December 6, 2021

Vice-Mayor David Gunderson opened the December 6, 2021, Truth-In-Taxation meeting at 7:00 PM. Present were David Gunderson, David Sorenson, Anthony Deschene, and Aaron Rivard. Mayor Terry Sundby was in attendance via Zoom. Also in attendance were Tony Safranski, Michael Pagnac, and Tamara Benitt. No one from the public attended and no one called the city Office with questions or complaints. Motion by Aaron Rivard, second by Tony Deschene, to close the Truth-In-Taxation meeting.

Vice-Mayor David Gunderson called to order the December 6, 2021, Argyle City Council meeting at 7:00 PM in the Argyle City Office. Present were David Sorenson, Anthony Deschene, and Aaron Rivard. Mayor Terry Sundby was in attendance via Zoom. Also in attendance were Tony Safranski, Michael Pagnac, and Tamara Benitt. Motion by Tony Deschene, second by David Sorenson to approve the agenda. Motion by David Sorenson, second by Aaron Rivard, to approve the minutes of the previous meetings.

The Council discussed the purchase of a tractor. Tony Safranski will continue to search for one. Motion by Aaron Rivard, second by David Sorenson, to approve the Maintenance Report.

On a motion by Aaron Rivard, second by Tony Deschene, Resolution 19-2021, Approve Levy for 2022, was approved.

After some discussion, Resolution 20-2021, 2022 Budget, was approved on a motion by Tony Deschene, second by David Sorenson.

The Council is requesting the Minnesota Livable City Code book to review.

The League of Minnesota cities will be asked to provide a quote on a group short-term disability policy.

On a motion by David Sorenson, second by Aaron Rivard, the Personnel Policy with the vacation time update and weekend duty must stay within 60 minutes of Argyle amendment was approved.

After a long discussion, the council decided to run with a two-man City Crew. This will be reevaluated at the April 2022 Council Meeting.

There was one late bid received on Auditor’s Subdivision Lots 98-99. Since it was late the Council did not accept the bid and will readvertise the lots for sale.

Resolution 21-2021, Designating Annual Polling Place, was approved on a motion by Tony Deschene, second by David Sorenson. The City of Argyle polling place will now be the Argyle Community Center and not mail-in ballots.

The Council approved Resolution 22-2021 to accept the redistribution of unrequested Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund established under the American Rescue Plan Act, which was motioned by David Sorenson, second by Aaron Rivard.

The following building permits were applied for: Jerry Whitlow, gutters and chimney in shop; Rose City Canopy & Sign, update existing signage at CHS, and David Sorenson, utility shed-storage. Motion by Aaron Rivard, second by David Sorenson to approve the building permits.

Vacation Hours Use for Karen Gunderson was discussed. David Gunderson abstained from this matter.

Jeff Hane of Brink Lawyers drafted a letter to Arturo Martinez, Jr. since that is the next step in the process of the clean-up of his property.

Since Julian Kostrzewski passing, the Council will table the house/garage removal until the Spring/Summer of 2022.

The Council was informed that there is an available on-line training for the local board of appeal and equalization.

On a motion by David Sorenson, second by Aaron Rivard, the following Resolutions 23-2021 and Resolutions 24-2021 were approved. They were to approve donations to the City of Argyle and Argyle Fire Department since 6/1/2021.

The City Office and City Shop will be closed December 24th & 27th for the observance of Christmas and Friday December 31st for New Year’s Day.

The council is not going to participate in the new public awareness program, Help Me Grow.

Motion by Tony Deschene, second by Aaron Rivard, to allow Community Education to use the Community Center at no charge for dance classes.

The City of Argyle closed the Disaster damage case (May rainstorm) with the State of Minnesota. We received $24,363.44, which was 75% of the project cost.

Jeff Hane from Brink Lawyers sent a letter regarding Trevor Benitt Construction bidding on the Small Cities Grant Project. Jeff also agreed that there is no conflict of interest.

A.R.E.D.A. hosted the city-wide clean-up. The board was willing to pay up to $10,000.00 of the cost. The total was $9,166.00.

Kaizen Architectural Group is still working on the final Fire Hall Feasibility Study.

Ron Rudd from Northwest Service Cooperative submitted and environmental Health & Safety Summary Report.

The Council discussed a delinquent account. The new policy is to shut off utilities after three months of non-payment.

The Council reviewed the bills presented for payment. The delinquent accounts, profit and loss and balance sheet were also reviewed. Motion by Tony Deschene, second by David Sorenson, to approve the bills presented for payment and the financial reports.

Being no further business, motion by Tony Deschene, second by Aaron Rivard, to adjourn the meeting.

Argyle offers a yearly garbage pickup fee. $100.00/35 gallon garbage can.

Stop by City Office to purchase your yearly sticker.

REMINDER:

Waste Management recycling tote pickup

will be on January 12,2022.

City Office & City Shop Hours

Monday to Thursday 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM

Friday 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM

UTILITY PAYMENTS CAN BE MADE WITH A CREDIT CARD

OR STOP BY THE CITY OFFICE

TO SIGN UP FOR ACH (AUTOMATIC WITHDRAWAL)

Mayor Terry Sundby called to order the public hearing on November 1, 2021, at 6:00pm in the City Hall. The Public Hearing was discussing the rezoning of residential lots Auditor’s Subdivision Lots 98-99, 110 East 5th Street, to Commercial Lots.

In attendance were Councilmen: Terry Sundby, Tony Deschene, David Gunderson, David Sorenson, and Aaron Rivard. Also in attendance was Tamara Benitt, Justin McMahon, Wade Danielson, Dan representing Argyle Coop. Warehouse, and Lowell & Jennifer Engen.

