keller’s move ahead with the application for the water loan, free of charge to the City. Councilmember Joe DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council. Keller’s have also recommended that the City apply for another construction grant from LHTAC to improve Stringtown Lane. They would charge the City $500 to prepare the required 13 copies for the grant. The application for the grant is due at the end of November. Councilmember Ada DeClark made the motion for Keller’s to move forward with the LHTAC construction grant application. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council. Lynette also reported that LHTAC has filed the extension from the previous construction grant we were awarded to fix 100 West Street. They have agreed to let us keep the $25,000 left over from that grant to use on Stringtown this coming summer. The extension is good September 2016.

 

Councilmember Matt Argyle has been looking into the need for a police vehicle. Ada is making a trip to Boise in the near future and will stop in at the State Department to see how much they cost and what is available. We need to be planning toward replacing the existing police vehicle in the next budget year.

 

Tim and Jean Neuman came before the council to address the animal complaints that have been made against them. They said they have moved the animals to the back of their property and the two dogs that were the problems are no longer around. They feel they have tried to address all areas of complaints and feel it would be unnecessary for the council to implement any stricter ordinances than are already in place because we do live in a rural area and should try to keep it that way. The Mayor suggested that both parties need to learn to get along and communicate with one another.

 

Councilmember Ada DeClark reported that she is working on getting a committee together for fundraising for new playground equipment in the City Park.

 

Police Report:   Officer John Martinez made 34 total contacts for the month of October.

 

Maintenance Report:  Doug Thompson gave his report for the month of October stating that he sent his letter to the EPA, put together the aerator at the sewer ponds and got some things winterized at the ponds. He will do a walk through at the ponds this week to make sure there isn’t anything that needs attention before the warranty runs out in December. He changed the school flashing lights for daylight savings time, turned water and sewer services off at 4 locations and on at 2. He took water samples for testing to Pocatello and all were returned good. He cleaned up the park leaves and branches and had some help from some community service members. He got the lawn mower put away and is working on getting the snow plow ready for the winter. He was able to get the cemetery all fenced in and mowed and also dug a grave for Dwayne Sorenson. He will continue working on prices for replacing all street signs within the City.

 

Office Report:  There are 8 delinquent water and sewer accounts for the month of October. Lynette also reported that she had to have her internet service worked on again this month and the bench for the Memorial donated by Agrium is available and ready to be picked up in town. Bruce Hillman from A-1 Insulation stopped by the office and gave a bid of $900.00 to insulate the attic of the City Hall. Councilmember Ada DeClark made the motion to accept his bid and get started on the insulation. Councilmember Matt Argyle seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried. Marty Nate has agreed to fill in for Lynette while she is out on maternity leave in January. It was decided to have chili dogs for the Christmas Park celebration this year along with the usual hot chocolate and marshmallows and Santa will make his entrance with the fire truck again this year.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Ada DeClark the council approve checks and vouchers for the month of October 2015 in the amount of $12,392.37 in the general fund,  $8,185.12 in the water fund, $48,862.30 in the sewer fund with all funds totaling $69,439.79. Councilmember Matt Argyle seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Joe DeClark that the council adjourn from the November 2015 council meeting at 8:30 pm. Councilmember Matt Argyle seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

Lynette Smith, City Clerk

October 6, 2015

 

Those Present:  Matt Argyle, Ada DeClark, Joe DeClark, Glenn Hunter, Clerk Lynette Smith, Doug Thompson, Mayor Bob Van Cleave, DeLoy & Stephanie Kunz, Kevin & Riley Wells

 

Meeting called to order:  7:00 pm                            Invocation:  Councilmember Matt Argyle

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle that the council accepts the published agenda. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Minutes from the September 1, 2015, regular council meeting were read aloud by Clerk Smith. The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Glenn Hunter the council accepts the minutes as read. Councilmember Ada DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried.

 

Keller Associates submitted a final progress report for the wastewater project for all councilmembers to review. The project is complete, DEQ approved the final inspection and the aerator has been paid for and is on its way. When the aerator is delivered Doug will have the electrician that worked on the sewer project install the aerator. City Attorney, Adam McKenzie is still working on the loan documents. Keller’s also reported on their progress with the drinking water study and said that they went on a tour with Doug and Joe in September of the water system and performed the fire flow testing. They will continue to work on the data this winter.

 

The LRHIP grant report was due September 30^th, but we have requested for an extension because we still have about $25,000 left from the grant that we would like to use on Stringtown to crack seal this coming summer. Lynette will prepare a letter for the extension and to see if we can get approval to keep until next summer and will report back at the next meeting.

 

The next council meeting date was set for Monday, November 9^th due to conflict with the election held in the City Hall on the regular council meeting date. We do have two councilmembers running for 4-year terms this year and they are Matt Argyle and DeLoy Kunz. The Christmas Park Lighting Ceremony date was also set for Monday, November 30^th. Lynette will prepare flyers to post at the post office and city hall and deliver to the school.

 

Councilmember Joe DeClark reported that he has been in touch with Warren & Irene Sorenson about fixing their driveway that was tour up during the wastewater project along 100 West Street. The City will fix it next summer and he received a rough quote for an 18’x13’ space for about $800.00. He also reported on his research that he did to help The Kunz’s with their issues with their neighbors’ animals. He said it was difficult to require proof of shots being given to their dogs because it’s not required that they are given by a veterinarian and that it is hard to verify when people give their own shots.

