Georgetown Idaho

June 9, 2020

Those Present: DeLoy Kunz, Greg Kunz, Marty Nate, Mayor Steve Waechtler, Maintenance Supervisor Shane Clark, Alan Howell, City Clerk Lynette Smith, Valerie Ross of News Examiner, Kevin Martin of Sunrise Engineering, City Attorney Adam McKenzie, Danielle Culver, Heather Griffin, by phone Tami Cook and LeAnn Jorgenson

Meeting called to order:              7:05 pm                                Invocation:         Mayor Steve Waechtler

The meeting was held via teleconference and in person at the City Hall, as to adhere to the Governor’s Orders due to Covid-19 and to keep meetings to small gatherings.

The Council entertained a motion from councilmember Greg Kunz to approve the added agenda item of Valerie Ross as well as the published agenda and was seconded by councilmember Tee Steadman. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

The minutes from May 5, 2020 were read aloud by Clerk Smith. Councilmember Marty Nate made the motion to accept the minutes as read. Councilmember DeLoy Kunz seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

Kevin Martin of Sunrise Engineering reported on the water project and said that Ready Service Jobbers is back and working. They have met with Shane, Doug and Alan to discuss a game plan and will be starting at the river crossing and then the PRV’s and then the chlorinator building. They are concerned about the high river and wondered if there was anyway to get it lowered but the council reported that we are having such a late runoff that they will have to work around the high water. There will be at least 2 scheduled shutoffs throughout the City, lasting about 8 hours each time. The City said we would like at least a couple days’ notice to be able to warn everyone. The Mayor met with Katie of Rocky Mountain Power about the placement of the pole along with Kevin, Jason of Sunrise. RMP will move the pole at their cost and Dennis will be able to get his rebate. Sunrise also reported that they can come out to the jobsite full time if needed and would cost around $18-20,000 or they can be available by phone calls and come a couple of days a week. The council also asked Kevin to look into what it would cost to eliminate the old chlorinator building because the main line is leaking which is built underneath the building. Kevin will also look into the status of the stimulus projects.

Valerie Ross approached the council about paying $20 per month to have an article put into the paper about the City. The Mayor requested to be able to read what’s in the article first if we are going to pay for and Adam agreed. Valerie didn’t think that would be possible but will have her boss, Michelle call the Mayor.

Danielle Culver came before the Council to discuss the sell of some of her property and to know how large of a roadway needs to be granted. The buyer has requested just large enough for a gate and it won’t need to be maintained for snow removal etc. The Council recommended to leave around 20-25 feet for a roadway.

Heather Kipp Griffin came before the Council to discuss the Dog Ordinance. She is new to the City and wanted to make sure she was ok to keep her pitbull even though it is listed as a dangerous dog in previous Ordinances. She inquired about needing to get homeowners insurance for her dog and is willing to pay if needed. The Mayor commended her for taking extra precautions already and installing a 6 foot fence around the property and being responsible and not letting her dogs out without them being there. She was also advised that if the Dog Ordinance goes through tonight that there will be no need for the extra insurance.

City Attorney Adam McKenzie reviewed the Dog Ordinance #99 with the Council. Some changes he noted was he took out specific breeds and just focused more on behavior of the dogs; failure to get a license will result in an infraction penalty of $150; dangerous dogs he removed shooting them; for penalties there will be no jail time but up to $1000 fine; Kennel Fee was set at $25 plus $10 for every dog over 5. Adam read through the Ordinance and Councilmember Marty Nate made the motion to accept Ordinance #99 for Dogs with the revisions made. Councilmember Tee Steadman seconded the motion and a roll call vote was taken and is as follows: DeLoy – yes, Greg – yes, Marty – yes, Tee – yes. Motion carried. Councilmember Marty Nate also made the motion to authorize to publish just a summary of the Ordinance in the newspaper. Councilmember Greg Kunz seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council. Lynette will also post a copy of the full ordinance at the Post Office.

