City of Colfax – Regular Council Meeting 11/15/2021
The regular November Meeting of the Colfax City Council was called to order by Mayor Olson at 7:02pm. Present were Mayor Jeff Olson, Council Members Justin Reiland and Shaun Jacobson and auditor Jen Skoog. Absent were Council Members Tom Wulfekuhle and Kyle Krump. Audience members in attendance were Inis Frankl, Bonnie Gylland, and Scott Schmitt. Mayor Olson recognized the audience. Scott Schmitt presented his proposed PILOT programs for the storage buildings on the East end of town. Two different proposals were made. The first proposal had the payments over 5 years, and the second proposal had the payments over 10 years. The council reviewed the proposals. Because the County Assessor did not have the hearing date and did not notify the school, another hearing will take place on December 20th at 7pm during the regular City Council meeting. Building plans for 205 Neuman were presented to the board. Reiland motioned to approve the building plans, pending the receipt of the actual building permit application along with the applicable fees, seconded by Jacobson. Carried. Jacobson motioned to approve mortgage release request of Lot 19 Block 3, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Olson asked Nathan Berseth for an update on the repair of the broken fire hydrant. Berseth is still waiting on another bid and will keep in touch with the council. The minutes of the October Regular City Council meeting were reviewed; Jacobson moved to approve minutes as presented, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Financial report for October was reviewed. Reiland made a motion to approve the financial reports as presented, seconded by Jacobson. Carried. The November bills and meter reading differences for the month of October were reviewed; Jacobson motioned to approve the bills as presented, minus the Daily News bill, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Old Business No update regarding the Savion Project. Regarding the Water Loop Project, Berseth and Olson will be meeting with the engineer soon to review the engineer’s plans. Olson located a brand new snow blower from the implement dealer just outside of town. Reiland motioned to purchase the snow blower for $13,100, seconded by Jacobson. Carried. Olson is still looking for tractor options for the city. After receiving rain this fall, Grant Street has begun to “fall apart” and is now full of ruts. Discussion was held regarding what can be done to the street going forward. No decision was made at this time. Olson presented a Darrel Hendrickson Funds request from the Community Center for $3,750. These funds will be used for counter tops, door, base and crown molding, and stain/varnish. Reiland motioned to approve the request, seconded by Jacobson. Carried. Building permits for 207 Neuman Blvd and 208 Neuman Blvd were presented to the Council. Jacobson motioned to approve the permits, pending Todd Johnson’s approval, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Auditor Skoog reported that the current city computer is very slow and a replacement needs to be considered. Council requested that Skoog bring proposals to the next Council meeting. There being no further business, Reiland made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Jacobson. Carried. Adjourned at 8:16pm. City of Colfax – Regular Council Meeting 10/18/2021
The regular October Meeting of the Colfax City Council was called to order by Mayor Olson at 7:00pm at the Colfax Fire Hall. Present were Mayor Jeff Olson, Council Members Tom Wulfekuhle, Justin Reiland, Kyle Krump, Shaun Jacobson and auditor Jen Skoog. Audience members in attendance were Tom Frankl, Inis Frankl, Bonnie Gylland, and Sid Berg. Mayor Olson recognized the audience. Berg brought forth the replacement of the culvert at his house currently being built on Grant Street. Berg stated he would be willing to rent a mini excavator and perform the digging if the city cover the cost of the rental. Berg also requested that the city have the ditch along Grant street cleaned out to allow for better flowage. Discussion was held. Wulfekuhle motioned to have the city cover up to $200 towards the cost of excavation rental to set the culvert and clean the ditch on his property, seconded by Krump. Carried. Wulfekuhle presented proposed plats on behalf of Nathan Berseth for the development of Wold Development Subdivision. Berseth intends to have the north 9 acres as residential and all other plotted lots would be commercial. Berseth stated that he does not intend on putting up street lights, and the city will not be responsible for putting lights up in the future. Olson will ask Berseth about Broadway extending North throughout the entire subdivision. Rezoning will occur once parcel numbers have been assigned to the lots. Wulfekuhle motioned to accept the plat as presented, seconded by Krump. Carried. The minutes of the September Regular City Council meeting were reviewed; Krump moved to approve minutes as