Palouse City Hall Minutes July 24, 2012

DRAFT ONLY.  Without council review or approval.

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

July 24, 2012

CALL TO ORDER:  Mayor Echanove called the Council Meeting to order at 7:00 PM.

ROLL CALL:  Council members present:  Tim Jones; Bo Ossinger; Norm Schorzman; Alison Webb; Rick Wekenman.  Absent:  Cecil Floyd, Connie Newman.  Councilmember Wekenman MOVED, seconded by Councilmember Jones, to excuse both councilmembers’ absences.  Also present: Public Works Superintendent Dwayne Griffin; Police Officer Brian Dentler; Clerk-Treasurer Joyce Beeson; & Deputy Clerk Ann Thompson.  Public present:  Janet Barstow, Garth Meyer, Caitlyn McGehee (7:52).       

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:  Councilmember Schorzman MOVED to adopt the minutes of the Special Council Meeting of July 10, 2012.  Councilmember Webb seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

PUBLIC WORKS REPORT:    Supt. Griffin submitted a written report.  Additionally, they have started the Mohr Street project.  They discovered that one of the sewer mains will be in the way of the new curb so the sewer line will be moved north about three feet.     

Award bid for G Street Paving:  Received two bids.  Motley & Motley bid $24.95/sy = $15,194.55.  Poe Asphalt bid $22.50/sy = $13,702.50.  Supt. Griffin confirmed that both bids met the requirements and recommended that council award to the low bidder.  Councilmember Ossinger MOVED to accept the low bid from Poe Asphalt for $13,702.50 for the G Street project.  Councilmember Wekenman seconded and the motion carried unanimously.    

POLICE REPORT:  The Police Department is requesting that council establish an ordinance for people residing in RV’s outside RV parks.  We currently have a policy but it is not backed by one specific ordinance but rather different references within Palouse Municipal Code.  For instance, Title 17–Zoning sets the minimum size for a dwelling unit at 750 sq feet and that two separate dwelling units cannot be located on the same lot.  Zoning code also allows RV’s for human habitation in a mobile home park.  This isn’t something that we have to deal with often, but it is an issue from time to time.  In order for the current policy to be properly enforced, it should reference an ordinance.  Our attorney recommended that council include the Planning Commission in addressing this issue since it concerns zoning codes.   The Policy and Administration committee will address this.

Palouse Music Festival is this weekend.  The PD doesn’t foresee any issues.  August 7 & 8 is the Ride Across Washington bicycling event with approximately 250 bicyclists camping at our park.    

JFB REPORT:  Due to aging demographic of the fire department, they’re having trouble getting enough responders to fire calls.  EMS is right where they want to be for support personnel. 

NEW BUSINESS:

2^nd Quarter Treasurer’s Report:  No surprises, no budget amendments.  Busy looking at next year’s budget and what beginning balances might be for next year.  As the numbers start coming together, the Finance Committee needs to meet with Clerk-Treasurer Beeson every two or three weeks.  

Ordinance No. 898 – setting 2013 excess property tax levy amount:  Mayor read aloud the ordinance in its entirety and again by title only.  We are taking our banked capacity of $782 and the 1% increase allowed by law.  These figures exclude any new homes that aren’t on the tax rolls yet.  Councilmember Schorzman MOVED, seconded by Councilmember Jones, to adopt ordinance No. 898.  Motion carried unanimously.

Ordinance No. 899 – setting 2013 regular and special levy amounts:  Mayor read aloud the ordinance in its entirety and again by title only.  This ordinance sets the amounts for the special street levy, special pool levy, regular EMS levy, and the general levy.  Currently, 65% of the general levy goes into Current Expense fund and 35% goes into Street fund.  The Street fund is an operating fund.  Capital improvements to streets come out of our Arterial Street fund through the voted special levy.  The pool levy funds only a portion of the pool, the rest is absorbed through the current expense fund.  Some years it costs more than others to operate the pool, depending on condition of the equipment.  Councilmember Webb brought up charging entrance fees to the pool.  The last time we charged for entrance, we brought in only about $5,000.  Collecting fees to operate the pool on top of what they’re paying in their taxes doesn’t compensate for hours spent collecting, banking and auditing the process.  It would also mean that homeowners not only pay the tax, but would then have to buy a pass to use the pool.  Councilmember Jones MOVED, seconded by Councilmember Ossinger, to adopt ordinance No. 899 as written.  Motion carried unanimously. 

