July 6, 2021

    The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on July 6, 2021, in the Blue Springs City Hall, Blue Springs, NE.
PRESENT:  Mayor Meyer, Council members Neumann, Reedy, Sedlacek, Seeman
ABSENT;                                                
OTHER ATTENDEES:  Employee Mike Pike, Attorney Andy Carothers, Heather McKinney, Rex Adams, Valerie Hazen
    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 June 15, 2021 Regular meeting.
    After review -- motion (Neumann) , second (Sedlacek), and vote (4-0 affirmative) :  to approve claims Bank Direct - Internal Revenue Service (941) - $2,168.01; Payroll -$4,843.48; Abbott Portable Toilets - $125.00; Constellation Energy - $35.06; Johnny’s Welding - $254.18; Lincoln Winwater Works Co. - $234.78; NE Dept. of Revenue (941N) - $222.00; NE Public Health Environmental Labs - $15.00; NE U.C. Fund - $24.93; Norris Public Power - $1,057.40; Milton Pike (Tel. Comp.) - $25.00; Milton Pike (Postage Reimb. ) - $17.90; Postmaster (Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Survey Mailing) - $110.00; Security First Bank - (IRA/Pike) - $55.00; Temps Disposal Service - (Mandatory Trash) - $2,555.50; Milford Woutzke (Tel. Comp.) - $5.00; Wymore, City of (Tower/Individual) - $3,009.34; TOTAL CLAIMS: $14.757.58.

COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING/ BLIGHT STUDY REVIEW/ORDINANCE# 466 ( as applies), ANY NEW INFORMATION: Chris Witulski. (Survey Land Tech regarding annexation legal description) still unavailable. Per Trevor Lee (NGage) and others contacted -- Dynamics have changed to slow the investor/developer progress of a previously identified potential commercial interest.

DEMOLITION PROJECT: One property has been inspected with results pending.  Efforts continue for inclusion of properties in October demolition plans. Other properties proceed in earlier stages, as asbestos inspection where applicable, and demolition.

CLEAN-UP:  Clean-up efforts continue, some “filed.” Concern was expressed regarding one property for which there was a recent change of ownership and focus on potentially preventing “increasing” conditions requiring clean-up (Rex Adams) .  Plans are being put in place to “pick up the pace” regarding elimination of clean-up infractions.  Toward that end, and made official by a motion by Reedy, second by Seeman, and a 4-0 affirmative vote, Tim Hanson, Ordinance Enforcement Officer, will be requested to identify and begin action on five new nuisance locations within the next 30 days.  Adams summarized clean-up progress  (20 structures down, 52 touched by various aspects of clean-up) and positive statements made (Todd Wilcox) to recognize/appreciate community efforts (One-Property-at-a-Time/Mayor & Council).  

PLANNING AND ZONING: As (combination of properties):  Heather McKinney:   No prohibitive factors were identified to prevent consideration of adjoining adjacent structures having same owner, and either combining utilities, or leaving separately billed, as per decision of owner.  An application for a building permit was provided and will be completed by the owner and returned to the City Office for distribution of copies to the Planning & Zoning Commission for initial review and recommendation to Mayor and Council at a future meeting.  

EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK- APPROVAL OF CHANGES:  Motion by Sedlacek, second by Seeman, followed by a 4-0 affirmative vote to accept/approve the handbook with requested changes.  A copy of the handbook is attached to the office copy of the minutes and available for further review.  

TRACTOR SHOW REQUEST FOR FUNDS (NEUMANN);  Council member Neumann requested a $1,200 budget for the tractor show, anticipating that “not that much will be needed, and excess will be returned to the City.”  The request was approved by motion by Reedy, second by Seeman, and a vote of Reedy - yes; Seeman - yes; Sedlacek - yes, Neumann - abstain.


NEXT AGENDA:
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING/ BLIGHT STUDY     REVIEW/ORDINANCE# 466 ( as applies), ANY NEW INFORMATION
DEMOLITION PROJECT
CLEAN-UP
PLANNING AND ZONING
FIRE DEPARTMENT REQUEST FOR CAR SHOW FUNDS/REQUEST TO BLOCK STREET

Motion to adjourn: Neumann   -   7:50 P.M.  -  -  No objections.

The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved July 20, 2021.

