September 2019 Minutes
October 18, 2019
A meeting of the Stratton Village Board of Trustees was held on Monday September 16, 2019 at 7:00 pm CT at the Village Clerk’s Office. Notice of the meeting was posted and availability of the agenda was communicated in the advance notice. A poster of the “Open Meetings Act” was clearly visible on the office wall, and Chairwoman J. McDonald directed the attention of those present to the poster. All proceedings hereafter shown occurred while the meeting was in session. Present: Chairwoman P. McDonald, Trustee F. Priddy, Trustee J. McDonald, Trustee T. Jones, Superintendent K. League, Clerk T. Hedrick, Dale Schilke, Matt Clouse and Jeff Tidyman with Engineering International, Roberta Loescher and Janet Felt with the Library Board.
The meeting was called to order at 7:10 pm.
OPEN FORUM: Clerk Hedrick informed the Board members of a Welcome packet that would be handed out from the Stratton Area Chamber of Commerce. Information on area businesses will be included and given to those new residence signing up for utility services.
Utilities Superintendent League requested to use the four-wheeler and car trailer to use for the Mud Bog activities at the ball field. No objections were heard regarding the use.
Motion by J. McDonald and second by F. Priddy to approve the previous minutes, treasurers’ report and claims. Roll call: Unanimous Ayes. Absent- J. Richardson. Motion Carried.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Dale Schilke, Matt Clouse and Jeff Tidyman with Engineering International reviewed final plans for the proposed Library and Village Office. GSI has not returned the geotechnical report as of yet. Final designs of the Library and office were discussed. The needs for utility connections, air ducts, internet and security wiring were reviewed. Engineering International will have information to begin accepting sealed bids towards the end of the month and bids will be opened at the October meeting.
Motion by F. Priddy and second by J. McDonald to approve the current Library design. Roll call: Unanimous Ayes. Absent- J. Richardson. Motion Carried.
Motion made by J. McDonald and seconded by F. Priddy to approve Rate Resolution 480 to revise rural solid waste disposal rates. Roll call: Unanimous Ayes. Absent J. Richardson. Motion carried.
SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL: RURAL
$20.00 setting fee for new customers
$36.00 per month for 90 gallon roll out dumpster
$50.00 per month for 2 yard dumpster
$80.00 per month for 3 yard dumpster
Motion made by F. Priddy and seconded by T. Jones to approve Drawdown #3 for 18PW012. Roll call: Unanimous Ayes. Absent J. Richardson. Motion carried.
Prior dog complaint was discussed. It was agreed by the board members that the owner is in compliance and staff will continue to monitor the situation to insure compliance continues. Another dog at the same residence was discussed regarding license status. Clerk Hedrick will look into sending a letter and imposing fines associated with unlicensed dogs.
A membership agreement for mutual aid with NMPP was discussed. Item was postponed until the October meeting when more information can be reviewed.
NEW BUSINESS:
Water and sewer rate study was completed and the board reviewed the results. Due to the upcoming sewer project and the rise of cost of general maintenance the study recommends to increase sewer rates to a monthly fee of $25.00. The board agreed to wait until the end of the year before proposing a rate increase. The study also recommends the water rate to be increased by a monthly charge of $1 each year to keep up with the rise in maintenance and cost of supplies.
Motion made by F. Priddy and seconded by T. Jones to waive the three readings of Ordinance 198. Roll call: Unanimous Ayes. Absent J. Richardson. Motion carried.
Motion made by J. McDonald and seconded by F. Priddy to pass Ordinance 198 regarding establishing revised water rates for the municipal water system. Roll call: Ayes: F. Priddy, J. McDonald, and P. McDonald. Nay: T. Jones. Absent J. Richardson. Motion carried.
Motion made by T. Jones and seconded by J. McDonald to approve and sign a contract for CDBG 19WW001. Roll call: Unanimous Ayes. Absent J. Richardson. Motion carried.
Motion made by J. McDonald second by T. Jones accept prepaid propane bid from Southwest Fertilizer and purchase 5000 gallons of propane. Roll call: Unanimous Ayes. Absent J. Richardson. Motion Carried.
Motion by J. McDonald and seconded by T. Jones to advertise for and accept sealed bids on the International Bucket Truck until October 21, 2019. Roll call: Unanimous Ayes. Absent J. Richardson. Motion carried.
Discussion was held regarding the lack of a utility application or building permit for a resident who was attempting to hook up utilities. Clerk Hedrick will be sending a letter to the resident explaining the proper procedures to complete the project and directing them to the correct forms and requesting them to stop all progress until approval has been given.
Streets, Alleys, & Landfill Committee Report: Superintendent League discussed armor coating that took place.
Electricity Committee Report: Superintendent League informed the Board that a new bucket truck has been purchased. Discussed new personal protective equipment that is needed as well as upcoming training.
Water & Sewer Committee Report: Superintendent League gave an update on the process of water disinfection. Some residences have been concerned about the process and they are welcome to bring their concerns to the Village for further explanations regarding the requirements from the Nebraska Department of Health and Humans Services. Superintendent League reassured the board that all requirements are being met and the process is recommended by DHHS.
Finance Committee Report: Clerk Hedrick informed the board of the benefits and process of using a round-up program to help with certain groups or activities around town. Customers could opt to round-up their utility bill and the extra amount will then be forwarded onto the chosen group. A resolution will be on the October agenda for vote.
Health & Welfare Committee Report: Another complaint was submitted regarding a property at 710 Beaver. Clerk Hedrick will send another follow up letter regarding the progress of the property.
Park & Recreation Committee Report: The use of Village property for the upcoming Fall Festival was discussed.
The meeting adjourned at 9:36 p.m.
