Fairfield Town Council August 8, 2013 Agenda

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Palouse City Council Public Hearing & Regular Coucil Meeting Minutes July 9, 2013

Palouse City Council

Public Hearing &

Regular Council Meeting

July 9, 2013

 

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

 

ROLL CALL:  Council members present:  Senja Estes; Tim Jones; Connie Newman, Bo Ossinger, Rick Wekenman and Alison Webb.  Absent: Norm Schorzman. Also present:  Police Chief Jerry Neumann; Clerk-Treasurer Joyce Beeson; Public Works Dwayne Griffin and Marc Arrasmith.  Public present: Aaron Flansburg, Heather McGehee, Kristin Jones, Heidi Fluegel, Garth Meyer, Katie Cooper, Jens Hegg and Bruce Beeson.

 

PUBLIC HEARING:

2014 Revenue sources – Mayor Echanove opened the public hearing and recapped council discussion from the last meeting concerning options for 2014 revenue sources.   Palouse resident Aaron Flansburg voiced his support of a levy lid lift.  With no further comment from the public, Mayor closed the public hearing and opened council discussion.

 

The Mayor explained how a voter approved levy lid lift works.  The general levy in 2013 was approx. $2.49 per $1,000 valuation.  The city has the capacity of collecting $3.10 per $1,000.  By law, cities are able to increase only 1% of the total amount levied each year without going out to the voters.  Over the years, as valuations change and only 1% increases are taken, the rate per thousand continues to drift down below capacity.  Currently 65% of the levy stays in the General Fund and 35% is receipted to the Street Fund.

 

The Joint Fire Board and the Council Police Fire & Safety committee have expressed concern for their aging vehicles and being able to meet equipment safety requirements.   They have set a goal of having $150,000 available to them over the next 10 years to meet the capital needs of the fire department.  Councilmember Wekenman explained that with this being a joint department, Rural fire district 4 residents would also contribute $150,000 to share in the total costs.   Resident Aaron Flansburg asked if this decision would include allocating a certain amount to the fire equipment needs.  Mayor explained that the discussion tonight was about revenue, but yes, if a levy lid lift were to be approved by the voters, a resolution could be approved by council dedicating 10% of the general levy to the Fire Equipment Capital fund to meet the goal of the fire department.  It would also help the General Fund in supporting current needs such as bringing back the police officer from 75% to 100%, restoring the employee salaries reduced two years ago, maintaining our parks and cemetery, and contributing into our vehicle and equipment needs.  Several Councilmembers voiced their support for putting the levy lid lift on the November ballot.

 

Councilmember Ossinger MOVED to proceed with the necessary paperwork to put the levy lid lift on the November ballot.  Councilmember Jones seconded the motion.  Discussion – Councilmember Wekenman pointed out that a property valued at $100,000 would be levied an additional $60 a year above the 2013 levy amount.  The motion carried unanimously.

 

Voter approved special levies – Discussion began on the Swim pool maintenance & operation special levy for $28,000.

 

Councilmember Jones MOVED to continue with the special pool levy at $28,000. Councilmember Ossinger seconded the motion.  Discussion- Councilmember Newman would still like to have community input on charging a fee at the door in addition to the levy.  Councilmember Jones said it has been looked into and it seems that the costs associated with collecting a fee may exceed the benefit.  Motion carried unanimously.

 

The special levy for street improvements is currently $40,000.  This amount is barely enough to oil the gravel roads, crack seal, and rebuild 1 block a year.  Five or six years ago, it would have done 4 blocks.   Councilmember Jones said the finance committee met and recommends that the Street levy stay at 40k this year but consider an increase next year.  Councilmember Newman would like to see an incremental increase every year to keep up with costs. Mayor Echanove asked if council would consider a 10% increase, bringing it to $44,000.

 

After further discussion, Councilmember Webb MOVED to continue with the special street improvement levy and increase the dollar amount by 10% to $44,000.  Councilmember Newman seconded the motion.  The motion carried unanimously.

 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:  Councilmember Newman MOVED to adopt the minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of June 25, 2013.  Councilmember Wekenman seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

 

PUBLIC WORKS REPORT:   Superintendent Griffin reported that the gravel roads were oiled and the TIB pavement preservation project for overlay is underway.  The variable frequency drive was installed on the booster pump.  The pool is operating fairly well with the new chlorine system installed.  The compost area has been busy and going well.  The town of Garfield will be borrowing our grader and an hourly rate will be determined.

 

POLICE REPORT:  Chief Neumann reported an increase in traffic issues and domestic calls but for the most part all is fairly normal for this time of year

 

OLD BUSINESS: 

Discussion of proposed Skatepark and location options - Mayor updated council that since the last meeting, Aaron Flansburg staked out a site between the pool and basketball courts and held a meeting there for discussion and community input.  Councilmember Newman said that the skatepark group has been working toward the goal of building a park for 10 years.  Her question to council is, if a site is approved, is the city interested in including and maintaining it as a city park?  With all the potential location explored throughout town, the best option is the city park.  The floor was turned over to Aaron Flansburg.  He handed out a site map (attached) that showed two options at the city park.  Option # 1 is the site between the pool and bb court.  Option # 2 is north of the parking lot and between the walkway to the pool and the play area with the large slide.  Aaron has been gathering info on each site – With # 1 an access would need to be maintained to allow Public Works and emergency access to the pool area and also access for Avista Utilities.  Option # 2 would be close to the parking lot and the walkway to the pool.  Aaron reads several comments from interested people abut the 2 options.  The majority of them leaned to site # 1.  Excerpts of several letters were read with the majority in support of the skatepark.  He also received a pledge from Pepsi through Idaho Beverage to donate $2,000 if it is built in the city park.  Council discussion and comments from the public ensued.  Outlining some of the points that were made

·        Aaron-Maintenance on concrete is rare with the only routine maintenance would be emptying trash cans.

Site # 1 is most preferred because the design would include flat concrete that could be used for access to the facilities and infrastructure.  So far, $5,900 has been raised plus the $2,000 pledge if located in the city park.  Estimated cost to build is about $10,000 because he would partner with a company that has experience in building skateparks with salvaged and recycled material. 

·        Councilmember Wekenman would like to see drawings of what this would look like and voiced concern of more green space taken from the park.

·        Councilmember Jones voiced support for the skatepark and said that maintenance costs would go down since that area would not be mowed or watered.  PW pointed out that sprinkler would still have to be installed to water the grassy strips around it.

·        Public comment both for and against-Bruce Beeson supports keeping the park as is and listed other parks and programs that the city couldn’t support and had to reduce.  Kristin Jones-skateparks had a positive impact on their children and would like to see this as another option in town of things for kids to do. Heather McGehee agreed.  Jens Hegg supports the skatepark and prefers site # 1 since the basketball courts have seen only a small amount of vandalism.

·        PW Griffin and Arrasmith have concerns of vandalism like is evident at the City of Pullman skatepark.  Allen Davis, Pullman PW recommends that it needs to be visible, not near buildings and a day park only with no lights.  Site # 1 is fairly hidden, is next to the pool building and lit at night.  Also concerns of future maintenance.

 

Mayor Echanove took the floor.  Attorney Bishop has suggested to the Mayor that Aaron Flansburg take out a performance bond at some point.  Councilmember Newman would like to see drawings also but would need to have a preliminary site first to plan around.