Resolution No. 2012-05 – language for placing the street improvements levy on Nov. 6, 2012, ballot:

Mayor read aloud the resolution in its entirety.  Councilmember Wekenman MOVED to adopt Resolution No. 2012-05, seconded by Councilmember Schorzman.  Supt. Griffin stressed how important this levy is in order to maintain our city streets.  The paving and dust control are funded only through the special street levy.  Motion carried unanimously.    

Resolution No. 2012-06 – language for placing the M & O swimming pool levy on the Nov. 6, 2012, ballot:

Mayor read aloud the resolution in its entirety.  Councilmember Wekenman MOVED, seconded by Councilmember Ossinger, to adopt Resolution No. 2012-06 as written.  Motion carried unanimously. 

Resolution No. 2012-07 – interim specifications for sewer hook-up:

Mayor read aloud the resolution in its entirety.  The city is in the process of developing standards for new sewer connections.  This is setting an interim standard by setting the size of a standard sewer service line to a single family residence at 4” pipe.  In adopting this interim standard, the city will be able to move forward with applications for sewer hookups while the comprehensive standards are being developed.  Councilmember Jones MOVED, seconded by Councilmember Webb, to adopt resolution No. 2012-07 as written.  This resolution was written by our attorney.  Motion carried unanimously. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS/REQUESTS: 

Parks, Cemetery, & Buildings-Alison Webb. Chair:  no report    

Policy & Administration-Bo Ossinger, Chair:  no report

Streets & Sidewalks-Cecil Floyd, Chair:  no report

Personnel & Pool-Tim Jones, Chair:  no report

Water & Sewer-Connie Newman, Chair:  no report

Police, Fire, & Safety-Rick Wekenman, Chair:  Colfax hazardous mitigation draft is in its final stages. 

Finance, Property, & Equipment-Norm Schorzman, Chair:  no report

OPEN FORUM:  Janet Barstow.  Talking about Haunted Palouse.  Dates this year will be Oct 19, 20, 26, 27.  Janet asked permission to use city property again as in the past:  Shady Lane, the PD basement, and Central Park.  They will be starting to set up the last week of September.  Supt. Griffin is fine with it.  The Palouse Chamber will have the portable potties again which really helped last year.  Councilmember Jones MOVED to grant the Palouse Chamber of Commerce permission to operate Haunted Palouse using city property as outlined in the past.  Councilmember Schorzman seconded.  The motion carried unanimously. 

MAYOR’S REPORT:    

Brownfields bids close 4 pm, July 30^th (update:  bid closing date moved to August 1^st).  There were 16 contractors here for the pre-conference meeting.  We have scheduled a special council meeting August 7^th with just one agenda item to perhaps award the bid for the project. 

ALLOW PAYMENT OF BILLS:  Councilmember Ossinger MOVED that the bills against the city be allowed.  Councilmember Wekenman seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

ADJOURN:  Councilmember Schorzman MOVED to adjourn.  Councilmember Webb seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.  The council meeting adjourned at 8:09 PM.

The following checks are approved for payment:

Claims Paid, July 25, 2012:            Ck. #4167-4184                   $7,734.79

Void:                                        Ck. # 4165

APPROVED: ________________________________   ATTEST: ________________________________

Fairfield Town Council Meeting July 17, 2012

Fairfield, Washington

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

JULY 17, 2012

7:00 P.M.

Note to persons reviewing this document: This is not a verbatim transcript. While an attempt has been made to document pertinent points, these minutes contain only a summary of the discussion and voting.

Mayor Ed Huber called the regular council meeting to order on July 17, 2012 at 7:00 pm.

Council members present: George Davidson, Mary Branon and Valerie Spurrell. Harry Gibbons and Brian Kauffman were absent due to family commitments.

Others present: Sheriff Ozzie Knezovich, KJ Hanley of Century West, Randy Noble of TD&H, Kimberly Blair, Derek Knecht and Cheryl Loeffler.

Approval of Minutes

ACTION

Mary Branon motioned to approve the July 2, 2012 regular council minutes as presented and July 10, 2012 special council meeting minutes as presented, seconded by Valerie Spurrell. The motion carried.