 

Police Report:   Officer John Martinez made 18 total contacts for the month of September.

 

Maintenance Report:  Doug Thompson gave his report for the month of September stating that he is going to work on ordering signs for the City with the sign grant that we were awarded earlier this year in the amount of $22,000. The grant needs to be completed before September 30, 2016 and they must be reflective. For the sewer department he accompanied DEQ for their final inspection of the wastewater project and everything was approved and he also sent his letter to the EPA. He sent water samples to the lab in Pocatello to be tested and went on the tour with Keller Associates of the water system for the drinking water system grant and fire hydrant flow testing. He mowed the park and fixed the tire on the lawnmower and put out the memorial bench on the wagon wheel of the veteran’s memorial. The other bench donated by Agrium has been ordered and will be installed on the veteran’s memorial when it gets finished. He installed the door at the city shop, mowed along Stringtown, worked on the school flashing lights and put the playground equipment together and installed at the Georgetown Elementary School. He ordered tires for the city truck and got the seat refinished on the plow. He would like to put a fence around the front of the cemetery to keep it fully enclosed. Councilmember Ada DeClark made the motion for Doug to spend up to $5,000 to fence off the cemetery. Councilmember Matt Argyle seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried.

 

Office Report:  There are 14 delinquent water and sewer accounts for the month of September. The Country Corner is reopening around the 15^th of this month. The council reviewed an earlier decision that as long as Juanita was operating the store and living in the trailer house, the City would only charge her for one hookup. Since she is still operating the store but no longer living in the house, the Council entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle to charge water and sewer services to both the store and the trailer house. Councilmember Joe DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried. Lynette will prepare a letter to inform Juanita about the decision.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Joe DeClark the council approve checks and vouchers for the month of September 2015 in the amount of $34,489.96 in the general fund,  $6,587.31 in the water fund, $28,294.34 in the sewer fund with all funds totaling $69,371.61. Councilmember Ada DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle that the council adjourn from the October 2015 council meeting at 8:30 pm. Councilmember Joe DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

Lynette Smith, City Clerk

September 1, 2015

 

Those Present: Matt Argyle, Joe DeClark, Glenn Hunter, Clerk Lynette Smith, Doug Thompson, Mayor Bob Van Cleave, Mable Whitmore, DeLoy & Stephanie Kunz, Adam McKenzie City Attorney

 

Meeting called to order: 7:00 pm                            Invocation: Councilmember Joe DeClark

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle that the council accepts the published agenda. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Minutes from the August 4, 2015, regular council meeting were read aloud by Clerk Smith. The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle the council accepts the minutes as read. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried.

 

DeLoy and Stephanie Kunz came before the council to discuss issues with the current Dog Ordinance and would like the council to pursue adopting a Noise Ordinance. They have filed a complaint with the City offices in regards to their neighbors’ dogs and they feel since that complaint that things have gotten worse with the dogs coming onto their property and being noisier. They would like the council to consider adding to the dog ordinance requirements for showing proof of a dog being spayed or neutered and if it is current on its shots when getting their dog licenses. They would also like added the requirement to keep dogs in a fence or kennel and to limit the number of dogs an owner can have within City limits. They would like to see their neighbors move their goats to the back of their yard, especially during breeding season, and their chickens to be fenced on their yard and moved to the back as well. They have researched that other cities have implemented noise ordinances which state that there can be no roosters in City limits.

 

City Attorney, Adam McKenzie was present for the meeting and advised the Council and The Kunz’s that the City can limit the number of animals and the kind of animals that are allowed within City limits. He said that he would work on amending the dog ordinance with implementing stronger penalties for violators and Councilmember Glenn Hunter will work on preparing a noise ordinance and will speak to other neighbors nearby to hear their concerns. Adam also advised the council on the need for an Ordinance requiring home owners to have an address sign placed in the City right of way. He stated that it if they are placed in the City right of way then there is not really a need for an Ordinance, but we can use an Ordinance to explain what they are for and then be able to enforce it with Idaho Statutes and that removal will result in an infraction of up to a $300 fine. He will continue working on that for the City and will also work on the Bond Papers to finish out our Wastewater Loan with DEQ.

 

