City of Argyle: City Services

Mayor Robert Clausen called to order the January 3, 2012 Council meeting at 7:00PM. Members present were Anthony Deschene, David Gunderson, Mayor Clausen, Roger Lehrman, and Terry Sundby. Also in attendance were Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering, Don Kroll and Vicki Tulibaski. Motion by Anthony Deschene, second by Roger Lehrman, to approve the minutes of the previous meetings. Motion carried.

Colleen Radeke did not attend the meeting. No written report submitted. The Council approved the 2012 Work Agreement with Colleen Radeke.

The Council reviewed the list of prepaid special assessments. A resolution was adopted accepting prepayment of special assessments for Water and Sewer Improvements 2010. A copy of the resolution will be forwarded to the Marshall County Auditor's office.

Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering handed out a worksheet showing the breakdown of the dollars needed to be collected in user fees. This is based on 20 years. The user fee that will need to be on the utility bills beginning with the February 2012 bill is $13.97 water user fee and $13.97 sewer user fee. The Council again reviewed the #108 user fees that need to be charged to the utility customers west of County Road #108. The #108 user fees are to cover the cost of the water/sewer work completed that benefited their properties and were not able to be special assessed as they were out of city limits. These utility customers will also have to pay the monthly user fee of $13.97 for water and $13.97 for sewer. The Clerk was instructed to send a letter to these residents and inform them that they have until 11/15/2012 to prepay these fees and not be charged interest.

Joel stated that they are still waiting for corrected shop drawings of the control panels. The dike recertification is moving along smoothly.

The Council reviewed and approved the Designations, Appointments, Rental & Fee Schedule with the addition to Miscellaneous Fees: Clay $1.00/yard in town at $5.00/yard out of town.

The Council reviewed current rates. The Council approved the rates remaining the same with the addition of water user fee, sewer user fee and #108 user fees added.

The Council approved the building permits of Jeff & Drue Beaudry for windows and Jerry Whitlow for a bathroom shower.

The City Office & Shop will be closed on Monday, January 16th, in observance of Martin Luther King Day. The city audit will be in February.

The Council was informed of past due statements that were turned over to the Credit Bureau.

Lowell Engen, Nick Safranski, and Nathan Anderson were approved as new firemen on the Argyle Volunteer Fire Department.

The bills were reviewed. An additional bill for fire pay call was added. All bills were approved for payment.

A REMINDER TO ALL GAS CUSTOMERS

A reminder from the Argyle Gas Department to keep snow cleared from your gas meter and vent. A dangerous condition exists should your gas meter and vent become blocked with snow. Please keep checking this until the snow melts.

Mayor Robert Clausen called to order the Truth in Taxation meeting December 5, 2011 Council meeting at 7:00PM at the Argyle City Office. Members present were Mayor Clausen, Anthony Deschene, Roger Lehrman, and David Gunderson. Absent was Terry Sundby. Also in attendance was Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering, Colleen Radeke, Don Kroll and Vicki Tulibaski. No one from the public attended. Motion by Roger Lehrman, second by David Gunderson, to close the Truth in Taxation meeting. Motion carried. Mayor Clausen then called to order the Council meeting. Motion by Roger Lehrman, second by Anthony Deschene, to approve the minutes of the previous meetings. Motion carried.

A loan package from David Drown Associates, Inc. was reviewed by the Council. The Council adopted a resolution approving the Minnesota Public Authority (the "PFA") Credit Enhancement Program Agreement. The Council approved a resolution proving for the issuance, sale and delivery of a General Obligation Revenue Note.

The Council reviewed the 2012 budget. The Council approved the 2012 Tax Levy and 2012 Budget by resolution.

The Council approved the building permit of Colleen Bergeron for replacing shower and carpet.

The Council approved sending a letter to all parcel owners with their new assessments and also inform them that they can pre-pay until December 29, 2011 and that there is not interest until November 16, 2012.

The City Office & Shop will be closed on Monday, December 26th as Christmas Day falls on Sunday; and on Monday, January 2nd as New Year's Day falls on Sunday.

Motion by Anthony Deschene, second by Roger Lehrman, to not hire a skating rink attendant and have the Council members and city employees monitor the warming house.

The Council approved the donations to the Argyle Fire Department and the Argyle Fire Department's budget of 2012.

The Council reviewed the bills presented for payment. Motion by Roger Lehrman, second by Anthony Deschene, to approve payments of all the bills presented.

Delinquent accounts were reviewed by the Council. An account has been turned over to a collection agency for non-payment.