presented, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Financial report for September was reviewed. Reiland made motion, seconded by Krump to approve financial reports, motion carried. The October bills and meter reading differences for the month of September were reviewed; Wulfekuhle motioned to approve the bills as presented, seconded by Jacobson. Carried. It was noted that a leak in the reservoir was discovered when a hydrant by Loff’s was repaired. Old Business No update regarding the Savion Project. No update regarding Water Loop Project. Regarding a city snow blower, Olson is still checking into options. Regarding the Fire hydrant repair, there has been no update from Nathan Berseth at this time as to when the repair will take place. Wulfekuhle motioned to approve mortgage release request of Lot 15 Block 3, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Krump contacted Scott Schmitt regarding storage units for city equipment storage. A smaller, non-heated unit runs $80/month, lease is month-to-month. Wulf motioned to move forward with the smaller $80/month unit, seconded by Reiland. Carried. New Business Scott Schmitt has requested to be on the agenda at the November meeting regarding a PILOT program for taxes on the storage units in town. Schmitt will ensure the proper legal notice is published in the Wahpeton Daily News. It was decided that Krump or Olson will be attending the County Redistricting Board meeting on October 28th at 7pm in Wahpeton. Jacobson brought forth concerns regarding drainage between his house and other lots behind him. Discussion was held. There being no further business, Wulfekuhle made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Adjourned at 8:18pm. City of Colfax – Regular Council Meeting 9/20/2021
The regular September Meeting of the Colfax City Council was called to order by Mayor Olson at 7:03pm. Present were Council Members Tom Wulfekuhle, Justin Reiland, Kyle Krump, and auditor Jen Skoog. Audience members in attendance were Tom Frankl, Inis Frankl, and Bonnie Gylland. The minutes of the August Regular City Council meeting were reviewed; Krump moved to approve minutes as presented, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Financial report for August was reviewed. Reiland made motion, seconded by Krump to approve financial reports, motion carried. The September bills and meter reading differences for the month of August were reviewed; Wulfekuhle motioned to approve the bills as presented, seconded by Krump. Carried. Old Business No update regarding the Savion Project. No update regarding Water Loop Project. Regarding a City Snow Blower, Olson brought forth more information he obtained regarding another possibility of a city snow blower. Discussion was held. Olson will make a couple more calls to gather more information. Krump brought up the possibility of renting a storage unit for city equipment. Discussion was held. Council will consider in the future. Fire Hydrant Repair – Reiland provided a proposal for repair of the fire hydrant damaged by Nathan Berseth. Wulfekuhle sent a copy to Berseth, since he will be covering the cost. The council is waiting on word from Berseth before moving forward. Over the past few months, multiple mortgage releases have been presented to the city, however they are needing approval and signature prior to the next council meeting. Discussion was held. Wulfekuhle motioned to allow the city Mayor to approve mortgage releases prior to the next meeting, when needed, with a mayor follow-up report to be presented at the next meeting, seconded by Krump. Carried. Wulfekuhle motioned to approve mortgage release of Lot 9 Block 2 request, to be retroactive to the date of signature since the request was needed prior to the next council meeting, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Regarding the open position on the city council, Olson put forth Shawn Jacobson as a recommendation to fill the vacant position until elections are held in June 2022. Jacobson accepted the nomination. Wulfekuhle motioned to nominated Shawn Jacobson, seconded by Krump. Carried. New Business Krump motioned to approve the 2022 Final Budget as presented, seconded by Wulfekuhle. Carried. Krump motioned to approve the Erdahl building permit for a shed, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Wulfekuhle spoke with Mary Boehm regarding the branch disposal site and provided her with further information regarding disposal. Mayor Report Olson brought forth a Colfax Community Center request for Darryl Hendrickson funds in the amount of $10,450. The money will be used towards flooring, lights, ceiling tiles, sheetrock, paint/plaster, baby changing stations, plumbing fixtures and pipe. Wulfekuhle motioned to approve the request, seconded by Reiland. Carried. There being no further business, Wulfekuhle made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Adjourned at 8:06pm. City of Colfax – Regular Council Meeting 8/16/2021