Mayor:  Lonnie D. Meyer  (Regular Session)

City Clerk:  Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)

 June 15, 2021

    The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on June 15, 2021, in the Blue Springs City Hall, Blue Springs, NE.
PRESENT:  Mayor Meyer, Council members Neumann, Reedy, Sedlacek, Seeman
ABSENT;                                                
OTHER ATTENDEES:  Employee Mike Pike, Attorney Andy Carothers,
    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 June 1, 2021 Regular meeting.
    After review -- motion (Seeman) , second (Neumann), and vote (4-0 affirmative) :  to approve claims Bank Direct -NE Dept. of Revenue (10)- $191.95; Payroll - $2,334.44;Arbor Ink - $71.52; Cline Williams Wright Johnson & Old father -$70.00; Lauby Plumbing/Heating/Air - $41.50; Mars - City of Beatrice - $300.00; O’Reilly Automotive - $25.78; Milton Pike (Water Sample Postage Reimb.) - $26.75; Postmaster - $182.00; Security First Bank - (Pike/IRA) - $55.00; Sta-Bilt Construction (Armor Coat) - $12,992.42; Temps Disposal Service (Mandatory Trash) - $2,617.50; Visa - $498.85; Windstream - $78.64; Wymore Arbor State - $247.56; Wymore Super Foods - $9.58; TOTAL CLAIMS : $19,743.49.  

COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING/ BLIGHT STUDY REVIEW/ORDINANCE# 466 ( as applies), ANY NEW INFORMATION: Chris Witulski (Land Survey Tech) has not been available for contact.  Attorney Carothers will continue with efforts to reach him, but provided contact information to members and suggested they try to make contact also.

DEMOLITION PROJECT:  Demolitions are slated for October.  Carothers advised that One-Property-at-a-Time has been awarded a Thomas Foundation Grant and will pay for demolition of certain properties. One demolition property (Woutzke - burned house) has been determined for demolition as a City-financed/manned project.  It is believed that approval may have been signed by the property owner, but contacts will be made to validate that assumption or further pursue the signatures of approval.  It was determined to go ahead with asbestos testing (Sedlacek) on this property.

CLEAN-UP: Tim Hanson (per Carothers) will run the plates on several vehicles to determine violation based on “unlicensed/inoperable/junked vehicle” City ordinance, and Carothers will be prepared to file, as applies, after results are in.

PLANNING AND ZONING:  No new applications.

FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:  REVIEW/APPROVAL OF CHANGES TO  THE EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PACKAGE  - COMP vs. OVERTIME (POSSIBLY: SICK TIME/ EARNINGS/ CEILING/ ETC: Discussion resulted in the following determinations:  Sick Leave - earn 96 hours on anniversary of hire, with 480 hour cap/carryover.    Sick leave will be added to the current Covid-19 designations (Covid policy may be reviewed/changed in the future).  OVERTIME PAY vs. COMP TIME:  This will be discretionary, but with no more than 16 hours comp time carried on the books.  Changes will be made to the employee handbook, and approval is expected at the next Regular meeting (July 6).



NEXT AGENDA:
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING/ BLIGHT STUDY     REVIEW/ORDINANCE# 466 ( as applies), ANY NEW INFORMATION
DEMOLITION PROJECT
CLEAN-UP
PLANNING AND ZONING
EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK- APPROVAL OF CHANGES

Motion to adjourn  - 7:25  -   P.M.  -Neumann  -  No objections.

The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved July 6, 2021.

Mayor:  Lonnie D. Meyer  (Regular Session)

City Clerk:  Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)

 June 1, 2021

    The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on June 1, 2021, in the Blue Springs City Hall, Blue Springs, NE.
PRESENT:  Mayor Meyer, Council members Neumann, Sedlacek, Seeman
ABSENT;     Council member Reedy                                           
OTHER ATTENDEES:  Employee Mike Pike, Attorney Andy Carothers, Connie Mewes, Rex Adams
    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 May 18, 2021 Regular meeting.
    After review -- motion (Neumann) , second (Sedlacek), and vote (3-0 affirmative) :  to approve claims Bank Direct - Internal Revenue Service (941) - $1,670.24; Payroll - $6,634.20; Blue Springs Cemetery (Annual Taxes) - $2,800.00; Blue Springs Rural Fire -(Annual Taxes) - $2,900.00; Constellation Energy - $36.04; League of NE Municipalities - $55.00; NE Dept. of Revenue (501N) - $220.00; NE Public Health Environmental Labs - $15.00; Norris Public Power - $1,064.34; Security First Bank (Pike - IRA) - $55.00; Milton Pike (Tel. Comp.) - $25.00; Milford Woutzke - (Tel. Comp.) - $5.00; TOTAL CLAIMS: $15,479.82.

