December 1, 2020

    The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on December 1, 2020, in the Blue Springs City Hall, Blue Springs, NE.

PRESENT:  Mayor Meyer, Council members Neumann, Reedy, Sedlacek (arrival - 7:30PM), Seeman

ABSENT;                               

OTHER ATTENDEES:  Employee Mike Pike, City Attorney Andy Carothers, Connie Mewes, Tanner Goes, John Hill, Trevor Lee

Notice of the meeting/hearing was given in advance by posting in at least three public places as shown by the certificate of posting placed on file.  Notice of the hearing/meeting was simultaneously given to the Mayor and all members of the City Council and a copy of their acknowledgment of receipt and agenda are placed on file.  Availability of the agenda was communicated in the advance notice and in the advance notice to the Mayor and City Council of the hearing/meeting.  Proceedings hereafter shown were taken while the convened hearing/meeting was open to public attendance.
    
At 7:00 PM, Mayor Meyer called the Regular meeting to order and roll call was taken.  
    
Motion (Neumann), second (Seeman) and vote (3-0 affirmative) to approve as sent minutes for the Nov. 17, 2020 Regular meeting.
 
After review -- motion (Reedy), second (Neumann), and vote (3-0 affirmative) to approve claims per:  Bank Direct - Internal Revenue (941) - $1,559.92; Payroll $6,311.94; Beatrice Sand & Gravel - $137.83; NE Dept. of Revenue (501N) - $196.00; NE Public Health Environmental Labs - $15.00; Norris Public Power - $1,111.57; Milton Pike (Tel. Comp.) - $25.00; Security First Bank (Pike - IRA) - $55.00; Milford Woutzke (Tel. Comp.) - $5.00; TOTAL CLAIMS: $9,417.26.

OATH OF OFFICE:  NEUMANN/SEDLACEK: City Attorney Carothers administered the Oath of Office for Council members Verona Neumann (7:00 PM) and Tim Sedlacek (7:30 PM).

ANNUAL APPOINTMENTS:  which will include: COMMITTEES, PRESIDENT OF COUNCIL, SECONDARY COUNCIL PRESIDENT, TEMPORARY CLERK, CITY STREET SUPT (PROJECTS) - KEITH GILMORE - 697A (Jan.- Dec. - entire year  2020 - (last authorization 12/17/19) WITH RESOLUTION #2020-2 , CITY ATTORNEY & DEPUTY ATTORNEY, AUDITOR, AND EMPLOYEE APPOINTMENTS AND WAGES AND BENEFITS:
    (Motion: Neumann,  second: Sedlacek, 4-0 affirmative vote:  for following designations :
COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP:  (Water System) - Reedy and Neumann; (Sewer Lagoon) - Sedlacek and Seeman; (Streets and Alleys) - Sedlacek and Neumann; (City Parks and Properties) - Reedy and Seeman; (Keno) - Reedy and Seeman; (Finance) - Sedlacek and Neumann,
PRESIDENT OF COUNCIL: Reedy
SECONDARY COUNCIL PRESIDENT: Neumann
TEMPORARY CLERK:  Andrew Carothers
CITY ATTORNEY: Andrew Carothers.
DEPUTY CITY ATTORNEY:  Mike Willet
CITY AUDITOR:  Brian Blobaum
CITY PHYSICIAN: (No designee)

CITY STREET SUPERINTENDENT (for Projects) :  Motion: Reedy; Second: Neumann to approve Keith Gilmore - #697A - of Gilmore & Associates - Columbus, NE. (Jan 1 - Dec 31)  (last authorization 12/17/19) RESOLUTION 2020-2 WAS READ (Carothers) AND APPROVED BY A 4-0 AFFIRMATIVE VOTE.

EMPLOYEE CONSIDERATIONS (with benefits as listed)
(Motion: Sedlacek, second: Neumann,  4-0 affirmative vote to raise employee wages 3% across the board.   
BS STREET/WATER/SEWER SUPERVISOR:
    Milton Pike - Rate  -$22.43 hourly wage.
    Continuance of current policy regarding insurance.
    Bi-monthly Retirement ($55.00) City Contribution
    Vacation: 4 wk. paid vacation
    No comp time. instead OT   
    Paid Holidays:  (10) - New Years, Martin Luther King Jr., Presidents, Memorial, Independence, Labor, Columbus, Veterans, Thanksgiving, Christmas
    CITY CLERK:
    Katherine Roche - $942.96  - monthly salary).  
    Office Hours 8:30AM - Noon - Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
Holidays:  Office may be closed:  (10) - New Years, Martin Luther King Jr., Presidents, Memorial, Independence, Labor, Columbus, Veterans, Thanksgiving, Christmas
PART-TIME HELP:
    Milford Woutzke - Rate - $13.27 hourly wage, with approval for overtime pay for days when over 8 hours are worked.
    Paid Holidays: :  (10) New Years, Martin Luther King Jr., Presidents, Memorial, Independence, Labor, Columbus, Veterans, Thanksgiving, Christmas
    Linda Hohensee,  $ 10.89 Hourly)     
Other:  To be established as needed.
    Tim Sedlacek suggested review in reference to the payment of comp time in lieu of overtime pay for Milton Pike.  Attorney Carothers will pull up Employment Handbook to support further discussion of this concern at the next Regular meeting.


COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING; BLIGHT AND SUBSTANDARD     STUDY: HANNA KEELAN (PLANNER):   Tim Keelan addressed members (video session). Included was his credentials (40 years experience, over 1,300 projects), discussion of the following:  County-wide housing; NE Community Development Law; Blight and Substandard Study projects which address age and condition of structures, ownership, current platting - general redevelopment plans, tax increment financing, identification of difference between CRA (community participation) and CDA authority (City Council participation), etc. It was noted that Blue Springs could designate 50% involvement in the program.  When Keelan was asked by Reedy as to the cost of “planner” designation for Blue Springs,  Keelan responded - “between 8 and 9 thousand dollars, not over 9,000.” The length of the program was stated to run between 7 and 10 years. Benefits included:  “Provides opportunity to use own tax base for community improvement (commercial, industrial, residential).  Plan/procedure includes:  determination of area, as the proposed site of  a “substantial interest” concern, and the Broad Street corridor - a few blocks off Broad (vacant lots/recent demolition sites.) Annexation efforts w/ 3 separate reading dates (meetings) for approval.  Trevor Lee, Executive Director of Gage Area Growth Enterprise spoke of his support/assistance regarding the need to increase incentive for prospective community growth, and pursuit of such endeavors as market price (though difficult) housing.   Keelan agreed to provide data/draft of an agreement (to Carothers for the next Regular City Council meeting) to support further discussion/action to initiate the undertaking.  When asked if he had any comments, Tanner Goes replied that he attended to encourage the plan “to go forward.”

DEMOLITION PROJECT:  Continuing follow-up on previously designated aspects.  No new information.

CLEAN-UP:  Continuing follow-up on previously designated aspects (upcoming meeting between Carothers and Hanson).  No further information.  

PLANNING AND ZONING:  No new applications.

BRIDGE MATCH PROGRAM- ANY NEW INFORMATION:  Carothers reported that SENDD identified grant options which could set the program in consideration in next year’s applications, but not this year, and John Hill was thanked for time and effort spent on behalf of the City of Blue Springs, and asked to revisit the situation next year.  It was noted (Mayor Meyer) that Dean Cole is pursuing grants focused on concrete work/sidewalks to tie the two parks together.  

CITY CREDIT CARD:  An application for a Municipal Visa Card has been submitted, and approval given.
Card(s)  are to be received directly.

OTHER:  Connie Mewes identified the need for City review of certain residential and commercial properties, referencing several locations and vast differences in compared tax assessments, as Mewes and Borgman, and the new Bohlmeyer structure on Broad Street.  Carothers indicated it was something the City should address, and he asked that full clarification be provided to him by Mewes.

NEXT AGENDA:
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING; BLIGHT AND SUBSTANDARD     STUDY: HANNA KEELAN (PLANNER) AGREEMENT
DEMOLITION PROJECT
CLEAN-UP
PLANNING AND ZONING
WATER LINE REPLACEMENT DUE TO RUST IN WATER (MEWES)

EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK:  COMP PAY VS. OVERTIME

Motion to adjourn    -  Reedy   -    7:45   PM.  No objections.

The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved December 15, 2020.


Mayor:  Lonnie D. Meyer  (Regular Session

City Clerk:  Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)

 November 17, 2020

    The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on November 17, 2020, in the Blue Springs City Hall, Blue Springs, NE.

PRESENT:  Mayor Meyer, Council members Neumann, Reedy, Sedlacek, Seeman

ABSENT;                               

OTHER ATTENDEES:  Employee Mike Pike, City Attorney Andy Carothers, John Hill, Tanner Goes, Talia Goes, Paul Lynn, Rex Adams, Dan Disney, D.J. Seeman

Notice of the meeting/hearing was given in advance by posting in at least three public places as shown by the certificate of posting placed on file.  Notice of the hearing/meeting was simultaneously given to the Mayor and all members of the City Council and a copy of their acknowledgment of receipt and agenda are placed on file.  Availability of the agenda was communicated in the advance notice and in the advance notice to the Mayor and City Council of the hearing/meeting.  Proceedings hereafter shown were taken while the convened hearing/meeting was open to public attendance.
    
At 7:00 PM, Mayor Meyer called the Regular meeting to order and roll call was taken.  
    
Motion (Neumann), second (Seeman) and vote (4-0 affirmative) to approve as sent minutes for the Nov. 3, 2020 Regular meeting.

After review -- motion (Reedy), second (Sedlacek), and vote (4-0 affirmative) to approve claims per:   Bank  Direct - NE Dept. of Revenue (10) - 290.58; Payroll - $2,182.10; Black Hills Energy - $66.08; Lauby Plumbing/Heating/Air Conditioning - $116.02; O’Reilly Automotive - $16.50; Postmaster - $110.00; Security First Bank - (Pike/IRA) - $55.00; Temps Disposal (Oct Mandatory Garbage) - $2,572.60; Windstream - $78.88; Wymore Arbor State - $218.73; Wymore Oil Company - $95.00; TOTAL CLAIMS: $5,801.49.

DEMOLITION PROJECT:  Attorney Carothers reported that the Notice & Orders will be mailed tomorrow and filing with the Register of Deeds, and the 90-period will begin.  Responses are not anticipated from those contacted. The next round of choices for inspection (and for which One Property at a Time will pay for three - per Rex Adams) has been expanded.

CLEAN-UP:  Attorney Carothers clarified issues regarding previously sent letters (initiated by OEO Hanson), to separate one into two properties, and Carothers will request Hanson to evaluate improvements, and where applicable, refer matters to Carothers to initiate “request for charges.” Seeman asked for the addition of a property to the list. D. J. Seeman and Reedy suggested that “large wood piles” be included in clean-up efforts.  Another property is to be revisited for clean-up infractions.

PLANNING AND ZONING:  No new applications.  

BRIDGE MATCH PROGRAM- ANY NEW INFORMATION: John Hill addressed members and handouts were provided which gave “preliminary and conservative” project estimates, per:  Single 12’x8’x110’ Concrete Box Culvert - Total for Project - $453,013.92, City Share 45% of Eligible costs  + Non-Eligible costs - $320,442.47) - (with breakdown of calculations attached to the office copy of the minutes), or Triple 72’X122’ Corrugated Metal Pipes -- Total for Project - $418,207.38, City Share 45% Eligible Costs + Non - Eligible costs - $301,199.83 (with breakdown of calculations attached to the office copy of the minutes). It was noted (Hill) that a decision to apply needs to be made no later than the end of a two week period from now, and he told members that there are projects already planned that may influence a positive outcome for the City, but if an application is approved, it is inadvisable to refuse it.  Sedlacek said that the City did not go ahead with Topkote plans which was around $100,000, and now were considering a $300,000+ project-- at a time when considerations still include street paving, waterline replacement.  Mayor Meyer suggested, in light of the bridge being described as “low priority” based on weight restriction, that heavy trucks could go west, and not utilize the bridge. Attorney Carothers will conduct a study and report on “other funding sources” and will have either positive or negative information for members and Hill in a day or so.