ACTION

Approval of the Claims

Mary Branon motioned and Valerie Spurrell seconded to approve claim vouchers #16707 through #16723 for $16,449.35 and EFTs for $34,633.50 as presented. The motion carried.

Claims: $41,055.97

Payroll: 10,026.88

Total Claims: $51,082.85

Check Register signed by: Mary Branon, George Davidson and Valerie Spurrell

Guest

Sheriff Ozzie Knezovich

Sheriff Knezovich came to the meeting tonight to see how things are going in the town and to visit about the upcoming budget season. The issue with SpoKanimal and citation writing was also discussed. He expressed that the sheriff’s department has been looking into the SpoKanimal contract and how the departments interact with each other. He believes that by the end of July, this issue should be solved and SpoKanimal will be commissioned, given citation books and will be able to issue citations within our town. We have 90 days to issue a citation after the potentially dangerous dog declaration

was given to 201 N 2nd.

The sheriff commented that since the announcement from Spokane that the police were not going to respond to property crimes, the rate of them went up 52%. A property crime task force was formed and as of July 14, 2012, 214 arrests have been made. He commented that 36 deputies have been lost in the last three years to budget cuts and a possible six more at the end of the year. Ed commented on how much the town appreciates the SCOPE officers and the things that they are able to provide for us. It is great that they have not been cut because of the budget. Sheriff Ozzie commented that SCOPE is a force of 650 volunteers and the commissioners realize their value.

There is a question and answer session on Wednesday, July 18 in Rockford and everyone is invited to that if they have anything else they would like to know from the sheriff.

Engineer’s Report

2013 Transportation Improvement Board (TIB) Call for Projects and engineer selection

The council had an informal comment period after the special meeting last week about which engineering firm they would prefer for the 2013 Transportation Improvement Board (TIB) Call for Projects. It was a unanimous opinion that the council would like to continue to strengthen the relationship they have with Century West and have them submit an application to TIB for the continuation of the Main Street Project.

The Town also values the relationships with TD&H and the East Main Street Rehabilitation project has been a good project to start a relationship with the firm. At this point, there is not a project in the works for them though.

Century West

KJ Hanley reported that he has been preparing the SRTC application for the 1st Street Sidewalk Improvements. This project would be to replace the sidewalk from Carlton to Spokane Street. According to SRTC, there is a 13.5% match required at this time, but that could change. There is also the possibility that the match could be covered by TIB funds.

The application is due August 3rd KJ asked the council to approve the endorsement stating that the town agrees to the engineer’s estimate of $159,975.00 and a guarantee matching funds of $21,596.63.

ACTION

Mary motioned to approve the 1st Sidewalk engineer estimate of $159,975.00; seconded by Valerie. The motion passed.

If the town were approved for the SRTC project, it would take place in 2013.

KJ will start on the TIB application for continuation up Main Street project.

2012 Sewer Improvement Project

We are still waiting for the subrecipient agreement from CDBG. KJ contacted Richard Culton about perhaps beginning to survey next week and to backdate the billing. This has been done in the past with no problems. The cost of obtaining easements, if needed, was not factored in for this project so the town would have to do the bulk of the legwork to help with those costs. KJ will help with the preparation of the paperwork though.

TD&H

Randy Noble reported that the Union Pacific is progressing on the crossing and should have it complete by Thursday, July 19. Cameron-Reilly will be back in town the next week to grind the asphalt and begin paving, which should be completed by August 2nd. They could have a slight delay due to the vandalism on their equipment.

Two contractors submitted bids for the street lighting and ARC Electric was low bid at $52,785.90. TIB has approved the award of the Street Lighting Contract to ARC Electric. Randy requested permission from the council to award the contract to ARC Electric and permission to allow Mayor Huber to sign the contract for construction. He also requested permission to allow the Notice to Proceed to be issued after the contract is signed. The pre-construction meeting will be held after the bonds are secured and the contract is ready for signature.

ACTION

Mary motioned to award the contract to ARC Electric for $52,785.90 for the street lighting; allow Mayor Huber to sign the contract for construction; and to allow the Notice to Proceed to be issued after the contract is signed; seconded by Valerie. The motion carried.

OLD BUSINESS

Spokane River Keepers

The third letter from the Spokane River Keepers was received stating that they appreciate the town’s efforts and progress with the I&I. As long as we stay diligent, they will just monitor. Mary suggested that the town initiate a letter to them when the next project starts.

