Regular Council Meeting - 2/19/2024

City of Colfax – Regular Council Meeting 2/19/2024
The regular February meeting of the Colfax City Council was called to order by Mayor Olson at 7:01pm. Present were Mayor Jeff Olson, Council Members Justin Reiland, Jesse Moch and Shaun Jacobson. Absent was Kyle Krump. Audience members in attendance were Josh Boehm, Lyle Boehm, Kim Berseth, Bonnie Gylland, Inis Frankl, Perry Miller.
Mayor Olson recognized the audience.
Berseth expressed appreciation for having the online payment option available.  
Perry Miller introduced himself as one of the Richland County Commissioners, and noted that he is working on attending each city council meeting. Perry spoke about the proposal that Jeff brought forth to the JPA to help cover the cost of a comprehensive city planning process, and expressed positive feedback regarding our request, noting that Colfax is the first to request money for this type of project. The JPA meets once a month and will make a final decision at their next meeting.
Jesse continued discussion regarding the Chapter Six Zoning – Land Use Planning ordinance. Lyle and Josh brought forth further information, the council reviewed some examples of other local equipment lots and distances from roads. Discussion was held. Council reviewed the final proposed changes. Contact will be made with the city attorney before publishing for a future hearing, intended for the March meeting.
The minutes of the January regular City Council meeting were reviewed. Reiland moved to approve minutes as presented, seconded by Jacobson. Motion carried.
 
A draft of the 2023 financials was presented. Skoog reviewed some of the 2018/2019 audit and changes needing to be made going forward. A final report will be presented once audit changes have been made.
The February bills were reviewed; Reiland motioned to approve the bills as presented, placing a hold on Interstate Engineering bills until further approval, seconded by Jacobson. Carried.
Discussion was held regarding current water bill accounts. Multiple attempts have been made with a construction company that owns 3 properties. If not paid, water will be suspended.
Old Business
No update on Colfax Meadows 4th Addition.
Skoog submitted the Cost-Share paperwork for the Water Loop/Reservoir Expansion project. Currently waiting on review and approval.
No updated on the EPAC project.
It was noted that the curb stop requirement will be added to the building permit, among other adjustments.
Gravel bids will be arriving in the near future, and road maintenance will begin once we are able.
The community center is officially under city council management. Skoog is working on updating rental processes, will be installing a key pad on the side door, and access to the thermostat app will need to be figured out.
Council agreed that they will wait until the comprehensive plan is done before processing any future annexation requests.
New Business
Elections will be held on June 11th, 2024. Candidates are required to file the required paperwork by 4pm on April 8, 2024. All information and paperwork can be found on the city website www.colfaxnd.org.          
Skoog brought forth the topic of a salary increase for the auditor position. Council will bring a salary proposal for discussion at the March meeting, intended to be retroactive to January 1, 2024.
The City Equalization meeting will be held on April 15th @ 7pm.
There being no further business, Reiland made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Moch.  Carried.  Adjourned at 8:24pm.