City Auditor, Gary Teuscher and his son James came and presented the Audit to the Council for Fiscal Year 2018-2019. He reported that the City is still in good shape and handles its money well. Councilmember DeLoy Kunz made the motion to accept the Audit as presented and to have the Mayor and Council President sign letters of approval. Councilmember Greg Kunz seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

Adam McKenzie presented Ordinance #100 an RV Ordinance to the Council. This Ordinance also amends Resolution #2011-1 and provides further clarification for Ordinances #30 and #70. Adam read the Ordinance aloud. Councilmember DeLoy Kunz made the motion to accept the Ordinance as read. Councilmember Greg Kunz seconded the motion. A roll call vote was taken and is as follows: DeLoy – yes, Greg – yes, Marty – yes, Tee – yes. Motion carried.

Adam also reported that Mark Hicken has signed the agreement with the City about his hookups at his new property on Main Street and now we just need the Mayor to sign. Lynette said that we need to get all other residences in town to have separate lines as well. The Mayor will talk to one of the individuals and Adam will prepare a letter similar to what was sent to Mr. Hicken to the new owners at the Country Corner.

Councilmember Marty Nate said she has contacted ABC Seamless about ordering the siding for the City Hall and coming to complete that. She would like the handrails painted also. She mentioned that Ordinance #70 needs to have a deadline on building permits listed. She has decided to do Twin Creeks Celebration again next year but this year would like to do Movies in the Park instead and provide popcorn. It was suggested to even get sponsors for the popcorn each night. She made the motion to give $500 to the Senior Center to help them get back up and going since being shutdown due to COVID-19. Councilmember Greg Kunz seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the Council.

Police Report: There were 15 contacts for the month of May.

Maintenance Report: Shane gave his report for the month of May stating that he and Alan installed a water hookup for Brent Peterson and built up the road for the power pole up at the water tanks. The shutoff a few people in town on the shutoff list. Chuck Sims came and sprayed the weeds around the cemetery, park and ponds. The council commended him for keeping the parks and cemetery looking good and advised him to have Chuck come and spray all the weeds along Stringtown too.

Office Business:   There are 14 delinquent water and sewer accounts for the month of May.

The chair entertained a motion from Councilmember Marty Nate for the council to approve checks and vouchers for the month of May 2020 in the amount of $15,135.96 in the general fund, $7,422.98 in the water fund, and $20,623.25 in the sewer fund, with all funds totaling $43,182.19. Councilmember DeLoy Kunz seconded the motion. All were in favor and motion carried.

The chair entertained a motion from Councilmember Marty Nate that council adjourns from the May 2020 council meeting at 10:45 pm. Councilmember Greg Kunz seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

Respectfully submitted,

Lynette Smith

City Clerk-Treasurer

March 3, 2020
Those Present: DeLoy Kunz, Greg Kunz, Marty Nate, Tee Steadman, Mayor Steve Waechtler, Maintenance Supervisor Doug Thompson, City Clerk Lynette Smith, Valerie Ross of News Examiner, Bret Kunz of Insurance Advisors, Ferrel & Susan Dilworth, City Attorney Adam McKenzie
Meeting called to order: 7:00 pm Invocation: Mayor Steve Waechtler
The Council entertained a motion from councilmember Greg Kunz to approve the published agenda and was seconded by councilmember Tee Steadman. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.
Clerk Smith proceeded with reading the minutes from February 4, 2020 and councilmember Marty Nate made the motion to accept the minutes as read. Councilmember Greg Kunz seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.
Ferrel & Susan Dilworth came before the council to discuss purchasing cemetery plots for a friend of the family. Their friend has declining health and wants to be buried by them and will be cremated. They were requesting for a price change for non-residents to purchase for him or want to purchase two more plots at their resident price and designate to him and he will pay the $150 opening & closing fee to be cremated. The Council advised them to speak with Manuel Figueroa about possibly using one of his plots where they are fairly close to Ferrel’s plots already. They will talk to him and then let Lynette know what they decide to do.