The regular August Meeting of the Colfax City Council was called to order by Krump at 7:00pm. Present were Council Members Tom Wulfekuhle, Justin Reiland, Kyle Krump, Paul Lucas, and auditor Jen Skoog. Absent was Mayor Jeff Olson. Audience members in attendance were Tom Frankl, Inis Frankl, Bonnie Gylland, Berry Wellnitz, Amber Wellnitz, Nathan Berseth, and Bob Schmidt. Berry and Amber Wellnitz approached the City Council requesting a building permit to finish their basement, and to erect a fence in their yard for a future daycare. Berseth provided the council a copy of the covenant regarding fences. Wellnitz was asked to complete the building permit application and pay the $50 fee before the application would be approved. Bob Schmidt approached the council with building permit applications to move in two twin homes onto 4 lots to be purchased from Nathan Berseth. Each home would straddle two lots, technically leaving each lot as a single family dwelling. A variance would be needed to have the homes closer than 8 feet of the property line. Discussion was held. Since Berseth owns all the surrounding lots needed for the variance, he was present and verbally agreed to the variance allowing the buildings to be placed up to the property line on Lots 6,7,8,9 in Block 1. Wulfekuhle motioned to accept the variance on condition of a written agreement being received by Berseth, seconded by Reiland. Carried. The council reviewed the two building permits presented by Schmidt. Discussion was held. Wulfekuhle motioned to approve the building permits on condition of the following terms: pending Todd Johnson’s approval of the permits, purchase of Lots 6,7,8,9 Block 1 from Berseth, and brick on the front of the homes will be replaced to update the appearance; seconded by Lucas. Carried. Berseth requested release of Lot 15 Block 2, Lot 8 Block 2, Lot 27 Block 3, and Lots 6,7,8,9 Block 1. Wulfekuhle motioned to release the requested lots, seconded by Lucas. Carried. Tom Frankl brought forth concerns regarding the current state of the Phelps property. Wulfekuhle will speak to Phelps about cleaning up his yard again. The minutes of the July Regular City Council meeting were reviewed; Wulfekuhle moved to approve minutes as presented, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Financial report for July was reviewed. Wulfekuhle made motion, seconded by Reiland to approve financial reports, motion carried. The August bills and meter reading differences for the month of July were reviewed; Wulfekuhle motioned to approve the bills as presented, seconded by Lucas. Carried. Old Business No update regarding the Savion Project. No update regarding Water Loop Project. No update regarding the Residents Info Sheet. Regarding a snow blower for the city, Wulfekuhle talked to RDO and received bids on two different blowers. Discussion was held with no decision being made at this time. Reiland will provide a quote for repair of the fire hydrant. Wulfekuhle placed some posts and informed a couple residents of the new branch disposal location in town. Skoog will make some requested changes to the building permit application council the council will review at the next meeting. Discussion was held regarding the Berg culvert replacement. With the current price of steel, and the fact construction still taking place on the property, the topic was tabled for future discussion. New Business Lucas approached the board and provided his official resignation from the Colfax City Council. Reiland motioned to approve the resignation, seconded by Wulfekuhle. Carried. Postings for the open position on the council will need to be posted for 15 days. Council will discuss appointment at the next meeting. Council reviewed the building permit completed by Wellnitz. Wulf motioned to approve the building permit, pending Todd’s approval and fencing materials will comply with the required covenant, seconded by Lucas. Carried. Building permit for 303 Neuman (Little Residence) was presented to the council. This permit was not presented by the inspector prior to building, therefore the approval would be retroactive. Reiland motioned to approve the building permit, seconded by Lucas. Carried. Wulfekuhle reported that various residents have asked about having a Fall City Clean-up. Council decided that only one cleanup will occur at this time in the Spring. Mayor’s Report Jeff attended the FEMA meeting held by Richland County Emergency Management. Not much to report at this point, however we are listed as attending and qualify for any programs that may arise. There being no further business, Wulfekuhle made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Lucas. Carried. Adjourned at 8:37pm. City of Colfax – Regular Council Meeting 7/19/2021
