February 16, 2021
The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on February 16, 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, City 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 (3-0 affirmative) to approve as sent minutes for the February 2, 2021 Regular meeting.
After review -- motion (Sedlacek) , second (Seeman), and vote (3-0 affirmative) : to approve claims: Bank Direct - NE Dept. of Revenue (10) - $287.35; Payroll - $2,950.16; Arbor Ink - $123.82; The Flower Shop (Seeman) - $45.00; Lauby Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning - $28.56; Security First Bank (Pike/IRA) - $55.00; Temps Disposal Service (Mandatory Garbage) - $2,496.90; Visa - $439.89; TOTAL CLAIMS: $6,426.68.
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING; BLIGHT AND SUBSTANDARD STUDY/ORDINANCE# 466( as applies), DESCRIPTIONS, SURVEYOR’S QUOTE, ANY NEW INFORMATION: Revised Proposed Redevelopment Area Maps were provided to members (with a copy attached to the office copy of the minutes) which included Blue Springs Corporate Limits - 509 Acres; Redevelopment Area - 245 Acres (232.2 Acres within Blue Springs Corporate Limits; Blight Coverage (Pre-Annexation = 45.6 Percent of City of Blue Springs; Blight Coverage (Post -Annexation) = 48.1 Percent of City of Blue Springs, and it illustrated the proposed redevelopment area boundary. Members were asked to evaluate the revised map and come forward with suggestions if changes are wanted. It was noted that besides the already identified interest in development for which investors are being sought/accumulated - (per Trevor Lee - Ngage), there are contractors interested in building duplexes or houses, but there is also a need for further information (boundaries/legal descriptions - by a land survey tech for a designated fee of $1,500 from the City), and a motion was made (Neumann), seconded (Sedlacek), and approved by a 3-0 affirmative vote to direct Attorney Carothers to notify the surveyor that the City has approved the action and cost. Carothers also advised the the Blight and Substandard Study should be completed within the next couple of weeks (Hanna-Keelan).
DEMOLITION PROJECT: Carothers advised that within 30-45 days it will be possible to take down two properties ). Demolition is expected to be completed by the City (based on provisions/availability of demolition equipment (Dan Crawford’s), and a cost analysis will be made (Sedlacek) as to cost for removal of debris (Shelby). A pertinent remaining need is to notify utilities (Norris Public Power/Black Hills Energy) about the utilities to be checked out and taken care of for each property.
CLEAN-UP: Carothers indicated that he has not received updated information from Tim Hanson (OEO) regarding re-inspection of properties, or inspection on the next round of choices.
PLANNING AND ZONING: No new applications.
FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS: AS VACATION; SICK TIME, OVERTIME VS. COMP TIME - WITH ATTENTION ON ALLOWANCE, ACCUMULATION, LIMIT FOR ALL ASPECTS:
Existing pages from the Employee Handbook (are attached to office copy of minutes) in reference to Holidays (10), Vacation Leave (1st year through 5th year - 10 days or 80 hours; 6th year through 10th year - 15 days or 120 hours; 11th year and each thereafter - 28 days or 224 hours, and all to be used by end of each year, or forfeited; Sick Leave -presently not provided); Suggestion by Sedlacek for full-time employees, and agreed upon by all members: Comp Time (held to limit of 16 hours) Overtime (Time and a half) -- (either/or/ or a combination -- depending on preference of employee); One sick day a month earned; -- maximum of 480 hours accumulated, and not payable at time of termination ---- with these changes to be implemented into the Employee Handbook for approval at the next Regular Meeting.
KENO OPERATOR AGREEMENT, ORDINANCE # 467 (IF YET APPLIES): Motion (Neumann), second (Sedlacek) to suspend the rule of three reading for Ordinance # 467. Motion (Neumann), second (Seeman), to to approve Ordinance # 467. Ordinance was read (Carothers: , and received a 3-0 affirmative vote for approval.