2012 Loss control grant

The town received $1000 Loss Control Grant for tree removal/pruning from Association of Washington Cities. Another area that was applied for was to replace the overhang on the community center, but this was rejected. The area that generated the most claims was sidewalk/street repair and the dead/dying trees.

SpoKanimal

This was addressed by Sheriff Ozzie. SpoKanimal did send a form letter that they send out for different violations. Cheryl will revise this for our ordinance and present it to the council for approval.

RMSA training

Cheryl and George are signed up for this training on July 23.

Sidewalk project

Tom Gum from T&R Concrete has been working on the sidewalk from the library to McNeil. There was a problem with the east end slope. He would need to extend it 6’ for the slope allowance. He presented a change order for $150.

The Saselli’s are concerned about the elevation being too high into their driveway and would cause their car to drag on the bottom. They were questioning whether an apron was going to be provided. Since there was not an apron originally, none of the bids included one. Ed did visit with the contractor about the elevation of the sidewalk and it is not any higher than the original sidewalk. He was going to provide a firm crushed rock approach but after visiting with Ed, he presented a bid for a 6” x 12’ x 17’ concrete apron for $2160. This bid was above what the town can provide. Ed then contacted the contractor during the council meeting and it was discussed to bring in a truckload of 2” minus to get the needed elevation.

This could be done for $350 and would be firm enough for a driveway approach. Any rock that would be left over would be left for town stockpile.

ACTION

Mary motioned to approve the change orders for $150 and $350 sidewalk work; seconded by Valerie. The motion carried.

The project will be completed before the next council meeting so Ed asked for council permission to approve final payment prior to August 7 pending the walk-through approval.

ACTION

George motioned to approve final payment based on acceptance of the project by Mayor, Derek and contractor; seconded by Mary. The motion carried.

Mr. Gum stated that the sprinkler system of Gary Adams’ will be repaired along with replacing soil along the sidewalk will be replaced.

NEW BUSINESS

None.

Review of attorney comments for Ordinances #370

The comments made by the attorney were minor and the council accepted them. He is still reviewing the water ordinance.

This will be reviewed August 7 with final approval of both ordinances at the August 21st council meeting.

Public Works Update

Water

Chlorine residuals are staying at a constant .2 pm

Hydrants are being oiled and serviced at Hilltop Lane, Fairfield Care

Plans are underway for new service line on Seward

Bacteriological test for July came back negative. There is no coliform present.

Service line for the Thomas field is being scheduled for the end of July or early August. Contact with Charlie Hahner about locating this beside the cement slab on the south end of the field.

WWTF

Juggling influent flows to increase “no discharge” and retention time, keeping bio ponds topped off Influent testing is on schedule and within limits. No effluent testing until discharge commences this Fall. Trees are being watered and weeds knocked down around them. Thistles are due to be sprayed.

PARKS

Hart Park is now being watered regularly

Garbage and branches are picked up daily at both park locations

Dead trees, light pole and metal barricade poles have been removed in Hahner Field by Mr. Hahner. This looks great.

ROADS

Tree and bush trimming is being done in trouble spots on Town’s right-of-ways

Weeds have been sprayed on sidewalks and parking lots

Main Street between Highway 27 and Railroad is closed the week of the 16th through the 20th for the railroad crossing to be demolished and new ones installed.

Sidewalk on Main between the Library and McNeil will be poured Friday. Finish work should wrap up the week of the 23rd.

Other:

Smoke testing on Fairfield’s sewer and storm water system is being scheduled for late this summer or early fall. This will be used as an I&I identification tool to make future adjustments or repairs to the system. Notices will be sent to citizens before testing commences.

Other

Fraud and Abuse Policy is required now for the CDBG contracts. This sample was provided from RMSA. The council will review for next meeting.

Review Complaints & Compliments

None tonight.

Adjourn

The regular meeting adjourned 9:08 pm.

__________________    __________________________

Mayor Ed Huber              Clerk/Treasurer Cheryl Loeffler

Planning and Zoning Meeting July 25, 2012 at Rockford, Wash.

Planning and Zoning meeting at Rockford Town Hall, Emma St., 7 p.m. July 25, 2012.

Whitman County Updating Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan

A partnership of local governments and other stakeholders in Whitman County are working together to update the Whitman County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. This plan was created in 2006 in response to Federal programs that enable

 the partnership to use pre- and post-disaster financial assistance to reduce the exposure of County residents to risks associated with natural hazards. In order to identify and plan for future natural disasters, we need your assistance.