RECYCLING TRAILER/”ALLEY CAT”: Owner of trailer was verified by Attorney Carothers - Beatrice.  Carothers covered options.  1.  Continue recycling and paying the fee.  2.  Surcharge on garbage billing to customers.  3.  Get own trailer (Sedlacek advised of grant opportunity in the future), and take loads to another available recycling  location. Mayor Meyer suggested surrendering trailer to owner.  Motion (Seeman), second (Neumann) and a 3-0 affirmative vote approved “termination of the recycling contract,” A copy of these minutes will be provided to the trailer owner as notification of termination, with other documentation to be provided as requested.  Employee Pike will call (Jason), and ask where they want the trailer left.    

COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING/ BLIGHT STUDY REVIEW/ORDINANCE# 466 ( as applies), ANY NEW INFORMATION: Carothers advised that Witulski is not quite done. Carothers suggested that members (at the next meeting) ask questions/make comments about the Proposed Blight and Substandard Study and Redevelopment Area, and told that the first reading of the Ordinance could be at that meeting on June 15th.  There was also some discussion about the price range of expectations for new home construction, with $250,000 an unrealistic prospect and something comparable to Summerfield homes more in line of possibility.  

DEMOLITION PROJECT:  Asbestos testing: Hobaugh property tested “clean.”  Lance property results not yet received, but depending on outcome, possibility exists for removal of structure without remediation, -- “as all.”  Brent Schlake has expressed genuine concern for the community and is prepared to make his equipment available for demolition at a reasonable contracted price ($500? Each incident/$500 repairs cap), providing timeline for delivery of it to site will not conflict with his other activities.  It is hoped that Wymore and Blue Springs can utilize the equipment on a joint timeline, and split the fees .  Rex Adams will contact Brent Schlake to clarify issues/timeline/cost.  Since stipulations have been set on several properties (need 90-days for removal of valuable items from structures/and other concerns - Izer - 3),  Carothers suggested November demolition. This would give ample time to firm participation issues, contact the landfill for estimate of costs, talk to Shelby Temps (Sedlacek) about roll-offs, and give Black Hills Energy notice, and to advise property owners of timeline.   It was decided to give the Bill Woutzke home (burned) first place in the lineup.

CLEAN-UP:   Some complaints have been filed.  A complaint is being filed.  Another complaint is pending.

PLANNING AND ZONING: Attorney Carothers will contact County Assessor to discuss a property  that is in Commercial Zoning but is carded as “single family” on record, with intent to change the card coding to “Commercial.”

FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:  REVIEW/APPROVAL OF CHANGES TO  THE EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PACKAGE  - COMP vs. OVERTIME (POSSIBLY: SICK TIME/ EARNINGS/     CEILING/ ETC: Tabled until all members are present.   

Other:  Employee Pike indicated that Topkote will be doing the Cemetery road, and wanted to know if the City wanted to do the remaining 4-5 blocks (A’ Street) to the stop sign at Broad Street.  Discussion resulted in determination to take advantage of the cost-effective opportunity there and at 2 other minimal locations while other work was being done, with all members in agreement to proceed.  Employee Pike will make the necessary contacts.

NEXT AGENDA:
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING/ BLIGHT STUDY     REVIEW/ORDINANCE# 466 ( as applies), ANY NEW INFORMATION
DEMOLITION PROJECT
CLEAN-UP
PLANNING AND ZONING
FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:  REVIEW/APPROVAL OF CHANGES TO  THE EMPLOYEE     BENEFITS PACKAGE  - COMP vs. OVERTIME (POSSIBLY: SICK TIME/ EARNINGS/             CEILING/ ETC.

Motion to adjourn  -  Neumann - 8   P.M.  -  -  No objections.

The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved June 15, 2021.