The regular July Meeting of the Colfax City Council was called to order by Mayor Olson at 7:01pm. Present were Mayor Jeff Olson, Council Members Tom Wulfekuhle, Justin Reiland, Kyle Krump, and auditor Jen Skoog. Absent was Paul Lucas. Audience members in attendance were Tom Frankl, Inis Frankl, Bonnie Gylland, Vance Gylland, and Nathan Berseth. Mayor Olson recognized the audience. Nathan Berseth approached the Council with a building permit request for 301 Neuman. Berseth made some suggested modifications to the permit application. Wulfekuhle motioned to approve the building permit, pending approval from Todd Johnson, seconded by Krump. Carried. Reiland reported that a property owner in the new addition would like to have his curb stop moved since it would be in the center of the driveway. Berseth confirmed that he told the same property owner can have it moved. The minutes of the June Regular City Council meeting were reviewed; Wulfekuhle moved to approve minutes as presented, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Financial report for June was reviewed. Krump made motion, seconded by Reiland to approve financial reports, motion carried. The June bills and meter reading differences for the month of June were reviewed; Wulfekuhle motioned to approve the bills as presented, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Old Business The Colfax Township met late in June and discussed that Savion Energy Project. At this time, the township is not planning to approve a permit for the project to move forward. Interstate Engineering sent a letter to other local organizations and property owners looking for input regarding the Water Loop to new addition. No further action at this time. No update regarding the Residents Info Sheet. Regarding the a snow blower for the city, Olson talked to Titan and has not yet received a bid, however it was noted that it takes time to get a bid from the manufacture. Olson will also inquire with John Deere regarding a bid. Discussion was held regarding how deck permits will be handled and the fees associated with them. Council agreed to keep the fee for decks at $50. Skoog will include the deck building guidelines on the website and all residents should use the existing permit application for deck permits. Reiland is still waiting for a quote on the repair of the fire hydrant. Krump reported that we may have a specific location in town where residents can leave sticks/branches for pickup. If the city proceeds with the location in town, we will have signs, rope off the location, and add a note to the water bill for a few months. Krump will talk to Tyler to verify he is able to dispose of branches from the new location. New Business Sid Berg approached Olson & Wulfekuhle regarding the sewer hookup on his yard. Olson told Berg that any pipes up to the main line is the resident’s responsibility. Council discussed and agreed that it is the resident’s responsibility. Berg also brought forth issues with the culvert that he brought forth to the council last month. Berg would like the culvert replaced since his home is considered new construction. Discussion was held regarding the cost responsibility and timing. Council will consider the request and discuss further at the August meeting. Building permit for 203 Nauman was presented to and reviewed by the Council. Krump motioned to approve the permit request, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Sticks with red ribbons have been placed where new street lights will be placed. Kyle will pick up more garbage cans for new houses. Mayor Report Nothing to report. There being no further business, Wulfekuhle made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Krump. Carried. Adjourned at 8:11pm. City of Colfax – Regular Council Meeting 6/21/2021
The regular June Meeting of the Colfax City Council was called to order by Mayor Olson at 7:00pm. Present were Mayor Jeff Olson, Council Members Tom Wulfekuhle, Justin Reiland (arrived late), Kyle Krump, and auditor Jen Skoog. Absent was Paul Lucas. Audience members in attendance were Zach Hatting and Kent Thoreson with Interstate Engineering, Peter Pfeiff, Sid Berg, Ron Pfeiff, Amy Clark, Tom Frankl, Inis Frankl, and Bonnie Gylland. Mayor Olson recognized the audience. Amy Clark proceeded to explain the ETZ zoning process and the history behind the two previous attempts made years ago, explaining that the city is unable to locate the original resolution. Olson read the proposed ordinance, extending the application of the City’s zoning regulations to real property as described in the ordinance. General questions from the audience. With no further questions, Olson requested a Role Call Vote of the council members present. Wulfekuhle - yes, Krump – yes. Ordinance Passed. Kent with Interstate Engineering reported that the city may be eligible for a cost share program for the proposed water loop project. Krump motioned to proceed with the application process for the state water commission funding for the water loop project, along with SRF funding application. Krump also motioned to approve Mayor Olson signing the application, once it is complete, without a special meeting. Seconded by Wulfekuhle. Carried. Sid Berg requested a 1” curb stop upgrade on his new property. The prior curb stop was rusted out, turned off, and buried years ago. Discussion was