Keller Associates submitted a progress report for the wastewater project for all councilmembers to review. DEQ will be coming on September 2^nd for final inspection of the wastewater project. There is $10,425.00 left in the budget on the loan and one aerator will cost $10,150.00. Councilmember Joe DeClark made the motion to purchase one aerator at the cost of $10,150.00 with the loan money. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Joe DeClark for the council to move into Public Hearing for the purpose of reopening the budget for Fiscal Year 2014-2015 to accept the Local Rural Highway Investment Program Grant of $100,000.00. Councilmember Matt Argyle seconded the motion and a roll call vote was taken and is as follows: Matt – yes, Joe – yes, Glenn – Yes. The floor was then opened for public comment either verbally or by written notice. The office did not receive any written comment about the proposed budget and no one came forth to offer their opinion about the budget. The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle for the council to close the public hearing and move back into the regular meeting. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion and a roll call vote was taken and is as follows: Matt – yes, Joe – yes, Glenn – yes. The council entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle for the council to accept the $100,000.00 grant from the Local Rural Highway Investment Program to fix up the roads in Georgetown. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Joe DeClark for the council to move into Public Hearing for the purpose of accepting the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2015-2016 under the direction of City Auditor, Gary Teuscher. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion and a roll call vote was taken and is as follows: Matt – yes, Joe – yes, Glenn – yes. The floor was then opened for public comment either verbally or by written notice. The office did not receive any written comment about the proposed budget and no one came forth to offer their opinion about the budget. The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Glenn Hunter for the council to close the public hearing and move back into the regular meeting. Councilmember Joe DeClark seconded the motion and a roll call vote was taken and is as follows: Matt – yes, Joe – yes, Glenn – yes. The council entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle for the council to accept the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2015-2016. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

The appropriations ordinance listed as Ordinance #88, for Fiscal Year 2015-2016, was read in its entirety by Clerk Smith. The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Glenn Hunter to accept the new ordinance. Councilmember Joe DeClark seconded the motion and a roll call vote was taken and is as follows: Matt – yes, Joe – yes, Glenn – yes.

 

Police Report:   Officer John Martinez made 20 total contacts for the month of August.

 

Maintenance Report:  Doug Thompson gave his report for the month of August stating that he cleaned up the ponds for final inspection and drained the lower pond. He turned water on and off at a couple locations and his water samples were all tested ok. He met with the US Geological worker where he took samples at the spring. He ordered parts for the fire hydrant. He watered the parks and placed mill grind on Mario Johnson’s road. He also placed road patch on Stringtown and has ordered tires for the winter on the truck and a door and windows for the city shop.

 

Office Report:  There are 19 delinquent water and sewer accounts for the month of August. Lynette also reported that she got a letter back from the Idaho Transportation Department in response to the letter she sent about waiving the costs for the water lines to be moved and their wishes were granted. The cost to move the lines will be waived and the State will take care of the moving of the lines and the costs associated.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle the council approve checks and vouchers for the month of August 2015 in the amount of $60,344.57 in the general fund, $22,846.89 in the water fund, $6,737.92 in the sewer fund with all funds totaling $89,929.38. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle that the council adjourn from the September 2015 council meeting at 8:50 pm. Councilmember Joe DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

Lynette Smith, City Clerk

August 4, 2015

 

Those Present: Matt Argyle, Ada DeClark, Joe DeClark, Glenn Hunter, Clerk Lynette Smith, Doug Thompson, Mayor Bob Van Cleave, Mable Whitmore, Marty Nate, Kaleb Smith for Boy Scouts, James Teuscher and Gary Teuscher, CPA

 

Meeting called to order: 7:00 pm                            Invocation: Councilmember Matt Argyle

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Joe DeClark that the council accepts the published agenda. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Minutes from the July 7, 2015, regular council meeting were read aloud by Clerk Smith. The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Joe DeClark the council accepts the minutes as read. Councilmember Ada DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried.

 

Keller Associates submitted a progress report for the wastewater project for all councilmembers to review. Construction has been completed and the project should be completely finished up by the end of this week. The Certificate of Substantial Completion was signed by the Mayor. The 1-year warranty on the project will be in effect until December 1, 2015 and for the slide gates until July 29, 2016. Final bills to finish out the project and the loan should be submitted to the City from Keller’s very soon.

 

The Veteran’s Memorial will be getting another bench to be just like the Memorial Bench made for Bo Taylor and Trent Sorensen. Agrium donated $700 to the City for this bench and would like to have their logo on it. Doug will get in touch with the people to come pour and lay the concrete for the benches to be put on in a circle around the memorial. Marty is going to speak to Simplot in September and see if they would be willing to donate money for a third bench as well.

 

Clerk Smith reported what she heard back from Greydon Wright with the Idaho Transportation Department on the Georgetown Creek Bridge Replacement that will happen in 2016 or 2017. The State has requested for the water lines to be moved 14 feet deeper and the cost will be approximately $6,000.00. Lynette has prepared and sent a letter to Ed Bala the District Engineer for the project requesting for the State to pay for the expenses to move the pipe. She will report back when she hears a response from them. There is another future project in store for the highway through Georgetown to lay new asphalt and that will take place around 2019.

 

Lynette has followed up with LHTAC to find out when the $100,000.00 grant will be disbursed. She was informed that the money should be coming on August 7^th. Most all of the bills have come in from the project, we are just waiting on a couple more to come in. All of the roads in the City were able to be chip sealed with the exception of about 4 streets. There should also be enough money to try and fix the 13’x18’ driveway for the Sorensen’s that was tour up during the sewer project along 100 West Street. At the completion of the project, the City will need to fill out a Project Document Summary report about the project and money used and will also need to submit before and after pictures of the roads. Lynette will prepare the report and Councilmember Joe DeClark has already taken care of the pictures.

 

Marty Nate came to report to the council about the Twin Creek Days celebration. Things went very well and Marty felt like it was one of the best we’ve had yet. The committee has decided that they will keep the celebration on the second Saturday of July each year. Marty was also able to come in under budget after all revenues have been deposited and expenses have been paid. The council also expressed how much they all enjoyed the entertainment this year with Jared Rogerson and recommended to have him back again soon.