 

Councilmember Newman MOVED that council give preliminary approval for option # 2 with the contingency that artist’s rendering are made available in the next 60 days, that the group’s funds are shown to be there for phase one, that a performance bond is in place and that the design is reviewed and approved by our insurance carrier.  Councilmember Ossinger seconded the motion.  Discussion - Councilmember Jones questioned why not options # 1.  Chief Neumann pointed out that option # 1 would be harder to secure, patrol, and access.

 

The Mayor urged council to vote this down tonight with so many unanswered questions.  Councilmember Newman said there are many unknowns but they cannot be answered without a potential site.  Councilmember Estes asked Aaron if drafts could be provided of both sites.  Yes, they may be rough but site is the most critical issue in design.

 

Councilmember Ossinger asked for an amendment to the motion to not include a performance bond at this time with so many undecided elements.  Amended MOTION that council give preliminary approval for option # 2 with the contingency that artist’s rendering are made available in the next 60 days, that the group’s funds are shown to be there for phase one and that the design is reviewed and approved by our insurance carrier. With two no votes, Councilmember Wekenman and Councilmember Webb, motion carried.

 

Update of Palouse Cove Road possible name change  Mayor Echanove reported that he was unable to talk with the county about this yet.  The name change would affect about 16 residents in Palouse who have been through the process once already.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS/REQUESTS: 

Water & Sewer-Connie Newman, Chair:  Councilmember Newman has set up a workshop with our audit manager Debbie Pennick.  It is set for July 23^rd at 5:30.  This is training specific to governmental services finance and budgeting.

Streets & Sidewalks-Senja Estes, Chair:  Out next meeting will include a public hearing for the Six-year Transportation Improvement Plan.

 

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

With no motion to excuse tonight’s absence of Councilmember Schorzman, his absence is considered unexcused.

 

ADJOURN:  Councilmember Jones MOVED to adjourn.  Councilmember Webb seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.  The council meeting adjourned at 8:58 PM.

The following checks are approved for payment:

Payroll Paid  Ck. # 4956 – 4983 & EFT  $39,972.98

Claims Paid  Ck. # 4984 – 5007 & EFT   $25,437.23 

APPROVED: ___  ATTEST: _____

August 6, 2013 Palouse Planning Agenda, Palouse, Washington

 
Palouse Planning Agenda
August 6, 2013

7:00 pm

I. Call to order
II. Roll call
III. Approval of minutes from last meeting
IV. Old business
V. New Business
VI. City Council Matters
VII. Work Session
      



VIII. Public Forum



IX. Adjournment

 

Public Hearing and Rockford July 3, 2013 Town Council Meeting Minutes

Rockford Town Council
July 03, 2013
7:13 PM

Mayor Micki Harnois called the Public Hearing to order after the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Council members present were: Carrie Roecks, Clint Stevenson, and Thomas Smith. Larry Van Every and Dave Thompson were absent but excused. Brenda Gambrel Deputy Clerk and John Goyke Clerk/Treasurer/Public Works Operator were also present.

The Public Hearing was called to order at 7:10 PM. The purpose of this hearing was to take public comment per RCW 35.79.020, on Ordinance 13-04 regarding the vacation of the portion of the alleyway from the east side of Shade Street to the west side of Maple Street of Blocks 42, Lots 1 through 16 of Waltman’s Addition. The Town Council had determined that, due to prior circumstances concerning the property in question, the payment of taxes on land not vacated and the possible reliance upon prior Town Council action, the provisions of Resolution 91-1R should not apply and the property owners in this circumstance should pay no dollar amount for the vacation in question other than any costs associated with the filing or recording of the same.

Mayor Harnois explained that the homeowner adjacent to the property had already built on the property in question because the Council at that time had told the owners that the property was to be vacated.

The Mayor then asked for public comment.

Joan Thompson asked about the process of vacating alleys.

Mayor Harnois explained the process.

Seeing no further comment the Mayor closed the Public Hearing at 7:13 PM

The regular Town Council meeting was then called to order at 7:13 PM, the same council and personnel were present that were present at the public hearing.

JUB Engineering
Layne Merritt from JUB said that the performance payment bond for the flow meters had been received. The project should take approximately one month to complete, on completion an update will be given.

Layne Merritt explained that the pond one under drain system has tested positive for fecal coliform, confirming contamination to the under drain system. These tests suggest that the liner has a hole in it and is allowing sewage to leak from the liner to the under drain system. General Industries will pump the pond one dry and then test the liner to determine if there is a hole.

Layne Merritt further explained that Pond Two and Three will be double lined so this type of situation does not occur again. He went on to further say that the liner in pond one is two thirds through it life span and a new liner will eventually have to be laid over the old liner to prevent leaks from the old liner.

Carrie Roecks wanted to know why Pond One was not double lined as that was a requirement from the Department of Ecology.

Layne Merritt explained that Pond One did not require a double liner because the project was coded as a repair, so that requirement did not apply.

Further discussion followed about the techniques for ballast in the ponds to keep the liner from floating.

Mayor Harnois then explained that the State Budget has been approved, so the Department of Ecology will be contacting the Town on the funding proposal for Pond Two and Three.

Layne Merritt then asked the Town to consider reimbursing JUB for some of it time per the engineering contract. JUB would like to recover one third of its costs. Layne Merritt explained that JUB has put time in on the SRTC grant, Flow Meters through Rural Development, the Spokane Rivers Keepers lawsuit, the NPDES revisions, the Six Year Street Plan, the CDBG grant for Pond One and Pond Two.

Mayor Harnois explained that JUB has had experts representing the Town at some of these meetings.

Discussion followed and it was then decided that JUB would hand out draft copies of the invoices for the Council to look at and then JUB would send formal invoices at a later date for the Council to consider.

Mayor comments:
Primmer Land Contract for use by Town for the Southwest Reservoir

Mayor Harnois handed out copies of the current Primmer contract for the Council to review; it included several maps and legal descriptions. The Mayor said that the contract will have to have a parcel added that was missed in the current draft. Mayor Harnois then read the contract for the record.

Jody Cornwall representing the Primmer family explained that some of the stipulations in the contract extend past the 40 year agreement and will actually apply to the life of the property and the future owners of the property.

Clint Stevenson said that the current ordinance restricting water/sewer improvements out of Town limits will have to be changed so work can be done at the Primmers property which is outside Town limits.

It was discussed that the Primmers would receive free water to the lots and lands described in the contract.

Mayor Harnois explained that it was now the Town’s responsibility to inform the Town Attorney to proceed with the contract.

The water system that services the Primmer area was discussed in detail.

Carrie Roecks was concerned with the language that allowed the contract to extend for the life of the property and future owners.

Jody Cornwall went on to explain that the contract would apply to all future buyers/owners and that any contract changes would have to be approved by Stan Primmer.

Steve Meyer suggested that the contract have an expiration date ending with the final date of use for the Water Reservoir.

Mayor Harnois explained that the Town is paying for the town attorney and the Primmers attorney to review this contract.

Steve Meyer said that originally there were no attorneys.

Carrie Roecks said that the Town needed an attorney to write and review the contract.

Jodi Cornwall said that the Primmer’s attorney is ready to record the contract as is has been written and reviewed.

Carrie Roecks suggested that the contract have a termination time, and not run forever.