Bret Kunz of Insurance Advisors came before the council and would like to know why they are unhappy and how he can change. The Mayor expressed he was upset and still feels like an Agent should represent us better. Bret feels it’s been a perspective and communication issue and says that ICRMP doesn’t want the agent involved in claims. Bret admitted to getting comfortable with the account and would like to do a better job in the future. The council felt there comes a time to shop for insurance and will be going with a different agent at this time.

Lynette emailed the Employee Policy to all of the Council with the updated changes as discussed previously and all had a chance to review before the meeting. Councilmember DeLoy Kunz made the motion to accept the new Employee Policy with the updated changes. Councilmember Tee Steadman seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

Police Report: There were 25 contacts for the month of February. He made a trip to Salt Lake and to Pocatello to get his camera and radios working with dispatch.

Maintenance Report: Doug gave his report for the month of February stating that he dug a grave for Margean Nate and Leland Hayes, he is working on getting the fire hydrants dug out, been plowing snow, filling the pop machine and we will be purchasing two-way radios for the maintenance department to use when someone goes up the canyon and doesn’t have cell phone service.

Office Business: There are 22 delinquent water and sewer accounts for the month of February. Clerk Smith also wanted noted in the paper that when citizens come to get their dog licenses that they need to be sure and show proof of their rabies vaccinations. The City is looking to purchase a video doorbell for the Clerk’s security when she can’t see who is coming to the door and if any other employees aren’t around to help if strangers come to the office. It was also noted that the ground the City leases at the sewer ponds is coming up for its yearly agreement Adam will prepare a general notice to put in the paper and we will open bids at our April meeting. The list of DEQ requirements will be available at the office if anyone has questions on how to farm the ground because if we put that in the paper it will be very costly.

Councilmember Marty Nate made the motion to go into executive session as per Idaho Code 74-206(1)(a)&(f) as listed on the agenda. Councilmember DeLoy Kunz seconded the motion and a roll call vote was taken and is as follows: DeLoy – yes, Greg – yes, Marty – yes, Tee – yes. Councilmember Marty Nate made the motion to go out of executive session and councilmember Greg Kunz seconded the motion. A roll call vote was taken and is as follows: DeLoy – yes, Greg – yes, Marty – yes, Tee – yes. Councilmember Marty Nate made the motion to hire Shane Clark as a full-time employee starting on April 1st and Alan Howell as a part-time employee starting on May 1st. Councilmember DeLoy Kunz seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council. The Mayor will extend the offer to each individual and then Lynette will compile letters to the other applicants after those selected have accepted the job offers. Councilmember Marty Nate also made the motion to have City Attorney Adam McKenzie draft a letter to be sent to Mark Hicken, the new owner of the duplex with the storage units about having to pay for two separate accounts with two separate apartment buildings. Councilmember Greg Kunz seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

Councilmember Marty Nate reported that the Twin Creeks celebration will be held on July 11th this year and that the Planning and Zoning committee has started a draft for the new and updated Ordinance. She also notified the council of citizens moving a camp trailer onto their property and wanting to hook onto City water and sewer services. The council discussed the issue and decided as per our minutes and other Ordinances that camp trailers must be in a trailer park and since we don’t have a trailer park the camp trailer can only stay for 30 days and will also be responsible for paying for turn on and turn off fees during that time period. Lynette will get the wording from the September 2003 minutes to Adam so he can amend our Ordinance for the next meeting.

Councilmember Greg Kunz reported about a dog that has been getting out and running at large at its neighbors. The Mayor said he was aware of the problem and has helped them to fix the fence so the problem should be resolved.

The chair entertained a motion from Councilmember DeLoy Kunz for the council to approve checks and vouchers for the month of February 2020 in the amount of $17,019.42 in the general fund, $13,851.85 in the water fund, and $19,427.20 in the sewer fund, with all funds totaling $50,298.47. Councilmember Marty Nate seconded the motion. All were in favor and motion carried.