Vice Mayor Roger Lehrman called to order the November 7, 2011 City Council Meeting at 7:00PM. Members present were Vice Mayor Roger Lehrman, David Gunderson, Anthony Deschene, and Terry Sundby. Absent was Mayor Robert Clausen. Also in attendance were Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering, Cheryl Bergeron, Ken LaBine, Colleen Deitz, Jon Krigbaum, Jamie Nelson, Don Parent, Don Kroll, Vicki Tulibaski, and Economic Developer Colleen Radeke. Motion by Anthony Deschene, second by Terry Sundby, to approve the minutes of the previous meetings. Motion carried.

The Council and Joel Paulson answered questions from Cheryl Bergeron, Ken LaBine, Jon Krigbaum, and Colleen Deitz about special assessments.

Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering reported on construction progress of the water/sewer project. The Council approved payment of Davidson Construction Pay Estimate #6. The Council approved a resolution adopting the assessment policy applicable to public improvements projects. And a resolution calling a hearing on supplemental assessments fro sewer and water improvements 2010.

Joel then explained to the Council financing the City of Argyle could apply for to cover the cost of the additional work that is not covered by the loan and grant. He also explained the increased cost of the certification of the dike for the geo-technical analysis performed by NTI.

The Council denied a request from Cecil Deschene to run tiled storm water into the City of Argyle storm sewer system.

The Council adopted a resolution approving a license agreement with Derald & Arlene Mercil. The Council reviewed and approved the written Maintenance Report.

The Council reviewed information from Cheryl Bergeron on Mar-Kit Landfill. General consensus of the Council is to stay with Waste Management.

The Council reviewed and approved the following building permits: Jerry Whitlow, shingles; Judy Safranski, driveway and sidewalk; Mark Dufault, sidewalk; Janet St. Germain, new roof and remodel.

The Council denied a request from Donald Parent for reimbursement for gravel he paid for in the alley by his home.

The Council approved sending out notices to everyone of what their new assessment will be after the assessment role is adopted.

The Council was informed that the City Office and City Shop will be closed on Veteran's Day and Thanksgiving Day. General consensus of the Council was for the flags to be put up for Veteran's Day.

The Council approved purchase of a confined space (4 gas) monitor from Infratech.

The Council reviewed and approved payment of the bills presented for payment. The delinquent accounts were reviewed. Being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

"Argyle" t-shirts & sweatshirts are for sale at the City Office.
They make great Christmas gifts!

Please do not leave campers, boats or trailers parked on
city streets over 24 hours.

Please keep dogs leashed and pickup after them.
The Sheriff's Dept. will issue citations.

Pet licenses can be purchased at the City Office for $5.00.
All cats and dogs must be licensed.

Traffic Speed in the City of Argyle is 20 MPH.
PLEASE SLOW DOWN!

Building permits are required for any building or remodeling over $500.00. Permit is $15.00.

After hour payments of City utilities can be dropped off at
United Valley Bank night depository.

Garbage must fit in your garbage can. Any overflow will be left. Commercial dumpsters are NOT for residential garbage. All garbage out for pickup must be properly bagged or tagged or it will be left.

Anyone that is not a resident of the City of Argyle caught using the recycling bins will be fined $100.00. NO plastic bags in recycling bins. Cardboard boxes MUST be flattened. If recycling bins are full, DO NOT leave recycling by the bins. The recycling bins in Argyle are not free of charge. The cost to empty the recycling bins last month was $645.78. These bins are paid for with Argyle tax dollars.
The recycling bins are for residents living within the
Argyle City Limits ONLY!!

Mayor Robert Clausen called to order the October 3, 2011 Council meeting at 8:30PM. Members present were Mayor Clausen, Roger Lehrman, David Gunderson, Terry Sundby, and Anthony Deschene. Also in attendance were Donald Parent, Cecil Deschene, Joel Paulson and Justin Sailer of KLJ Engineering, Don Kroll, Vicki Tulibaski, and Colleen Radeke. Motion by Anthony Deschene, second by Roger Lehrman, to approve the minutes of the September 5th meeting with one correction.

A resolution to approve a grant application to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for the Local Trail Connections Program was adopted.

An update on the construction project was given by Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering. KLJ Engineering will be doing a substantial completion walk thru inspection. An engineering agreement for levy certification that was approved last month was signed by the Mayor.

Don Parent came before the Council again asking why the rock has not been put back on the berm in front of his home. The Council requests the berm be put back to grass.

Cecil Deschene came before the Council requesting use of the city storm sewer if he puts tile in his farmland along Pacific Avenue. The City will check to see if they can allow agricultural water into a residential system.

The Council approved renewal of the American Legion and the Farmer Dell, Inc. liquor licenses.

The Council discussed the Sanitary Sewer Maintenance Policy & the Sanitary Sewer Emergency Response Policy and instructed Don and Vicki to complete the templates and bring it to the meeting in November for approval.