Mayor Harnois wrote council comments and changes to the contract on her copy.

It was then the consensus of the Council to review the contract and get the comments and the changes back to the Mayor by July 12th.

Spokane County Sheriff’s Contract
Carrie Roecks made a motion to accept the Spokane County Interlocal Agreement for costs incident to Law Enforcement Services in the Town of Rockford. Dave Thompson seconded the motion and the motion carried with a voice vote.

Cougar Corridor Project
Mayor Harnois explained the Cougar Corridor project and said the sign up deadline date for the Rockford businesses was July 26th. Mayor Harnois encourage everyone to show their cougar pride on game days by displaying the WSU Cougar signs and flags.

Women’s Club
Mayor Harnois said that she was very appreciative of the job the Women’s Club did during the appreciation day that was held in the park for the local heroes and firemen.

Newsletter
Mayor Harnois explained that the newsletter was to have an announcement in it asking people if they would be able or willing to read their own water meters, however the July newsletter lacked this information due to time constraints and it was not added. Mayor Harnois said the August newsletter would have the information and would ask the public if they would be willing or able to read their own water meter.

RMSA and PACE
Mayor Harnois announced that the Town has received a $350.00 grant for attending the 2013 Annual Meeting for Loss Prevention hosted by RMSA (Risk Management Service Agency) and it can be used for anything the Town needs to reduce claims or prevent claims against the Town. Mayor Harnois further explained the Town received a $50.00 gift certificate to Best Buy when she signed the Town up to be part of PACE. Mayor Harnois would like to get some feed back from the Town Council as to how the grant and gift card should be spent.

Carrie Roecks suggested that the monies could be spent on new speakers in the park, which could be used for the movies in the park and for the fair, or any other functions where outside speakers are needed.

Tree City USA
Mayor Harnois announced that the signs the Town received when they joined Tree City USA have been put up. They have been put up at the base of the Town of Rockford signs coming into town from Spokane on Highway 278 and coming into town on Highway 278 from the casino.

Southeast Spokane County Composting Facility
Mayor Harnois announced that the signage for the new composting facility has been delivered and the large Southeast Spokane County Composting Facility title sign is on display. Mayor Harnois then asked the Town Council where they thought the large sign should be placed. Discussion followed and the Mayor asked Carrie Roecks if she would work out the details of where to put the sign and Carrie Roecks accepted.

Financial Updates
Mayor Harnois asked Carrie Roecks to explain the information that she has learned after reading the last few budgets for the Town.

Carrie Roecks said that she has reviewed the 2012 Budget and that she is willing to sit down with anyone and explain it to them. Carrie Roecks further explained that she has reviewed the January 01, 2007 through December 31, 2009 Washington States Auditor’s Office Financial Statements Audit Report for the Town of Rockford and if anyone would like to discuss it with her she would be willing to do that. Carrie Roecks said that after review she saw that no material violations were found by the auditors. Carrie Roecks also informed the council that the January 1, 2010 through December 30, 2012 audit has not been conducted yet.

Phil Evans said that when he read through the last Audit he saw that it said there were violations and that they could be found on the first page. Phil Evans asked if the Town Council had looked at the State of New York’s financial information.

Carrie Roecks said that she had not looked at it; Phil Evans said he would email it to her.

Committee Reports:
NONE

June 5th Minutes
Clint Stevenson moved to accept the June 5th Minutes. Carrie Roecks asked to amend the motion to add corrections to the minutes. The following corrections were asked for:
Line 23 change the spelling of Cathy to Kathy.
Line 95 changes the phrase “ride of way” to “right of way”.
Line 139 to 140 adds in the words “due to violations of the discharge permit”.

Dave Thompson seconded the motion to accept the minutes with the listed corrections. The motion then carried with correction with a voice vote.

June 19th Minutes
Carrie Roecks made a motion to accept the minutes with the following corrections:
Line 447 replace the word “are” to “were”.

Dave Thompson seconded the motion to accept the minutes with the listed corrections. The motion carried with a voice vote.

It was the consensus of the Council that the minutes are to be given to Carrie Roecks to be proofread before they are given to the Council for approval.

Checks
Clint Stevenson made a motion to pay check #’s 12044 – 12063 in the amount of $60,329.08.
Payroll      12044 $ 36.94      Claims 12045-12063 $60,292.14

Dave Thompson seconded the motion, motion carried with a voice vote.

Old Business
Andrew Fricke Alley Vacation
Clint Stevenson made a motion to accept Ordinance 13-04 as written. Dave Thompson seconded the motion and the motion carried with a voice vote.

Ivan Willmschen said he was very upset that this ordinance passed, he explained that he has heard that the Town was not going to vacate any more alleys or streets unless it was absolutely necessary. He went on to further explain that when he wanted a street closed he had to pay $1650.00 to get the property once the Town agreed to vacate, but Fricke’s got theirs for free.

Then there was discussion about the history of the process of this ordinance, the ordinance itself, the other resolutions and ordinances associated with this ordinance and the property taxes concerning this ordinance.

Contract for a Web Master
Larry Van Every was absent so no report was given.

New Business
Ivan Willmschen explained that at Pacific Street and Weaver Street a homeowner had a plugged sewer service line. Ivan Willmschen further explained that the mainline once plugged and caused damage to his basement.

The Public Works Operator explained that the plugged sewer service line in question was due to pipe failure on the homeowner’s side of the service. The Homeowner has replaced the broken line and the main line does appear to have a large tree tap root in it.

It was the consensus of the council to have the Public Works Operator contact Big Sky and have them jet and camera the sewer main from Church Street to Emma Street.

Public Works
No Report was given.

Public Comment
Ivan Willmschen informed the council that he had turned off the lights at the old restroom in the Park.

Alene Willmschen informed the council that the lights are on at the fairgrounds and they have been on for quite some time.

Art Grewe said that he worried about the cost of operating the compost facility; he wanted to know who is going to maintain and operate the facility.

Mayor Harnois informed Art Grewe that the Town of Rockford Public Works Operator was going to operate and maintain the compost facility. The Mayor further explained that the Town will keep a close eye on it, to make sure it does not smell and the only things that the facility will accept is clean green material.

Kathy Creed wanted the Town to place on the reader board that there will be a Candidates Forum at the Macintosh Grange on July 16th 2013. Mayor Harnois said that she would have the Public Works Operator put the notice on the reader board.

Kathy Creed asked for more volunteers to mow at the park, she thought someone would be alternating with them on the times they would be mowing.

Kathy Creed announced that there will be a Grange Camp for children ages nine to fourteen and scholarships are available. She wanted to say thank you to all of the people that helped.

Happy Daze and Sugar Blossom Glass Shop
Steve Meyer said that the roll up door is being used at the new glass shop, and that the new business owners are violating the lease. Steve Meyer further explained that the new business owners have violated the WA State Tobacco rules.

Mayor Harnois said that at the last Council meeting the new owners were informed that the use of the roll up door was a violation of the Rockford Code. The Mayor further explained that the owners were told not to infringe on the public right of way.

Mayor Harnois explained that use of the roll up door is not an explicit building code violation.

Mayor Harnois said WA State Patrolman Gene Trevino has been contacted for advice on the use of the roll up door at the new business.

Mayor Harnois said that the WA State Tobacco Enforcement personnel have told her that they cannot enforce the non use of the roll up door.