 

The council then engaged in the budget workshop with City Auditor and CPA, Gary H. Teuscher for Fiscal Year 2015-2016. Councilmember Ada DeClark made the motion to give each City employee – Doug Thompson, Lynette Smith and John Martinez a 3% wage increase. Councilmember Matt Argyle seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried. The budget hearing for the new fiscal year will be held at the next council meeting in September to approve these numbers from the workshop.

 

Councilmember Matt Argyle will contact Bruce Hillman to come and do an estimate at the City Hall for insulating the building and will get bids to replace the windows on the building as well.

 

Police Report:   Officer John Martinez made 28 total contacts for the month of July. The County Sheriff’s Department has also implemented a new program with Subway cards to give away to kids that they notice are being safe on their bikes with wearing the proper gear and helmets. He would like to try and get this program here in our City as well. Lynette was able to get a hold of the company and they are going to send us some cards worth $6.50 each as soon as they can.

 

Maintenance Report:  Doug Thompson gave his report for the month of July stating that he was able to remove the trees along Stringtown that were becoming an issue. He turned off water services at one location and went to Preston for a water class and did his testing for the month. He helped set up and clean up for the Twin Creek Days celebration. He sent his EPA letter for the month and has been helping Keller Associates and Taylor Construction to get finished up on the sewer project. He has tried his test pump again and it still isn’t working like it is supposed to so he will be sending it back to get the next bigger size so he can complete his sewer testing each month.

 

Office Report:  There are 22 delinquent water and sewer accounts for the month of July. Lynette also reported that the bids from the equipment offered at Twin Creek Days were awarded to Doug Thompson and Tiffany Argyle. She also reminded councilmembers of the upcoming election and notified them of the candidate filing periods which are Monday, August 24^th through Friday, September 4^th.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Ada DeClark the council approve checks and vouchers for the month of July 2015 in the amount of $11,495.66 in the general fund, $5,836.13 in the water fund, $51,320.50 in the sewer fund with all funds totaling $68,652.29. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle that the council adjourn from the August 2015 council meeting at 9:45 pm. Councilmember Joe DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

Lynette Smith, City Clerk

July 7, 2015

 

Those Present: Ada DeClark, Joe DeClark, Glenn Hunter, Clerk Lynette Smith, Doug Thompson, Mayor Bob Van Cleave, Mable Whitmore, Marty Nate, Lisa Transtrum and Chris Banks with Bear Lake Soil & Water Conservation District, Kirby Shepherd with Agrium, Greydon Wright with Idaho Transportation Dept, Tony & Chris Price

 

Meeting called to order: 7:00 pm                            Invocation: Council President Joe DeClark

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Joe DeClark that the council accepts the published agenda. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Minutes from the May 5, 2015, regular council meeting were read aloud by Clerk Smith. The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Ada DeClark the council accepts the minutes as read. Councilmember Joe DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried. Minutes from the June 2, 2015, regular council meeting were read. The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Ada DeClark the council accepts the minutes as read. Councilmember Joe DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Lisa Transtrum and Chris Banks with the Bear Lake Soil & Water Conservation District came before the council and gave a presentation on their project that they have completed with the funds received from the City’s wastewater project. The interest from our sewer loan came back to the county instead of going to the state and reduced our interest rate. They would like to set up a tour on September 3^rd for those interested in viewing the water troughs and other things they have done. Lisa will let us know the details as it gets closer.

 

Greydon Wright of the Idaho Transportation Department came to the council to inform them of the construction of the Georgetown Creek Bridge Replacement that will happen in 2016 or 2017. The State would like for the City to move the existing water lines near the bridge to not disturb during construction and has requested for the lines to be moved either deeper in the ground or further to the west. He brought the permit that showed the State giving the City permission to install the lines where they are now, but it also states that they reserve the right to make us move the lines at any time. Mayor Bob asked Greydon to get back to the council on estimated costs of moving the water lines and try to narrow down dates for the construction. Lynette will prepare a letter to the State requesting for them to pay the expense of moving the lines and stating that the City cannot afford to do it.

 

Kirby Shepherd with Agrium came before the council because the company wants them to get out into the public more to help them become more aware of what they actually do. She handed out a power point printout to everyone and explained how Agrium makes fertilizer, seed, etc. to help feed the world. They are trying to get more permits to acquire more ore reserves. They also have reclaimed mine sites to return them to a healthy and natural state for vegetation to begin to grow again and not be eye sores. Agrium supports our communities, schools, and agriculture programs and in turn would like to get their support and public input to the BLM for them to continue to be able to do what they do and acquire the Rasmussen Valley Mine project. Kirby will try to come back during the public input period to remind us, which should be around September.

 

Marty Nate came before the council to discuss the final preparations for Twin Creek Days this Saturday, July 11^th. The City will take care of the luncheon and Ada will get the sandwiches ordered and prepared from Broulim’s and chips from Shane Bateman. Georgetown 1^st Ward will take care of the breakfast and 2^nd Ward will be in charge of the dinner this year. Flyers and schedules of the days’ events have been posted throughout the community. The Grand Marshall of the Parade and Celebration will be the Mable Whitmore Family this year.