The chair entertained a motion from Councilmember Marty Nate that council adjourns from the March 2020 council meeting at 9:45 pm. Councilmember Tee Steadman seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

Respectfully submitted,

Lynette Smith
City Clerk-Treasurer

February 14, 2017   ***February 7, 2017 meeting was moved to 2-14-17 due to lack of quorum

Those Present: Councilmembers Glenn Hunter, Ada DeClark, DeLoy Kunz, Matthew Argyle,  Mayor Robert VanCleave, Samantha Cooper and Doug Thompson.

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

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

Minutes from January 7, 2017 regular council meeting were read aloud by Clerk Cooper.  The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Hunter that council accepts minutes as read.  Councilmember Argyle seconded the motion.  All were in favor and the motion carried.

The waste water proposal prepared by Keller Associates was reviewed.

More discussion was held about the need for an additional city maintenance worker to assist Doug. There is concern that the position may be hard to fill as it will be part time.  When the position’s duties and pay are determined, a posting will be made to accept applications.

Councilmember Kunz indicated he has been approached by several people about residents pushing snow across the road and not cleaning up their mess. This winter has left a lot of snow, with few places to put it.  However, the city has an ordinance relating to snow removal (Ordinance #58).

Section 2 of the ordinance states:

“Any person removing snow from private properties onto the traveled portion of the public streets shall, in addition to any penalties provided herein, be responsible for all reasonable costs incurred by the City of Georgetown to remove the snow placed in the traveled portion of the public streets from private properties.

Additionally, Section 3 of the ordinance states:

“Any person violating or failing to comply with any of the provisions of this ordinance shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and for each day of violation or failure to comply may be punished by a fine not to exceed $300.”

It is important that if residents find it necessary to move snow across the road that they clean up after themselves. Failure to do so may be met with consequences.

Councilmember Argyle brought up the possibility of flooding when the snow begins to melt. He asked about offering sand and sandbags.  These items are being made available free of charge by the county to all county residents.

Councilmembers discussed looking at options for improving the city’s water system without taking out a large loan. Doug will be putting feelers out to get a feel for ways to accomplish this by using funds on hand, one section at a time.

Police Report:  Officer Martinez made 20 contacts for the month of January.

Maintenance Report: Doug has been moving snow and rebuilt the plow.  He has been looking at cost options for replacement vs repair.  One company offered $35000 trade in value on the city’s old backhoe towards a new or used backhoe.

Office Business:   There were 24 delinquent water and sewer accounts.

The chair entertained a motion from Councilmember DeClark that council approve checks and vouchers for the month of January 2017 in the amount of  $7530.95 in the general fund, $4246.66 in the water fund, $3317.18 in the sewer fund, with all funds totaling $15094.79 Councilmember Kunz seconded the motion.  All were in favor and motion carried.

Chair entertained a motion from councilmember Hunter that council adjourn from the January 2017 council meeting at 8:35 pm. Councilmember DeClark seconded.  All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

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/Nuisance Ordinance. They have filed a complaint with the City offices in regards to their neighbor’s dogs and they feel since that complaint that things have gotten worse with the dogs coming onto their property. 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 Rabies shot 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 animals an owner can have within City limits. They would like to see their neighbors move their male goats (bucks) to the back of their yard, because of the stench; and their chickens to be fenced on their yard and the noisy roosters 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,  $6,737.92 in the water fund, $22,846.89 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.

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 neighbor’s 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.

December 6, 2016

Those Present: Councilmembers Glenn Hunter, DeLoy Kunz, Matthew Argyle, Ada DeClark, Mayor Robert VanCleave, Samantha Cooper and Doug Thompson.

Meeting called to order:  7:00 pm                            Invocation:  Councilmember Deloy Kunz

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

Minutes from November 1, 2016 regular council meeting were read aloud by Clerk Cooper.  The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Hunter that council accepts minutes as read.  Councilmember Kunz seconded the motion.  All were in favor and the motion carried.