Mayor Harnois said that she will contact the Spokane Valley Fire Department to enforce the fire codes at the new business.

Ivan Willmschen asked why the Town pays for a Fire Chief if he will not enforce the fire codes and he wanted to know why the Spokane Valley Fire Department has to enforce the fire codes. Ivan Willmschen wanted to know why the Town cannot enforce the fire codes on the new business itself.

Mayor Harnois said that the Town will also have the Rockford Fire Chief enforce the fire codes at the new business.

Mayor Harnois said that the Town will contact RMSA to see if there are any rules that the Town can enforce against the new business.

Mayor Harnois asked the public to let her know if the new business was violating any rules.

Kathy Creed said that the new business should have done its homework before it came to Town.

Jodi Cornwall told the public to take pictures of any minors entering the new business and give the pictures to the Mayor to turn in for violations.

Executive Session
It was announced to the audience that Council would move to executive session and then be out of executive session in twenty minutes, the Council would then immediately close the open public meeting without any further business to discuss.

The Council then moved into executive session to discuss potential litigation.

The Council then came out of executive session and immediately closed the public meeting with no further business being discussed.

Meeting adjourned 10:55 PM
________________      _____________
John M. Goyke              Micki Harnois
Clerk/Treasurer             Rockford Mayor

[Editor's note: Town Council news is published when received.]

 

Rockford Town Council June 19, 2013 Meeting Minutes

 
Rockford Town Council
June 19, 2013

7:00 PM

Mayor Micki Harnois called the meeting to order after the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Council members present were: Carrie Roecks, Larry Van Every, Clint Stevenson, Thomas Smith. Dave Thompson was absent but excused. Brenda Gambrel Deputy Clerk and John Goyke Clerk/Treasurer/Public Works Operator were also present.

JUB Engineering
Layne Merritt of JUB asked if the test results of the under drain system had been reported. The Public Works Operator told Layne Merritt that the results had not been reported at this time.

Layne Merritt of JUB asked the Town to accept completion of the lagoon pond one project.

Thomas Smith made a motion to accept the lagoon project as complete, but to hold the retainage until the liner proved to not be leaking based on the fecal coliform tests that are performed monthly. The motion was seconded by Clint Stevenson and was passed with a voice vote.

Layne Merritt of JUB announced that the bids had been received for the flow meter project, he explained that there was one bidder, Applied Solutions at $8,513.96 for the flow meter project.

Thomas Smith moved to accept the bid as presented from Applied Solutions, Larry Van Every seconded the motion and the motion passed with a voice vote.

Thomas Smith made a motion to accept the USDA Loan Resolution Security Agreement to fund the flow meter project at the lagoons, Larry Van Every seconded the motion and a hand vote was called for. The hand vote was four for and zero against with one member being absent.

Layne Merritt from JUB then handed out a new list of possible items to be placed on the six year street plan, the Council reviewed the list. Layne Merritt from JUB explained the process of placing the street projects on the list and attempting to have a goal of getting all the potential projects on the list. He further explained that the number one project on the list does not mean that it is the most important, just that it is in the number one slot. It is not a ranking order.

SRTC
Mayor Harnois explained that SRTC has looked at Rockford’s First Street sidewalk project and it has been ranked second on their list of potential projects to fund. The Mayor further explained that the Rockford project looks favorable and that the State will make up the short fall that the SRTC will not fund, specifically the match portion of the funding. The Mayor explained that it appeared the funding for Missile Base Road may occur next year.

Layne Merritt of JUB then handed out information to the council concerning the land acquisition process to buy land for the first street sidewalk project.

Clint Stevenson asked what happens if the land owners do not want to sell their property to the Town.

Layne Merritt of JUB explained there are other alternatives, condemnation, and other avenues and technologies can be used to acquire the needed property.

Mayor Harnois asked if new highway approaches would be included in this project. Layne Merritt of JUB explained that there would be new highway approaches installed and that all the approaches would be built to WA-DOT specifications.

Thomas Smith asked what happens if the project does not get fully funded or if it does not proceed as planned. Layne Merritt of JUB explained that there would have to be some clarification with the project to ensure that the Town does not have to pay a bill for services associated with the project that is not funded.

Carrie Roecks is opposed to the First Street Sidewalk Project, she is concerned about runoff, she is concerned about the house next to the ball park, and she suggested just installing a pedestrian traffic light. She further explained that the casino bus was intended to be used to get gamblers to the casino not to be used as Rockford’s public transit.

Clint Stevenson said the project will make the land owners lots smaller.

Layne Merritt of JUB explained alternatives will be explored, property owners will be contacted but property costs cannot be discussed. The bus stop will be moved from the Rockford United Methodist Church side of the street to the Rockford Mini Mart side of the street, and a proper bus stop will be installed. Mayor Harnois said that the bus stop could be used by the school.

Steve Meyer wanted to know if the sidewalk will continue past the ball field.

Mayor Harnois explained that the sidewalk will terminate at A Street.

Ivan Willmschen said he is opposed to the First Street Sidewalk Project, he thinks that other projects need to be completed first, and he wanted to know what the costs are to the Town.

Layne Merritt from JUB explained that if the project is not fully funded the project will not proceed.

Robert Tollefson said that Missile Base Road has not been classified as an over height bypass.

Mayor Harnois explained that it will be classified as such when the road is refinished.

Elliot Management Group
Elliot Management Group was present to discuss how the Town can accept credit card payments in person and over the computer. It was explained that the Town could save money on bill payments by accepting online and electronic payments. It was further explained that any fees associated with the online payments could be passed onto the consumer. Elliot Management Group has been working in Spokane Valley for eight years.

Larry Van Every asked what the total savings would be.

Deputy Clerk Gambrel said she was not too sure of the number of hours she spends processing payments, but she thought that the local banks already have a payment process for their customers.

Clint Stevenson asked if there was an initial set up fee.

EMG explained that there would be a $250.00 set up fee and a $55.00 monthly fee.

Carrie Roecks said that the Council should discuss this further at a later date.

Clint Stevenson said the Town needs to survey the public to see how many people would use this service.

Deputy Clerk Gambrel said she would put a survey together and have it in the July utility bill.

Mayor Harnois said the Town needs to get a feel from its users on this service.

Community Frameworks
There was a power point presentation by Community Frameworks.

Mayor Harnois explained that Avista will help the Town pay for a needs assessment associated with this project.

Community Frameworks will keep in contact with Paul Kimmel of Avista.

There was discussion of the changing demographics of Rockford, Rockford is showing that it s population is 50% of 45 and older for age of residents and the 1-19 years of age group is declining.

Mayor comments:
Vacation Bible School will be in the Park June 24th through June 28th; several churches are involved in putting on the event.

The Town Attorney has received an email from the Primmer’s attorney and the agreement between the Town and Primmer’s regarding the land use issues around the reservoir will be available for review at the July 3rd Council Meeting.

The Sheriff’s contract is finalized and the Town will pay $32,412.00 a year for police services.

Mayor Harnois has e-mailed the Sheriff concerning several contract issues that were negotiated concerning services that the Sheriff’s office said they would provide.

Mayor Harnois was pleased at the turn out for the budget meeting and wanted to thank everyone for coming and expressing their opinions and concerns.

Cougar Corridor Project
Mayor Harnois explained the Cougar Corridor project and said the sign up deadline date for the Rockford businesses was July 26th. A hand out was provided with all the details and the Town will get the pamphlets delivered in the next week.