ORDINANCE NO. 467:
AN ORDINANCE TO APPROVE STEVE BORGMAN, DOING BUSINESS AS PAPA B’S, AS THE CITY OF BLUE SPRINGS’ KENO CONTRACTOR; TO GRANT STEVE BORGMAN, DOING BUSINESS AS PAPA B’S THE NON-EXCLUSIVE RIGHT TO OPERATE FOR THE CITY A KENO STYLE LOTTERY WITHIN THE CITY’S CORPORATE LIMITS; TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR AND CITY CLERK TO EXECUTE THE LOTTERY OPERATOR AGREEMENT; TO REPEAL CONFLICTING ORDINANCES OR SECTIONS; TO PROVIDE FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, a majority of the registered voters of the City of Blue Springs, Nebraska, at a regularly scheduled election have approved the establishment of a municipal lottery pursuant to the Nebraska County and City Lottery Act, Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 9-601 through 9-653; and WHEREAS, Steve Borgman, doing business as PaPa B’s, desires to serve as the City of Blue Springs’ keno contractor and the City of Blue Springs desires to grant Steve Borgman, doing business as PaPa B’s, the exclusive right to operate a keno style lottery within the City’s corporate limits. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLUE SPRINGS, NEBRASKA that Steve Borgman, doing business as PaPa B’s, be, and hereby is, approved to serve as the City of Blue Springs’ keno contractor, and that Steve Borgman, doing business as PaPa B’s, is granted the non-exclusive right to operate a keno style lottery within
the corporate limits of the City Blue Springs at 619 West Broad Street, Blue Springs, Nebraska.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED that the Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to execute the lottery operator agreement with Steve Borgman.
That any other ordinance or section passed and approved prior to passage, approval, and publication or posting of this ordinance and in conflict with its provisions, is hereby repealed. This ordinance shall take effect and be in full force from and after its passage, approval, and publication or posting as required by law. Passed and approved this 16th day of February, 2021. Lonnie Meyer, Mayor (SEAL) Katherine A. Roche, City Clerk
Keno percentages were reviewed, and the responsibilities of the City and the Keno Operator stressed/clarified. The Lottery Operator Agreement was authorized for Mayoral signature, and Steve Borgman will be contacted to come into the office to review and sign the agreement which will be included with other documentation to fulfill the requirements of Nebraska Charitable Gaming.
NEXT AGENDA:
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
Motion to adjourn Neumann - 7.48 PM. No objections.
The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved March 2, 2021.
Mayor: Lonnie D. Meyer (Regular Session)
City Clerk: Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)
Tuesday, February 16, 2021
February 2, 2021
The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on February 2, 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, City Attorney Andy Carothers, Connie Mewes
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 January 19, 2021 Regular meeting.
After review -- motion (Neumann) , second (Reedy), and vote (3-0 affirmative) : to approve claims: Bank Direct - Internal Revenue Service (941) - $2,054.84; Payroll - $3,687.16; Beatrice Sand/Gravel - $261.46; Blue Rivers Area Agency on Aging (Handi-Van - Annual) - $625.00; Constellation Energy - $57.15; NE Dept. of Revenue (501N) - $323.00; NE Rural Water Association (Membership) - $125.00; Norris Public Power - $1,162.84; One-Call Concepts, Inc. - $3.08; Postmaster - $180.00; Milton Pike (Tel. Comp.) - $25.00; Milton Pike - (Postage Reimb. - Water Sample) - $26.75; Security First Bank (Pike/IRA) - $55.00; Ullman Auto Sales - $68.00; Milford Woutzke - (Tel. Comp.) - $5.00; TOTAL CLAIMS: $8,659.28.