CITY CREDIT CARD: Pending Municipal Card information (sales tax exempt status).

COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING; BLIGHT AND SUBSTANDARD STUDY: Attorney Carothers advised members that a business is considering Blue Springs as a location, and initiation of processes (as noted in topic heading) were advised.  The business was briefly discussed (not officially identified at this time due to location options being evaluated) which could bring 29+ jobs, including some part time, into the community, and bringing with it standard community growth potential, as housing, product needs, etc. Carothers suggested members to consider either “specific property” or “area wide redevelopment” classification, and about acquiring the services of a TIFF lawyer.  Discussion included bond issues, taxes (TIFF) being divided between “base” and “redevelopment” and a 15 year time span.  50% of the City could be included in blight and substandard classification in the case of 2nd Class City.  There are many facets to become familiar with and to consider, some which were touched upon, and Carothers (with agreement of Mayor and Council) will invite a representative of Hanna-Keelan (Lincoln) - that compiled the 2011 Blue Springs, Nebraska Comprehensive Plan and Zoning and Subdivision Regulations, to address members at the next Regular meeting---  about the specifics of the undertaking and about becoming the program “planner” for the City (which is estimated (Carothers) to be in the neighborhood of no more than $9,000 charge to the City.  

NEXT AGENDA:

ANNUAL APPOINTMENTS:  which will include: COMMITTEES, PRESIDENT OF COUNCIL, SECONDARY COUNCIL PRESIDENT, TEMPORARY CLERK, CITY STREET SUPT (PROJECTS) - KEITH GILMORE - 697A (Jan.- Dec. - entire year  2020 - (last authorization 12/17/19) WITH RESOLUTION #2020-2 , CITY ATTORNEY & DEPUTY ATTORNEY, AUDITOR, AND EMPLOYEE APPOINTMENTS AND WAGES AND BENEFITS
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING; BLIGHT AND SUBSTANDARD     STUDY: HANNA KEELAN (PLANNER)
DEMOLITION PROJECT
CLEAN-UP
PLANNING AND ZONING
BRIDGE MATCH PROGRAM- ANY NEW INFORMATION

Motion to adjourn    -  Reedy   -      8:00 PM.  No objections.

The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved December 1, 2020.

Mayor:  Lonnie D. Meyer  (Regular Session)

City Clerk:  Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)

 November 3, 2020

    The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on November 3, 2020, in the Blue Springs City Hall, Blue Springs, NE.

PRESENT:  Mayor Meyer, Council members Neumann, Reedy, Sedlacek, Seeman

ABSENT;                               

OTHER ATTENDEES:  Employee Mike Pike, City Attorney Andy Carothers, Sherri Trump, John Hill, D.J. Seeman

Notice of the meeting/hearing was given in advance by posting in at least three public places as shown by the certificate of posting placed on file.  Notice of the hearing/meeting was simultaneously given to the Mayor and all members of the City Council and a copy of their acknowledgment of receipt and agenda are placed on file.  Availability of the agenda was communicated in the advance notice and in the advance notice to the Mayor and City Council of the hearing/meeting.  Proceedings hereafter shown were taken while the convened hearing/meeting was open to public attendance.
    
At 7:00 PM, Mayor Meyer called the Regular meeting to order and roll call was taken.  
    
Motion (Neumann), second (Seeman) and vote (4-0 affirmative) to approve as sent minutes for the October 20, 2020 Regular meeting.

After review -- motion (Reedy), second (Sedlacek), and vote (4-0 affirmative) to approve claims per:   Bank  Direct - Internal Revenue Service (941) - $1,985.93; Real Business Solutions (2020 W-2/W-3 Software) - $64.00; Reliable Printer Renewal- $178.44; Payroll-- $3.564.25; Abbott Portable Toilets - (Feit Park) - $125.00;  Constellation Energy - $3.93; NE Dept. of Revenue (501N) - $271.00; Norris Public Power - $1,040.80; One-Call Concepts, Inc. - $6.92; Milton Pike (Tel. Comp.) - $25.00; Milton Pike (Reimb. Water Sample) - $26.35; Security First Bank (IRA/Pike) - $55.00; Westlake Hardware - $19.79; Milford Woutzke - (Tel. Comp.) - $5.00; TOTAL CLAIMS: $7,371.41.

DEMOLITION PROJECT:  Two properties have been condemned and Notice/Order/Register of Deeds procedures initiated and  90 days began.  Appropriate action is being taken to close another property, and Application for Tax Deed will follow.  Other locations are identified for inspection (to condemn), and Attorney Carothers requested that members “think about” other additions.  

CLEAN-UP:  Four clean-up letters initiated by Ordinance Enforcement Officer Hanson have been sent (10/26/20).  Attorney Carothers will contact Hanson to request inspection to determine removal of infractions, and if not, to begin legal action.   Carothers will also discuss with Hanson two other properties that he believed were to be included in the first mailing.  

PLANNING AND ZONING: No new applications.  

BRIDGE MATCH PROGRAM (JOHN HILL): John Hill addressed members, repeating previous aspects, as: Potential costs:  box culvert - $180,000 w/County 55%, City 45%, Engineering potential estimate $200,000 for paving, curb, gutter, sidewalk, utilities, engineering - city expenses.  Hill said the engineer would be willing to look at it with a couple members (Reedy, Tim, Pike).  Hill stated that approvals will be made next year, with work actually to be done the following year, or further delayed, and that approved projects can be “turned down”, but that it is not advised.  Reedy suggested the possibility of a CDBG grant application.  Carothers will contact Tom Bliss of SENDD to get further information.   Mayor Meyer asked if the bridge can be “kept as is, with the heavy stuff kept off,” and was told that that could be done.
 
