City Council Minutes June 21, 2018

Minutes of Fairview City Council meeting held on Thursday, June 21, 2018, at 7: 30 p.m. at 85 South State Street, City of Fairview, County of Sanpete, State of Utah.

Mayor David Taylor called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. Councilmembers present were Cliff Wheeler, Casey Anderson, Mike Jarman, KaeLyn Sorensen, and Bob St. Jacques. City employees present were Justin Jackson, Jeremy Wright, Jan Anderson, Greg Sorensen, Kammy Tucker, and Logan Ludvigson.  Citizens present were Wanda Terry, Sue Rasmussen, Robin Andersen, Leon Day, Jackson and Charlet Pemberton, Phil and Donna Seager, Mike and Milette Mackay, Evin Jensen, Martin Curtis, Curtis Ludvigson, Susanne Dean, and Greg Galecki.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

Councilman Cliff Wheeler moved to approve minutes from May 17, 2018, and May 28, 2018, budget work meeting. Councilman Mike Jarman seconded the motion.  The voting was unanimous in favor of.

PUBLIC HEARING:

Open Meeting for Public Comments.  Mayor Taylor opened the public hearing at 7:33 p.m. for public input on the following:

Proposed Compensation Increase for Elected Officers of the City. Currently the Mayor is compensated $500 a month and the Council is compensated $225 a month.  It is proposed to increase the compensation to $1,000 for the Mayor and $250 for the Council a month.  Wanda Terryasked if the City is having a problem with financing why do you want to double your income.  The Mayor stated that at this time, it is acceptable.  When you said you would get the Mayor then you would only take the mayor wage.  I do not think that you should.  Also, do you get a wage for City Manager.  No.

Susan Rasmussen stated that with the President wanting to raise taxes and increase fees to senior citizens, is this what you want, is there a percentage you have in mind to increase taxes. Mayor Taylor commented that on the agenda number two was taken off last year’s agenda.  Number two should have been Comments on the Certified Tax Rate which is stipulated by the County.  The City does not have any say.  The City is seeing a decrease because of this.

Councilman Cliff Wheeler stated that the previous mayor was getting paid $500 and the City was also paying a planning wage at $50,000 and now the Mayor has taken on added responsibility.

Martin Curtis says the web page says there is a city manager and I think that the $6,000 could be used other places like the fire department.

Evin Jensen not opposed of the increase but that the next mayor will probably not take both duties and you may want to consider that in this issue.

Sue Rasmussen is this a full-time job.  No, it is not made official.  He is putting in the time, but not getting paid anything close to a full-time mayor.

Martin Curtis this is something that Fairview does not have the budget for. Use money for the farmers market, fire department then the budget would be free and clear.

Proposed Fairview City Certified Tax Rate.   Mayor Taylor explained that the County comes up with the value of property and the Certified tax rate is calculated from that.  This is money that come into the City to help run the City.

Purposed Fairview City Operating and Capital Budgets for Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2019.   No comments.

Amending Fairview City Operating and Capital Budget for Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2018.   Mayor Taylor went over the budget and updated the public on the road project.

Martin Curtis asked if UDOT has helped with it. No, UDOT only has jurisdiction over State Street and Canyon Road.

Evin Jensen stated that he noticed that the road edges are chipping the roads. It is in the best interest of the City to move gravel.  Mayor it is time to do this.  The roads are important. Councilman Casey Anderson stated that once the chip seal is completed then the gravel from that will help with the edges.

Close Public hearing and Reconvene Back into City Council Meeting. Mayor Taylor closed the public hearing and reconvened back into regular City Council Meeting at 7:55 p.m.

APPEARANCES:

Miss Sanpete Michayla Jackson – Report Back on Use of Dance Hall.  Not present.

Donna Seager – Rural Senior Adult Services – Funding Request.  Mrs. Seager approached the City Council asking for a donation of $200 for her 501C organization.  They have helped 23 seniors with technology skills, they take produce to eight seniors.  Presently, they help with companion engagement.  There is one part-time care worker who is funded by Rocky Mountain Power Foundation.  Sometimes there are three who will come in.  There is art and activities with these folks.  There is support from the County, and Sanpete Pantry helps.  This money will help with CPR training, insurance, and worker’s comp.  It was asked if each City in the County is helping, she said that she is serving most Fairview. She has one from Mt. Pleasant and one from Spring City.  Councilman Cliff Wheeler stated that with the budget-year ending, July would be when she could receive the money.  Councilman Bob St. Jacques moved to donate $200 to Donna Seager for her Rural Senior Adult Service organization. Councilman Cliff Wheeler seconded the motion.  The voting was unanimous in favor of.