Mayor:  Lonnie D. Meyer  (Regular Session)

City Clerk:  Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)



May 18, 2021

    The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on May 18, 2021, 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, Attorney Andy Carothers, Todd Bohlmeyer, Valerie Hazen
    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 (Sedlacek) and vote (3-0 affirmative) to approve as sent minutes for the May 4, 2021 Regular meeting.
    After review -- motion (Neumann) , second (Reedy), and vote (3-0 affirmative) :  to approve claims Bank Direct -  NE Dept. of Revenue (10) - $272.49; Payroll - $2,365.22; Beatrice Concrete - $72.50; Black Hills Energy - $55.44; Constellation Energy - $113.12; Lauby Plumbing/Heating/Air - $43.05; Nationwide (Annual Surety Bond) - $100.00; One-Call Concepts, Inc. - $8.07; Security First Bank (IRA/Pike) - $55.00; Visa - $449.59; Windstream - $88.37; TOTAL CLAIMS: $3,622.85.

TODD BOHLMEYER/EMC LIABILITY/AUTO LIABILITY INCREASED COVERAGE OPTIONS: Discussion:  From three umbrella options presented, the second option: per - Each Occurrence Limit (Liability Coverage) $2,000,000, Personal & Advertising Injury Limit (Any one person or organization) - $2,000,000, Aggregate Limit (Liability Coverage) (except with respect to “covered autos”- $2,000,000 and a premium of $1,592.00, and effective 5/18/21 was approved by motion (Reedy), second (Neumann), and a 3-0 affirmative vote.  Paperwork will be sent to the City Office.

RECYCLING TRAILER/”ALLEY CAT”/ PROCESSING FEES/COPY OF LEASE- TO BE OBTAINED BY CAROTHERS: Primary options:   Terminate agreement with 30-day notice (or) Pay $300.00 per dump). Review of the lease agreement (copy attached to office copy of the minutes) provided by Carothers and discussion by members, Attorney Carothers, and Employee Pike, about recycling aspects (glass, plastic, cardboard, newspapers, etc.) in terms of current economic values, was  followed by a decision to take the recycling trailer to have current load emptied at the $300.00 rate, and then to temporarily take the trailer out of service.  Discussion will continue at the next Regular meeting on June 1.

COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING/ BLIGHT STUDY REVIEW/ORDINANCE# 466( as applies), ANY NEW INFORMATION: Still pending legal description of the area to be annexed (from Chris Witulski) - Land Survey Tech).  Reedy inquired as to procedure if further property is determined for annexation:  Action could involve addendum to the Blight Study/Redevelopment Area/Separate Redevelopment Area.  

DEMOLITION PROJECT: Asbestos inspection completed on two properties  (Lance/Hobaugh-Stipe) (by Sedlacek), with samples sent, and results expected in approximately 20 days.   One Property At a Time is arranging for the use of an excavator/track machine, with the City to provide the operator.  Sedlacek gave examples of properties that have been renovated (where possible, and meeting standards) rather than demolished, and members agreed that saving properties has a definite value to communities not known to draw high-dollar home construction.

CLEAN-UP: Complaints as pertain to current properties continue in various stages within the current clean-up program.

PLANNING AND ZONING:  Motion (Reedy), second (Sedlacek) and a 3-0 affirmative vote approved the George Bohlmeyer building permit application for a 24’x 80’ pole building (#21-3).  Applicant will be notified of approval and fee.

FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:  REVIEW/APPROVAL OF CHANGES TO  THE EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PACKAGE  - COMP vs. OVERTIME (POSSIBLY: SICK TIME/ EARNINGS/ CEILING/ ETC: Tabled until all members are present.

SENDD:  POTENTIAL HOME-IMPROVEMENT GRANT APPLICATION:  Motion (Sedlacek), second (Reedy) and a 3-0 affirmative vote approved pursuing the Owner Occupied Rehabilitatio0n (HO) SENDD program, and application/qualification procedures and requirements will be reviewed within Application Guidelines 2021/ or requested as still may be needed,  for inclusion of Blue Springs in the program. SENDD will be advised straightaway of City interest.

NEXT AGENDA:
RECYCLING TRAILER/”ALLEY CAT”
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING/ BLIGHT STUDY     REVIEW/ORDINANCE# 466 ( as applies), ANY NEW INFORMATION
DEMOLITION PROJECT
CLEAN-UP
PLANNING AND ZONING
FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:  REVIEW/APPROVAL OF CHANGES TO  THE EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PACKAGE  - COMP vs. OVERTIME (POSSIBLY: SICK TIME/ EARNINGS/ CEILING/ ETC.

Motion to adjourn  -   8:15   P.M.  - Neumann No objections.

The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved June 1, 2021.