CITY CREDIT CARD (PIKE): Dissatisfaction with the existing City card (Wex Bank) was discussed, and identified as limited charge capabilities, “not used successfully (denied) for purchases other than fuel,” and a study and inquiries will be made into the possibility of a business card through Visa, MasterCard, or other.

SIP & SHOP - DEC. 9, 2020 (Request by Gary Trump for City Consent): Tall Tree Tastings of Beatrice wishes to pursue issuance of a Special Designated License for a December 9th event at Pinecrest Tree Farm, and Council member Reedy made a motion to approve, Tim Sedlacek seconded it, and a 4-0 affirmative vote gave City approval for a Special Designated License for the event.  A copy of the signed request (Mayor Meyer) is attached to the office copy of the minutes.

OTHER:   Carothers provided a copy of Executive Order No. 20-34 CORONAVIRUS - PUBLIC MEETINGS REQUIREMENT LIMITED WAIVER FOR ALTERNATIVE PARTICIPATION FOR ELECTED OFFICIALS, and a copy is attached to the office copy of the minutes as well as to each of the members copy of the minutes.  Carothers also advised against any general gatherings/conversations of three members discussing City matters, as that would constitute an “illegal meeting.”  

NEXT AGENDA:
DEMOLITION PROJECT
CLEAN-UP
PLANNING AND ZONING
BRIDGE MATCH PROGRAM- ANY NEW INFORMATION
CITY CREDIT CARD

Motion to adjourn    -   Reedy   -   7:34  PM.  No objections.

The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved November 17, 2020.

Mayor:  Lonnie D. Meyer  (Regular Session)

City Clerk:  Katherine A/ Roche (Regular Session

 October 20, 2020

    The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on October 20, 2020, in the Blue Springs City Hall, Blue Springs, NE.

PRESENT:  Mayor Meyer, Council members Neumann, Reedy, Sedlacek

ABSENT;     Council Member Seeman                          

OTHER ATTENDEES:  Employee Mike Pike, City Attorney Andy Carothers, Connie Mewes, Rex Adams, Tim Hanson, John Hill, George Bohlmeyer (& contractor),  Steve Borgman

Notice of the meeting/hearing was given in advance by posting in at least three public places as shown by the certificate of posting placed on file.  Notice of the hearing/meeting was simultaneously given to the Mayor and all members of the City Council and a copy of their acknowledgment of receipt and agenda are placed on file.  Availability of the agenda was communicated in the advance notice and in the advance notice to the Mayor and City Council of the hearing/meeting.  Proceedings hereafter shown were taken while the convened hearing/meeting was open to public attendance.
    
At 7:00 PM, Mayor Meyer called the Regular meeting to order and roll call was taken.  
    
Motion (Neumann), second (Reedy) and vote (3-0 affirmative) to approve as sent minutes for the October 6, 2020 Regular meeting.

After review -- motion (Reedy), second (Sedlacek), and vote (3-0 affirmative) to approve claims per:   Bank Direct  - NE Dept. of Revenue (10) - $316.13; Payroll - $2,287.88; Black Hills Energy - $38.29; Lauby Plumbing/Heating/Air - $111.30; NE Dept of Revenue (51C) - $1,793.00; NE Public Health Environmental Labs. - $66.00; Milton Pike (Reimb.) - - $30.01; Postmaster - $180.00; Security First Bank (IRA/Pike) - $55.00; Temps Disposal Service - $2,160.51 (Replaces voided Ck # 16506 for $1,723.29 issued on October 6,2020)  Windstream - $78.41; TOTAL CLAIMS $7,116.53  & from Keno Proceeds Account to Lucky Bridge Lounge - $171.76.

DEMOLITION PROJECT: Two properties have been inspected.  Pending: Notice & Order served, Index with Register of Deeds, 90 day period will begin. No response from two other letters sent (Office Record:  O’Keefe/Izer) Timeline for processing demolition concerns expected to be impacted by retirement of Judge Thimm and availability of fill-ins.  Reedy stated that it was his understanding Blue Springs was not included in the Crawford equipment agreement with Wymore, to which Carothers indicated that Blue Springs could reimburse Wymore for ½ of the lease fee, or, as circumstances dictate, Blue Springs could enter into an agreement at a later date since here is a possibility the unit may be picked up shortly. In regard to the acquisition of property, Carothers will be publishing a notice to “heirs of Joy Creek” in the newspaper, and the timeline will begin for response and closure.  

CLEAN-UP:  Ordinance Enforcement Officer Hanson reported on issues.   He indicated the plan of action has been slowed by his primary responsibility as a law enforcement officer, which involved filling in for other officers on leave, but he provided correspondence to be sent to four previously designated locations with clean-up infractions.  Photographic record will be provided for inclusion.

PLANNING AND ZONING: Motion (Reedy), second (Sedlacek), and a 3-0 affirmative vote approved a building permit application (#20-3) for George Bohlmeyer’s 40’x 80’ store structure.  Applicant (attended the meeting) is aware of approval, and will be notified of fee.

WATER LINE REPLACEMENT FROM MAIN TO HOUSE METER (MEWES): Employee Pike indicated that there are no current plans to address this issue (customer complaining about rust in water line), and that a plan needs to be submitted to the State for approval.  After discussion, Mayor Meyer suggested it be included in the One & Six Year Plan, and all members were in agreement.  Next summer is a possible start time.