Building permit applications of BMI for a concrete slab and lean to and Gary Durand for a driveway were approved.

The Council acknowledged and approved excluded bingo activity at the Argyle Community Center for St. Rose during their bazaar on October 23, 2011.

The Council was informed that the Cold Weather Rule will take effect after October 15th.

The Council reviewed and approved the bills presented for payment. The Council reviewed the delinquent accounts. Being no further business, the meeting adjourned.

Mayor Robert Clausen called to order the September 6, 2011 Council meeting at 7:00PM. Members present were Mayor Clausen, Roger Lehrman, David Gunderson, Terry Sundby, and Anthony Deschene. Also in attendance were Cheryl Bergeron, Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering, Don Kroll and Vicki Tulibaski. Motion by Roger Lehrman, second by Anthony Deschene, to approve the minutes of the previous meeting. Motion carried.

Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering updated the Council on the construction progress. Davidson Construction proposed a change order to move the final lift to next spring - this will move the warranty into 2013. Joel feels this is a good idea. Substantial completion date is the end of September and final completion date is the end of October.

Cheryl Bergeron came before the Council with questions on the tarring. The Mayor explained to Cheryl that the Council is working on an assessment schedule.

Merlyn Haugen representing the Argyle American Legion came before the Council to ask that they be sent a request for a donation to help sponsor Summer Rec.

The Mayor opened the three sealed bids that were received for the snow plow blade. The bid of Argyle Building Center was accepted.

Joel explained to the Council he complied assessments according to the tentative assessment policy submitted at last month's meeting. Joel explained that the special assessments are broke down by three different principals. The Council discussed the benefiting properties on the west side of County Road #108. These customers can be charged differential user fees to cover the cost of the improvements.

The Council adopted a Special Assessment Policy by resolution. The Council approved resolutions declaring cost to be assessed and ordering preparation of proposed assessment in connection with sewer and water improvements of 2010 and calling for a hearing on assessments for sewer and water improvements of 2010.

The Council approved amendment #3 from KLJ Engineering for additional engineering fees for preparing the assessment roles.

The Council approved and accepted the Flood Hazard Mitigation Grant Agreement between the MN DNR and the City of Argyle and hiring KLJ Engineering to re-certify the dike.

The Council reviewed bids for a handicapped accessible door operator and approved the bid from Thief River Glass. The Maintenance Report was reviewed and approved by the Council.

The Council adopted a resolution approving the proposed tax levy to be collected in 2012. There was no increase in the levy. The Council adopted a resolution to approve the preliminary budget for 2012.

The Council reviewed and approved the following building permits: Nathan Dalager, installing drain tile/cement, Julie LaBine, landscaping & driveway; Al Larson, replacing driveway; Melanie & Darrel Nelson, finishing basement & outdoor kitchen; Rick Kroll, siding, soffits, and garage door.

The Council approved the State Water Connection Fee for 2011 at $6.36 per water connection to be billed on October bill.

The Council reviewed and approved the bills presented for payment. The delinquent accounts were reviewed.

* Please do not leave campers, boats or trailers parked on city streets over 24 hours.

* In emergency situations, the City of Argyle would like to have a cell phone contact number for Argyle residents. Please call the City Office with your cell number or write it on your bill statement when you pay your next bill. Thanks!

Mayor Robert Clausen called to order the August 1, 2011 Council meeting at 7:00PM. Members present were Roger Lehrman, Mayor Clausen, Anthony Deschene, and David Gunderson. Absent was Terry Sundby. Also present were Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering, Colleen Radeke, Don Kroll, Don Parent, Cecil Deschene, and Vicki Tulibaski. Motion by Roger Lehrman, second by David Gunderson, to approve the minutes of the previous meeting. Motion carried.

Cecil Deschene came before the Council asking for the driveway access on 3rd Street by the old Hartz building be replaced as it has been removed. Motion by Anthony Deschene, second by Roger Lehrman, to replace the driveway west of the old Hartz building. Aye: Clausen, Deschene, Lehrman. Abstain: Gunderson. Motion carried.

Don Parent came before the Council asking why the rock has not been put back on the berm in front of his home. Don was asked for the berm to be returned to its original condition - grass.

Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering gave a construction update. The Council approved Davidson Construction pay request. Joel reviewed four (4) options of paving recommendations. A new Special Assessment Policy was also reviewed. After a great deal of discussion, motion by David Gunderson, second by Roger Lehrman, to approve Option #4 ( 4 inch full width pavement) Aye: Clausen, Gunderson, Lehrman. Nay: Deschene (Option #1). Absent: Sundby. Motion carried.