held regarding ownership of the curbstop and responsibility of purchase and install. Council agreed that the curb stop will be purchased by the city, however all installation will be the responsibility of the resident. Berg also inquired about the current culvert, indicating that both ends are crushed and buried, requesting that the city take a look at the culvert. Council members will investigate and discuss further at a later date. The minutes of the May Regular City Council meeting were reviewed; Wulfekuhle moved to approve minutes as presented, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Financial report for May was reviewed. Krump made motion, seconded by Wulfekuhle to approve financial reports, motion carried. The June bills, plus a bill for $659.36 to John Myers, and meter reading differences for the month of May were reviewed; Reiland motioned to approve the bills as presented, seconded by Krump. Carried. Old Business No update regarding the Savion Energy project. No update regarding the new Water Loop project. No update regarding the Residents Info Sheet. No bids were received for the Lagoon mowing. Olson will mow the ditch and outside parameter. Wulfekuhle will mow the inside parameter. Olson spoke to someone at Titan Machinery regarding quotes on various sizes of snow blowers, and will present his findings at the next meeting. Council reviewed the current city Sewer Rates. Wulfekuhle motioned to pass a resolution keeping the current sewer base rate of $12.50 with increases based on water usage, seconded by Krump. Wulfekuhle – yes, Reiland – yes, Krump – yes New Business Skoog presented an Amendment to the Equalization meeting minutes. The tax year starting should be 2021 not 2022. Wulfekuhle motioned to accept the amendment to the meeting minutes, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Nathan Berseth submitted a request to release Lot 10 Block 2 of Colfax Meadows Third; Lot 6 Block 2 of Colfax Meadows Third; Lot 8 Block 3 of Colfax Meadows Third. Motion made by Krump to release the requested lots, seconded by Wulfekuhle. Carried. Building permit requested from Keefe Phelps were presented for metal roofing and a deck added to the house. Council deeming that the roofing does not need a permit. After review of the deck permit, council decided Phelps must pay $100 for the deck permit and ensure it is inspected by the city inspector. Krump motioned to approve the permit, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Building permits are required for all decks effective immediately. Further discussion will be had with Todd Johnson regarding requiring what structures permits may also be required for. Mayor Olson un-appointed Paul Lucas from the Colfax Township Zoning Board and appointed Kyle Krump. Reiland motioned to accept the un-appointment of Lucas and appointment of Krump, seconded by Wulfekuhle. Carried. Mayor Report Olson asked that Wulfekuhle be sure to submit reimbursement for any mosquito spraying done in Colfax. Various stop signs are now up in town, and Olson expects it will take time for people to acclimate. Many construction companies are still not slowing down. Wulfekuhle talked to Glacier Dust Control about applying a dust control to city roads. They should be applying either later this week or next week. Olson will ensure roads are bladed again before dust control application. Wulfekuhle reported that Our Saviors Church asked to put their own sign on the two City Signs as you enter town. Council agreed that they are allowed proceed. Wulfekuhle has placed the ‘20 mph’ signs around town. Reiland is still waiting for a quote on the repair of the fire hydrant. Residents have been asking if we have a place for branch disposal. Krump will contact Tyler Gylland to see if we can use his current site as a drop-off site. Wulfekuhle met with Cass County Electric regarding street lights. It was decided to place 3 lights along North Blaine Street and 2 lights along Neuman Street. CCE suggested that all future developments need to have a lighting plan included in their building plan. Reiland motioned to proceed with the 5 lights according to plan, seconded by Krump. Carried. There being no further business, Reiland made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Krump. Carried. Adjourned at 8:41pm. City of Colfax – Regular Council Meeting 5/17/2021