The water loan the city qualified for was discussed. DEQ contacted Mayor VanCleave in November reference the loan.  DEQ wanted to know if the city was going to accept the loan or could pass it on to the City of Filer, as their approval was secondary to ours, and they urgently needed the funding to make repairs to their water system.  As the Mayor and Council want to make the decision on whether to take on more debt carefully, the city passed on the loan this time around.

Councilmember Argyle updated council on the radios the city purchased for the Fire Department. The radios have been received and are being programmed with all the local frequencies to ensure good communication.

Councilmember DeClark gave an update on the tree lighting. There were 47 bags passed out to kids.  The numbers were lower than they have been in previous years, but the weather that day was cold and breezy.

The new street signs and posts have arrived. They will be ready for installation in the spring.  The city has approximately $6455 of the sign grant money remaining.  Prices on the flashing signs have been obtained and they are high.  Councilmember Kunz will check with the state to see if there is any special pricing available.

Police Report: Officer John Martinez made 27 total contacts for the month of November.

Maintenance Report: Doug dug a couple graves, has spent a lot of time rebuilding fence.  He also decorated the park for the tree lighting, and got the sewer and water systems winterized.  He has been taking numerous water samples.

Office Report: There were 23 delinquent water and sewer accounts.

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember DeClark that the council approve checks and vouchers for the month of November 2016 in the amount of $ 21902.03 in the general fund, $1204.53 in the water fund, $1633.80 in the sewer fund with all funds totaling $24740.36.   Councilmember Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember DeClark that the council adjourn from the December 2016 council meeting at 7:50 pm. Councilmember Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

November 1, 2016

Those Present: Glenn Hunter, DeLoy Kunz, Matthew Argyle, Ada DeClark, Samantha Cooper, Doug Thompson, Mayor Robert VanCleave, representatives from Ireland Bank.

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

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

Minutes from October 4, 2016 regular council meeting were read aloud by Clerk Cooper.  The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Hunter that council accepts minutes as read.  Councilmember DeClark seconded the motion.  All were in favor and the motion carried.

Cynthia from Ireland Bank came to encourage the city to change the savings account from a savings account to a money market account, which will pay additional interest. Mayor VanCleave asked if there were any negatives or any loss of functionality in making this change, and Cynthia indicated there were not.  Councilmember Argyle made a motion to make the change, Councilmember Hunter seconded it.  All were in favor and motion carried.

Doug wanted clarification from council regarding protocol for adding cremains to currently occupied gravesite. He indicated it has been done in the past, but he wanted to make sure the council had no concerns.  It was determined that the addition of cremains is acceptable.

There was discussion regarding a Quit Claim Deed filed in the 90’s. The issue came up when the owner attempted to sell property that had been given to him by the city in exchange for loss of other property that occurred when Stringtown Rd was straightened, years ago.  When the title company did a search, they found original verbiage in the 1999 Deed that indicated the land was to be used for Recreational Access.  Mayor VanCleave indicated he is attempting to have the issue rectified and has made contact with the city attorney.

Clerk Cooper apprised the council of issues the city has been having with equipment. Last month the city’s printer died.  Upon purchase of a new printer, the accounts receivable software would not function properly.  After lengthy consultation with the builder of the software and another computer expert, it was determined the software would not work with the new printer.  The city’s accounts receivable software is quite old, in the DOS format, and this accutane online problem comes up each time a new component is added to the mix.  Contact was made with several software vendors, only to learn that new software that will do what we need varies in cost from $2000 to $30000.  Clerk Cooper ultimately bought a separate printer to use with the accounts receivable software, and this will provide a fix.

As a result of the equipment issues, water and sewer payments for October have not yet been processed, but will be deposited within the next week.

Councilmember Argyle brought up a need for new radios for the fire department.  He said it would benefit the city to have three new handheld radios, with all local frequencies installed to insure interagency communication in the event of a catastrophic event.  Councilmember DeClark made a motion to approval purchase of three radios with price not to exceed $2000.  Councilmember Glen seconded.  Motion carried.