 

Lynette has prepared a letter to LHTAC for them to disburse our $100,000.00 grant for the City to finish the road project at 100 West Street. The construction of the street has just begun and Doug will be working side by side with the county to help oversee the project.

 

Councilmember Joe DeClark reported that he helped Doug run the generator up the canyon for 4 hours and got everything cleaned out really good.

 

Mayor Bob reported that Martin Simmons is working on the masonry in the City Park on the drinking fountain, bell and bears. He will be submitting a bill for his time soon.

 

Councilmember Glenn Hunter reported that he has noticed the trees hanging over the streets along Stringtown at the property across from the Waechtler’s. He stated that they need to be cleared out of the right of way to release the City of any liability there. Doug and the councilmembers will take care of that sometime within the next week. He also reported that the pop machine needs a new plug to uphold during storms. The storm that hit yesterday had tripped the power to the machine and a new plug would prevent that. He will get a new one and replace that tomorrow.

 

Police Report:   Officer John Martinez made 23 total contacts for the month of June.

 

Maintenance Report:  Doug Thompson gave his report for the month of June stating that he repaired a water leak, installed Layne DeClark’s water and sewer lines to their new home, he took 6 water samples and all were returned ok. He repaired another leak in the park, cleaned up the cemetery and watered it. He mowed the streets along Stringtown and the County came and helped him to do some road patch and will be back to do the chip seal. He went to Pocatello to learn how to take his samples for new testing, sent his letter to the EPA and reported that the new pump that was purchased for the sewer system for the sample testing has not been working.

 

Office Report:  There are 15 delinquent water and sewer accounts for the month of June. Lynette also reported that she completed and posted the water consumer confidence report in the newspaper and on the website if anyone is interested in viewing that.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Ada DeClark the council approve checks and vouchers for the month of June 2015 in the amount of $14,484.78 in the general fund, $6,824.60 in the water fund, $18,769.80 in the sewer fund with all funds totaling $40,079.18. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Ada DeClark that the council adjourn from the July 2015 council meeting at 9:15 pm. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

Lynette Smith, City Clerk

June 2, 2015

 

Those Present: Matt Argyle, Ada DeClark, Joe DeClark, Doug Thompson, Mayor Bob Van Cleave, Mable Whitmore

 

Meeting called to order: 7:00 pm                            Invocation: Mayor Bob Van Cleave

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle that the council accepts the published agenda. Councilmember Ada DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Minutes from the May 5, 2015, regular council meeting will be read at the next council meeting due to Lynette’s absence at this meeting.

 

Keller Associates emailed a progress report for the council to review regarding the Wastewater Project. Doug would like to use money in the project for some aerators instead of head gates and using the vaults. There are already vaults installed in the ponds for the head gates, but at this point the system is working great and there would need to be some redesigning to install the head gates, so instead Doug has suggested getting some aerators to stay on top of the odor control and the council agreed with him. Keller’s is looking into the possibility of doing this and getting it cleared with DEQ.

 

Lisa Transtrum with the Bear Lake Soil & Water Conservation District will be at the next meeting in July for her presentation.

 

Doug Thompson has been in touch with Greg Skinner at the County Road office and the County will be helping us to fix 100 West Street from our LHTAC Grant before the end of September of this year. We will trade the county materials for their labor in order to fix our streets. We may even have enough materials and money left over from the grant to be able to chip seal a few of our other roads in town as well. Lynette will prepare a letter to LHTAC for them to disburse our $100,000.00 for us to finish this project.

 

Councilmember Matt Argyle reported that he has been putting in the address signs. He has already installed 5 or 6 of them and at least 2 have already disappeared and another wants it relocated. Citizens need to understand that this is for their benefit for delivery personnel, emergency personnel, etc. to be able to find their homes more easily as well as a service from the city. We may have to look into implementing a City Ordinance to make it mandatory for every home to have one.

 

Councilmember Ada DeClark reported that the playground equipment for the elementary school was being installed. She would like to plan towards getting a piece of playground equipment for our city park to place in the mulch.

 

Police Report:   Officer John Martinez made 19 total contacts for the month of May.

 

Maintenance Report:  Doug Thompson gave his report for the month of May stating that he mostly helped Taylor Construction get finished up on the wastewater project. He had to retest the water samples for the month and he needs to meet with the lab technicians in Pocatello to find out exactly how to take his samples for their testing. He was able to get a pump this month to help with his testing for the wastewater. He met with DEQ for the permit handoff meeting. He cleaned up the cemetery removing what was left behind after Memorial Day and also had to clean up a fallen tree. He suggested putting up for silent bid some extra equipment that the city no longer uses at Twin Creeks.

 

 

Office Report:  There are 32 delinquent water and sewer accounts for the month of May.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Ada DeClark the council approve checks and vouchers for the month of May 2015 in the amount of $10,222.96 in the general fund, $10,456.01 in the water fund, $15,539.75 in the sewer fund with all funds totaling $36,218.72 Councilmember Joe DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle that the council adjourn from the June 2015 council meeting at 7:45 pm. Councilmember Ada DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

Lynette Smith, City Clerk

May 5, 2015

 

Those Present: Matt Argyle, Ada DeClark, Joe DeClark, Glenn Hunter, Clerk Lynette Smith, Doug Thompson, Mable Whitmore, Judy George. Mayor Van Cleave was excused from the meeting due to travelling to Washington.

