Regular Council Meeting - 12/21/2020

​City of Colfax – Regular Council Meeting 12/21/2020
The regular December Meeting of the Colfax City Council was called to order by Mayor Olson at 7:00pm. Present were Mayor Jeff Olson, Council Members Kyle Krump, Tom Wulfekuhle, Justin Reiland, Paul Lucas (via phone) and auditor Jen Skoog.  Audience members in attendance were Stewart Gunness, Matthew Workin, Lowell Workin, Sid Berg, Nathan Berseth, Leon Heyen, Inis Frankl, Vance Gylland, Bonnie Gylland, Amy Clark, and Scott Gauslow.
Mayor Olson recognized the audience. Sid Berg brought forth concerns regarding engine brakes being used near his place, although they are illegal in the county. Berg requested the council to consider a “no engine brakes allowed” sign and reduce the speed limit to 40mph further East of the current limit change. Berg informed the council that he purchased a vacant lot from Dick Horner and inquired about building ordinances in regards to lot lines, and asked about an outbuilding ordinance. Berg also requested new water and sewer lines be brought onto the property. Council will look into requesting the reduction in speed limit and the ‘no engine-breaks’ sign from the county. Nathan Berseth requested the Council to check with an Engineer about a water loop north of ball diamond in new development.
Olson provided some background information to the Council and audience regarding Savion Energy’s intentions and current status in the area. Olson stated that zoning jurisdiction for the city is 1 mile outside of city limits. At this time, Savion is offering a 40 year lease, therefore the Council needs to consider future growth. Amy Clark informed the Council that the city would need a zoning change since agricultural land around the city does not permit solar panels.
Olson dialed into the Savion conference call via phone at 7:29pm. Savion members introduced themselves to the Council and audience, then providing a brief overview of solar energy. After explaining the proposed project, they proceeded to answer various questions from the Council and audience members. Once the call was complete, discussion was held regarding the information provided and the Council listed to the audience comments and opinions.
Olson asked Amy Clark her about having living quarters in a commercial building. Amy clarified that Ordinance allows the council to make a special exemption upon request. Discussion was held regarding the possible request. Council will need to explore further information regarding water and septic before further discussion.
General discussion was held regarding the Grant Street Improvement project, and was decided to table for future discussion.
The minutes of the November City Council meeting were reviewed; Wulfekuhle moved to approve minutes as presented, seconded by Krump.  Carried.
Financial report for November was reviewed. Reiland made motion, seconded by Wulfekuhle to approve financial reports, motion carried. 
The bills and meter reading differences for the month of November were reviewed; Wulfekuhle motioned to approve the bills as presented, seconded by Reiland.  Carried.
Old Business
Further discussion was held regarding Nathan’s request to have water looped into the new development. Olson will reach out to the engineer to discuss this option.
No update provided on the New Residents Info Sheet.
Olson rode around town with Cass County Electric looking at where lights would be. Each light is $800 one-time charge + $10.50 monthly fee. Tabled for future discussion.
Most of the excess dirt pile along the railroad tracks has been moved. Council with update at January meeting.
Olson confirmed that John and Brady will help with snow removal this winter. Some repairs/maintenance will be needed on the tractor/blower.
New business
Annual liquor license for Colfax Bar was completed. Wulfekuhle made motion, seconded by Reiland to approve 2021 liquor and beer licenses for Colfax bar. Carried.
Mayor Report
None
There being no further business, Krump made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Wulfekuhle.  Carried.  Adjourned at 9:30pm.