2014 Tax Levy Public Hearing in City of Tekoa, Washington, November 4, 2013

PUBLIC NOTICE

 

The City of Tekoa will hold a public hearing to determine the tax levy rate for 2014 during the regular meeting on Monday, November 4, 2013, after the hour of 7:00 p.m.  The hearing will be held in the council chambers at the City of Tekoa City Hall, 419 N Washington. All citizens are encouraged to attend.

 

Kynda Browning, Clerk/Treasurer

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.]

 

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

 

Rockford Town Council Public Hearing, February 20, 2013

Rockford Town Council has scheduled a Public Hearing, February 20, 2013, 7:00 p.m. at Rockford Town Hall. The Town is seeking funding through the USDA Rural Development Community Facility Loan and Grant Program for flow monitoring equipment at the town's wastewater treatment facility. The Public Hearing is to discuss the funding application and receive public input.

Interested citizens are encouraged to attend.

 

Rockford, Wash. Town Council Meeting March 12, 2012

Rockford Town Council

March 12, 2012

Public Hearing

Mayor Micki Harnois brought the public hearing to order after the Pledge of Allegiance was recited.  Council members present:  Clint Stevenson, Jim Oshanick, and Thomas Smith.  Public Works Operator John Goyke and Clerk/Treasurer were present.  Council member Steve Meyer was absent.

A public hearing was held prior to the Council meeting to hear public comment on an alley vacation requested by Andrew Fricke at 409 W. North Street.  This alley is located in Block 42 of Waltman’s Addition of the Rockford Resurvey.  Andrew owns the property on both sides of this alley. 

Andrew Fricke has submitted a building permit application for an addition to his house.  Andrew claims he has been paying property taxes on that alley for the last 14 years.   The alley is included in the legal description of his property.

Jim Oshanick spoke that he feels there is no need to vacate the alley but if it is necessary for formality he would vote to vacate the alley.

Clint Stevenson mentioned that if we went back and seen what was paid all these years Andrew would have bought and paid for it already.

Micki Harnois explained again that the legal description doesn’t speak about the alley.

Larry Van Every asked if the lots would have to be refigured.

Duane Fricke mentioned that the streets and alleys are included in the blocks that he owns.

With no further comments the hearing was closed.

Council meeting

Mayor Micki brought the Council meeting to order.   The Council members as well as staff that attended the hearing were in attendance at the meeting as well.

Alley vacation

Both Clint Stevenson and Jim Oshanick spoke of the Town should give the alley to Andrew Fricke.  Darlene mentioned  the past vacations where people had to pay for the property or future vacation requests.  Clint explained those people had not paid property tax on those for years.

John Goyke stated the Town couldn’t give the alley away.  That would be gifting Town property.  He suggested to at least sellit for $ 1.00.

Jim Oshanick made a motion to approve Ordinance12-3  contingent upon amending the language of the ordinance stating the alley in Block 42 will be sold for $ 1.00.  Thomas Smith seconded the motion; motion carried.

JUB Engineering

Layne Merritt of JUB Engineering was present.  He thanked the Council for selecting JUB for their services.  He further explained that any task to be completed would have approval of the Council before any work was done.   Any unexpected tasks would be dealt with the same.  Layne further mentioned that small items such as phone calls and etc would not be charged to the Town.

Kathy Creed asked if the discounts he had talked about are in writing.  Layne mentioned that generally that has been done but it wasn’t in the contract.

Layne further requested if there is something not right, please tell him.

Mayor’s Comments

 Micki informed the Council that requests for proposals for the Shoreline Master Plan update had been advertised.

Micki further mentioned that Darlene is still working on a draft letter to the Sheriff’s Department.

Micki reported that a representative of “The Current” met with Pete Abbey, Sam Meyle and her at Frednecks recently.  The April edition will feature an article on the up coming frog race.

Funding for TIB’s chip sealing on River Street and Stringham Road has been approved.

Micki had spoken to Pat Stretch of CDBG.   CDBG is still waiting on HUD’s approval on the methodology of the new income survey.

There hasn’t been any word yet on the park drainage grant.

Micki reported that Primeland is requesting to place a 3000 gallon diesel tank near the card lock pumps.  The applications are being worked on.

Micki reported that the Dept of Agriculture has a grant available for $ 25,000 for projects at fairgrounds and other similar locations to help with public safety and health.  Two items that have been mentioned are:  remodel the restrooms at the park and make the grounds more level to help prevent trips and falls.

The deadline for the grant is June 15^th.