KENO OPERATOR (STEVE BORGMAN)/ APPROVAL PENDING: Steve Borgman addressed members, stating that he plans to reopen the Keno Lounge (will be enlarging kitchen, plans to serve steaks, pizza, etc., and liquor and continue with the ball-drop method of Keno play, and will be completing necessary paperwork… (packet from Charitable Gaming was provided to Borgman to begin his application process). Borgman was advised to contact Andy Carothers with questions, and Carothers will work with the City Clerk, and also Carrie Fitzgerald of Charitable Gaming to help with the changeover.

OTHER:  John Hill offered preliminary information for the City to be included in the Bridge Match Program (bridge north of City Office).  The box culvert part of the project is expected to cost about $180,000, with the State providing 55% of revenue, and the City around $80,000 (but with City responsibility potentially to reach an estimate of $200,00 what with curb, gutter, paving, utility line moves, etc. included.   Hill will attend the next meeting (November 3, 2020) to determine participation in the Bridge Match Program (1st of December application deadline).  He asked that members contact him with questions or the State engineer - Mainelli Wagner & Associates - Josh, Mark, Jeff).


NEXT AGENDA  
DEMOLITION PROJECT
CLEAN-UP
PLANNING AND ZONING
BRIDGE MATCH PROGRAM (JOHN HILL)


Motion to adjourn    -    Reedy  -   7:44  PM.  No objections.

The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved November 3, 2020.

Mayor:  Lonnie D. Meyer  (Regular Session)

City Clerk:  Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)

October 6, 2020
 

The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on October 6, 2020, in the Blue Springs City Hall, Blue Springs, NE.
   
PRESENT:  Mayor Meyer, Council members Neumann, Reedy, Sedlacek, Seeman
   
ABSENT;                         
   
OTHER ATTENDEES:  Employee Mike Pike, Connie Mewes, Gene Reedy Sr., D. J. Seeman
   
Notice of the meeting/hearing was given in advance by posting in at least three public places as shown by the certificate of posting placed on file.  Notice of the hearing/meeting was simultaneously given to the Mayor and all members of the City Council and a copy of their acknowledgment of receipt and agenda are placed on file.  Availability of the agenda was communicated in the advance notice and in the advance notice to the Mayor and City Council of the hearing/meeting.  Proceedings hereafter shown were taken while the convened hearing/meeting was open to public attendance.
   
At 7:00 PM, Mayor Meyer called the Regular meeting to order and roll call was taken. 
   
Motion (Neumann), second (Seeman) and vote (4-0 affirmative) to approve as sent minutes for the September 15, 2020 Regular meeting.
   
After review -- motion (Neumann), second (Sedlacek), and vote (4-0 affirmative) to approve claims per:   Bank Direct - Internal Revenue (941) - $2,006.93; Payroll $4,843.14; Abbott’s Portable Toilets - $125.00;Constellation Energy - $3.08; Lauby Plumbing/Heating/Air - $127.13; Lincoln Winwater Works - $213.58; NE Dept. of Environment & Energy - $100.00; NE Dept of Rev. (941N) - $231.00; NE Public Health Environmental Labs - $15.00; NE U. C. Fund - (Unemp. Ins.) - $42.27; Norris Public Power - $1,090.16; Office Depot - $264.28; One Call Concepts - $29.21; Milton Pike (Reimb.) - $92.98 & $26.75; Milton Pike (Tel. Comp.) - $25.00; Security First Bank - (Pike/IRA) - $55.00; Wex Bank (Shell) - $853.12; Tractor Supply - $1,003.70; Willet & Carothers (108 E Broad Tx Reimb.) - $484.91; Temps Disposal (Mandatory Trash September charge) - $1,723.29; Milford Woutzke (Tel. Comp.) - $5.00; Wymore Arbor State - $261.23; Wymore, City of (Tower/India.) - $6,621.82; TOTAL CLAIMS $20,243.58.

DEMOLITION PROJECT /(Status/Changes): Tabled pending attendance and input of Attorney Carothers.
  
CLEAN-UP ISSUES: Tabled pending attendance/and(or) input from Ordinance Enforcement Officer Hanson.

PLANNING AND ZONING: No new applications.  

BACKHOE (REEDY): Council member Reedy asked if the City should be actively looking for a more suitable backhoe, to which Employee Pike replied that previous problems have been worked out, and though the newest backhoe is about 6” longer, and wider than the other one, therefore making it ineffective for use at the Cemetery, and will eventually need new tires,  the cylinder and other issues are no longer a problem, and when asked by Mayor Meyer if it is recommended that they look for a smaller one to do the job, Pike indicated that replacement is not at this time a pertinent issue.  Also, when asked (Reedy) about the algae problem with the older backhoe, Pike indicated that it was eliminated (diesel). 


MUNICIPAL ANNUAL CERTIFICATION OF PROGRAM COMPLIANCE TO NEBRASKA BOARD OF PUBLIC ROADS CLASSIFICATIONS AND STANDARDS 2020/(AND) RESOLUTION 2020-2 SIGNING     OF THE MUNICIPAL ANNUAL CERTIFICATION OF PROGRAM COMPLIANCE FORM 2020: Resolution 2020-2 was read (with copy attached to the office copy of the minutes), and approved/passed by a motion by Council member Reedy, second by Neumann, and a 4-0 affirmative vote.  The passage of the resolution  included authorization for Mayoral signature on the Municipal Annual Certification of Program Compliance to Nebraska Board of Public Roads Classifications and Standards 2020 Form.

REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF FUNDS FOR CABIN (GENE REEDY SR.):  Gene Reedy Sr. addressed members and provided a handout (letter from Bob Savage/General Manager of 888-LOG-GUYS,
That read: “ I received a message that you were interested in us chinking the cabin we worked on earlier.  The bottom sections will need a full chinking which will cost about $1,250 for the exterior.  Same amount again if you want the interior…. The upper part of the cabin which has old mortar-based chinking (I think) will need an overlay of this synthetic chinking we use in order for it to match That will cost $950 per side, i. e. interior & exterior.  So the entire cabin, inside and out, comes to $4,400 if that is what you are looking for.  The problem we’re having now is getting to small jobs like this during the fall and winter months; however, we still have 2 projects remaining in Nebraska that would probably allow us to come by at our convenience to do it for you….”  Discussion followed, in which members decided to delegate $750 to add to what remains from previous grant funds ($532.27) to facilitate chinking “the bottom sections, exterior,”, and that was enacted by motion by Neumann, second by Seeman, and followed by a 4-0 affirmative vote.  Connie Mewes then suggested that a “conflict of interest” existed, and Council member Reedy should have abstained.  Reedy, a member of the Municipal Parks and Properties Committee contested, D.J. Seeman spoke in favor of the decision and City improvement, and Council member Seeman stated that the matter had been concluded by motion, second, and affirmative vote, and the topic should be “closed.”

OTHER: 

Mayor Meyer asked about the plans in place for a hydrant at the City Park (Park House), and Pike said he was working out the details to get that accomplished.   Members also discussed the feasibility of a new sewer line (Scheideler request), and though interest was established, no figures were available to support feasibility or further discussion at this time.  Connie Mewes inquired about replacement of the line from the hydrant to the meter (on her property) due to a “major rust” issue, but members did not enter into comprehensive discussion at this time.


NEXT AGENDA 
DEMOLITION PROJECT
CLEAN-UP
PLANNING AND ZONING



Motion to adjourn    -  Reedy    -   7:33  PM.  No objections.

The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved October 20, 2020.


Mayor:  Lonnie D. Meyer  (Regular Session)

City Clerk:  Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)
 

 September 15, 2020
 

The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on September 15, 2020, in the Blue Springs City Hall, Blue Springs, NE.
    
PRESENT:  Mayor Meyer, Council members Neumann, Reedy, Sedlacek
    
ABSENT;     Council member Seeman                     
    
OTHER ATTENDEES: City Attorney Andy Carothers,  Employee Mike Pike, Crystal McColery
    
Notice of the meeting/hearing was given in advance by posting in at least three public places as shown by the certificate of posting placed on file.  Notice of the hearing/meeting was simultaneously given to the Mayor and all members of the City Council and a copy of their acknowledgment of receipt and agenda are placed on file.  Availability of the agenda was communicated in the advance notice and in the advance notice to the Mayor and City Council of the hearing/meeting.  Proceedings hereafter shown were taken while the convened hearing/meeting was open to public attendance.
    
At 7:00 PM, Mayor Meyer called the Regular meeting to order and roll call was taken.  
    
Motion (Reedy), second (Sedlacek) and vote (3-0 affirmative) to approve as sent minutes for the September 1, 2020 - 2020-2021 Budget Hearing and motion (Neumann), second (Sedlacek) and vote (3-0 affirmative) to approve the minutes of the September 1, 2020 Regular meeting.
    
After review -- motion (Sedlacek), second (Neumann), and vote (3-0 affirmative) to approve claims per:   Bank Direct - NE Dept. of Revenue (10) - $240.50; Payroll - $3,705.26; Beatrice Iron & Metal - $47.96; Black Hills Energy - $27.16; Blue Springs Fire Dept. (redirection of Neapco donation for Car Show) -  $500.00 Johnny’s Welding - $146.96; Lincoln Winwater Works - $35.39; Jan Morris - (Website Renewal Reimb.) - $138.05; One-Call Concepts, Inc. - $1.92; Milton Pike (Postage Reimb. Water Sample) - $26.75; Postmaster - $180.00; Schusters Outdoor & RV - $283.98; Security First Bank (Pike - IRA) - $55.00; Willet & Carothers - $1,650.00; Windstream - $77.97; Wymore Arbor State - $332.48;  TOTAL CLAIMS: $7,449.38.

DEMOLITION PROJECT/AND RELATED CLEAN-UP ISSUES/ORD. ENFORCEMENT OFFICER AGREEMENT:  No new information on demolition project.  This Saturday, Attorney Carothers and Ordinance Officer Tim Hanson will determine “worst nuisance” properties for the first round of notices to be sent.   Proper reporting procedure to Hanson will be through City officials, not random from the community. In regard to dogs-at-large, Hanson may address incidents  if he notes a situation while reviewing a nuisance situation under current action plan.  On another issue, Carothers indicated he could pursue a quick-claim deed for a property but price has not been specified by property owner.

PLANNING AND ZONING: No new applications.  

BURN PILE - LEASE AGREEMENT:  Agreement in place.  

NEXT AGENDA  
DEMOLITION PROJECT/ CLEAN-UP ISSUES
PLANNING AND ZONING
BACKHOE (REEDY)
MUNICIPAL ANNUAL CERTIFICATION OF PROGRAM COMPLIANCE TO NEBRASKA BOARD OF PUBLIC ROADS CLASSIFICATIONS AND STANDARDS 2020/(AND) RESOLUTION 2020-2 SIGNING OF THE MUNICIPAL ANNUAL CERTIFICATION OF PROGRAM COMPLIANCE FORM 2020


Motion to adjourn    -  Reedy   -  7:27    PM.  No objections.

The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved October 6, 2020.


Mayor:  Lonnie D. Meyer  (Regular Session)

City Clerk:  Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)

 September 1, 2020


    The 2020-2021 Budget Hearing of Blue Springs,  NE. was held at 7PM on September 1, 2020, in the Blue Springs City Hall
    
PRESENT:  Mayor Meyer, Council members Neumann, Sedlacek. Seeman
    
ABSENT;    Council member Reedy                     
    
OTHER ATTENDEES:   Jennifer Busboom, Employee Mike Pike, Connie Mewes, Tim Hanson (and family members), Derrie Seeman
    
Notice of the hearing was given in advance by posting in at least three public places as shown by the certificate of posting placed on file.  Notice of the hearing/meeting was simultaneously given to the Mayor and all members of the City Council and a copy of their acknowledgment of receipt and agenda are placed on file.  Availability of the agenda was communicated in the advance notice and in the advance notice to the Mayor and City Council of the hearing.  Proceedings hereafter shown were taken while the convened hearing was open to public attendance.
    