Mayor:  Lonnie D. Meyer  (Regular Session)

City Clerk:  Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)


 

 May 4, 2021

    The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on May 4, 2021, in the Blue Springs City Hall, Blue Springs, NE.
PRESENT:  Mayor Meyer, Council members Neumann, Reedy, Sedlacek, Seeman
ABSENT;                                              
OTHER ATTENDEES:  Employee Mike Pike, Attorney Andy Carothers, Rex Adams, Steve Porter, Courtney Luedders, Clifford Dahlkoetter
    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 (Sedlacek) and vote (4-0 affirmative) to approve as sent minutes for the April 20, 2021 Regular meeting.
    After review -- motion (Neumann) , second (Seeman), and vote (4-0 affirmative) :  to approve claims Bank Direct - Internal Revenue Service (941) - $1,989.14; Payroll - $3,643.00; Abbott Portable Toilets - $125.00; Constellation Energy - $296.54; EMC Insurance (Commercial Audit) - $659.00; Hanna-Keelan Associates (Blight Determination Study) - $9,000.00; NE Dept. of Revenue (501N) - $291.00; Norris Public Power - $1,091.04; Milton Pike (Postage Reimb. - Water Sample) - $26.75; Postmaster - $182.00; Security First Bank (IRA/Pike) - $55.00; Temps Disposal Service (Spring Clean-up Roll-offs) - $684.36 & Mandatory Trash - $2,547.00;  Willet & Carothers - $2,096.00; TOTAL CLAIMS: $22,685.83.

TODD BOHLMEYER/EMC LIABILITY/AUTO LIABILITY INCREASED COVERAGE OPTIONS: No new information.  Tabled until next Regular meeting (5/18).

COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/BLIGHT STUDY REVIEW/ TAX INCREMENT FINANCING/ ANNEXATION, ORDINANCE# 466, ANY NEW INFORMATION: Carothers called for questions/concerns, but indicated that the survey (for annexation) has not yet been completed.  Discussion included:  pros and cons regarding the possibility and location of additional annexed areas, with no final decisions made. Further analysis required.

DEMOLITION PROJECT: Attorney Carothers provided a memorandum that identified properties and gave progress status for each. (Attached to the office copy of the minutes). Asbestos inspection of two properties (Lance/Stipe) is anticipated to be completed by the May 18th Regular Meeting. The City backhoe is expected to be used to gain entry to one (Lance).   Discussion included demolition options (Lottman/Fossler [possibly 4T-5T cost each]/use of independently owned equipment [1 T ? ea. Per Adams info.] by qualified operator. Removal of a vehicle on one of the properties (Lance) will be addressed by notice to owner.

CLEAN-UP: Information about Complaints (filed or drafted) and letters were included in the above noted memorandum - under the title “Nuisance Properties.

PLANNING AND ZONING: No formal recommendation yet (George Bohlmeyer building permit application) from P & Z.  Determination was made for request for a drawing/on site staking to identify exact location. Will be further addressed at 5/18 meeting.

FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:  REVIEW/APPROVAL OF CHANGES TO  THE EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PACKAGE  - COMP vs. OVERTIME (POSSIBLY: SICK TIME/ EARNINGS/ CEILING/ ETC.: Tabled until handbook is provided (emailed by Carothers) to Sedlacek who did not yet receive a copy.

NEXT AGENDA:
TODD BOHLMEYER/EMC LIABILITY/AUTO LIABILITY INCREASED COVERAGE OPTIONS
RECYCLING TRAILER/”ALLEY CAT”/ PROCESSING FEES/COPY OF LEASE- TO BE OBTAINED BY     CAROTHERS
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING/ BLIGHT STUDY     REVIEW/ORDINANCE# 466( as applies), ANY NEW INFORMATION
DEMOLITION PROJECT
CLEAN-UP
PLANNING AND ZONING
FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:  REVIEW/APPROVAL OF CHANGES TO  THE EMPLOYEE     BENEFITS PACKAGE  - COMP vs. OVERTIME (POSSIBLY: SICK TIME/ EARNINGS/             CEILING/ ETC.

Motion to adjourn:    Neumann     -  7:50   P.M.   No objections.

The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved May 18, 2021.