A bid for reconstruction of 120 feet of Lincoln Avenue was reviewed and approved by the Council.

The Council reviewed and approved the Summer Rec. Report. Final payment to Jamison St. Germain was also approved.

The Council reviewed and approved the Maintenance Report. A snow plow blade owned by the city will be advertised for sale on bids.

The city received $75,000.00 grant to re-certify the dike. The contract will be coming from the DNR.

The Council reviewed and approved the building permits of Bill Sczepanski and Howard McLean.

The Council reviewed letters and emails received from Ken LaBine regarding Pacific Avenue Apartments water and sewer project improvement fees. The city policy is that each rented apartment will receive the water and sewer project improvement fees.

The Council was informed that a past due account was turned over to a collection agency.

The Clerk informed the Council that the city's market value credit has been reduced by $11,832.00.

The Council reviewed the delinquent accounts. The Clerk informed the Council that one account was turned off for non-payment.

Mayor Robert Clausen called to order the July 11, 2011 Council meeting at 7:00PM. Members present were David Gunderson, Anthony Deschene, Mayor Clausen, Roger Lehrman, and Terry Sundby. Also in attendance were Joel Paulson and Justin Sailer of KLJ Engineering, Kevin Davidson of Davidson Construction, Colleen Radeke, Don Kroll, and Vicki Tulibaski. Minutes of the previous meeting were approved.

Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering updated the Council on the progress of the water/sewer project.

Kevin Davidson of Davidson Construction came before the Council with a proposal to do full pavement width with reduced thickness. After a great deal of discussion, the Council approved curb to curb pavement contingent on Rural Development approval, pavement review by KLJ Engineering, and the amount the County will pay for on 3rd Street.

A request to lease a portion of a city lot was tabled until the August meeting when more information will be available.

Low bids for sewer work on 2nd Street were discussed and approved by the Council.

Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering explained the Miscellaneous Improvements Agreement which includes catch basin replacement, storm sewer improvements and street base improvements. The agreement was reviewed by the city's legal counsel. The Council approved the Miscellaneous Improvements Agreement. Joel was asked to figure the cost of reconstruction of part of the block (approximately 200 feet) on Lincoln Avenue where the street heaves for the August meeting.

The Council reviewed bids for the handicap accessibility upgrades for the bathroom. No construction bids were received, so this will be discussed further at the August meeting.

The Council reviewed and approved the building permit of Argyle Post Office for a new sidewalk and parking lot.

The Council reviewed and approved the benefit for years of service on the Argyle Fire Department.

The Council was informed that John Wynne stated that the housing rehab and business rehab grant was not funded. John will reapply.

The Council approved a request from Rob Svendsen of L&R Foods to put up a mobile sign advertising specials at the store in the Pedestrian Park by the Mall sign.

The delinquent accounts were reviewed. General consensus of the Council is to keep enforcing the delinquent policy.

Mayor Robert Clausen called to order the June 6, 2011 Council meeting. Members present were Anthony Deschene, David Gunderson, Terry Sundby, and Robert Clausen. Absent was Roger Lehrman. Also in attendance were Delores Guillemette, Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering, Cheryl Bergeron, Don Kroll, Justin Sailer of KLJ Engineering, Ken LaBine, Vicki Tulibaski, and Colleen Radeke. Motion by Anthony Deschene, second by David Gunderson, to approve the minutes of the previous minutes with the correction to Resolution 09-2011. Motion carried.

Economic Developer Colleen Radeke gave her report. Roger Lehrman arrived at the meeting.

Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering explained a MnDOT Safe Routes to School Grant, a new proposal for levee certification - if the City of Argyle does not re-certify their levy, it will be back in the flood plain, explained project progress, there is a problem area on 1st Street - the soil is very poor - silt/sand/clay mix. The Council approved hiring Braun Intertech to do an analysis of the soil area on 1st Street and see what needs to be done after the analysis. The Council approved Amendment #2 - additional hours for the RPR and Construction Engineer. The Council approved ordering 31 catch basins.

Delores Guillemette and Cheryl Bergeron came before the Council regarding the water and sewer improvement fees on their utility bills. It was explained that fees need to be collected in order to make the bond payment. The Council will review the repayment again when the project is complete. Ken LaBine questioned the water and sewer improvement fees for each apartment in his building. It was explained that each rental unit is considered a household. Ken and Cheryl stated that the project costs should be assessed like they have been in the past and it would also save a great deal in interest. It was also stated that vacant homes should be paying the improvement fees.

The Council approved Temporary Community Festival Liquor Licenses fro the American Legion and the Farmer Dell for Meet Your Neighbor Day with a $50.00 fee each.