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING; BLIGHT AND SUBSTANDARD STUDY/ORDINANCE(S) - FIRST READING ORDINANCE # 466/ AND ANY NEW INFORMATION: Various aspects of the project were discussed by Attorney Carothers, Mayor Meyer, and Council members Neumann, Reedy, and Sedlacek -- including unknown status of “formal negotiations” for a potential commercial venture, interest of other parties in housing development (utilizing empty lots); timeline for clarification of “unclear” mapping, which was described (Carothers) as “not as big as rush as previously anticipated,” difference of opinion among members about specific annexation area possibilities (including crossing the highway), costs ($12,000 to $15,000 City outlay in the event a proposed project does not go through. Carothers will attempt to get an accurate description of applicable areas (annexation considerations), and if that is not possible, he will bring to the next meeting a surveyor’s quote for discussion/approval of members.
DEMOLITION PROJECT: “Approximately 30 days left” (per Carothers) -- (on current projects) until demolition may be enacted. Preparations/inspection warrants pending on new project properties.
CLEAN-UP: Council member Reedy and Ordinance Enforcement Officer Hanson to follow-up/evaluate (this weekend) properties for which letters to property owners have been mailed, and which may also include evaluation of other properties to be brought to the attention of Mayor and Council for determination of a new round of clean-up notifications.
PLANNING AND ZONING: Motion (Sedlacek), second (Neumann), and 3-0 affirmative vote to approve Steve Borgman’s Application for a Building Permit (concrete pad - Keno Lounge). Applicant will be notified of approval and fee. P & Z Commission member Mewes had questions regarding properties with changed classification, as residential to commercial, commercial to residential, and process necessary for changes in property evaluations, and if information could be added to the application for building permits to expedite reassessment of County Assessor.
FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS: AS VACATION; SICK TIME, OVERTIME VS. COMP TIME - WITH ATTENTION ON ALLOWANCE, ACCUMULATION, LIMIT FOR ALL ASPECTS: Sick leave, vacation leave, PTO time was discussed, and the topic was “tabled” pending more comprehensive review of particulars prior to making decisions.
NEXT AGENDA:
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING; BLIGHT AND SUBSTANDARD STUDY/ORDINANCE# 466( as applies), DESCRIPTIONS, SURVEYOR’S QUOTE, ANY NEW INFORMATION
DEMOLITION PROJECT
CLEAN-UP
PLANNING AND ZONING
FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS: AS VACATION; SICK TIME, OVERTIME VS. COMP TIME - WITH ATTENTION ON ALLOWANCE, ACCUMULATION, LIMIT FOR ALL ASPECTS
Motion to adjourn - Neumann - 7:52 PM. No objections.
The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved February 16, 2021.
Mayor: Lonnie D. Meyer (Regular Session)
City Clerk: Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)
Tuesday, January 19, 2021
January 19, 2021
The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on January 19, 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, City Attorney Andy Carothers, Connie Mewes, County Supervisor Don Schuller
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 January 5, 2021 Regular meeting.
After review -- motion (Neumann) , second (Sedlacek), and vote (3-0 affirmative) : to approve claims: Bank Direct - NE Dept. of Revenue (10) - $283.21; Payroll - $2,146.48; Beatrice Iron/Metal - $229.44; Black Hills Energy - $82.43; Lauby Plumbing, Heating/Air - $407.45; NE Dept. of Revenue - (51C) - $70.00; NE Public Health Environ. Labs - $15.00; NE UC Fund - $6.79; 888-Log Guys (Cabin Chinking - Exterior) - $912.50; One-Call Concepts - $3.46; Pavers, Inc. - $2,744.00; Roehr’s Machinery - $396.28; Security First Bank (IRA/Pike) - $55.00; Temps Disposal Service (Mandatory Garbage) - $2,625.13; T. O. Haas - $1,069.18; Visa - $177.52; Wex Bank - $143.98; Cline Williams Wright Johnson & Oldfather - $120.00; Windstream - $83.12; Wymore Arbor State - $218.71; Wymore Oil Company - $238.90; TOTAL CLAIMS: $12,028.58.