Councilmember DeClark said the annual Christmas tree lighting will be held November 28^th.  The planned menu consists of hotdogs, chili, smores, and hot chocolate.  Clerk Cooper will print and distribute flyers to be handed out at the school advising of the event.  There will be a visit from Santa Claus.

Police Report: Officer John Martinez made 32 total contacts for the month of September.

Maintenance Report: Doug ordered the new much-needed street signs for Georgetown.  He is looking into pricing for additional signs.

Office Report: Due to equipment failures, there was no delinquent report for October. Clerk Cooper reminded council of the open forum being held at the Georgetown School Thursday 11/4/16 @ 7pm, and that the office will be closed for city business and used for the election on November 8.

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember DeClark that the council approve checks and vouchers for the month of October 2016 in the amount of $22370.82 in the general fund, $1110.53 in the water fund, $34718.34 in the sewer fund with all funds totaling $58199.69.   Councilmember Kunz seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Argyle that the council adjourn from the November 2016 council meeting at 8:25 pm. Councilmember Hunter seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

October 4, 2016

Those Present: Glenn Hunter, DeLoy Kunz, Matthew Argyle, Clerk Samantha Cooper, Doug Thompson, Mayor Robert VanCleave, Colter Hollingshead and Matthew Hill from Keller Associates.

Meeting called to order:  7:00 pm                            Invocation:  Councilmember Glenn Hunter

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

Minutes from September 6, 2016 regular council meeting were read aloud by Clerk Cooper.  The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Hunter that council accepts minutes as read.  Councilmember Argyle seconded the motion.  All were in favor and the motion carried.

Ordinance #91, Repealing Ordinance #13 was read and discussed. The chair entertained motion from Councilmember Argyle that the total Repeal be passed.  Councilmember Hunter seconded.  Motion carried with a unanimous vote.

Resolution 2016-001 was read and discussed. This related to a small forgone amount of taxes allocated to Georgetown, which had not been used in the previous fiscal year.  Per the County Clerk, it is necessary to pass a resolution or the monies are lost to the City.  Chair entertained a motion from Councilmember Hunter for a vote, seconded by Councilmember Argyle.  Resolution passed.

Previous Council Meeting minutes were discussed. Stephanie Kunz brought forth minutes of previous meetings that she believed had been documented inaccurately, leading to problems.  Councilmembers who had been present at the meetings in question read over them and agreed with the requested changes.  The minutes will be updated on the website when possible.

Employees of Keller Associates presented paperwork in support of a loan the city has been offered in order to upgrade the City’s water system. The council agreed to hold a Public Comment  Session to receive feedback from the community.  The comment session will be held Thursday, 11/3/16 @ 7pm in the Georgetown School Gym.

There was discussion of damage to City property and how it will be addressed. There has been some damage to gates and other items in the city sewer pond field.  No decisions were made, but any future damage will be addressed.

Police Report: Officer John Martinez made 36 total contacts for the month of September.

Maintenance Report: Doug has been busy with grave diggings, water testing, assisting the State road crew.  He also has been getting ready for winter.

Office Report: There were 22 delinquent water and sewer accounts for the month of September.  There have been numerous issues with the City Hall computer equipment.  The most recent occurred on Council day, when the copy machine stopped working as check printing started.  As a result, council was able to approve and sign few checks.  The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Argyle that the council adjourn from the October 2016 council meeting at 8:15 pm. Councilmember Kunz seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

September 6, 2016

Those Present: Ada DeClark, Glenn Hunter, DeLoy Kunz, Matthew Argyle, Clerk Samantha Cooper, Doug Thompson, Mayor Robert VanCleave, and Cynthia Reno.

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

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

Minutes from August 2, 2016 regular council meeting were read aloud by Clerk Cooper.  The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Hunter that council accepts minutes as read.  Councilmember Argyle seconded the motion.  All were in favor and the motion carried.