The Hazard Mitigation survey (click survey or web link below) is designed to help us gage the level of knowledge local citizens already have about natural disaster issues and to find out from local residents about areas vulnerable to various types of natural disasters. The information you provide will help us coordinate activities to reduce the risk of injury or property damage in the future.

The survey consists of 34 questions plus an opportunity for any additional comments at the end. The survey should take less than 5 minutes to complete and is anonymous. When you have finished the survey, please click "Done" on the final page.

The Whitman County Hazard Mitigation Planning Partnership thanks you for taking the time to participate in this information gathering process.

Here is the web link to the Hazard Mitigation survey.  For more information call Farmington Town Hall, (509) 287-2500.

Palouse City Council Minutes July 10, 2012

DRAFT ONLY.  Without council review or approval.

Public Hearing – 6-Year Street Plan

Public Hearing – 2013 Revenue Sources

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

July 10, 2012

CALL TO ORDER:  Mayor Echanove called the Council Meeting to order at 7:00 PM.

ROLL CALL:  Council members present:  Tim Jones; Connie Newman; Bo Ossinger; Norm Schorzman; Alison Webb.  Absent:  Cecil Floyd & Rick Wekenman.  Also present:  Police Chief Jerry Neumann; Clerk-Treasurer Joyce Beeson; & Deputy Clerk Ann Thompson.  Public present:  David Nails, Mark Storey, Nicole Wood, Greg Partch, Pete Hertz, Cate McGehee, Garth Meyer.     

PUBLIC HEARING:  6-Year Transportation Improvement Plan.  Opened public hearing at 7:03.  No public comments.  Public Hearing closed at 7:03.   

PUBLIC HEARING:  2013 Revenue Sources.  Opened public hearing at 7:04.  No public comments.  Council has the option of adopting 1% increase, and the option of taking the bank capacity.  Our banked capacity is $782.  Councilmember Jones MOVED, seconded by Councilmember Schorzman to increase our councilmatic levy 1% as allowed by law.  Motion carried unanimously.  65% goes to current expense and 35% goes to streets.  The split percentage is councilmatic; can be changed by resolution.  Street and pool levy amounts are to stay the same as last year.  Councilmember Newman MOVED to direct Joyce to prepare necessary ordinances and resolutions setting the levy amounts at $40,000 for Arterial Street improvements and $28,000 for pool operations and maintenance.  Councilmember Schorzman seconded.  Motion carried unanimously.  Public Hearing was closed at 7:13. 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:  Under Mayor’s Report, add that Mayor appointed Councilmember Schorzman to chair of the Finance, Property & Equipment Committee.  Councilmember Jones MOVED to adopt the amended minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of June 26, 2012.  Councilmember Newman seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

PUBLIC WORKS REPORT:  Superintendent Griffin submitted a written report. 

POLICE REPORT:  Chief Neumann submitted the June Activity Log.  

NEW BUSINESS:

Whitman County yard waste discussion:  Commissioner Greg Partch following up on alternatives for the Whitman County chipper program.  Whitman County Public Works Director Mark Storey, and Whitman County Solid Waste manager David Nails, both spoke about possible ideas for cities to consider.  The county is considering a pilot program for the delivery and pick up of a large roll-out container for chippable yard debris.  The city would still have to load and compact it but the cost should be less than the chipper costs.  The city would need to purchase a thumb for the backhoe and would need a place to put the container for loading and unloading.  The container is 25’ x 8’ x 8’.  Supt. Griffin and David Nails will discuss further. 

Currently anyone in the county can still haul all yard waste and dump for free at the county.  However, the DOE has some rules coming down the shoot that will dictate that yard clippings won’t be accepted in the free, clean-green disposal, only limbs and wood. 

Solid Waste Advisory Committee now has an opening.  www.WhitmanCounty.org has more information. 