 Committee Reports:
NONE

June 5th Minutes
The June 5th Minutes were incomplete and will be handed out for review on June 21st with a DRAFT watermark they will be considered for approval at the July 3rd Council meeting.

Checks
The Mayor explained that URS is the company that is working on the Shoreline project.

Carrie Roecks asked why the Town reimbursed Pete Abbey. The Clerk/Treasurer explained that there was a conversion error on his bill that caused his account to be over billed and that Pete Abbey had requested a reimbursement instead of a credit on his account.

Carrie Roecks then asked why Pete Abbey had paid his bill if he had been over charged. The Clerk/Treasurer said that Mr. Abbey was very easy to work with and that when he came in to complain about his bill it was looked at and the mistake identified and corrected.

Clint made a motion to pay check #’s 12044 – 12063 in the amount of $60,329.08.
Payroll   12044                       $ 36.94
Claims   12045-12063      $60,292.14

Larry Van Every seconded the motion, motion carried with a voice vote.

Treasurers Report
Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer’s Report $297,848.64 for May 2013 CE-$119,205.18; Street-$25,242.42; Criminal Justice $2,993.08; Equipment/Property Reserve $51,540.00; Sewer $18,354.16; Lagoon Repair $12,621.37; Water Fund $-3,975.53; Sewer Reserve $43,546.94; Water Reserve $8,321.02; Waste Water Facility Reserve $20,000.00

Carrie Roecks stated that the water rates are too high and that is why the water fund is low, it is because people just are not buying enough water because it costs too much.

Old Business
Andrew Fricke Alley Vacation

Ordinance 13-04 was handed out for review and it was the consensus of the Council to hold the public hearing at 7:00 PM on July 03, 2013.

Contract for a Web Master
Larry Van Every is still working on the issue and he will report back at the next meeting.

Mayor Pro-Tem
Thomas Smith nominated Clint Stevenson as Mayor Pro-Tem, Larry Van Every seconded the motion and the motion carried with a voice vote.

Swim Program
Deputy Clerk Gambrel explained that the Town has not participated in the swim program since 2011 and at that time it cost the Town $244.95. The swim program ran twice a week and provided a snack on the bus and lunch at the pool, the bus generally got back to Town around 5:00 PM.

Larry Van Every said that the Town does not have the money to subsidize this program but was glad that the Town was included on the list.

It was the consensus of the Council to not participate in the swim program.

Meter Readings
Larry Van Every said that he felt that the Deputy Clerk’s time could be better spent by not reading the water meters. Larry Van Every suggested that the customers read their own meters where they are able to do so.

Carrie Roecks felt that it depended on where the meter was and if the citizen was capable of reading the meter. She went on to explain that citizens cannot read their own meters because they are too hard to read. Carrie Roecks felt that it was not a good idea and that the meters would be too hard to read for the average citizen.

Deputy Clerk Gambrel explained that some meters would have to be read by the Town especially the auto read meters.

Larry Van Every said that he was just trying to come up with ideas to reduce costs to the Town.

Mayor Harnois suggested putting slips in the water bills to see how many people could read their own meters and turn in a meter reading.

Steve Meyer said that people would just forget to read the meter and would not submit a meter reading.

Carrie Roecks said that having the meters read is a service that is expected from the Town, and if people choose not to read their own meters the Town could not charge them for failing to read the meter.

Robert Tollefson was concerned about the citizens not reading the meters correctly and turning in wrong meter readings.

It was the consensus of the council to put an article about the issue in the July Newsletter and then put meter reading slips in the August bill to see how many people could or would be willing to read their own meter.

Business Licensing
Larry Van Every feels that the Town needs to enforce its business license ordinance; he further explained this can be done by partnering with the State of Washington.

Mayor Harnois said that partnering with the State would be an option for the Town to pursue.

Larry Van Every explained that to partner with the State it would cost the Town approximately $25.00 to $30.00 for the state’s Information Technology time, and $10 for a license, and $3 for a license renewal. Currently the Town only issues vending licenses.

Mayor Harnois said that the Town would have to set up a link between the State and the Town and inform the businesses that it was partnering with the State to renew business licenses.

Larry Van Every said that there is a waiting list to get on the program.

Carrie Roecks wanted to know what the state process was.

Larry Van Every said that the state would handle all of the rules and regulations associated with the business licenses and the GIS info. Larry Van Every said that he has received written information on the partnering of the State and the Town for business licensing and would share that with anyone if they wanted.

Carrie Roecks said that she could not disagree with the idea.

It was the consensus of the council to not collect back license fees if they pursued this idea.

Happy Daze and Sugar Blossom Glass Shop
Larry Van Every felt that the new business may be considered an adult entertainment business; he then read the Adult Entertainment section of the zoning code, page 87 section 5.8.20 into the record. After some discussion it was the feeling of the council that the new business was not an adult entertainment business.

As they were in the audience, Mayor Harnois introduced Christopher Heck and Dallas Heck as the owners of Happy Daze and Sugar Blossom to the Council and the Citizens present at the Council Meeting.

Mayor Harnois then read a list of violations that the business has or is committing, the list as follows:

1. The access door to the building must be a swinging type of door; the current access door is a roll up over head garage door.
2. The reader board cannot be over 30 square feet and cannot impede the right of way.
3. Signs not –A- frame
4. No retail sale in public right of way
5. The current business needs to blend in.
6. Having the door wide open for a place that requires 18 and over.

Dallas Heck stated that the reader board they are using is ridiculous. Everything questionable was moved to the back of the shop. The garage door will be replaced by a proper door, and it can temporarily remain closed. The items up front are T-shirts and purses. The store in Deer Park is doing well and they currently operate seven other businesses of the same type.

Mayor Harnois said that the Valley store doesn’t have a bunch of stuff out on the sidewalk.

Dallas Heck said that the tinted glass that is seen on the shop in the Valley is no longer needed by State Law. Puffin Glass moved into a building that the Mayor has seen with the tinted glass which was already there before they moved into the store.

Dallas Heck said that their business is not going away and that someone else will be in Rockford if they are not. Dallas Heck went on to explain that they have some ideas to help with revenue for the Town.

Mayor Harnois stated that the Town will monitor their business. The Mayor said that she was not sure if the Town could have stopped their store from opening in Rockford.

Dallas Heck asked that the Town communicate with their Business.

Dallas Heck said that the neighboring owners to her business locked her out of the restroom.

Carrie Roecks said that the Heck’s should have introduced themselves sooner and taken ownership of the situation.

Dallas Heck said that she would keep her employees in check.

Christopher Heck stated that the business has spent $18,000 so far to open the store in Rockford.

Christopher Heck feels that the Town is trying to get the business out of Town. Dallas Heck said that the business has all of its operating licenses.

Mayor Harnois asked if the Town had the clientele for this type of business in Rockford.

Larry Van Every said that the Town is not trying to push the business out; the Town is just trying to regulate it.

Larry Van Every said that the financial risk of opening a new business, according to his strict Constitutionalist views, is just part of doing business and he cannot express sympathy for the amount of money they have spent so far to open in Rockford.

Carrie Roecks said they should comply with the Mayor’s list of corrections.