The regular May Meeting of the Colfax City Council was called to order by Mayor Olson at 7:04pm. Present were Mayor Jeff Olson, Council Members Tom Wulfekuhle, Justin Reiland, Kyle Krump, and auditor Jen Skoog. Absent was Paul Lucas. Audience members in attendance were Keefe Phelps, Tom Frankl, Inis Frankl, Bonnie Gylland, and Amy Clark. Mayor Olson recognized the audience. Phelps requested a permit for new roofing and a deck being put on his house. Council requested that he provide a drawing of the desk and complete the permit application on the website. Once received, the permit will be reviewed by the council. Clark brought forth information regarding the city ETZ zoning. She has old file from 2007 with all the publications, however is unable to locate an actual Resolution. Working off past documents and new mapping based off annexation, Amy’s office will work on completing all the proper paperwork and publications. The public ETZ hearing will be held June 21st at the regular council meeting. The minutes of the April Equalization Meeting and the Regular City Council meeting were reviewed; Reiland moved to approve minutes as presented, seconded by Wulfekuhle. Carried. Financial report for April was reviewed. Krump made motion, seconded by Wulfekuhle to approve financial reports, motion carried. The May bills and meter reading differences for the month of April were reviewed; Wulfekuhle motioned to approve the bills as presented, seconded by Krump. Carried. Old Business No update regarding the Savion Energy project. No update regarding the new Water Loop project. Council discussed that if Nathan Berseth has someone bore under the road, Olson will ask Berseth if we can also have them bore under the railroad tracks. No update regarding the Residents Info Sheet. No bids were received for the Lagoon mowing. Council will keep bids open again until June 17th. Olson will look into various dealerships to investigate what is available for a city snow blower. Council members are encouraged to keep an eye out for a blower for sale. Council will provide a map to TJM Trucking gravel application. Once all gravel is down and bladed, dust control will be applied. New stop signs are in and Wulfekuhle will place markers where the stop signs will be going. Nathan Berseth has agreed to have the city arrange for the fire hydrant to be repaired and Berseth will cover the costs. Reiland will arrange for the repairs. New Business After reviewing the WSG rate sheet, it was noted that the amount being charged to customers is different than the current rate sheet. Council discussed the difference and possible reasons for this discrepancy, agreeing that the Sewer rate should remain at $12.50. Skoog will formulate a resolution to be reviewed and approved at June’s meeting. Wulfekuhle made a motion to designate the Wahpeton Daily News as the official City newspaper, seconded by Krump. Carried. Building Permit for Berg/Mitskog (300 Grant Street) was presented to the Council. Krump motioned to approve the proposed building permit, pending a review by the city inspector, seconded by Reiland. Carried. A lot release was received for the newly created parcel directly south of Lot 17, Block 2. Since this request was urgent and needed approval prior to the May meeting, it was signed by Mayor Olson. Wulfekuhle made a motion to retroactively approve the requested lot release to April 29th, 2021, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Skoog presented the Preliminary 2022 City Budget. Wulfekuhle motioned to accept the Preliminary 2022 City Budget, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Wulfekuhle presented a Local Permit for Richland Coltbackers. Krump motioned to approve the Local Permit application, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Wulfekuhle reported he has some mosquito spray left over from last year, however he is able to order more. Council agreed to continue using the same chemicals as before, and have Wulfekuhle order more. There being n further business, Krump made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Adjourned at 8:37pm. City of Colfax – Regular Council Meeting 4/19/2021
The regular April Meeting of the Colfax City Council was called to order by Mayor Olson at 7:48pm. Present were Mayor Jeff Olson, Council Members Tom Wulfekuhle, Justin Reiland, Kyle Krump, and auditor Jen Skoog. Absent was Paul Lucas. Audience members in attendance were Sid Berg, Tom Frankl, Inis Frankl, Bonnie Gylland, and Nathan Berseth. Mayor Olson recognized the audience. Gylland asked about the presence of a construction cone in her yard. Wulfekuhle noted that he noticed an old curb stop or shutoff value needing marking and contacted Chad to check it out. Gylland also asked about stop signs being put up, and asked about construction traffic coming down Grant Street. Wulfekuhle confirmed that the stop signs will be going up soon at 3 intersections in town. Reiland noted he made a call Saturday to one of the construction companies using the road. This issue will be monitored by the Council. Nathan Berseth requested the board to release Block 3 Lot 2 of Colfax Meadows 3. Motion made by Wulfekuhle, seconded by Krump to approve the release request. Carried. Sid Berg requested the status on a letter written by the City Council to the County Commission regarding jake breaks and change in speed limit East of town. Berseth confirmed that the letter was received by the County Commission. The minutes of the March City Council meeting were reviewed; Krump moved to approve minutes as presented, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Financial report for March was reviewed. Krump made motion, seconded by Reiland to