Charlet Pemberton – Discussion on Liability Insurance for Farmer’s Market.

The City’s insurance company “The Trust” requires that these types of events must have liability insurance.  When the Trust was contacted, it was mentioned that if the City had a policy in place, they could fall under the policy.  In talking with the Trust, a second time, they stated that they must have their own insurance.  The Council could allow them to proceed at this time and then get further clarification on whether a policy is needed in addressing this issue.

Charlet wanted to give a little bit of background of Fairview Economic Development. In the beginning they were hoping to be a formal part of the City.  They do sponsor events, have not been able to become part of the 501C.  They are trying to get a cushion in the bank.  The purpose is to retain business and attract business and increase tax base. The bottom line is it will cost them $2000 for the season, liability is not going to happen.  Due to the fact, that the City did not realize that the market would need to have their own insurance, the market has had one gathering, they had 15 vendors, this coming week 9 vendors are scheduled.  Councilman Bob St. Jacques moved to allow the Farmer’s Market to continue as is without insuranceuntil more concrete information is received.  Councilman Cliff Wheeler seconded the motion.  The voting was unanimous in favor of.  Charlet offered the City $25 a week to rent the park facilities.  Mayor Taylor mentioned that with the water conditions, the City has been unable to water the grass in the park, and the market will need to move to another location.  Center Street is an option–  from State street to 100 East .  The city would close this block for them.  It was stated that the pavement is too hot.  Charlet asked if it could be moved west closer to the gazebo.  There is room for 10 spots there, and the people will not drive on the grass at that location.  With the well being down, there is no way to water the grass, it will need to be reseeded if the market proceeds in the park with all the walking, etc. It was stated that if they were not able to use the park, they may go to Mt. Pleasant, they will get back with the Council if they cannot find another place that better meets their needs.

Evin Jensen – Variance Request on Property Located 360 East Canyon Road. Mr. Jensen owns property on the canyon road which is designated business/commercial; therefore, not able to build a home on it.  Mike Aime also has this same issue.  In 2008, it was designated as business only not residential.  He would like to sell property to build home on it.  Reason for considering the variance is because of the property, it has a frontage of 100-feet, it is not large enough for any business but makes a nice building lot.  It is in the middle of residential homes.  Not sure the neighbors want a business there.  Mr. Jensen stated that he never was aware that it had changed from residential, he really thinks the best use of the lot is for home-  not business.  Councilman Bob St. Jacques asked if anyone has come show interest on lot–  yes. Several talked about hook ups may need easements to hook up.  Need direction from Council.  The Council stated that they didn’t see a problem with granting the variance–  it seems to be the logical way since there has been interest.  Mayor Taylor asked for a motion to grant the variance on the request of the property at 360 East Canyon Road.  Councilwoman KaeLyn Sorensen moved to approve the variance request of Evin Jensenon his property located 360 East Canyon Road.  Councilman Mike Jarman seconded the motion.  The voting as unanimous in favor of.  He would like to have a written statement in regard to the variance granted on this property.  Note:  Mike Aime’s appraiser called the City, they have the same issue.  They will need to come before the Council if they are wanting or needing a variance.

REPORTS/ACTION ITEMS – BAORDS/COMMITTEES STAFF/OFFICERS:

Planning Commission:

Business License Approval – Devron Larson, Southern Comfort Heating & Air, 437 North Milburn Road.  He was called out on an emergency and was unable to attend.  Angela Larson met with the Planning Commission, this is a separate business from Power Plus Cleaning but will manage out of the same building.  All requirements have been met and forwarded on to City Council for their approval.  Councilman Bob St. Jacques moved to approve the business license for Southern Comfort Heating and Air.  Councilman Mike Jarman seconded the motion.  The voting was unanimous in favor of.