The Council approved advertising for bids for a plumbing contractor and a contractor to make the Community Center handicap accessible.

The Council approved the following building permits: Mark Robertson, addition; Sandra Magnusson, deck; DeAnn Ellefson, shingles; Lisa Scharpen/Mark Larson, add on 2 car garage and remodel existing garage; Paul Yutrzenka, storage shed and screen porch; Travis Anderson, addition.

The Council approved Community Club members as volunteers during Meet Your Neighbor Day.

There will be a Pet Vaccination Clinic on Tuesday, June 14th. Any pet begin vaccinated will have to have a license before it can be vaccinated.

The City Office & City Shop will be closed on July 4th. The Council approved the July Council meeting to be held on July 11, 2011.

The Council approved donations given to the Argyle Volunteer Fire Department and to the Save the Bridge Fund.

The Council discussed and denied a request for an outdoor heating source by Central Boiler.

The Council discussed a request for dust control on Pacific Avenue. Davidson Construction had already put down calcium chloride.

Delinquent Accounts were reviewed. Being no further business, the meeting adjourned.

***** In Emergency situations, the City of Argyle would like to have a cell phone contact number for Argyle residents. Please call the City Office with your cell number or write it on your bill statement when you pay your next bill. Thanks! *****

Mayor Robert Clausen called to order the May 2, 2011 City Council meeting at 7:00PM. Council members present were Robert Clausen, Anthony Deschene, David Gunderson, Terry Sundby, and Roger Lehrman. Also in attendance were Colleen Radeke, Economic Developer, Don Kroll and Vicki Tulibaski. Motion by Roger Lehrman, second by Anthony Deschene, to approve the minutes of the previous meeting. Motion carried.

Motion by Anthony Deschene, second by Roger Lehrman, to adopt a resolution approving submitting a Flood Damage Reduction Grant Assistance Program Application.

Roy Lunde of Brady, Martz, & Associates went over the 2010 audit with the Council.

The Council reviewed the written Maintenance Report. Davidson will begin work tomorrow. There will be a construction meeting on Wednesday. Motion by David Gunderson, second by Roger Lehrman, to increase the reimbursement for gophers on the dike to $4.00/gopher. The Council approved ordering gas inventory. The Maintenance Report was accepted.

Motion by Roger Lehrman, second by Anthony Deschene, to approve the building permits of Vasek Construction, Inc., wheelchair ramp in garage for Zach Kasprowicz; Anthony Wavra & Patricia Kuznia, remodel bathrooms, add shower, tiling, & kitchen cabinets; Donald Rivard, garage door; David Riopelle, shingle house & garage; Justin McMahon, deck; Jim & Renae Yutrzenka, patio, steps, & pavers; and Argyle Coop, Steel bin. Motion carried.

Motion by Terry Sundby, second by Anthony Deschene, to pay for mosquito spraying from the General Fund. Motion carried.

Motion by Terry Sundby, second by Roger Lehrman, to approve the use of the fire hall for the breathalyzer training. Motion carried.

Motion by Roger Lehrman, second by Terry Sundby, to approve the use of the Community Center by the AFD for a Pork Roast Fundraiser for the Block Party night for Meet Your Neighbor Day. Motion carried.

Motion by Terry Sundby, second by David Gunderson to approve donating $600.00 to the Argyle Garden Club for their garden plots in Argyle. Motion carried.

Motion by David Gunderson, second by Anthony Deschene, to hire Jamison St. Germain as Summer Recreation Program Director/Head Coach, Tom Tulibaski as bus driver, Renae Lindgren as Assistant Coach to assist where needed and also to be in charge of developing new programs (kickball, etc.), and Jennifer Crummy as Assistant Coach. Motion carried.

Motion by Roger Lehrman, second by Anthony Deschene to hire Shelby DeLisle and Taylor Znajda for the summer labor positions.

Motion by David Gunderson, second by Terry Sundby, to approve a lease option on a new John Deere X724 tractor and mower and a trade-in/purchase option on a new John Deere X724 tractor and mower.

Motion by Anthony Deschene, second by David Gunderson, to approve the bills presented for payment.

Motion by Roger Lehrman, second by Anthony Deschene, to adjourn. Motion carried.

Mayor Robert Clausen called to order the April 4, 2011 City Council meeting at 7:00PM. Council members present were Robert Clausen, Roger Lehrman, and Anthony Deschene. Absent were David Gunderson and Terry Sundby. Also in attendance were Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering, Gary Oen, Jerry and Patsy Whitlow, Al Larson, Don Kroll and Vicki Tulibaski. Minutes of the previous meeting were approved.

