City of Freeborn

Council Meeting Minutes

May 21, 2014

 

Present:  Mayor: Theo Beckman; Council Members: Jim Beach, Pat Stenzel, Ed Mosser, Kaleb Bjornstad; City Clerk- Treasuer: Nicole LaFrance; Maintence Operator: Bill Guggisberg.

Absent:

Mayor Theo Beckmann called the meeting to order at 6:30pm.

City Clerk called roll.

A few local city residents were present regarding the beautification of the local community.  For 2015, since there is no longer a 4-H or Booster Club, the residents present were inquiring about possible gambling fund or the park and recreation fund donations.  They shared ideas about possible hanging baskets and replacing whiskey barrels.  They have also interest in welcome banners on pole mounts welcoming residents and visitors to the city of Freeborn.  Council member Jim Beach looked for pricing prior to board meeting and suggested ordering catalogs and contacting other cities on their similar products.  A committee will be developed over the year to prepare for 2015, as in 2015 there will be an all school reunion.  Jim Beach will volunteer his time to help with this establishment.

Dale Glazier, deputy from Freeborn Co. Sheriff’s office was present and spoke about running for office in the upcoming local sheriff’s race.  The city council thanked him for attending and information that he shared.

Resident Mark Gruben was present and spoke about recent water/sewer/garbage billing.  City Clerk gave him a schedule of due dates for 2014.

Resident Tim Pagel was present and discussed water project.  His current shut off valve is located in middle of driveway and would like new placement if possible when project begins.  The council recommended Pagel to speak with engineers and contractors when construction has actually started and address a new location for shut off valve at that time.

Bill Guggisberg, Maintenance Operator gave his maintenance report.  Guggisberg cleaned city catch basins, swept streets and seeded the old volleyball court and he would like to invoice the City of Hartland for 3.5 hours for sweeping Hartland’s streets.  He discussed the old city snow blower and options available for selling this equipment or to keep on hand.  The council discussed the old snow blower and would like to seal bids in October 2014 and the revenue collected could be applied to the beautification project.  The annual clean-up day is scheduled for Saturday, May 24th and Guggisberg will need a list from clerk. Guggisberg will be taking vacation July 3- July 11th 2014 and City of Hartland, Maintenance Operator Andy Flatness will cover his time off.  The lift station was also repaired with new alternator/bulb.  Guggisberg discussed the dock and if the council would like it removed or previous owner will take care of it.  The vacated properties with lawns not mowed was discussed, as well as water tower cleaning.  Lastly, the area behind the old store has depreciated, and he discussed possible crushed rock and maintain be split or shared with the adjacent property owners.

There was no unfinished business to report.

Under new business, City Clerk will contact the abandoned school house property owners to discuss broken windows, glass on playground and kids running around inside.  This is a potential liability.  Reminder letters for nuisance properties will be sent out by city clerk.  The City Noise Ordinance has been tabled.  WFS will be putting in new grass seed and clean up area around adjacent to city property.

Council member Ed Mosser motioned to approve the meeting minutes from April 16, 2014.  Council member Kaleb Bjornstad advanced; motion carried.

Ed Mosser motioned to approve the accounts payable and reconciliation reports.  Jim Beach advanced; motioned carried.

Council member Bjornstad motioned to adjourn the meeting.  Council Member Stenzel advanced; motion carried.

 

Nicole LaFrance

City Clerk-Treasurer