Mayor:  Lonnie D. Meyer  (Regular Session)

City Clerk:  Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)

April 20, 2021
    The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on April 20, 2021, in the Blue Springs City Hall, Blue Springs, NE.
PRESENT:  Mayor Meyer, Council members Neumann, Reedy, Sedlacek, Seeman
ABSENT;                                             
OTHER ATTENDEES:  Employee Mike Pike, Attorney Andy Carothers, Valerie Hazen, Connie Mewes, Steve Porter (& Courtney)
    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 April 6, 2021 Regular meeting.
    After review -- motion (Neumann) , second (Seeman), and vote (4-0 affirmative) :  to approve claims Bank Direct -  NE Dept. of Revenue (10) - $246.64; Payroll - $2,334.44; Black Hills Energy - $57.98; Lauby Plumbing/Heating/Air - $10.94; Lincoln Winwater Works - $86.80; Macqueen Equipment - $579.91; Milton Pike (Tel. Comp.) - $25.00; Milton Pike (Postage Reimb. - Water Sample) - $26.35; Security First Bank - (IRA/Pike) - $55.00; Temps Disposal (Mandatory Garbage) - $2,785.47; Visa - $353.44; Windstream - $78.37; Milford Woutzke (Tel. Comp.) - $5.00; Wymore Arbor State - $187.31;  TOTAL CLAIMS  - $6,832.65  (&) Payment from Keno Proceeds Account to City of Blue Springs General Checking - ($15, 000.00).

ANNUAL AUDIT:  APPROVAL:   Motion (Neumann ), second (Sedlacek), 4-0 affirmative vote to accept/approve the Annual Audit as prepared

TODD BOHLMEYER/EMC LIABILITY/AUTO LIABILITY INCREASED COVERAGE OPTIONS:  Information not yet received. Tabled until next Regular meeting.

COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING; BLIGHT AND SUBSTANDARD STUDY/ORDINANCE# 466( as applies), DESCRIPTIONS, ANY NEW INFORMATION: Attorney Carothers passed out copies of the Blue Springs, Nebraska Redevelopment Area Blight & Substandard Determination Study and General Redevelopment Plan completed by Hanna:Keelan Associates, PC. (Community Planning & Research).  Carothers asked that members study the documentation and pose questions/concerns at the next Regular Meeting (May 4th).  He noted that the area to be annexed is included, but that his attention continues to determine the status of the survey study needed for the annexation process.

DEMOLITION PROJECT: Carothers has spoken to one property owner who expressed wishes to convert the house that burned--  into a garage, with Carothers indicating he felt “the City Council may not embrace” that option. The property owner gave permission for inspection (Rob/Chet) of two properties.  It is anticipated that next week inspection warrants could be issued by one of the judges.   Tim Sedlacek will be inspecting two properties for asbestos (at a rate of $150 each location, as well as conferring with Bockman in the event of needed remediation, and getting the City started on the credit app for the cost of  samples.  Baring unforeseen circumstances, the plan is to have the inspection process completed by the second meeting in May - (18th). 

CLEAN-UP:  Ordinance Enforcement Officer Hanson has provided Attorney Carothers with pictures of several properties, with complaints to be filed on all but one of them.

PLANNING AND ZONING:  Motion (Neumann), second (Seeman), Reedy (abstained), vote 3-0, to approve the building permit application for Radar & Becky Reedy’s storage building.  Valerie Hazen asked for “rock base” on Cherry by their property, and Pike indicated he would “put down more gravel.” Hazen also advised members of intent to put a roof over porches (colored metal), and was told to contact Gage County Highway Department for a building permit application (since in County jurisdiction), but there might be a chance they would defer the request to the City, at which time they could complete an application here.

FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:  REVIEW/APPROVAL OF CHANGES TO  THE EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PACKAGE (SICK TIME/ EARNINGS/ CEILING/ ETC.:   Since one member (Sedlacek) did not have access to the handbook draft, (and will be provided one by Carothers), Comp time/ overtime will be discussed further (and possibly sick time, earnings/ceiling)  at the next Regular meeting. 

ORDINANCE ENFORCEMENT ISSUES:  SENDD:   Have been notified by SENDD that they are currently “bogged” down with grant work, and “have put their Ordinance Enforcement program on hold until further notice.”

CITY PARKS: ANY NEW INFORMATION: Portable toilet is now in place, and University organized canoeing has begun.  The American flag (per Pike) “is again flying.”

HALL RENTAL (RE-OPEN?): No objection was raised by members to prohibit returning to standard (pre-Covid) rental of City Hall by individuals.