Jerry and Patsy Whitlow and Gary Oen came before the Council with concerns regarding the Council's decision to fee everyone for the water/sewer project. The Mayor explained that the resolution stated that it was to be reviewed at the discretion of the Council - so it could be revisited and revised. It was suggested to assess the project over 20 years and save in interest instead of doubling the cost of the project by paying for it on fees.

Al Larson questioned the enforcement of an ordinance on delinquent utility accounts. The Mayor stated that the city is following due process. Delinquent utility accounts will be shut off after the Cold Weather Rule is off. Colleen Radeke arrived at the meeting.

Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering explained to the Council the flood hazard mitigation grant. Joel recommended that the city re-certify its levee or any house that was built after the original flood plain maps were produced will be required to pay the high flood insurance rate. Joel stated Davidson will start as soon as possible. A substantial completion date of August 15th, 2011 and final completion date of August 30th, 2011 has been agreed upon.

The Council discussed delinquent accounts. After much discussion, on a motion by Roger Lehrman, the following resolution was adopted:

BE IT RESOLVED, that the Argyle City Council does hereby approve Ordinance 4-4-11 of the Argyle City Code:

E. Shut-off for nonpayment. City utilities shall not be shut-off until notice and an opportunity for a hearing before the city council or an employee designated by the city council have been provided to the occupant and owner of the premises involved.

1. If any bill is not paid by the due date listed on the bill, a second bill will be mailed by first class mail and shall state that if payment is not made within ten days of the mailing of the second bill, utility service to the premises will be shut off for nonpayment.

2. The second bill and shut-off notice shall contain the title, address and telephone number of the official in charge of billing; the title, address and phone number shall be clearly visible and easily readable.

3. A user who receives a delinquent notice and does not pay the past due balance in full will be placed on a payment schedule. The minimum payment will be 25% of the past due balance in addition to the current charges each month until the delinquent portion is paid in full.

4. To comply with the terms of this policy, the user must pay 25% of the delinquent portion of the account, in addition to the current charges each month. No further notices will be sent. Service will be disconnected if the required payments are not received by the 15th of each month.

5. The notice shall also state that any occupant or owner has the right to a hearing before the utility service is shut off. The owner or occupant may be represented in person and by counsel or any other person of his or her choosing. The owner or occupant may present orally or in writing his or her complaint of the city official in charge of utility billing.

6. If an occupant or owner requests a hearing, the utilities shall not be shut off until the hearing process is complete.

7. If a customer fails to pay and fails to request a hearing under this part, service will be shut off at the time specified in the notice but not until the charges have been due and unpaid for at least 30 days.

8. Unpaid charges on utility accounts shall not be certified to the county auditor until notice and an opportunity for a hearing have been provided to the owner of the premises involved. The notice shall be sent by first class mail and shall state that if payment is not made before the date for certification, the entire amount unpaid plus penalties will be certified to the county auditor for collection as other taxes are collected. The notice shall also state that the occupant may, before such certification date, attend or schedule a hearing on the matter to object to certification of unpaid utility charges.

9. The owner of the property shall have the option of paying the balance due on the account until the date the notice of the certification hearing is mailed. After the date the notice of certification hearing is mailed, payments will still be accepted but will include unpaid penalties.

10. A hearing shall be held on the matter by the City Council. Property owners with unpaid utility charges shall have the opportunity to object to the certification of unpaid charges to be collected. If, after the hearing, the City Council finds that the amounts claimed as delinquent are actually due and unpaid and that there is no legal reason why the unpaid charges should not be certified for collection with taxes in accordance with this ordinance, the City may certify the unpaid charges to the county auditor for collection as other taxes are collected.

     11. For each certification sustained, the property owner shall have the following options after the hearing,
          11.1. To pay the delinquent amount listed on the preliminary roll, but without additional interest after the hearing, within ten days of the hearing date.
          11.2. To pay the certified delinquent amount after the hearing date, but before the county certification deadline, with interest at the rate set in the adopted rate schedule, accrued beginning on the eleventh day following the hearing date through the date of payment.
          11.3. To pay the certified charges as billed to them by Marshall County on their property tax statement with a collection term of one year.

12. Fifteen days after the hearing, the certified roll, minus any payments, shall be delivered to Marshall County.

F. If service is suspended due to delinquency, it shall not be restored at that location until a reconnection fee of $25.00 for utilities is paid and a utility deposit has been paid for each utility reconnected in addition to the amounts owed for service and penalties. Also, the minimum monthly charge and water project improvement fee and sewer project improvement fee will continue in effect when the utility is shut off. No reconnections will be made after hours. If Cold Weather Rule is in effect, water will be the utility disconnected. This ordinance becomes effective from and after its passage and publication.