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING; BLIGHT AND SUBSTANDARD STUDY/ORDINANCE(S) - FIRST READING/ AND ANY NEW INFORMATION: A motion was made (Sedlacek), seconded (Neumann) and approved by a 3-0 affirmative vote to suspend the rule of three readings for Ordinance # 465. A motion was made (Sedlacek), seconded (Neumann) to approve Ordinance # 465, and was read (Carothers), per: AN ORDINANCE CREATING THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF THE CITY OF BLUE SPRINGS, NEBRASKA; DESIGNATING THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL TO CONSTITUTE SUCH AGENCY AND PROVIDING FOR THE FUNCTIONING AND POWERS OF SUCH AGENCY, which was then followed by a 3-0 affirmative vote to approve Ordinance #465 and authorize mayoral signature. A copy of Ordinance # 465 is attached to the office copy of the minutes. The first reading of Ordinance #466 was tabled until the next Regular meeting, pending clarification/change/correction of land tracts.
DEMOLITION PROJECT: 90-day period is still running for two properties, and inspection warrants pending on others.
CLEAN-UP including: ORDINANCE OFFICER INFO (REEDY): Council member Reedy, having contacted the Ordinance Officer, volunteered to “go around with Tim Hanson” for the purpose of evaluation, photographing properties for which letters have been mailed. Attorney Carothers thanked Reedy for his agreed-upon participation, and he will send Reedy the action-list.
PLANNING AND ZONING:): An application for a building permit (concrete pad for exterior walk-in cooler) for Steve Borgman (Keno Lounge), and which was not approved by the Planning & Zoning Commission, is to be scheduled for on-site evaluation/measurement/clarification by designated individuals (Sedlacek, Reedy) with the applicant Steve Borgman.
FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS: SICK LEAVE (COVID, AND OTHERWISE), AS WELL AS VACATION PAY, OVERTIME VS. COMP TIME - WITH ATTENTION ON ALLOWANCE, ACCUMULATION, LIMIT FOR ALL ASPECTS: Attorney Carothers provided copies of a “Covid-19 Pandemic Leave” policy for employees, which, in summary and based on evidence of positive test results, provided leave pay -- equivalent to double the hours of one normal “work week” -“for the year 2021.” Regarding other aspects under consideration, Sedlacek suggested (with full agreement of members) discussion with applicable full-time employees in regard to preference between overtime vs. comp time. Sick pay and vacation allowance will also be addressed at the next Regular meeting.
OTHER: County Supervisor Don Schuller addressed members, calling for concerns or history of concerns, and stressed his willingness to collect information to support applicable planned/desired activities of the City.
NEXT AGENDA:
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING; BLIGHT AND SUBSTANDARD STUDY/ORDINANCE(S) - FIRST READING ORDINANCE # 466/ AND ANY NEW INFORMATION
DEMOLITION PROJECT
CLEAN-UP
PLANNING AND ZONING
FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS: AS VACATION; SICK TIME, OVERTIME VS. COMP TIME - WITH ATTENTION ON ALLOWANCE, ACCUMULATION, LIMIT FOR ALL ASPECTS
Motion to adjourn - Neumann - 8:05 PM. No objections.
The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved February 2, 2021.
Mayor: Lonnie D. Meyer (Regular Session)
City Clerk: Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)
Tuesday, January 5, 2021
January 5, 2021
The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on January 5, 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, City Attorney Andy Carothers, Gene Reedy Sr., 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 (4-0 affirmative) to approve as sent minutes for the December 15, 2020 Regular meeting.