New Business
Volunteerism
Mayor Harnois said that there has been confusion on volunteerism. Mayor Harnois said that when people work for the town, they either fill out a volunteer form or they get paid.

Kathy Creed mentioned recognizing people who volunteer.

Carrie Roecks will do a spread sheet on what could be done with the volunteers.

Mayor Harnois said that her husband will not be volunteering to mow Primeland Ball Park anymore, and that many of the employees volunteer their time in Rockford as well.

Kathy Creed
Kathy Creed said that the three people at her table at the Public Budget Workshop would have voted for the Sheriff’s contract had they known more information about it.

Fire Levy
Mayor Harnois challenged the Councilmen to call people to get the levy passed and to remind people this is a replacement levy and not a raise in taxes.

Larry Van Every said that in the Mid-west, if a person did not pay the Fire Department Levy the Fire Department did not put the fire out. Larry Van Every also said that State of Washington outlawed contract firefighting 30 years ago.

Public Works
The Public Works Operator said that the Lion’s Club installed a culvert in the ditch in the park.

Thomas Smith said that people shouldn’t walk through the ditch.

Clint Stevenson and the Public Works Operator said they are done with the ditch.

Mayor Harnois said that the code enforcement is being done by her for free, and that the papers for the yellow house are signed for the abatement process.

It was the consensus of everyone at the meeting that Raymond is an issue for all who use the park.

Public Comment
Ivan Willmschen said to put on the reader board or in the water bills that the employees who are working on the composting site are being paid by a WA State grant that funded the composting project. He also stated that the Town needs to get the people out of the trailer behind the yellow house. He further explained that the WA Department of Health could evict the residents from the trailer because they do not have running water.

Art Grewe said that cell phones were being plugged in at the Rockford United Methodist Church sign by those that are waiting for the casino bus.

Bill Creed mentioned that the people at the yellow house and trailer behind it are using the Grange water and electricity without permission.

Robert Tollefson said that he closed the restrooms in the Rockford Mini Mart due to alleged drug use in the restroom, and that Peewee’s trailer is an issue (Trailer behind the Yellow House). Robert Tollefson also said that the Town needs to do something with the problematic nuisance people and the community shouldn’t suffer due to people bilking the system, and he was glad that a call was made about a loose dog near his residence.

Meeting adjourned 9:58 PM
________________    ____________________
John M. Goyke            Micki Harnois
Clerk/Treasurer            Rockford Mayor

[Editor's note: Town Council news is published when received.]
 

Public Hearing and Rockford Town Council Minutes, June 5, 2013

Rockford Town Council
June 5, 2013
7:00 PM

Public Hearing on the Six Year Transportation Improvement Plan

Mayor Harnois wanted to add a sidewalk from the Rockford Mini Mart to the South Ball Field on the West side of Highway 278/First Street. The Mayor also wanted to add needed sidewalks through out Town.

Bill Creed asked if sidewalks are added in front of the old brick building on Highway 278/First Street, care will have to be taken not to disturb the foundation of the building as it is on the Town Historical Register. Also the street floods along the area near Jan Davis’s on Lake Street.

Robert Tollefson was concerned that adding a sidewalk along the west side of 278/First Street may affect parking at the Rockford Mini Mart.

Thomas Smith mentioned that the road going to Tim Fricke’s and Audrey Ericksons needs to be added.

Cathy Creed stated that there is a drainage problem on Sprague Street and Spring Street especially near the culvert.

Clint Stevenson requested that C Street and First Street be added to the plan.

Ivan Willmschen mentioned that the sidewalk along River Street needs to be added.

Bill Benson stated that Stringham Court needs to be added or graded as it is getting wash boards in it.

 

Mayor Harnois then asked if there were any further additions, seeing none she closed the public hearing.

Mayor Micki Harnois called the meeting to order after the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Council members present were: Larry Van Every, Dave Thompson, Clint Stevenson and Thomas Smith and Carrie Roecks. John Goyke Clerk/Treasurer/Public Works Operator was also present.

Mayor comments:
John passed his exam (91-100) and now is a cross connection control specialist. The Fair royalty are Jami Pratt, Kristen Fuchs from Freeman and Alysha Thomas from Liberty. Freeman High School graduation is this Saturday June 08th at 1:00 Pm. Freeman Middle School Eight Grade graduation will be next Monday June 10th at 7 PM in the Freeman High School gym. Flag Day will be Saturday June 8th. The parade starts at 11 Am and the honorary marshals are seven WWII veterans who went on the honor flight. It was a stirring and emotional experience to welcome them home. A truly deserved hero’s welcome. A letter was sent from the Town thanking the fellow who helped apprehend the Bank of Fairfield serial bank robber. A reminder to the Town Council that there will be an AWC conference in Tri Cities on Wednesday June 26th through Friday June 28th. There are two scholarships that are available at no cost which only covers registration and meals. This offer ends on June 7th -- $425.00 It takes about three hours of travel time to get to the Tri-Cities. The Fire Levy will be on the November 6th ballot --- M and O levy. A shoreline presentation was completed in Latah. Every Saturday is booked for an event in the park for June. Remember the first responder/veteran/active military appreciation ice cream social on Sunday June 30th 3:00 Pm to 5:00 Pm. It will be put on by the Rockford’s Woman’s Club. The Mayor explained the sign regulations for the down town businesses. John Fisher with Community Frameworks will be giving a presentation on possible senior housing project in Rockford. Avista has offered to be a stake holder which means they will be one of the possible funders for a needs assessment. Pat Stretch from the Community Development Block Grant folks commended us to pursuing this project as most other small towns just look at HUD funds for infrastructure only. The senior housing option will help us with our low to moderate income level which is constantly challenged by funding agencies and HUD itself.

JUB Engineering
Layne Meritt of JUB asked that the Town accept completion of the lagoon pond one project.

It was the consensus of the council to table the issue until the next meeting.

The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System comment period has been extended.

Parking at the Rockford Mini mart will be looked at when the western sidewalk is engineered for the 278/First Street project.

There will be an impact study on the Brick Building that is next to the western sidewalk 278/First Street project.

Bill Creed explained that the Planning Commission is the only committee that can allow changes to a historical building in Rockford.

Larry Van Every, asked JUB to explain the real estate purchases that may be associated with the sidewalk project.

Layne Meritt of JUB said that any land purchase associated with a sidewalk project would have to follow federal acquisition requirements. He further explained that land owners affected by a purchase would have a process to voice concerns.

 

Steve Meyer asked if any of the Town’s representatives have conducted a survey of the area near the project to define where the WA-DOT easements and ride of ways are.

Layne Meritt of JUB said that a full survey of the proposed project area would be conducted.

Layne Meritt of JUB said that CDBG grant funding has been increased approximately $14,000.00.

The flow meters have been put out for bids.

SRTC
Kevin Wallace with Spokane Regional Transportation Council was present to discuss the Regional Planning Agency. Kevin reported that Mayor Micki is on the board. Kevin Wallace went trough a power point presentation for the Town.

Elliot Management Group
Elliot Management Group was present to discuss how the Town can accept credit card payments in person and over the computer. The council will look over the information and make a decision at a later date.

Kathy Creed
Kathy Creed reminded everyone that Sheriff Ozzie will be at the McIntosh Grange June 12th, at 7:00 pm.