Anthony Deschene seconded the motion, and the same being put to a vote was duly carried.

Building permits were approved for Brian Anderson from reroofing house and garage, painting exterior, and landscaping; and Helen Gruhot for shingles, windows, and doors.

The Council approved installation of stop ahead signs that are required per a letter from Minnesota Department of Transportation.

The Council reviewed a letter from the Army Corps of Engineers and their 2010 Periodic Inspection Report.

The Council discussed a request from Tammy Donarski to set up and serve out of her food wagon this summer in Argyle. General consensus of the Council was to allow vendors only on Meet Your Neighbor Day and they should go through the Community Club.

The bills presented for payment were approved. Being no further business, the meeting adjourned.

Bill Abbreviation Explanation for New Charges:
SPI Sewer Project Improvement
WPI Water Project Improvement

Mayor Robert Clausen called to order the March 7, 2011 Council Meeting at 7:00PM in the Community Center to accommodate those in attendance. Council members present were Terry Sundby, Anthony Deschene, and Roger Lehrman. Absent was David Gunderson. Also in attendance were Merlyn Haugen, Peter Pokrzywinski, Jerry & Patsy Whitlow, Scott Solum, Al Larson, Charles LaBine, Don Kroll, David Sorenson, Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering, Colleen Radeke, and Vicki Tulibaski. Minutes of the previous meeting were approved.

Economic Developer Colleen Radeke gave her report. David Sorenson explained quotes he had received for removal and repair of the railroad car bridge. The Council approved advertising for donations to the "Save the Bridge Fund" in the "Argyle" paper and to hire and pay Industrial Builders, Inc. to remove the railroad car bridge.

The Council listened to and answered questions and concerns from the public about the new fees and explained how they came to the decision to pay for the project. Members from the public about the new fees and explained how they came to the decision to pay for the project. Members from the public left the meeting and the Council returned to City Office and the meeting continued.

The Council discussed and approved advertising for a Summer Recreation Program Director/Head Coach, Assistant Coach, umpires, and bus drivers. They also approved advertising for two summer workers.

The Council reviewed and approved a resolution adopting an Out-of-State Travel Policy.

The Council approved the building permits for Glen Smidt, garage door and Robert Clausen, doors & windows.

The Council denied requests from the Marshall County Fair Board and Marshall County Historical Society for donations.

Letters from Ken LaBine regarding Pacific Avenue Apartments and Gary Oen were reviewed by the Council.

After a lengthy discussion, the Council amended Resolution 03-2011 to read as follows: On a motion by Anthony Deschene, the following resolution was amended to read:

BE IT RESOLVED, by the Argyle City Council to add additional charges for water project improvements of $15.40 and sewer project improvements of $16.25 per user as separate line items beginning with the March bill to be reviewed at the discretion of the Council. These collected charges are to be put into a water/sewer fund and used to pay the yearly water/sewer bond payment.

Guidelines are: Apartments: Occupied units will be charged the water project improvement fee and the sewer project improvement fee monthly. Unoccupied units will not be charged. The owner is to notify the city by the 25th of each month how many units were occupied that month. This applies to Pacific Avenue Apartments, St. Gabriel Apartments, Summerfield Apartments and Argyle Homes. Businesses: Business service connections will be charged the water project improvement fee and the sewer project improvement fee monthly unless the meter is removed. If the meter is removed, a reconnection fee of $300.00 must be paid before meter replaced and water turned back on. No water meter - no minimum charge - no water/sewer improvement fees. Vacant Homes: Reconnection fee (meter installed) of $300.00 must be paid before meter replaced and water turned back on (this recoups the WPI & SPI fees.) Must also pay deposits. School: Average school usage divided by 4,000 equals the number of water project improvement and sewer project improvement charges they are charged.

Terry Sundby seconded the motion, and the same being put to a vote was duly carried.

The Clerk was directed to credit the charges for water project improvements and sewer project improvements for the vacant apartments and the business water meters that were charged more than one fee.

The Council reviewed the delinquent accounts. They discussed the enforcement of the ordinance to shutoff delinquent accounts. It was suggested that delinquent accounts should set up payment schedules. It will be reviewed at the April meeting. The Cold Weather Rule does not apply after April 15th. It was also stated that the owner should be billed for the utilities - not the renter. The Clerk will check the ordinance for this and find a sample ordinance if the city does not currently have this in place.

The Clerk informed the Council that 1/3 of the gas has been locked in and there will be no need to raise the gas rates at this time.

The bills presented for payment were approved. Being no further business, the meeting adjourned.