Resident Cynthia Reno addressed the council regarding the low water pressure in her home. This has been an ongoing issue.  The age of pipes and the buildup in this contributes to this.  Councilmember DeClark said the City is hoping to address the lower water pressure on this side of the road next year.  Ms. Reno indicated she knows she will be paying to improve her pipes going into her home, and would like warning of the cost so she can budget.

The Chair entertained a motion from Councilmember Argyle to accept proposed budget for FY 2016-2017. Councilmember seconded the motion.  All were in favor and the motion carried.

The Chair entertained a motion from Councilmember DeClark that the City of Georgetown donate $1000 to the Georgetown School as well as $1000 to the Georgetown Parental Support group. The need to ensure that these funds stay within the Georgetown School  was discussed, as the intent of these funds is to assist Georgetown kids and teachers.    Councilmember Argyle made a motion to vote on this proposal, Councilmember Hunter seconded it.  A vote was held.  The majority voted to donate the funds.  Councilmember Kunz abstained.  The motion carried.

There was discussion of homes without the new reflective address signs out yet. The signs are still being placed, and it is hoped they will be completed soon.  As a reminder, the signs are mandatory for city residents.  They cannot be removed by residents.

Councilmember Argyle brought up out of date Ordinance #13, which states that able-bodied males must volunteer time clearing city streets or be fined. The council requested clerk  Cooper look into having this ordinance repealed.

Police Report:   Officer John Martinez made 30 total contacts for the month of August.

Maintenance Report:  Doug reported that he has been busy doing summer maintenance.  He turned the lights back on now that school is back in session, has been watering the cemetery, and trying to get the sewer pond emptied.  He also framed up and painted around the new windows in the city hall building so the wood doesn’t degrade too much this winter, and has been kept busy working with the state road crew.

Office Report:  There are 17 delinquent water and sewer accounts for the month of August.

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember DeClark that the council approve checks and vouchers for the month of August 2016 in the amount of $14400.82 in the general fund, $1,513.28 in the water fund, $48,457.34 in the sewer fund with all funds totaling $64,371.44. Councilmember Kunz seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember DeClark that the council adjourn from the September 2016 council meeting at 8:15 pm. Councilmember Kunz seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

August 2, 2016

Those Present: Ada DeClark, Glenn Hunter, DeLoy Kunz, Clerk Samantha Cooper, Doug Thompson, Mayor Bob Van Cleave, and Marty Nate.

Meeting called to order:  7:10 pm                            Invocation:  Councilmember Ada DeClark

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

Minutes from July 5, 2016 regular council meeting were read aloud by Clerk Cooper.  The chair entertained a motion from councilmember Hunter that council accepts minutes as read.  Councilmember Kunz seconded the motion.  All were in favor and the motion carried.

Marty Nate gave the Twin Creeks update. She said the numbers were down, but it was a good event.  The evening entertainment was especially enjoyable.

The budget workshop scheduled with auditor Gary Teuscher was rescheduled for Wednesday August 17, 2016 at 7pm.

There was a discussion of the potential need for a sound system for the City. It was discussed that Georgetown currently has to borrow from others.  Mayor VanCleave provided a bid he obtained for an appropriate system for the city.  It was decided to discuss this further at the budget workshop.

There was discussion of the need to add cleaning and upgrade of the water tank and repair the ladder to next year’s budget.

Police Report:   Officer John Martinez made 25 total contacts for the month of July.

Maintenance Report:  Doug reported that the city is using a high amount of chlorine on the waste water ponds.  This year he has used 250 gallons already; it is currently taking approximately 6 liters an hour.  This process is done three months out of the year.  Running the pump is expensive and we must budget for it.

Office Report:  There are 19 delinquent water and sewer accounts for the month of July.

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember DeClark that the council approve checks and vouchers for the month of July 2016 in the amount of $35,533.06 in the general fund, $1,513.28 in the water fund, $48,457.34 in the sewer fund with all funds totaling $85,503.68. Councilmember Kunz seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.

The chair entertained a motion from councilmember DeClark that the council adjourn from the August 2016 council meeting at 8:05 pm. Councilmember Kunz seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried the council.