Council committee reports

Thomas Smith reported that Clint Stevenson, John Goyke, Micki Harnois and he had met with Layne Merritt of JUB on Tuesday evening to discuss the Town’s needed improvements and the proposed rate increases.  Layne had supplied a spreadsheet on other area Town’s utility rates.

Micki spoke that a public hearing will be held on April 18^th for the proposed sewer and lagoon increased rates.

Jim Oshanick reported the Lion’s Club is working on a new sign display for the business signs located at Pioneer Park.  The proposed structure along with the trailer that is there is on property that belongs to the railroad.  The Club had to change their plans because they didn’t want to spend a lot of money on a project that sat on property that didn’t belong to them. 

Art Grewe asked if the railroad still gives 99 year leases.  Jim didn’t know but someone would look into it.

Jim also mentioned he had talked to Scott Watson regarding the park drainage project.  Scott had bid on the high side.  Chances are the project will not cost as much as his bid was.

Larry Van Every asked if the trailer located by the proposed sign display was water tight.  He also asked if it could be made into an emergency contact center.  Jim didn’t know.  It could be looked into.  The trailer does store items.

Public Comment

Jody Cornwall was present and reported that the agreement between the Town and the Primmer’s was at their attorney for review.  She spoke of a few changes that had been made.   Primmer’s will be billed for the service and be reimbursed from the Town.

Bill Creed asked with the changes in the Primmer’s agreement, are all the Council members involved in with the talks or just two of them.  Micki reported that the council will be in agreement with all the decisions.

Kathy Creed asked if the Council came up with an answer regarding taping the minutes.  Micki reported that the auditors said that the Town doesn’t have to record the meetings.  Darlene reported that the attorney from years ago recommended the Town to not record the meetings for liabilities.

Kathy Creed asked if it was the Council’s decision then to not tape the minutes.

Thomas Smith reported that the Council hasn’t had a chance to discuss it.

Darlene will talk to MRSC regarding the subject.

P&Z

Thomas Smith made a motion to approve Andrew Fricke’s building permit application for a two story garage at 409 W. North.  Jim seconded the motion; motion carried.

Minutes

Jim Oshanick made a motion to approve the minutes of the March 21^st meeting.  Clint Stevenson seconded the motion; motion carried.

Old Business

Fire Levy

Micki reported that the Town can not ask people to vote for the fire levy but can remind people to vote.

Kathy Creed reported that Fire Chief Brad Marlow had contacted her and said he would get information to her.  She also stated she had felt that the Fire Department needs to take responsibility and do some work to help promote the levy.

Spokanimal

Darlene spoke to the Council regarding the Spokanimal check, # 11,400 for $ 65.00.  The Council did not approve the check at the last meeting.  She told the Council she felt it was the Town’s bill. The Council directed the staff to call Spokanimal to deal with the Pit Bull dog again.  She further stated that Raleigh Clark was not going to pay Spokanimal but the Town can send him an invoice for the amount.   If he doesn’t pay the bill the Town can place a lien on the property.

Thomas Smith made a motion to approve check # 11,400 for $ 65.00.  Jim Oshanick seconded the motion; motion carried.

Recycling

John Goyke reported that Suzanne Tresko of Spokane Regional Solid Waste System is working on a grant that would pay for 75% of Sunshine Disposal’s hauling costs.

John also informed the Council that he has been talking with Suzanne Tresko regarding a possible grant project which could include a fenced, asphalt area that could by used for recycling and composting.

It was the consensus of the Council to continue to work on the grant project.

Utility payments

Art Grewe asked if the Town had ever received the money from the Moyer’s past utility accounts.  Darlene reported that the Town did in January.

New Business

Darlene informed the Council that the State Auditor’s Office (SAO) will be revamping its bar code numbering system, required to be used in 2013.  Currently the Town is using Version 5 of the BIAS accounting system.  BIAS has revamped it accounting program to Version 6 and will amend it to be compatible to the SAO’s new coding system.  BIAS will not retrofit Version 5 to the new coding and it will stop making continued updates.  The cost will be $ 1,600.00, plus tax.  It was the consensus of the Council to update to BIAS’s Version 6.

The Council approved to purchase a lawn sweeper and thatcher for $ 100.00.

Public Works report

John Goyke reported that Well #5 is down.  Dickerson will be out on Tuesday to pull the pump and find out what is wrong. Depending on what is wrong it would cost from $ 6,000 to $ 8,800 for just a pump.

Larry Van Every asked if it could be rebuilt to have one for back up.

Thomas Smith asked where the funds would come from to pay for it.

Darlene suggested waiting and seeing what is wrong with it and what the cost will be and then determine where the money will come from.

Meeting adjourned.

_________________                        _____________________

Darlene LaShaw, Clerk               Micki Harnois, Mayor