Resolution 2012-03:  Interfund loan terms for repayment:  Mayor read aloud the resolution in its entirety.  This resolution is the same resolution that was adopted in 2010-17, except the minimum terms for repayment of said interfund loan principal and interest shall be set and included as follows:  July 30, 2012, no less than $10,000 principal and accrued interest; July 30, 2013, no less than $13,000 principal and accrued interest; May 30, 2014, no less than $17,000 or remaining balance of principal and accrued interest.  Councilmember Newman MOVED to adopt Resolution 2012-03.  Councilmember Jones seconded.  Motion carried unanimously. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS/REQUESTS: 

Water & Sewer-Connie Newman, Chair:  DOH reported they will need their full 90 days to review our Water System Plan so the city should get it back late July.  The Sewer Extension Plan is still with Attorney Bishop; it too should be back in late July.  August will be busy for council for the adoption of the WSP and the SEP. 

Councilmember Newman wants to look into allowing a high school student representative on city council.  She learned of this program at the AWC conference.  She will investigate further.

Policy & Administration-Bo Ossinger, Chair:  Cost allocation resolution draft is on Attorney Bishop’s desk. 

Parks, Cemetery, & Buildings-Alison Webb. Chair:  no report.     

Streets & Sidewalks-Cecil Floyd, Chair:  no report

Personnel & Pool-Tim Jones, Chair:  no report

Police, Fire, & Safety-Rick Wekenman, Chair:  no report

Finance, Property, & Equipment:  no report

OPEN FORUM:

Nicole Wood:  Has asked for a hydrant on 8th & C through a water extension application submitted on July 9^th.   Nicole asked what will happen to her application and if the application fee of $150 (which was not included with the application) would be refunded if her application is denied.  Councilmember Newman explained that one of the purposes of the $150 application fee is to partially recover the costs of Superintendent Griffin’s and/or staff time of reviewing the plan, writing specs, etc.  There is no clause for a refund if a request is denied.  However, the public works superintendent will recommend an alternate extension plan if the one requested is not feasible.  Councilmember Newman MOVED, seconded by Councilmember Webb to continue this discussion.  Motion carried unanimously. 

Nicole Wood:  Sewer connection at manhole G.  They’ve requested a 6” pipe.  Nicole’s sewer extension request has been approved for a single-family residence and Nicole may proceed with a 4” line.  A materials list and construction specifications were provided by the city, along with council approval for their contractor to work in the city right of way.   Nicole is now requesting a 6” sewer service to replace the 4” line that the Kessler’s had installed.  Her contractor may contact Supt. Griffin directly.  Nicole stated that if they can’t get approval for 6” pipe, they will explore other options.  Supt. Griffin has stated a 6” pipe does not work for a single-family home; there are engineering reasons you do not put a single-family home on a 6” line.  Nicole stated that they assumed that the Kessler line was 6” since that is what was written up on the work order.  C-T Beeson explained that the Kessler’s paid for a 4” service and that is what was installed.  The mistake was only that Dwayne accidently wrote 6” on the work order instead of 4”. 

Council thanked Nicole for the in-person dialogue.  Nicole asked if she could attend a committee meeting to discuss her w/s development concerns and was told yes.         

MAYOR’S REPORT:    

Mayor requested a Special Council Meeting August 7, 2012, at 7:00 pm, for one item only:  to perhaps award contractor bid for Phase II of the Brownfields clean-up project.  This will allow for as much time as possible for contractor to perform the work. 

ALLOW PAYMENT OF BILLS:  Councilmember Jones MOVED that the bills against the city be allowed.  Councilmember Schorzman seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

ADJOURN:  Councilmember Schorzman MOVED to adjourn.  Councilmember Newman seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.  The council meeting adjourned at 8:08 PM.

The following checks are approved for payment:

Payroll Paid, June 29, 2012.            Ck. #4110-4135 & EFT            $43,916.47

Claims Paid, July 11, 2012.            Ck. #4136-4166 & EFT            $71,141.00

APPROVED: ________________________________   ATTEST: ________________________________

Fairfield Town Council Meeting July 2, 2012

FAIRFIELD, WASHINGTON

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

JULY 2, 2012

7:00 P.M.

Note to persons reviewing this document: This is not a verbatim transcript. While an attempt has been made to document pertinent points, these minutes contain only a summary of the discussion and voting.

Mayor Ed Huber called the regular council meeting to order on July 2, 2012 at 7:00 pm. Council members present: Harry Gibbons, George Davidson, Mary Branon, Valerie Spurrell and Brian Kauffman.

Others present: Randy Noble of TD&H, Derek Knecht and Cheryl Loeffler.