WA-DOE [Department of Energy]
Cynthia Wall of Washington State Department of Ecology explained the history and problems of the Rockford Lagoon liner issue. She further explained that the Town has been served with intent to sue by the Spokane River Keepers for NPDES violations.

Cynthia Wall of WA-DOE explained that the Town has applied for $1.33 million in grant, 1.56 million in loan at 1.6% interest at 20 years for the repairs of the Lagoons. There will be a substantial increase in bills that the Towns people will have to pay.

The cost associated to fix the liners is $2.9 million with 1.33 being grant and 1.56 being a loan at 1.6% interest for 20 years. This also comes with a substantial increase in the wastewater bill.

Cynthia also explained that the Town as well as many other small towns is being sued by the River Keepers to fix the lagoons.

Larry Van Every inquired about alternative waste water; gray water usage at houses and business like composting toilets.

Alene Willmschen stated that the sewer bill will be too high for people in Town to be able to afford.

Cynthia Wall stated that unfortunately small Communities just aren’t cheaper to live in.

Carrie Roecks asked why all three ponds need to be repaired. Cynthia Wall explained that it was all part of the treatment process.

Committee Reports:
Finance Committee members currently consist of Thomas Smith and Clint Stevenson. Thomas resigned due to his time schedule. Carrie Roecks will replace Thomas on the finance committee.

Kathy Creed received a planning training brochure from the Mayor for the Planning Commission.

May 01st Minutes

Thomas Smith made a motion to approve the minutes with the corrections made by Carrie Roecks. Clint Stevenson seconded the motion, motion carried.

The corrections were: Line 31 insert and in between supervision the, line 126 Kathy, spelled with K instead of C.

Checks

Clint made a motion to pay check #’s 12016 – 12043 in the amount of $19,769.35. Larry Van Every seconded the motion, motion carried with a voice vote.

Payroll     12016-12024      $ 5,599.24
Claims     12025-12043      $14,170.11

Treasurers Report
There will be a public meeting on June 18th in the Rockford Town Park to discuss the budget.

The Mayor said that she would like to have a pre-budget workshop before June 18th to get everyone on the same page.

Larry Van Every questioned what the purpose of the meeting was.

There was discussion about the open public meeting act and would it be an open meeting if a quorum was present. It was at this time that Thomas Smith resigned from the finance committee and Carrie Roecks was appointing to his position.

Old Business
Andrew Fricke Alley Vacation
No action taken it will be discussed at the next meeting

Contract for a Web Master
Larry Van Every is still working on the issue he will report back at the next meeting.

Ordinance 13-03 Setting Town Hall’s Hours of Operation
Thomas Smith made a motion to approve Ordinance 13-03, Dave Thompson seconded the motion and the motion carried with a voice vote.

Carrie Roecks Sidewalk
Clint Stevenson asked if the waiver for the Carrie Roecks sidewalk project had been completed and signed by Carrie Roecks.

Larry Van Every asked if the waiver was a problem.

Carrie Roecks said that she would have the waiver completed before work started on the sidewalk.

Phil Evans
Phil Evans asked about the Towns last financial audit and if the finance committee had reviewed it. Phil Evans explained that the Town could look up the New York Recommendations of Finances online or he could send it to the town if they wanted to review it.

Carrie Roecks questioned if that information would be helpful for a WA Town.

Phil Evans said it would be.

The Finance Committee agreed that they would look into the past audit and make any recommendations.

Sidewalk
Alene Willmschen wanted to know why the Town needed another sidewalk along Highway 278/First Street.

Dave Thompson wanted to know why the Town could not just install a push button cross walk light instead of building a new sidewalk.

 

Art Grewe wanted to know how much the new sidewalk would cost the Town

The Mayor explained that there was a $50,000.00 match to the grant that would pay for the new sidewalk, but that amount may be covered by the State from another grant fund. If no extra state funding is available then there will be no project.

Art Grewe
Larry Van Every asked Art Grewe to tell the Council about his trip back east to Washington D.C. on the honor flight.

Art Grewe explained that he met WA State Representative Cathy Mc Morris Rogers and that they took a picture together. He further explained that he saw many of the memorials and he and his group were given a police escort through the area.

The Council and Citizens present thanked Mr. Grewe for his service to the Country.

Local Business Licenses
The Mayor explained that the Town does have an ordinance concerning business licenses and the Town is required by Ordinance to post certain signs coming into Town telling the public of the rules concerning this issue. The Mayor said that there is a Green River Ordinance that the Town passed however the signage concerning this ordinance is missing.

The mayor also reminded people that the Gypsies are in Town Paving driveways and they do not do a good job, she explained legitimate pavers have the appropriate markings on their trucks.

Carrie Roecks
Carrie Roecks said that she is working on the Avista Power Bills and she and Clint Stevenson are discussing the issue in the finance meeting.

Carrie Roecks said that the Primmers had contacted her and said they were going to attend this meeting to discuss the current land contract concerning the South West Reservoir. Carrie Roecks wanted the mayor to clarify where the Town was at in the contract agreement process.

The Mayor explained that the agreement was given to the Primmer’s Attorney for review. The Mayor then said that she would give everyone a bit of history on this issue as everyone may not understand what is going on.

The Mayor said that Paul Sifford, Gary Wagner and Steve Meyers all talked to the Primmers many years ago, and that an agreement was met and that the former Mayor Gary Wagner was to complete the process but he did not finish the agreement.

Mayor Harnois then met with the Primmers and Steve Meyer. The Mayor then drafted an agreement after that meeting.

The Mayor then sent the draft agreement to the Primmers Attorney for review.

The Primmer’s attorney then made revisions and sent the agreement to the Town Attorney.

Both attorneys have made revisions to the terms and it was realized that the Town was not going to meet the deadlines for the water system improvements that the Primmers had requested. Currently the contract is with the Primmers Attorney and the Town is waiting to hear back from the Primmer’s attorney.

Carrie Roecks said that the Primmers did not know that their Attorney has the contract. Carrie Roecks further explained that the fire hydrants, new service lines and new water mains don’t have to be installed by the Town until the Primmers build new homes. The Primmers would not require the Town to do anything until the Homes are built. The Primmers want a 40 year agreement. Carrie Roecks further explained that if the Town does not agree with the Primmers requests they will charge the Town for the use of the property.

Carrie then requested a copy of the Agreement from the Mayor.

New Business
For past due water/sewer bills, could the debtors work off their bills, Larry Van Every inquired?

Larry Van Every wanted to know why the debtors of the Town could not work off their debts to the Town. He suggested that if the person owed $4,000.00 to the Town that the person could work $4,000.00 worth of hours/wages.

Clint Stevenson asked what if the Town puts the person on payroll and he doesn’t want to pay the Town and instead wants to keep the money.

Stan Seehorn asked what happens if the person gets hurt.

It was the consensus of the Council to not pursue this idea.

The question was asked if there is no further comment from the Sheriff on the contract should it be considered null and void and should there be no payment for 2013.

Stan Seehorn said that two years ago the Council asked the Sheriff to clarify if the Town was paying the Sheriff through their property taxes.

Dave Thompson said that issue was discussed at the last meeting.

Larry Van Every said that the Sheriff explained at the last meeting that the Sheriff is funded through sales tax.

The question was asked should the Town form a Park District to levy taxes for up keep at the park.

It was the consensus of the Council to not pursue this issue.