 

Meeting called to order: 7:00 pm                            Invocation: Council President Joe DeClark

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Glenn Hunter that the council accepts the published agenda. Councilmember Matt Argyle seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Minutes from the April 7, 2015, regular council meeting were read. The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle the council approve the minutes as read. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Keller Associates emailed a progress report for the council to review regarding the Wastewater Project. Not much has changed since last Fall, but a construction meeting will be scheduled shortly with Taylor Construction and the permit handoff meeting with DEQ will take place then as well.

 

The Country Corner has officially closed its doors and so the pop machine will be coming back over in front of the City Hall. Leonhardt’s Beverages has offered to full service the machine and pay the City $3.70 per case or we can service it and pick up the product in town for $20.00 per case. It was decided for the City to maintain and stock the machine and try to build those funds towards installing a public restroom in the Park. Councilmember Glenn Hunter is going to take the machine home and refurbish it before we have it up and running again.

 

Steve Waechtler will be mowing and maintaining the lawns at the City Park and Cemetery again this summer and he has increased his bid to $300.00 per mow at the Cemetery and $150.00 per mow at the Park. Councilmember Ada DeClark made the motion to accept Steve’s prices and have him mow both lawns again this year. Councilmember Matt Argyle seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried.

 

Councilmember Matt Argyle conveyed to the council that he would like to see there be stronger penalties for habitual water and sewer account delinquents in hopes of having people pay more attention to paying their City Bill. The resolution states now that delinquent accounts that are turned off have a $50.00 fee to pay along with the delinquent amount before services will be turned back on. He may look at changing the wording and increasing the fee at a later time.

 

Police Report:   Officer John Martinez made 17 contacts for the month of April.

 

Maintenance Report:  Doug Thompson gave his report for the month of April stating that he mowed the park, trimmed the trees and moved some headstones back in place at the Cemetery. He had a new water pressure vault installed and issued dog tag warnings. He also said there is a need at the sewer ponds for a new aerator. He will look into prices and get back to the council on that. He also mentioned that the stone work on the bears, fountain and the bell needs to be replaced. The council thought it would be good to have Martin Simmons give us a bid for the repairs. The memorial bench for Bo Taylor and Trent Sorensen has been picked up and they are trying to decide on its exact placement. Doug was also able to get some of the water and sewer bills caught up this month and turned water services on at 3 locations and he will be ordering a load of road patch to fix some roads here shortly.

 

Office Report:  Clerk Smith reported that there are 16 delinquent water and sewer accounts for the month of April. She also informed the council that she will be changing her office hours for the summer months to mornings from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm still on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. She also reminded them of the upcoming election on May 19^th for the Courthouse Bond and informed them that she will not be in the office that day or at the June Council meeting and also asked if she could replace the blinds in the City Hall. The bridge on Main Street near the Church will be replaced in 2016 and it will take about 3 months from start to finish.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Ada DeClark the council approve checks and vouchers for the month of April 2015 in the amount of $12,102.01 in the general fund, $21,719.41 in the water fund, $40,748.98 in the sewer fund with all funds totaling $74,570.40 Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle that the council adjourn from the May 2015 council meeting at 8:35 pm. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

Lynette Smith, City Clerk

April 7, 2015

 

Those Present:  Matt Argyle, Ada DeClark, Joe DeClark, Glenn Hunter, Clerk Lynette Smith, Doug Thompson, Mayor Bob Van Cleave, Officer John Martinez, Marty Nate, Mable Whitmore, Gary Teuscher, James Teuscher.

 

Meeting called to order:  7:00 pm                            Invocation:  Councilmember Matt Argyle

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle that the council accepts the published agenda. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Minutes from the March 3, 2015, regular council meeting were read. The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Ada DeClark the council approve the minutes as read. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion.  All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Marty Nate, representing the Twin Creeks committee came before the council to give an update on the plans for the event this year. She reported that she will need to have contracts signed this year by the Mayor with the Entertainer, Jared Rogerson and Cliffhanger Recreation. She also reported that the committee still wants the City to help with the luncheon. The pageant will be held on July 10th for ages 4-8. Activities planned are the smash a car and duck race again this year.

 

Marty also took care of business regarding the Northern Bear Lake Valley Foundation. She informed the council that the Foundation is dissolving and still has some funds left over that she would like to move into the City’s funds of about $1,400.00, for the City to use for cement to finish the project and keep track of. The Council suggested using $700.00 of those funds for the cement bench Memorial for Bo Taylor and Trent Sorensen. Councilmember Joe DeClark and Mayor Van Cleave will make the decision on the design of the bench and what is engraved upon it. They will get it ordered in the next day or two to have it finished and installed before Taylor Construction comes back this year to finish the wastewater project.

 

Mable Whitmore reported to the council her concerns about the hill of dry grass behind her home, Sheldon Clark’s and Jeff Collins’. Councilmember Joe DeClark suggested Doug call Don Burdick to do a controlled burn at the sewer ponds and behind these homes once the water gets put into the Irrigation System.