After review -- motion (Reedy) to approve claims, but excluding payroll check for Milford Woutzke $1,288.35, which was approved within the Covid-19 Sick Leave Agenda Topic below, and therefore updated herein) , second ( Neumann), and vote (4-0 affirmative) : Bank Direct - Internal Revenue (941) - $2,055.19; Payroll - $4,905.22; Arbor Ink - $62.34; Beatrice Sand & Gravel - $130.47; Constellation Energy - $112.16; Gage County Clerk (Election) - $217.74; NE Dept of Rev. (941N) - $201.00; NE Public Health Environmental Labs - $15.00; Norris Public Power - $1,135.30; Milton Pike (Tel. Comp.) - $25.00; Milton Pike (Water Sample/Postage Reimb.) - $26.75; Security First Bank - (Pike-IRA) - $55.00; Milford Woutzke (Tel. Comp.) - $5.00; Wymore, City of (Tower/Individual/Hydrants) - $2,801.51; TOTAL CLAIMS: $11,747.68 & From Keno Proceeds Account to Lucky Bridge Lounge (Oct. Report) - $1,905.17.
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING; BLIGHT AND SUBSTANDARD STUDY/ANY NEW INFORMATION: Carothers provided a “Proposed Redevelopment Area Map” (attached to Office copy of minutes) compiled by Hanna:Keelan Associates, per: Blue Springs Corporate limits 537.4 acres, Redevelopment area - 256 acres (254.9 acres within Blue Springs Corporate limits, Blight coverage - 47.4 percent of City of Blue Springs. And the indication of a proposed redevelopment area boundary. Accuracy will be verified (Carothers), and attention will be given to a triangle of ground (Blue Springs Welcome sign), and annexation verifications. CRA (individuals) vs. CDA (City members) panels were described, with Carothers giving preference for the establishment of a CDA panel. Determinations made and applicable specifics will result in the necessity for ordinance(s) to be drafted for a first reading (two other meetings to follow) prior to approval. When asked specific questions about TIFF (by Adams) , Carothers provided base information but stated that he preferred to utilize a TIFF attorney for full clarification and range and scope of particulars. Arrangements may be made in that regard, as requested (as per Adams).
DEMOLITION PROJECT: Per Carothers: Project proceeding through 90-day period for two inspected properties, with expectation of a City-oriented demolition of structures, possibly utilizing Crawford equipment, incorporating all necessary requirements for asbestos inspection, 2nd party inspection, and remediation. Inspection warrants to be requested for previously designated secondary properties. Rex Adams inquired as to the number of anticipated properties, stating that One Property at a Time will still pay for three inspections, as previously agreed, and the number was reported as “five.”
CLEAN-UP: Carothers will be maintaining contact with Tim Hanson in reference to “review of properties to determine improvements” (as a result of previous correspondence), or to “file complaints” as necessary. Previous correspondence to one individual will be redirected to the identified property owner. And new issues will fall under scrutiny. Rex Adams requested specific attention to one property and it was suggested that Tim contact (call) the occupant. A semi trailer recently moved from one location to another was also set for notification by correspondence (for removal).
PLANNING AND ZONING: No new applications.
COVID-19 SICK LEAVE: Following explanation of State expectations/determinations by Carothers, a motion was made by Sedlacek, seconded by Reedy, and approved in a 4-0 affirmative vote to pay Milford Woutzke for 56 hours (of an up to 80-hr. allocation) for Covid leave sick time, to be incorporated with his earned income for the current payroll cycle. It was further decided that Carothers would review full-time employee benefits in the current employee manual, in particular to update the policy on sick-time allowance, accumulation, and limit.
CABIN (Gene Reedy): Reduced billing (to allow for the use of materials - chinking compound previously purchased by the City) is expected in the near future, per contact with the service provider (888-Log Guys) by Gene Reedy Sr.
OTHER: Adams asked about current activity at the Keno Lounge. He stated that “he knows of another interested party if the project is not going to go forward.” Review will be conducted.