TREES (DOREEN WILLIAMS): Ms. Williams did not attend, but it was believed she wished to request trimming of trees at her location.   Carothers stated that property owners, (and (per Meyer) Norris Public Power whereat they determine trees infringe on the electric lines) are responsible for the trimming of trees. 


NEXT AGENDA:
TODD BOHLMEYER/EMC LIABILITY/AUTO LIABILITY INCREASED COVERAGE OPTIONS
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING; BLIGHT AND SUBSTANDARD STUDY/ORDINANCE# 466( as applies), DESCRIPTIONS, ANY NEW INFORMATION
DEMOLITION PROJECT
CLEAN-UP
PLANNING AND ZONING
FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:  REVIEW/APPROVAL OF CHANGES TO  THE EMPLOYEE     BENEFITS PACKAGE  - COMP vs. OVERTIME (POSSIBLY: SICK TIME/ EARNINGS/             CEILING/ ETC.


Motion to adjourn:    Neumann     -    7:30 P.M.   No objections.

The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved May 4, 2021.

Mayor:  Lonnie D. Meyer  (Regular Session)

City Clerk:  Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)

April 6, 2021

    The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on April 6, 2021, in the Blue Springs City Hall, Blue Springs, NE.

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

ABSENT;                                             

OTHER ATTENDEES:  Employee Mike Pike, Rex Adams, Todd Bohlmeyer (EMC), Connie Mewes, Valerie Hazen, Steve (& Courtney) Porter

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 March 16, 2021 Regular meeting.

After review -- motion (Neumann) , second (Seeman), and vote (4-0 affirmative) :  to approve claims Bank Direct - Internal Revenue Service (941) - $1663.46;   Payroll - $4,549.67; Beatrice Sand/Gravel - $667.86; Blobaum & Busboom (Financial Reports/Audit) - $3,620.00; HJP Pest Control (Seasonal Spraying) - $2,030.40; Lincoln Winwater - $532.00; NE Dept of Revenue (941N) - $218.00; NE Public Health Environmental Labs - $15.00; NE U.C. Fund - $93.82; Norris Public Power - $1,107.99; One-Call Concepts - $3.84; Milton Pike (Tel. Comp) - $25.00; Postmaster (Clean-Up Day Mailing) - $72.00; Roehr’s Machinery - $34.18; Security First Bank (IRA - Pike) - $55.00; Milford Woutzke (Tel. Comp.) - $5.00; Wymore Arbor State - $133.65; Wymore, City of (Tower/Individual) - $2,846.45; Wymore Oil Company - $493.00; TOTAL CLAIMS: $18,166.32.

TODD BOHLMEYER/EMC INSURANCE REVIEW: Bohlmeyer reported on his on-site review of City coverage, specifically business property in shop, and made suggestions to increase Liability/Auto Liability from $1,000,000 to meet current standard… to an Umbrella Coverage of at least $2,000,000.  He will be emailing several coverage/premium options for members to consider at the next regular meeting.  Bohlmeyer also presented the City with a $2,636.65 dividend check.

COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING; BLIGHT AND SUBSTANDARD STUDY/ORDINANCE# 466( as applies), DESCRIPTIONS, ANY NEW INFORMATION: Study is expected to be complete and provided to Mayor and Council within the next two weeks (Carothers handout). Survey for property to be annexed has not yet been received from Land Survey Tech.  Chris Witulski was contacted  (Carothers handout) to check on completion date, but he was not available for comment at that time, so a message was left.  Hanna-Keelan is in the process of finishing the study (Carothers handout), and it should be received within the next two weeks.

DEMOLITION PROJECT: Waiting for asbestos inspection on two properties.  Inspection warrants have been prepared for several properties with warrants to be issued depending on availability of a judge and time available on court’s docket.  Tim Sedlacek indicated his willingness to conduct asbestos inspections in “individual capacity” and will conduct a study to determine costs (as samples), to enable him to propose cost to City… to members at the next Regular meeting.  Another property ( proposed for demolition has met with reluctance from the owner who wishes to convert the structure into a garage, and it was suggested (Carothers handout) that it be recommended for inspection under the unsafe buildings ordinances  so a Notice and Order can be issued for tear-down.  A second property on the list of proposed demolition sites has owner consent for inspection. For further reference, a copy of the Carothers handout is attached to the office copy of the minutes.