 

The City was awarded an LRHIP Grant to use for updating and replacing all of the signs in the City in the amount of $22,000.00. Those funds will be available for use after October 1^st of this year. The council also discussed options for the street grant received to redo the road on West Street.

 

An Amendment to Ordinance #57 regarding water hookups outside of City limits was read aloud by Clerk Smith. Councilmember Glenn Hunter made the motion to accept the Amendment to Ordinance 57. Councilmember Joe DeClark seconded the motion. A roll call vote was taken and is as follows: Joe – yes, Matt – yes, Ada – yes, Glenn – yes.  Motion carried the council.

 

The City engaged in the audit for fiscal year 2013-2014 with City Auditor, Gary H. Teuscher, CPA. They reviewed the audit with Gary page by page. Councilmember Ada DeClark made the motion to have the Water Fund payback the General Fund in full in the amount of $13,986 and to have the Sewer Fund payback a portion owing to the General Fund in the amount of $17,000 for operating expenses incurred throughout the year. Councilmember Joe DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

The budget dates were set for the coming year. Councilmember Ada DeClark made the motion to set September 1^st at 7:00 pm for the Budget Hearing and August 4^th for the budget workshop. Councilmember Matt Argyle seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried.

 

Councilmember Matt Argyle reported that he will be starting to install the address signs to each home here shortly. They will be placed in the same place at each home along the property line and in a visible area to aid all safety personnel and delivery personnel to find every home in a timely manner. He also reported that he purchased a train engine to give to Doug from the City to get well soon.

 

Councilmember Ada DeClark reported that the City Easter Egg Hunt was great and that Shaylee Wells did a great job at organizing and getting the word out. There was a large turnout of kids from the community and the Easter Bunny stopped by. She also reported that all of the playground equipment has been delivered and she would like to get it installed at the school within the next month or two.

 

Police Report:   Officer John Martinez made 21 contacts for the month of March.

 

Maintenance Report:   Doug Thompson gave his report for the month of March stating that he tried to take it easy and Councilmember Joe DeClark helped him out a lot through the month with collecting water and sewer samples and backfilling a few sunken graves and he also marked some areas for DigLine.

 

Office Report:   Clerk Smith reported that there are 24 delinquent water and sewer accounts for the month of March. She has had a request to check out the blue books about Georgetown and was told that would be fine to lend them out, we just need to keep a record of who has taken them and let them know that if they are not returned that they will be responsible to purchase the City a new set. She also informed them that she needs to update QuickBooks to the newest 2015 version and was given approval to spend the $230.00.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Ada DeClark the council approve checks and vouchers for the month of March 2015 in the amount of $12,424.83 in the general fund,  $6,516.17 in the water fund, $18,900.13 in the sewer fund with all funds totaling $37,841.13. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle that the council adjourn from the April 2015 council meeting at 9:30 pm. Councilmember Ada DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

Lynette Smith, City Clerk

February 3, 2015

 

Those Present:  Matt Argyle, Ada DeClark, Joe DeClark, Glenn Hunter, Clerk Lynette Smith, Doug Thompson, Mayor Bob Van Cleave, Mable Whitmore

 

Meeting called to order:  7:05 pm                            Invocation:  Mayor Bob Van Cleave

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Joe DeClark that the council accepts the published agenda. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Minutes from the January 6, 2015, regular council meeting were read. The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Ada DeClark the council approve the minutes as read. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion.  All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

There was no update on the wastewater project at this time. We did receive a letter today from DEQ approving the funding for the Drinking Water Planning Grant. The Mayor will sign and Lynette will send by Certified Mail to Charlie Parkins at DEQ so work can progress on the water study.

 

The backhoe agreement was presented to the council. This agreement is to be reviewed and approved by both parties on an annual basis. Both parties have agreed that all is well and no changes need to be made at this time. Councilmember Joe DeClark made the motion to accept and sign the agreement for the year 2015. Councilmember Matt Argyle seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council. The Irrigation Company is still planning to pay a portion of the new shed the City has built to protect the backhoe and other equipment. Lynette will bill the Irrigation Company once the total of the building has been figured.

 

Clerk Smith asked the council if the City could setup payments to PERSI for retirement benefits to be made by Electronic Funds Transfer. It would make it easier to make exact payments each month rather than being off by a cent or two and other cities make their payments to PERSI this way. Councilmember Ada DeClark made the motion to have payments to PERSI setup by electronic funds transfer. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried.

 

The audit for fiscal year 2013-2014 will be postponed until next council meeting in March.

 

Councilmember Matt Argyle mentioned that the new shed looks really good and asked if we are putting power in the shed. Councilmember Joe DeClark reported that the shed was built so it could have cement floors, doors and power added later if needed. We will use extension californiahomehealthcare.org/xanax/ cords for the time being. Matt is also helping Doug to get internet setup in the City Shop.

 

Police Report:   Officer John Martinez made 21 contacts for the month of January.