Approval of Minutes

ACTION 

Brian Kauffman motioned to approve the June 19, 2012 regular council minutes as presented, seconded by Harry Gibbons. The motion carried.

ACTION

Approval of the Claims

Brian Kauffman motioned and Harry Gibbons seconded to approve claim vouchers #16684 through #16704 for $96,063.02 and EFTs for $1,246.79 as presented. The motion carried.

Claims: $93,918.73

Payroll: 3,391.08

Total Claims: $97,309.81

Check Register signed by: Mary Branon, George Davidson and Brian Kauffman

Checks #16705 and 16706 were voided due to a printing error.

Engineer’s Report

TD&H

Randy Noble from TD&H reported on the East Main Street Rehabilitation project. The on-site construction is continuing. Demolition work is essentially complete. There was some vandalism on the construction equipment, which caused approximately $5000 worth of damage. The railroad is scheduled for their work the week of July 16. August 2nd is the scheduled completion date.

Old Business

Recycling update

Empire Disposal placed the container behind Town Hall on Wednesday, June 27 but it was not placed exactly in the correct location. There is a pile of service club stuff that needs to be moved before it can be placed in the chosen spot. It seems to be working without any problems so far.

Mosquito fogging contract

Comments from the town’s attorney, Stanley Schwartz will be forwarded to Tekoa’s attorney.

Equipment for game room

The kids that come to the Community Center on Thursdays were asked to come up with some equipment that they would like to have. Since the weather is getting warm, most of the items were outdoor sport equipment such as baseballs and footballs. The thought of the committee is to take the kids to either the Pit or to Hart Park weather permitting. The ouncil agreed to allow the purchase of as much as they can get for the $259 that was raised on Flag Day.

A screen is something that the entire community Center could use. Currently, one has to be borrowed when needed.

Free Lunch Program

So far so good. Attendance has been pretty consistent. Randy Noble stopped in and had lunch one day when he was in town. The program does generate quite a bit of garbage. Cheryl checked into getting a dumpster to put on-site but the council suggested getting a larger size at the shop, which is more economical. The Food Bank also uses the dumpster that is at the shop. Cheryl and Derek both agree that this is a better way to go-at least until this program is over which is August 24.

Loss Control Grant -Sidewalk Contract

T&R Concrete submitted a revised bid that included the removal of the concrete. The bid came in at $8395, which is still the low bid. The council agreed to continue with this contractor. The work began 6-29.

NEW BUSINESS

Interlocal Bridge Inspection Services Agreement

The Town of Fairfield has an interlocal agreement with Spokane County to provide the necessary personnel and equipment to perform routine bridge inspection and reporting to the State database, bridge load rating, bridge overload permit review, scour action plans, maintain bridge and load rating files, and other associated work as required by the above-referenced standards within the limits of the City.

ACTION

Mary motioned to approve the Interlocal Bridge Inspection Services Agreement between the Town of Fairfield and Spokane County; seconded by Harry. The motion carried.

SpoKanimal-Potentially Dangerous Dog Declaration

While Derek A Knecht was reading meters on June 28, the Blue Heeler that belongs to 201 N 2nd was off of its leash and charged at him while he was walking. Derek L Knecht was called to help him get back to the truck and to provide a point of refuge from the animal. The dog aggressively bit at the tires. Derek L then advised Town Hall to call SpoKanimal for some assistance with the animal. Before SpoKanimal could get to Fairfield, someone that lives at this address came home and put the dog into the house. This animal has had at least two written complaints against it and some unofficial complaints. The officers from SpoKanimal then came to the office and discussed the ordinance with Cheryl. There is some confusion on their ability to write citations. Officer Dave Walker then called the office to try to get the confusion cleared up. Cheryl asked Councilman Brian Kauffman to follow up with Officer Walker on this. Mary and Ed both agree that the citation issue had been cleared up and the process of dangerous dog declaration had been dealt with in the past following this ordinance, which came from the City of Spokane. Mary suggested that Brian get in contact with Gail Mackie of SpoKanimal, as she was the one that helped in the beginning. The council then advised Derek A to file a complaint against the dog and proceed with a potentially dangerous dog declaration.

BIAS class for new BARS and budget

BIAS is offering a training session for the new BARS chart of accounts and a budget training class to implement these changes. The fee is $349 for Cheryl to attend the class and one elected official can attend free. The State Auditors have changed the BARS, which will be implemented in 2013. The council approved Cheryl’s attendance and Mary expressed interest in attending also. The date is August 8.