NEXT AGENDA:
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING; BLIGHT AND SUBSTANDARD STUDY/ORDINANCE(S) - FIRST READING/ AND ANY NEW INFORMATION
DEMOLITION PROJECT
CLEAN-UP
PLANNING AND ZONING
FULL-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS: SICK LEAVE (COVID, AND OTHERWISE), AS WELL AS OVERTIME VS. COMP TIME - WITH ATTENTION ON ALLOWANCE, ACCUMULATION, LIMIT FOR BOTH ASPECTS
FUND TRANSFER TO ADDRESS NEGATIVE BALANCE: GENERAL TO PARK
Motion to adjourn - Reedy - 7:45 PM. No objections.
The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved January 19, 2021.
Mayor: Lonnie D. Meyer (Regular Session)
City Clerk: Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)
Tuesday, December 15, 2020
December 15, 2020
The Regular Meeting of Mayor and Council was held on December 15, 2020, in the Blue Springs City Hall, Blue Springs, NE.
PRESENT: Mayor Meyer, Council members Neumann, Reedy (telephone), Sedlacek (telephone), Seeman
ABSENT;
OTHER ATTENDEES: Employee Mike Pike, City Attorney Andy Carothers, Connie Mewes
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 December 1, 2020 Regular meeting.
After review -- motion (Neumann), second (Seeman ), and vote (4-0 affirmative) to approve claims per: Bank Direct - NE Dept. of Revenue (10) - $219.96; Bank Direct - Security First Bank (Safety Deposit Box Rent) - $35.00; Payroll: - $2,334.44; Beatrice Area Solid Waste (Annual) - $1,489.50; Beatrice Sand & Gravel - $671.82; Black Hills Energy - $70.05; Constellation Energy - $50.54; Lauby Plumbing/Heating/Air - $77.23; NE Code Consulting & Inspection - $740.11; One-Call Concepts, Inc. - $4.60; Milton Pike (Water Sample Postage Reimb.) - $26.75; Postmaster - $180.00; Security First Bank (IRA/Pike) - $55.00; Temps Disposal Service (Mandatory Trash) - $2,516.00; Wex Bank - $444.95; Windstream - $83.16; Wymore Arbor State - $142.76; Wymore Super Foods (Holiday Gift Certs.) - $200.00; TOTAL CLAIMS: $9,341.87.
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING; BLIGHT AND SUBSTANDARD STUDY: HANNA KEELAN (PLANNER) AGREEMENT: Attorney Carothers provided copies of the proposed agreement. A motion (Reedy), second (Neumann) and a 4-0 affirmative vote approved the agreement and authorized Mayoral signature. Carothers shared future plans for evaluation of the Municipality to determine “scope of the re-development area.” Carothers indicated that two members could participate in the process, and Council member Reedy voiced his interest. Carothers will share the schedule of events when determinations are made by contracted parties.
DEMOLITION PROJECT: The 90 days is running on two inspected properties. The rest have been sent letters, with the 14-day waiting period to end right after Christmas. Reedy asked if one property was on the list, and the response was affirmative. Discussion also included future demolition plans (owner was said to have indicated intent to doze it in, and rebuild) for another property, and it will remain under scrutiny.
CLEAN-UP: OEO Hanson is filling in for absent law enforcement officers, but at earliest convenience he will be addressing the ordinance violations for which letters have already been sent (to review for need for legal action), and to identify others.
PLANNING AND ZONING: No new applications.
WATER LINE REPLACEMENT DUE TO RUST IN WATER (MEWES): Removed from the agenda until weather conditions are conducive to an action plan.
NEXT AGENDA:
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT/TAX INCREMENT FINANCING; BLIGHT AND SUBSTANDARD
STUDY/ANY NEW INFORMATION
DEMOLITION PROJECT
CLEAN-UP
PLANNING AND ZONING
Motion to adjourn - Neumann - 7:10 PM. No objections.
The minutes of the Regular meeting were read and approved January 5, 2021.
Mayor: Lonnie D. Meyer (Regular Session)
City Clerk: Katherine A. Roche (Regular Session)
Tuesday, December 1, 2020
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)
Tuesday, November 17, 2020
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)