Bill abbreviation explanation for new charges:
SPI Sewer Project Improvements
WPI Water Project Improvements

Mayor Robert Clausen called to order the February 7, 2011 Council meeting at 7:00 PM. Members present were Anthony Deschene, David Gunderson, and Terry Sundby. Absent was Roger Lehrman. Also present were Don Kroll, Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering, Colleen Radeke, and Vicki Tulibaski. Motion by Anthony Deschene, second by David Gunderson, to approve the minutes of the previous meeting. Motion carried.

Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering updated the Council on the contract progress. The Council reviewed a letter sent to USDA-RD requesting them to apply funds that would be used for the engineering certification of the project levee to the USACE certification of the entire levee system based on an intergovernmental agreement. If the City does not re-certify the dike, an area of the town will again be in the flood plain. Anyone in the 100 year flood plain is required by the National Flood Insurance Program to purchase flood insurance if you have a mortgage.

The Council approved by an amended resolution to approve the annual designations, appointments with the addition of the Legal Counsel of Brink, Sobolik, Severson, Malm & Albrecht, to the rental and fee schedule. Carried.

The Council discussed at length the water/sewer project and how they intend to pay for it. Motion by Terry Sundby, second by David Gunderson, not to adopt a Special Assessment policy. Aye: Clausen, Sundby, and Gunderson; Nay: Deschene; Absent: Lehrman. Motion Carried.

Motion by Terry Sundby, second by David Gunderson, to add additional charges for water improvements of $15.40 and sewer improvements of $16.25 per user beginning with the March bill to be reviewed at the discretion of the Council. These collected charges are to be put into a water/sewer fund and used to pay the yearly water/sewer bond payment. Aye: Clausen, Sundby, and Gunderson; Nay: Deschene; Absent: Lehrman. It was noted that Tony Deschene was in favor of a partial assessment per household and partial fees. Motion carried.

The Council denied AT&T's request to add their antennas to the existing city water tower and the installation of a shelter at the base of the tower.

The Maintenance Report was approved. The City Office and City Shop will be closed on Monday, February 21st in observance of Presidents' Day.

A letter was sent from the city requesting to have the drainage issue along County Road #108 and West 2nd Street added to the county's 5-year plan.

The Council approved a list of individuals that were willing to help with snow removal if the city were down to only one worker.

The Council approved the 2011 Argyle Fire Department Officers. Don Kroll was approved as the Wellhead Protection Manager.

The bills and delinquent accounts were reviewed. The bills presented for payment were approved.

Mayor Robert Clausen called to order the January 3, 2011 Council meeting. Members present were Anthony Deschene, Roger Lehrman, David Gunderson, and Terry Sundby. Also present were Don Kroll, Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering, Colleen Radeke, and Vicki Tulibaski. David Gunderson and Roger Lehrman took the oath of office. Minutes of the previous meeting were approved.

Economic Developer Colleen Radeke gave her report. The meeting was closed for contract negotiations.

Joel Paulson of KLJ Engineering updated the Council on the construction budget. Davidson Construction will be doing paving, concrete work and underground all at the same time this coming spring. The substantial completion date for the water/wastewater project is August 12th, with the final completion date of August 31st. Change order #3 was signed by the Mayor.

Jerry Whitlow and Bob St. Germain arrived at the Council meeting. They inquired how the water/wastewater project will be paid for. Many ideas have been discussed, but no decision has been made yet. They left the meeting.

The Council reviewed the written Maintenance Report. Don informed the Council that there is a problem with the Sutton lift. Electric Pump will be working on the lift. A gasket was replaced on the gas house heater. The Maintenance Report was approved.

The Council reviewed the Appointment and Rental Fee Schedule. David Gunderson informed the Council that Jeremy Klinger is no longer working for Drenckhahn and Williams. THe Clerk will check with Brink, Sobolik, Severson, Malm and Albrecht to see if they handle municipals. Legal Counsel will not be appointed until the February meeting. Motion by Terry Sundby, second by Roger Lehrman, to adopt the Appointment and Rental Fee Schedule by resolution.

After a great deal of discussion, the special assessment policy and setting rates was table until February meeting.

Motion by Roger Lehrman, second by Anthony Deschene, to approve the building permit of Bernadette Borowicz for an entry.

The City Office & City Shop will be closed on Monday, January 17th in observance of Martin Luther King Day.

Motion by Roger Lehrman, second by Anthony Deschene, to adopt a resolution waiving the monetary limits on tort liability.

Eric Magnusson and Kevin Moore were approved as new firemen on the Argyle Volunteer Fire Department.

The Council reviewed the bills presented for payment. Motion by Roger Lehrman, second by Anthony Deschene, to approve the bills. Delinquent accounts were reviewed.

Being no further business, motion by Roger Lehrman, second by Anthony Deschene, to adjourn.