Mayor Pro-Tem

Every six months, by law, the mayor has to appoint a mayor pro-tem for six months.

ACTION

Brian motioned to appoint Mary Branon as Mayor Pro-Tem for six months; seconded by Harry. The motion carried.

Signature cards

ACTION

Mary motioned to update the signature cards to remove Mary Kinsey and Alene Felgenhauer from all Bank of Fairfield accounts; add Jeannie Jesseph to all Bank of Fairfield accounts; seconded by Brian. The motion carried.

Ed, Mary, Cheryl and Jeannie will be on the signature cards.

Public Hearing Ordinance #370

AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF FAIRFIELD, WASHINGTON, ADOPTING RULES AND REQUIREMENTS FOR CUSTOMERS OF THE TOWN’S SEWER UTILITY AND OTHER MATTERS PROPERLY RELATED THERETO

Mayor Huber gave the second reading of Ordinance #370 and opened the Public Hearing at 8:09. With no public at tonight’s meeting to provide comments, the Public Hearing closed at 8:09.

The ordinance with changes was reviewed by the council and both Ordinance #369 and #370 will be sent to the attorney for review. If he gets them back to the town in a timely fashion, both of the ordinances will be approved at the next council meeting.

Public Works Update

WATER

• Scheduling new service install on Seward for mid-July. Getting meter outside to town easement, replacing corroded line. It is leaking again, just a few feet away from previous leak. Dave Tysz will help with this.
• Testing is on schedule and within limits.
• New chlorinator tank table is being built for well #1.
• Consumer Confidence Report was sent in this utility bill.

WWTF

• Facility has been mowed.
• Flows are being juggled to achieve maximum retention and evaporation of ponds.
• Testing is on schedule and within limits (Influent testing only because of not discharging).
• Watering trees. Weed eating around buildings and generator.
• Meeting with McGuire from DOE went well. The I&I work that has been done proves the Town’s intentions of reducing the I&I. Mr. McGuire thought that the map showing these improvements would help with the Spokane
• River Keepers.

PARKS

• Garbage and debris picked up daily. The lower park has been extremely busy.
• Sprinklers have been off during wet spring into summer as well.
• Repairs have been made to damaged sprinkler system in Thiel Park (minor damage during construction).
• Cameras are all back and running.

ROADS

• Roads have all been put back into shape after sewer construction.
• Minor potholes and washboard will be smoothed after next round of moisture.
• Main Street project is still under construction. Will be wrapping up in August.
• Chip sealing will be coming thru Fairfield during the week of July 23rd. Patchwork has been included on Bradshaw and will be sealed as well.

Other: Two sections of sewer have been flushed and had a camera run through with a locating beacon. Manhole has been located down alleyway off 2nd St. in St. John Implement yard and 3rd and Seward. These sections will be documented as being in “GOOD” condition meaning very minor cracks and/or leaks. This will also be recorded in Fairfield’s effort to find and reduce I&I issues in the Town’s Sewer System.

Other:

Two of the recent events at the Community Center left it in an undesirable condition. Cheryl presented a bill for extra pay for the Community Center cleaning after these events. Every time the facility is rented, a damage deposit is charged.

Normally, the deposit would be refunded. When the new application was adopted, the council agreed that whoever cleaned up after a function would be paid $25/hour from the damage deposit. The three hours that Cheryl spent cleaning were above and beyond the volunteer time that she donates to the Town.

ACTION

Brian motioned to approve the extra pay of $75 for the Community Center cleaning; seconded by Mary. The motion carried.

Time off

Cheryl will be gone the rest of this week and the last week of July.

Review Complaints & Compliments

Compliment: “Do I need to fill out one of your silly forms in order to compliment the town on getting the recycling thingee in place? We've used it a couple times already, and it's great to be able to be responsible with recyclables without having to drive all the way to Spokane.”

A 5-minute break was called before going into executive session.

Executive Session was called at 8:57. The session should last 15 minutes to discuss contracting opportunities. No actions will take place.

Executive session adjourned at 9:46

Regular session was called back to order at 9:46.

Adjourn

The regular meeting adjourned 9:46 pm.

______________    _________________________

Mayor Ed Huber     Clerk/Treasurer Cheryl Loeffler