approve financial reports, motion carried. The bills and meter reading differences for the month of March were reviewed; Wulfekuhle motioned to approve the bills as presented, plus a bill from Richland County Assessor’s Office for $668 and a bill from True North Steel for $696.30, seconded by Krump. Carried. Old Business A community meeting with Savion Energy was held the prior week. Savion provided information to the community at the meeting, and Olson recapped the information provided. No update or further information from Interstate Engineering at this time regarding the water loop to new addition. No update at this time regarding the Grant Street Improvement Project. The Council agreed to put the project on hold at this time. No update from Lucas regarding the New Resident Info Sheet. The Council reviewed the two mowing bids received. Wulfekuhle motioned to accept the mowing bid received from Adam Skoog for 2021 mowing, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Only one gravel bid was received. Wulfekuhle motioned to accept the gravel bid received from TJM Trucking, seconded by Krump. Carried. Wulfekuhle requested that the City purchase 8 stop signs to put up at a few intersection in town. Once received, Wulfekuhle will install them. Discussion was held regarding the installation of additional street lights, along with when and where new lights should be added. Olson will contact Cass County Electric and order 3-5 lights, depending on the current price. New Business Discussion was held regarding the Lagoon mowing for 2021. It was suggested that the new DR mower be used to mow the inside lagoon area. The outside lagoon area is more manageable and can be done by a regular mower. Council is now requesting bids for mowing the Lagoon area. Interested parties can contact Kyle Krump or Jeff Olson to discuss parameters, frequency, and special equipment. Bids are due by May 14th. Olson noted that the generator was serviced last year, however he suggested that it still be serviced on a yearly basis. All members agreed. A Pet Vaccine clinic will be held April 27th at the Colfax Fire Hall. Questions, contact Dakota Vet Clinic in Wahpeton. Colfax Clean-up Day will be April 30th. Further information will be posted and email to residents. Building Permit for Wang (600 Blaine Street) was presented to the Council. Krump motioned to approve the presented building permit, seconded by Wulfekuhle. Carried. Auditor Skoog presented the ND Insurance Reserve Fund bonding report, requesting $108,000 of bonding. Wulfekuhle motioned to approve the bonding request, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Snow removal options were discussed and considered for the upcoming winter. Minn-kota may allow the City to use some of their equipment, and Olson has two people interested in running the equipment. Further discussion will be held at the next meeting. There being no further business, Reiland made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Wulfekuhle. Carried. Adjourned at 9:16pm. City of Colfax – Equalization Meeting 4/19/2021
The Equalization Meeting of the Colfax City Council was called to order by Council Member Krump at 7:00pm. Present were Council Members Tom Wulfekuhle, Justin Reiland, Kyle Krump, and auditor Jen Skoog. Mayor Jeff Olson was few minutes late, and absent was Paul Lucas. Audience members in attendance were Sid Berg, Tom Frankl, Inis Frankl, Bonnie Gylland, Nathan Berseth, and Wendy Matejcek & Rod Romereim with Richland County Assessor’s Office. Krump recognized the audience and turned the meeting over to Wendy & Rod with the Richland County Assessor’s Office. Wendy talked through the City Equalization numbers on the handouts provided to the council. The Council & Audience members brought forth questions on specific properties and the vacant lot valuations. Krump motioned that all BLB currently owned properties would be applied an even prorated increase over 4 years, unless sold, in lieu of one large increase in 2022 as assessed by the Richland County Assessor’s Office. Seconded by Reiland. Carried. Reiland motioned that Vance Gylland’s 3 undeveloped lots (parcels 38-2010-00349.010, 38-2010-00349.015, 38-2010-00349.020) would also be applied an even prorated increase over 4 years, unless sold, in lieu of one large increase in 2022 as assessed by the Richland County Assessor’s Office. Seconded by Krump. Carried Wulfekuhle motioned to approve the 2 farm exceptions presented by the Richland County Assessor’s Office. Seconded by Krump. Carried. Krump motioned to approve the Richland County Assessor’s Office Report as presented, including the two motioned modifications. Seconded by Wulfekuhle. Carried. Wulfekuhle motioned to adjourn the City of Colfax Equalization Meeting. Seconded by Reiland. Carried. City of Colfax – Regular Council Meeting 3/15/2021