Sewer & Water Department

Well Update—  City Employee Justin Jackson briefed the City Council on options that he along with Horrocks Engineering prepared for repair on well #4.  Five options were presented–  1.  Do nothing – don’t repair well just install new pump, $15,000 to $20,000, two weeks; 2.  Minimum repairs – make minimum repairs to the well so the well can operate for a few more years, $40,000 to $75,000, five weeks; 3.  Maximum repairs – repair the well so it can operate for many years into the future, $75,000 to $125,000, eight weeks; 4.  Drill new well – locate a new well site, $800,000 to $125,000, three years; and 5.  Redevelop canyon springs, $500,000 to $2,500,000, three- to five years.  These are the options facing the Council per information from Horrocks Engineering.  Along with option 1, Justin would eventually like to take the submersible pump and change it out to an above-ground pump or turbine pump.  This would take approximately three years to do.  With option 2, fixing the casing holes will allow for a few more years, will need to adjust flow rates.  This well was installed in 2001, it has been repaired six times, spending $65,000 in maintenance cost every three years with installing new pumps. At some point, the City will need to drill a new well depending on the growth of the City. It is not feasible to abandon this well, there is too much infrastructure.  If anything, keep this well so in the summertime, you can put it online to water lawns, etc.  What would the Council like to do.  Depending on what is decided, the well may or may not be up and running this summer.  Something needs to be done now.  Discussion ensued–  go with option 1 and salvage the season then work on option 3 in the spring when there is less demand on the pump.  Need to plan on $12,000 to have a drill rig come in and pull up the pump.  This is a band aid to the problem, will still need to look at options 3 and 4.  Councilman Bob St. Jacques moved to approve option 1 install new pump.  Councilman Casey Anderson seconded the motion.  The voting was unanimous in favor of.

Citizen Greg Galecki stated that there is funding out there, suggests considering options 2 or 3.

Water Meter Purchase Discussion and Approval.  There is money available.  The Bureau of Reclamation has a green money program.  If you get it, then it is free money especially if it is for conservation.  Mr. Curt Ludvigson from Rural Water will work on the application for next month. Scholzen’s quoted $124,000 for the meters, for another $1,000, the City can install them. Tabled the decision until next month.

Curt Ludvigson, Rural Water Association, Funding for Water Master PlanDiscussion. There are different options available for funding.  There is emergency money, but the City would still have to apply, and it takes time.  May want to consider visiting with John Chartier, District Engineer for this area.  May want to get his opinion.  With funding for projects, they look at the ability to pay back, are the water rates where they need to be.  If the medium gross income is $40,876, they want your water bill to be 1.75 percent of that to qualify or $59. 61 a month water rate.  Grants are harder and harder to get.  Better off to do a loan then a grant.  Do not have to raise rates as much when paying on a loan then pay for a grant.  Federal funding, USDA, their information is collected through the census.  Easier to qualify for.  The City should qualify to a 45 percent grant.  Best to do before 2020 Census because incomes could change and not allow the City to qualify.  Possibly get application by middle of August.  The City would be able to work off this year’s money for projects next year.  End of August is the end of their fiscal year. If not used by then, then it is put back into pool for all over the country.  Mr. Ludvigson will do more calculating on figures.  If there be a way to use the way master plan the City already has it will save time.  The Council would like to table and talk about this more next month.  It was suggested to use the engineering firm who did the master plan for the City.  There is planning money available.  Mayor Taylor and Mr. Ludvigson will get this ready for next month.

Update on Road Project.  Chips are here and should be able to start next month.  Will start on the south end and State going east as far as they can go with allotted money and then next year pick up where they left off.

Snow Bird Utility Charge Discussion.  City Treasurer Kammy Tucker would like to propose charging all utility customers who leave for the winter or ask to have their water turned off continue to charge them their normal monthly rate.  She stated that the City loses approximately $10,000 a year with those who leave for the winter.  She has checked with Manti and Spring City and they charge their fees even if the home has the water off.  It was indicated that if you have a bond payment then Cities can continue to charge the rate.   It was proposed to charge everyone equally but waive the $40 reconnect fee.   This would be the water and sewer base rate.  This can not be addressed to just the snow birds it must be everyone. Councilman Cliff Wheeler moved to charge everyone the regular monthly base rate.  Councilwoman KaeLyn Sorensen seconded the motion.  The voting was unanimous in favor.

Derby Ticket Sale Discussion.  Sales will be Saturday, June 30^that the rodeo grounds.  Bundle sales went well.

Auditor Discussion.  Kimball and Roberts stated that they could do the City audit for around the same cost of Monroe City, $5,800.  No cost yet from Hinton Burdick.  Larson came in at $12,200 with an increase of $200 for five years.  Item was tabled until next meeting for further review.