Mowing
Kathy Creed explained that they mowed the South Ball Field and the Park. The Yellow House was mowed by Charlie Hoshauer.

Public Works
No Comment

Public Comment
Kathy Creed invited Stan Seehorn to come to the next political forum.

Bill Creed said the Town will have to look for the sidewalk easements in the records. The owner, Steve Winegar, who bought the ground along highway 278/First Street, has had all the surveys done and the records should be at Town Hall.

Bill Benson Read the following into the record:
************************
Statement to the City Council:

My name is Bill Benson, I own Footloose In The Palouse.

Tonight I want to express my concerns about the recent business that has been established between my office space and Farmhouse Pizza. It is called Happy Daze & Sugar Blossom Lingerie. This business sells lingerie and drug-related paraphernalia.

 

My concern about the impact of this business is on many levels:

I am a resident of Rockford. Footloose In The Palouse is my only income. Of the different demographics we cater to, our major source of clients are mature citizens who have reached that time in their lives where they are downsizing their households, or they are facing the process of downsizing or liquidating the estate of their elders. These folks are conservative by nature, and they refuse to set foot anywhere near businesses promoting any kind of drug culture, and this includes the front door of Footloose In The Palouse. My business is condemned by proximity. When the business went in next door, I had to and still deal with public opinion that Footloose In The Palouse is associated with such a business. I am losing business because of this.

 

I am concerned about the impact that this business has on the image of my town.

Granted, there is little that can be done to enhance the prestige of a metal building, however, both Farmhouse Pizza and Footloose In The Palouse have invested a great deal of time and effort to present our businesses professionally, and in keeping with the conservative nature of downtown Rockford. We have followed the examples of the other well-established businesses in adhering to the pertinent Town ordinances regarding signage and storefront appearance to maintain as dignified a frontage as possible.

Now, instead of a dignified storefront, we have a business that openly displays clothing items and drug-related paraphernalia that should be age restricted. This business displays these items within five feet of a school bus stop, where young children have no choice but to be exposed to such items, as well as to certain aspects of the culture to which this business caters. Forgive me if I wish to provide parental counter drug guidance on my own timetable, instead of having to field questions along the lines of “What is that?” in reference some skimpy piece of lace, and “Why is there a picture of a leaf on that shirt?” because these things are being shoved in my children’s faces.

**********************

The Mayor explained that the new business brought in a reader board Friday. She further explained that if the Town enforces the rules against that reader board the Town would have to enforce it against Foot Loose in the Palouse as well. The Mayor further explained that the new business will have to post a sign that says 18 and older because they sell tobacco products.

Carrie Roecks said the new business offends the sensibilities of us all.

Kathy Creed said that the School Bus stop will have to be moved because of the new business.

The Mayor said that she called the WA State Tobacco Enforcement Agency and asked them to investigate the new business.

Larry Van Every said that he was not going to be politically correct when referring to Happy Daze and would continue to call the business a head shop.

(Please refer to the recording for further discussion about the new business.)

The Mayor then adjourned the meeting at 9:43 Pm.
_________________       _________________
John M. Goyke                 Micki Harnois
Clerk/Treasurer                Rockford Mayor

 

June 18, 2013 Fairfield Town Council Minutes Available Now

Fairfield, Washington June 18, 2013 Minutes . If you have any questions, please call town hall at 283-2414. townoffairfield@cougarwireless.net


 

Palouse City Council June 11, 2013 Regular Meeting Minutes

Palouse City Council

Regular Council Meeting

June 11, 2013 

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

ROLL CALL:  Council members present:  Senja Estes; Tim Jones; Connie Newman, Bo Ossinger; Norm Schorzman; Rick Wekenman.  Absent: Alison Webb.   Also present: Public Works Superintendent Dwayne Griffin; Police Chief Jerry Neumann; Clerk-Treasurer Joyce Beeson.  Public present: Heather McGehee. 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:  Councilmember
Schorzman MOVED to adopt the minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of May 28, 2013.  Councilmember Estes seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.

PUBLIC WORKS REPORT:    The power outage and surges that occurred today did damage to the circuit board on the booster pump.  This means that until it is repaired or replaced, it will have to be reset manually as water usage changes throughout the day.  A few new water meters have been installed.  The events over the last few weeks have gone well, with no issues from public works.  Councilmember Wekenman stated that he thinks the city should consider passing on the costs for the damage to the booster pump to whoever caused the power outage. 

POLICE REPORT:  Chief Neumann reported that the Police Department, as well, had no issues with the events this month.   He reported a callout, a semi truck and trailer hit a signpost and Avista pole.  The driver will be sent a bill for costs to repair the damage to the signpost.  They are currently working on a felony theft case originating in Palouse.  They have been looking at options to better mark parking spots near the Main & Bridge St. intersection to improve visibility.

OLD BUSINESS:

Ordinance No. 905, sewer rate increase:  Mayor Echanove read the minutes of the last meeting, outlining the need for increasing the sewer rate from $24 to $26 mo.  The sewer operating fund has not been able to meet expenses without using its reserve balance, and it’s been unable to contribute as much as it should to reserves for capital needs.  Councilmember Newman MOVED to adopt Ordinance # 905.  Councilmember Jones seconded the motion.  Discussion: Councilmember Wekenman asked how long this increase might hold in the sewer fund.  It was estimated that this increase should get the sewer fund through 2014.  The motion carried unanimously

 

NEW BUSINESS:

Street name change, necessity to change Palouse Cove Road inside city limits to South Cove Road.  

Currently, Palouse Cove Road has the same name in both the City and County.  The address grid that the county used is not working well with the grid that the city uses, causing confusion for deliveries and potential problems with emergency services.  After discussion, council agreed that the city portion should be changed to something completely different to avoid added confusion.  They will consider this and bring options for naming this street to the next council meeting.

COMMITTEE REPORTS/REQUESTS: 

Finance, Property, & Equipment-Tim Jones, Chair:  Councilmember Jones will put together a meeting very soon.  Councilmember Newman recommended putting together a meeting with our audit manager, Deborah Pennik to look at different options the city might have to help with budget issues.

Water & Sewer-Connie Newman, Chair:  Angela Taylor, Taylor Engineering was able to confirm with DOH that the O&M projects listed in the WSP are not mandatory, but rather a list for when funding can be found.  Extra updated copies of the water system have been ordered.

Policy & Administration-Bo Ossinger, Chair:  Councilmember Newman asked about progress on the policy for the keeping of poultry.  Bo reported that he is still working on it.

Personnel & Pool-Norm Schorzman, Chair:  No report.   Councilmember Schorzman thanked the PD and Public Works for their work on the weekend events.

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

Streets & Sidewalks-Senja Estes, Chair:  With this being a new assignment, no report.

OPEN FORUM:  No comments.

MAYOR’S REPORT:

The Palouse Community Center has requested a liquor license for the City Park for a beer garden during the Music Festival on July 27^th.  This event has operated well in the past and caused no problems.  There were no objections from the council.

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

ADJOURN:  Councilmember Schorzman MOVED to adjourn.  Councilmember Estes seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.  The council meeting adjourned at 7:50 PM. 

The following checks are approved for payment:

Payroll Paid   

Ck. # 4902 – 4919 & EFT                      $34,672.36

Claims Paid
Ck. # 4920 – 4941 & EFT                      $23,966.27

APPROVED: ________________________________   ATTEST: ________________________________