Advanced notice of the 2020-2021 Budget Hearing was posted in three places (Security First Bank, Post Office, City Hall) on August 20, 2020, and published in the Wymore Arbor State on August 27, 2020.

2020-2021 BUDGET HEARING/ Resolution 2020-1

    Motion  (Sedlacek) and second (Neumann) to open the Budget Hearing:  (Vote:  3-0 affirmative).
    Summarization by  Blobaum of the Budget Notes (herein included) :  
    2020-2021 Budget Notes:  The City appears to be continuing to produce revenues in excess of regular operating expenditures. The General All-Purpose Fund is producing roughly $40,000 per year (nearly the same as the last year), and the Keno Fund is producing roughly $20,000 per year (an increase from the previous year).  These funds produced are held in reserve available for capital outlays (paving, new equipment, water lines, etc.)...  It is estimated that as of October 1, 2020, you will have cash reserves of about $300,000 General and $70,000 Keno. This compares to the prior year amounts of $275,000 General and $250,000 Keno.…  For the year 2020-2021, proposed budget property tax has been left at the levy limit of 45 cents, which increases the tax request from $30,329 to $31,409.  This increase (of approx. 3.5%) is due to higher total assessed valuation for the City from $6,739,894 to $6,979,871  All of the increased valuation of $239,977 is attributable to new growth…   Other operating revenues have been estimated conservatively at $100,000 based on the prior year amounts for the general funds.  $360,000 has been included in other operating revenues based upon prior years’ estimated Keno game gross proceeds...  $331,000 has been budgeted as potential capital outlay in the General All-Purpose Fund and no capital outlay has been budgeted in the Keno Fund beyond your normal operating expenditures.  However, $124,000 has been budgeted to be transferred from the Keno Fund to the General All-Purpose Fund to assist in financing potential capital outlay projects. Normal operating expenditures have been budgeted liberally at $330,000 for the General All-Purpose Fund and $306,000 (includes game winner payoffs) for the Keno Fund at 85% payout... The budget process and document perform two legal functions:  1.  Sets the property tax request-budgeted at $31,409.   2.  Establishes an overall expenditure limit-budgeted at $1,091,000.... The budget must be adopted by September 20. The property tax requested in the budget will be final; however, the expenditure limit may be amended, if needed, throughout the year...The expenditure limit included in the proposed budget allows for expenditure of nearly all cash reserves which are expected to be available. Since some cash reserves will be necessary, we don’t expect, nor do we recommend, that the full amount budgeted of $1,091,000 be spent.  GENERAL BUDGETING NOTES:   The lid law is assigned to limit the growth of non-utility government revenues to inflationary increases.  Exceptions are allowed for revenues required to pay off bonded debt, real estate improvement capital outlays, and interlocal agreements...  Due to the Lid Law restrictions, it continues to be advantageous to pay real estate capital outlays, pay off of bonded debt, and participate in interlocal agreements from funds where property tax, sales tax, and state pass-through revenues are deposited (i.e. General and Street). This will help keep this law from limiting your non-utility source revenues...The lid law has become a significant factor for future budgets. Although you have adequate unused budget authority at this time, this is a factor that should be monitored.
    Call for questions/comments.  None
    Motion (Sedlacek), second (Seeman ), vote: Neumann -Yes,  Sedlacek - Yes, Seeman - Yes, to approve a 1% increase in 2020-2021 Restricted Funds Limitation (On lid computation LC-3 Item 3, included in budget.)
    No changes were required to the Budget:   motion (Neumann) second (Seeman ) to accept the 2020-2021 Budget: (Vote: 3-0 affirmative = Neumann - Yes,  Sedlacek - Yes; Seeman - Yes) .
    Motion (Seeman) and second (Sedlacek) (vote 3-0 affirmative) to open a Special Budget Meeting within the Budget Meeting.
    Resolution #2020-1 was read (Busboom )--- (WHEREAS, Nebraska Revised Statute 77-1601.02 provides that the Governing Body of the City of Blue Springs, passes by a majority vote a resolution or ordinance setting the tax request, and  WHEREAS, a special public hearing was held as required by law to hear and consider comments concerning the property tax request; NOW, THEREFORE, the Governing Body of the City of Blue Springs resolves that: 1. The 2020-2021 property tax request be set at $31,409.00.   2.  The total assessed value of property differs from last year’s total assessed value by 4%.  3.  The tax rate which would levy the same amount of property taxes as last year, when multiplied by the new total assessed value of property, would be $0.434521 per $100 of assessed value.  4.  The City of Blue Springs proposes to adopt a property tax request that will cause its tax rate to be $ 0.449994 per $100 of assessed value.  5.  Based on the proposed property tax request and changes in other revenue, the total operating budget of City of Blue Springs will exceed last years by -37%.  6.  A copy of this resolution be certified and forward to the County Clerk on or before October 13, 2020.  Motion by Sedlacek, seconded by Seeman to adopt Resolution 2020-1, Voting yes were Neumann, Sedlacek, Seeman/   Voting no were ___None__.  Dated this lst day of September 2020.
    Motion (Sedlacek), second (Neumann) (vote 3-0 affirmative) - to close The Budget Hearing  at 7:14 PM.

The minutes of the Budget Hearing were read and approved September 15, 2020.

Mayor:  Lonnie D. Meyer  (Budget Hearing)
City Clerk:  Katherine A. Roche (Budget Hearing)



September 1, 2020

    The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on September 1, 2020, in the Blue Springs City Hall, Blue Springs, NE.
    