 

Maintenance Report:   Doug Thompson gave his report for the month of January and brought a brochure for the council to see pictures of a vault for the pressure reducers that need to be fixed on the water lines. The city would need 2 of them. Doug will look into prices more and report back at the next meeting. He stated that he has been spreading lots of sand, turned water services on at 1 location and off at another location. He has been putting away some of the Christmas decorations, sent away his water and sewer samples for testing and all were returned ok. He also has done lots of marking for DigLine and retrieved the backhoe log for Lynette to compile the backhoe bill for the Irrigation Company for and was also able to take some time off this month.

 

Office Report:   Clerk Smith reported that there are 23 delinquent water and sewer accounts for the month of January. She notified the council that she has changed her office hours to 11:00 am – 2:00 pm for the remainder of the winter. She has posted the change on the city hall door and a notice at the post office. She also notified them that the website has been updated with everyone’s names and photos and had them all review the monthly statements of all the funds and advised to be thinking of making transfers from the water and sewer funds to pay back the general fund at the finish of this past fiscal years audit. She asked about the plan for this summer for the lawn mowing and was told The Waechtler’s were still interested in doing that again this year.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Glenn Hunter the council approve checks and vouchers for the month of January 2015 in the amount of $10,527.01 in the general fund,  $7,807.83 in the water fund, $311,566.73 in the sewer fund with all funds totaling $329,901.57. Councilmember Ada DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Joe DeClark that the council adjourn from the February 2015 council meeting at 8:00 pm. Councilmember Matt Argyle seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

Lynette Smith, City Clerk

January 6, 2015

 

Those Present:  Matt Argyle, Ada DeClark, Joe DeClark, Glenn Hunter, Clerk Lynette Smith, Doug Thompson, Mayor Bob Van Cleave, Marty Nate, Mable Whitmore, Matthew Hill and Ben Marrett of Keller Associates

 

Meeting called to order:  7:05 pm                            Invocation:  Councilmember Ada DeClark

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Ada DeClark that the council accepts the published agenda. Councilmember Glenn Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Minutes from the December 2, 2014, regular council meeting were read. The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Glenn Hunter the council approve the minutes as read. Councilmember Matt Argle seconded the motion.  All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Matthew Hill of Keller Associates reported to the council giving an update on the wastewater project. He said we will plan on doing a permit hand-off meeting with DEQ in the spring. We are still waiting to receive results from the seepage test. They have begun work on the Plan of Operation and will submit to DEQ when it is ready. They supplied manuals of the QAPP to the City for review and have also submitted to DEQ.

 

Matthew also reported that the sign grant application was submitted to LHTAC and we should hear back from them soon on whether we will receive the grant or not. Matthew reviewed the contract for the water planning study with the Council and explained that the study will be performed in 6 different tasks. They will come and tour and inspect the facilities in the spring. They have requested a need for records of drawings and information to begin researching our system. Councilmembers expressed concern for when the study is completed if we would need to get a loan and fix problem areas all at once or if it would be possible to prioritize the problem areas and tackle each one on a yearly basis and spread out the costs. Matthew assured the Council that it could be drawn out and the city would be able to pay for repairs on an as needed basis and not pay for everything all at once.

 

Marty Nate, representing the Twin Creeks Committee came before the Council and a date was set for this year’s celebration on July 11^th. She asked for suggestions on any specific changes needed for this year. She will continue to get Cliffhanger Recreation for the rock climbing walls and the blown up equipment for the kids to play on. The council gave suggestions for other families or groups that might be interested in providing the luncheon for a fundraising event instead of the city. Marty will meet with her committee and do more planning and will report back at another council meeting as it gets closer.

 

Councilmember Joe DeClark expressed to the Council the need for the city to have a backup operator for the wastewater and water departments in case anything were to happen or Doug were out of town at the needed time. He and Doug have spoken with the IRWA Circuit Riders and they would be willing to help for a monthly fee as well as hourly when performing the work. This would only be a temporary thing and most likely they wouldn’t be willing to do it permanently. He and Doug will look into it further and see what kind of an agreement they could make for the time being.

 

Councilmember Matt Argyle brought to the Council’s attention that the police car was back into Dunford’s Repair again. He suggested that we should begin setting aside money from the different funds to have a fund in case we need a down payment to replace the police car or any of the vehicles and equipment that may suddenly need to replaced.

 

Police Report:   Officer John Martinez made 34 contacts for the month of December.

 

Maintenance Report:   Doug Thompson gave his report for the month of December stating that he dug 3 graves this month and had to take out a couple trees to make room for the graves. He plowed and sanded the streets. He asked if Lynette would send out a letter to companies reminding them of our no dig policy in the winter because one company got a water line today that he had to fix. He took some vacation time this month and helped to work on the new equipment shed. He also completed all of his testing for this month and all were returned ok.

 

Office Report:   Clerk Smith reported that there are 22 delinquent water and sewer accounts for the month of December. She was also advised by the Council to continue saving $200 per month from the water fund which was being set aside for the generator to now designate it for vehicles or equipment.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Ada DeClark the council approve checks and vouchers for the month of December 2014 in the amount of $11,386.24 in the general fund,  $14,113.58 in the water fund, $20,087.63 in the sewer fund with all funds totaling $45,587.45. Councilmember Matt Argyle seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Matt Argyle that the council adjourn from the January 2015 council meeting at 8:35 pm. Councilmember Joe DeClark seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

Lynette Smith, City Clerk