The regular March Meeting and the scheduled Special Exception Hearings of the Colfax City Council was called to order by Mayor Olson at 7:02pm. Present were Mayor Jeff Olson, Council Members Tom Wulfekuhle, Justin Reiland, Kyle Krump, and auditor Jen Skoog. Council Member absent was Paul Lucas. Audience members in attendance were Damon DeVillers and Zach Hatting with Interstate Engineering, Nathan Berseth, Kim Berseth, Neil Berseth, Amy Clark, Inis Frankl, and Chad Lingen. Olson proceeded with the Special Exception hearing for Keith Hage. Nathan Berseth asked about the payment in lieu of taxes agreement and clarified that the special exception would most likely affect that agreement. Olson called Hage regarding the payment in lieu of taxes agreement and Hage confirmed that he is aware of how it may be affected by the zoning exception. Current City Resolution states Hage must abide by all industrial and housing codes. Krump motioned to accept Resolution 2021-01, granting the Special Exception Request from Keith Hage, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Olson proceeded with the Special Exception hearing for Steve Haverland. Discussion was held by the council and discussion was had with the audience. It was noted that the septic system may not follow code, and may need to be adjusted by Haverland. It was also noted that the curb stop may need to be moved since it is not within 75ft of the Haverland property. Current City Resolution states Haverland must abide by all industrial and housing codes. Wulfekuhle motioned to accept Resolution 2021-02, granting the Special Exception Request from Steve Haverland, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Mayor Olson recognized the audience. Damon DeVillers and Zach Hatting with Interstate Engineering presented two options for the proposed water project. This proposed water project would supply water to the new Wold development West of town, and to the North end of the Colfax Meadows Subdivision, allowing for better water supply and water pressure. City of Colfax already has an updated application in to DWSRF, which is done on a yearly basis, and is currently approved for a 2% loan, if needed. Discussion was held. Krump suggested that we test water pressure at various locations in town to see if/where pressure is low. No decision was made by the council, tabled for future discussion. Nathan Berseth presented preliminary information regarding the possibility of moving the school’s football field to the East side of the baseball diamonds, allowing the school to put an events/performing arts center where the football field currently sits. This is strictly preliminary; Berseth ensuring the council is aware of the current School Board discussions. The minutes of the February City Council meeting were reviewed; Krump moved to approve minutes as presented, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Financial report for January and February was reviewed. Reiland made motion, seconded by Wulfekuhle to approve financial reports, motion carried. The bills for March and the meter reading differences for February were reviewed, adding bills from Nordic Electric and Wahpeton Daily News; Wulfekuhle motioned to approve the bills as presented, seconded by Krump. Carried. Mayor Olson and Chad Lingen spoke with SEWU engineers about possible funding options for the proposed water loop project. SEWU is looking into possible options and will let us know if they are able to locating funding options. Old Business No update on the Savion Solar Project. No update on the proposed Grant Street project. Regarding Sid Berg’s request in February to remove the $10 fee currently being charged to his account, Reiland moved to remove this fee effective March 1, 2021 until a city water hookup is established, seconded by Krump. Carried. No update regarding the New Resident Info Sheet. Discussion was held regarding the next steps needed to proceed with fixing the Gerald Way Cul-de-sac. New Business Building Permit #151 was presented to the Council. Wulfekuhle motioned to approve the proposed building permit, seconded by Krump. Carried. Building Permit #152 was presented to the Council. Krump motioned to approve the proposed building permit, pending review/approval by city building code inspector and payment of the permit fee using new construction fee structure, seconded by Reiland. Carried. Reiland requested to clean out one of his ditches to allow for the planned draining flow. Council discussed and granted Reiland permission. Discussion was held regarding the advertising of gravel bids for the upcoming year. Wulfekuhle motioned to directly contact gravel companies for bids in lieu of advertising in the newspaper, seconded by Krump. Carried. Mowing bids are currently open for the City of Colfax. Information is posted at the High School, Post Office, and the Community Board at the Community Center. All bids should be received no later than Thursday April 15th. There being no further business, Reiland made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Krump. Carried. Adjourned at 8:55pm. |
City CouncilRegular Monthly Meetings Archives
March 2024
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