PRESENT:  Mayor Meyer, Council members Neumann, Sedlacek. Seeman
    
ABSENT;    Council member Reedy                     
    
OTHER ATTENDEES: City Attorney Andy Carothers (available by telephone),  Employee Mike Pike, Connie Mewes, Tim Hanson (and family members), Derrie Seeman, Chris Cullison

    
Notice of the meeting/hearing was given in advance by posting in at least three public places as shown by the certificate of posting placed on file.  Notice of the hearing/meeting was simultaneously given to the Mayor and all members of the City Council and a copy of their acknowledgment of receipt and agenda are placed on file.  Availability of the agenda was communicated in the advance notice and in the advance notice to the Mayor and City Council of the hearing/meeting.  Proceedings hereafter shown were taken while the convened hearing/meeting was open to public attendance.
    
At 7:15 PM (following 2020-2021 Budget Hearing), Mayor Meyer called the Regular meeting to order and roll call was taken.  
    
Motion (Neumann), second (Sedlacek) and vote (3-0 affirmative) to approve as sent minutes for the August 18, 2020 Regular meeting.
    
After review -- motion (Neumann), second (Seeman), and vote (3-0 affirmative) to approve claims per:  Bank Direct - Internal Revenue Service Center (941) - $1,982.99; Payroll $4,106.29; Abbott Portable Toilets - $125.00; Blobaum & Busboom (Preliminary Budget) - $1,380.00; Constellation Energy - $2.83; Display Sales - $156.00; NE Dept. of Revenue (501N) - $271.11; NE Public Health Environmental Labs - $15.00; Norris Public Power - $1,128.93; Milton Pike (Tel. Comp.) - $25.00; Security First Bank - (Pike/IRA) - $55.00; Milford Woutzke (Tel. Comp.) - $5.00;  Wymore Oil Company - $94.95; TOTAL CLAIMS: $9,348.10.

DEMOLITION PROJECT/AND RELATED CLEAN-UP ISSUES/ORD. ENFORCEMENT OFFICER AGREEMENT:  Tim Hanson, Ordinance Enforcement Officer, will be meeting with Attorney Carothers (Thursday) to go over City nuisance ordinances, nuisance order, and sample letter for properties  to be addressed first : (“worst properties” as determined by Rex Adams/Andy Carothers after ride-around inspection).  The two houses up for demolition-related inspection will be inspected shortly, with a 90-provision for owners to demolish structures.  Provisions are also built in to enable City demolition in the event owners sign-off on the properties prior to the end of the 90-day period (as inquired by Sedlacek).  After 90 days, demolition by the City may be scheduled.

PLANNING AND ZONING: An application submitted by Josie Cary for a “portable building” was discussed, with Connie Mewes of the Planning & Zoning Commission bringing forward the opinion of the P & Z panel --that a building permit application would not be needed.  Mayor and Council were in agreement.

BURN PILE - LEASE AGREEMENT: A proposed Lease Agreement between Wymore and Blue Springs was introduced.  By phone, Carothers described the document per: North side of existing burn pile, 5 year term, not an interlocal agreement, rather - a simple lease.  No rent.  Blue Springs is to keep a clear pathway (snow removal) for the access to Wells 7, 8, and 9.  Compliance to rules/regs/permits, etc. Borgman has agreed to monitor the site daily for dumping of non-permitted materials.  A trail camera was suggested to identify offenders.  Mayor Meyer stated that a limitation of  3” in diameter limbs was not sufficient.  Pike suggested 6”.   Sedlacek suggested that the statement be stricken and diameter issue be addressed, as needed, later.  Item 2 of the agreement (per consensus of members) will set the term of the lease at 10 years.  Items 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 will remain in the agreement as described.  Item 7 will be modified to remove the diameter constraint on tree limbs.  Items 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 will stand as originally drafted.  The City of Wymore will review a corrected agreement at the 9/2 meeting, and it is anticipated that approval will be achieved, and the document returned for acceptance/approval of Blue Springs at the next Regular meeting.   A copy of the original draft of the Lease Agreement will be attached to the office copy of the minutes for reference purposes.

EQUIPMENT, AS BACKHOE: The newer City backhoe was described as being too large for easy maneuverability for grave digging (Pike/Sedlacek), and as not being a best choice since primarily selected by someone other than the equipment operator (Sedlacek), and also due to: having to keep both backhoes due to conditional needs, also --  increased operational/repair costs (Sedlacek/Pike) , and a definite disadvantage (very tight situation) for housing both.

PROFESSIONAL FIREWORKS SHOW - MEMORIAL SERVICE AT SOFTBALL FIELD (TIFFANY HENRICHS):  Chris Cullison addressed members, outlining a plan to use fireworks September 20th  for a Celebration of Life for a deceased family member.  He shared his professional experience with fireworks and pyrotechnics.  The display was requested to be at the Ball Field, complying with all State permits, and conducted by a trained team -- for a performance timeline of 5-10 minutes long.  The property owned by Wymore garnered no prohibitive comments from Wymore personnel in attendance, but it will be addressed at the September 2nd Wymore meeting, under General Discussion, and Mr. Cullison will be notified if there are any resulting prohibitive factors.  No Blue Springs objections to the display were stated by Mayor Meyer, or Council members Neumann,  Sedlacek, Seeman.  

OTHER:   Armor coating was briefly discussed.  Reflecting on the recent considerable expense for Walnut Street, determination was made to address the issue next Spring/Summer, with Sedlacek suggesting that Topkote be requested to put it on their next year’s calendar.  Pike will be doing crack-sealing this fall (October/November), as per optional weather conditions.  


NEXT AGENDA  
DEMOLITION PROJECT/AND RELATED CLEAN-UP ISSUES/ORD. ENFORCEMENT OFFICER     AGREEMENT
PLANNING AND ZONING
BURN PILE - LEASE AGREEMENT



Motion to adjourn    -   Sedlacek  -   7:50   PM.  No objections.

The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved September 15, 2020.


Mayor:  Lonnie D. Meyer  (Regular Session)

City Clerk:  Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)