CLEAN-UP: Complaint has been filed and awaiting arraignment date on April 20th .  Determination was made for the mailing of various  “status” courtesy letters to several property owners. and Carothers will be requested to review a situation regarding a semi from one part of property owned by them to another part with a different legal description, specifically if the “grandfathered” condition still remains after the move.

PLANNING AND ZONING:  No new applications.

FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:  REVIEW/APPROVAL OF CHANGES TO  THE EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PACKAGE: It was noted (Neumann) that the sick leave (other than Covid leave) was not clarified in the material provided to members for their input, and it was suggested (as before) that one day be earned per month by full time employees (suggested by Sedlacek), but that a ceiling and timeline for use needs to be implemented. The League of Municipalities will be contacted (clerk) to ascertain particulars, as comparisons, standard, allowances. 

ORDINANCE ENFORCEMENT ISSUES:  HANSON/SENDD/OTHER OPTIONS:  Members discussed options.  It is believed that Tim Hanson wishes to continue as the City Ordinance Enforcement Officer, and his time may now be freed up to support the plan, with members allowing 90 days (till July 6) for him to come forward with results.  Members also, by a motion by Reedy, second by Seeman, and a vote of Neumann - yes; Reedy - yes; Seeman - yes, and Sedlacek - no; approved inviting SENDD (Reedy will affirm with SENDD) to the next Regular meeting on April 20th to provide the range, scope, cost, duration of an Ordinance Enforcement program available through the SENDD organization.

CITY PARKS (DEAN COLE)  Reedy thanked Pike for the “great work” he did at the bridge.  Reedy also presented a $6,000 check from the Gage County Foundation Grant (application by Gene Reedy Sr.) for the Cabin… Reedy went through the list of action needs provided to him by Dean Cole, which included, but was not all inclusive of specifics, but with details provided by attachment to the office copy of the minutes -- information from Cole). 1.  Placement of portable toilet at Feit Park (for camping season - until October 1). 2.  Prep and paint blue picnic table at Feit Park and power wash concrete foundation of shelter. 3.  Dirt work and preparation and seeding. 4.  Remove large stump (grind) in horseshoe area, and other stumps, and prep area for seeding.  5. Instructional signage (collection box) for camping regulations (Feit Park). 6. Discussion about permanent toilet at Feit Park. Cole could write grant. 7. Remove three small poles once used as barriers - Feit Park; 8.  Metal trash container donated by Wymore/Blue Springs Area Fund needs to be placed in park (and according to Sedlacek evaluated for improvement to prevent rain water collection) (will need concrete foundation).   9.  Better sign at Feit Park.  10.  Cole will be using city water April, May, June.  11. Provisions to be made to repair/replace materials (as necessary) to enable the flying of the American and Nebraska flags at the entrance of Blue Springs and the American flag at City Hall.  (before Memorial Day). 12.  Motion (Neumann), second (Seeman) and 4-0 affirmative vote for Dean Cole to draft a letter to Mainstreet Beatrice in support of “corridor” - (river -- Feit Park)…. Pike discussed the current cost of mulch for the City Park, and the possibility of applying for a grant after initial purchase for possible reimbursement of approximately a third of the approximately $10,000 cost.   A motion was made by Reedy to transfer $15,000 from the Keno Proceeds Account to General fund in General checking (will be transacted by check from one account the other), and then to transfer the same amount from the General Fund in General checking to the Park Fund in General checking to finance decisions/approval of park expenses.  Neumann seconded the motion, and a 4-0 affirmative vote followed for approval.    


NEXT AGENDA:
ANNUAL AUDIT:  APPROVAL
TODD BOHLMEYER/EMC LIABILITY/AUTO LIABILITY INCREASED COVERAGE OPTIONS
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING; BLIGHT AND SUBSTANDARD    
    STUDY/ORDINANCE# 466( as applies), DESCRIPTIONS, ANY NEW INFORMATION
DEMOLITION PROJECT
CLEAN-UP
PLANNING AND ZONING
FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:  REVIEW/APPROVAL OF CHANGES TO  THE EMPLOYEE     BENEFITS PACKAGE (SICK TIME/ EARNINGS/ CEILING/ ETC.
ORDINANCE ENFORCEMENT ISSUES:  SENDD
CITY PARKS: ANY NEW INFORMATION

Motion to adjourn:   Neumann    8:10 P.M.   No objections.

The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved April 20, 2021.

Mayor:  Lonnie D. Meyer  (Regular Session)

City Clerk:  Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)