Fire Restriction Discussion.  Chief Nathan Miner was called out on a fire investigation.  He proposes putting a firework restriction order in effective June 23 at 1:00 a.m. due to extremely dry conditions.  All aerial fireworks (six feet or more) are prohibited within Fairview City limits pursuant to Utah State Law, Section 53-7-224(4) except on the following dates:  July 4^thand July 24^th at the designated spot which is the rodeo grounds from dark to 11 p.m.  Violations are punishable up to $1,000 along with any suppression costs.

INTRODUCTION AND ADOPTION OF RESOULUTIONS AND ORDINANCES:

Ordinance No. 2018-01; An Ordinance Providing for Compensation Increase for Elected Officers of Fairview.  Councilman Cliff Wheeler moved to approve Ordinance 2018-01.  Councilman Casey Anderson seconded the motion.  The voting in favor of went as–  Cliff Wheeler, Casey Anderson, Kaelyn Sorensen, Bob St. Jacques, and Mike Jarman.

Resolution No. 2018-10R; A Resolution Appointing the Justice Court Judges of the Sixth Judicial District to Serve as Temporary Judges.  Councilman Cliff Wheeler moved to approve Resolution No. 2018-10R.  Councilwoman KaeLyn Sorensen seconded the motion.  The voting was unanimous in favor of.

Resolution No. 2018-11R; Approving and Adopting a Budget for Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2019, and Amending the Fiscal Year 2017/2018 Budget.The general fund budget is $867,622 (see attached budget). Councilman Mike Jarman moved to approve Resolution

No. 2018-11R; and amend the current budget ending June 30, 2018. Councilman Bob St. Jacques seconded the motion.  The voting was unanimous in favor of.

Resolution No. 2018-12R; Setting the Real and Personal Property Tax Rate. The certified tax rate is 0.001325 which equates to $70,633 for budget year ending June 30, 2019.  Councilwoman KaeLyn Sorensen moved to approve Resolution No. 2018-12R.  Councilman Mike Jarman seconded the motion.  The voting was unanimous in favor.

Resolution No. 2018-13R; A Resolution Authorizing Kammy Tucker and Jan Anderson the Ability to Execute Changes to PTIF Account(s).  The Office of the State Treasurer has requested that those who participate with PTIF authorize at least two individuals who can make execute changes to the account(s).  Councilman Cliff Wheeler moved to approve Resolution No. 2018-13R as presented.  Councilman Casey Anderson seconded the motion.  The voting was unanimous in favor of.

Resolution No. 2018-14R; Fire Protection Agreement with Sanpete County Fire District.  Councilman Mike Jarman moved to accept the fire contract as presented from the County in the sum of $12,019.01. Councilman Bob St. Jacques seconded the motion.  The voting was unanimous in favor of.

COUNCIL REPORTS:

Mayor David Taylor mentioned that he had contacted the City Attorney getting input on having a Council Member participate as the Recreation Director. There is no issue with Councilman Jarman overseeing the recreation and pay him for his service.  The City will receive restitution on the cost of replacing the power pole in Milburn from the Sanpete District Court.  A certified letter was sent to Junction Market and if no response is received, then the City will take them to small claims. Appreciate the citizens in their conserving of water.    The voting ballots have not yet made it to all citizens. If you did not receive your ballot, you may come into the city on Monday the 25th from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and then Tuesday the 26th from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Councilman Cliff Wheeler had a water resource plan put together. Because of short notice it was not on the agenda.   Tabled until next month.

Councilman Casey Anderson invited the Mayor and Council to the Annual Members Conference, August 12-15, 2018.  Can go online and register.  He encouraged everyone to go. Good news, the Nuscale modules that was projected to produce 60 megawatts and been revised to 72 megawatts instead of 60, will hear more in the future.

Councilman Mike Jarman stated that they are having a committee meeting on Monday.   In the budget for this year, there will be no revenue brought in on baseball.  Apparently, the City has not paid the Bees for participation in their league for the past three years.  Not sure the total owing.

Councilman Bob St. Jacques stated that he hopes can find a way to keep the farmers market going.  Opening day has potential.

APPROVAL OF VOUCHERS:

Councilman Casey Anderson moved to approve the vouchers from May 15, 2018 to June 19, 2018.  Councilwoman KaeLyn Sorensen seconded the motion.  The voting was unanimous in favor of.

ADJOUNMENT:

Councilman Bob St. Jacques moved to close meeting at 9:38 p.m.  Councilman Mike Jarman seconded the motion.  Motion carried.