After much discussion, the Council decided to leave the lots zoned as Residential. The two lots are in one parcel and have water, sewer, and gas available on the lots. The Council will accept sealed bids on this parcel with the minimum being $5,000.00. The bids will be opened at the December Council meeting.

Mayor Terry Sundby called to order the council meeting on November 1, 2021, at 7:00PM in the Argyle City Office. Present was Mayor Terry Sundby, Aaron Rivard, Tony Deschene, David Sorenson, and David Gunderson. Also in attendance was Tony Safranski, Jason Gohman of Northwest Community Action and Tamara Benitt. Motion by David Gunderson, second by Tony Deschene, to approve the minutes of the previous meeting. Motion carried.

The Council received a disclosure of the conflict with the City of Argyle and Trevor Benitt Construction. Since Argyle is the Small City grantee, there is a conflict because of Tamara in her position. The Council feels there is no conflict and feel as though Trevor Benitt Construction can bid within the city of Argyle on the Small Cities Grant Project.

Motion by Tony Deschene, second by Aaron Rivard, to approve the Maintenance Report.

The Council wants to table the personnel policy until December when the short-term disability benefit can be added. The Council wants another quote on a group short-term disability plan.

After much discussion about the pay step schedule, Karen and Michael will get their step along with a 3% increase and Tony and Tamara will get a 3% increase. Motion by Aaron Rivard, second by David Sorenson to approve the employee raises.

Motion by Aaron Rivard, second by David Sorenson, to check to see if we can preview before the purchase of the Minnesota Basic code, if not go ahead and purchase.

Markit County Grain has been reimbursed for putting in natural gas by the City offering gas to them at the discounted rate. Motion by David Gunderson, second by Aaron Rivard to set the natural gas rate to Markit County Grain at $1.15/unit.

Wiktel and BNSF will be replacing and constructing new 120′ towers within the City limits.

Argyle’s population has dropped from 639 in 2010 to 544 in 2020. The Council wants to question this data, the Census will send out a letter in December that has directions included on how to question the data.

Motion by David Sorenson, second by Tony Deschene, to approve the building permit of Janet St. Germain, landscaping and deck.

A letter was sent to Arturo Martinez Jr about the removal of his house and the cleaning up of the yard. The City also questioned him to turn the burden and expenses over to the City. If the property is turned over to the City, there are County funds available for cleaning up the property.

Mayor Terry Sundby met with Debbie Kostrzewski about her property. Terry will set up a meeting between the two of them and Scott Peters to see what can happen with the house and garage removal.

The City office and City Shop will be closed on Thursday, November 11th in honor of Veteran’s Day and Thursday, November 25th for Thanksgiving.

Motion by Aaron Rivard, second by David Sorenson, to rent the hot/cold cooler and try it out in the City Office.

Tamara attended a LMC meeting in Warren on Monday, October 25th.

The Council reviewed the bills presented for payment. The delinquent accounts, profit and loss and balance sheet were also reviewed. Motion by David Gunderson, second by Aaron Rivard, to approve the bills presented for payment and the financial reports.

Tony Safranski questioned if the City Shop could get two new walk-in doors as they are in tough shape. The Council agreed to the two new doors.

Kaizen Architectural Group will be at the December Council meeting to discuss the Fire Hall Feasibility Study.

On a motion by David Gunderson, second by Tony Deschene, to raise the hourly rate of temporary workers to $15.00/hr.

Tony Safranski informed the Council the gate leading to the piles North of town was removed. The Council wants Tony to notify the Sheriff of the poles being removed at the piles. There is a no trespassing sign posted so a law was broken.

The Council wants put in the monthly newsletter that any building permit must be purchased prior to the project because City Codes need to be followed and enforced. Building permits are for anything over $500.00 including sheds on skids.

Being no further business, motion by Tony Deschene, second by Aaron Rivard, to adjourn the meeting.

REMINDER:

WASTE MANAGEMENT RECYCLING TOTE PICKUP

WILL BE ON DECEMBER 15TH.

City Office and City Shop Hours

Monday to Thursday 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM

Friday 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM

UTILITY PAYMENTS CAN BE MADE WITH A CREDIT CARD

OR

STOP BY THE CITY OFFICE

TO SIGN UP FOR ACH

(AUTOMATIC WITHDRAWAL)

Mayor Terry Sundby called to order the Council meeting on October 4th, 2021, at 7:00PM in the Argyle City Office. Present were Terry Sundby, Tony Deschene, David Sorenson, and David Gunderson. Aaron Rivard was on Zoom. Also in attendance was Tony Safranski, Michael Pagnac, and Tamara Benitt.

Motion by Tony Deschene, second by David Gunderson, to approve the minutes of the previous meetings with the amendment.

Motion by Tony Deschene, second by David Sorenson, to approve the Maintenance Report.

The Council discussed the Helen Anderson land purchase and the Fire Hall Feasibility Study.

Chad Swanson came before the Council to discuss building a garage in his open lots. The Council told Chad the building can only have 12′ sidewalls according to the City Ordinance. The building meet all City Codes.

The Council reviewed and discussed the Personnel Policy. After discussion, there were changes made. The changes will be made and reviewed again at the November meeting.

There will be a Public Hearing on November 1, 2021, at 6:00PM in the Argyle Community Center. The public hearing is for the rezoning of Auditor’s Subdivision, Lots 98-99 from Residential to Commercial.

The Council reviewed the Summer Rec. and 21st Century Summer Activity Report. The Council feels the program went well and will leave it as is.

On a motion by Tony Deschene, second by Terry Sundby, to appoint David Gunderson to the A.R.E.D.A. board.

Motion by Tony Deschene, second by David Sorenson, to adopt Resolution 17-2021 & Resolution 18-2021 which approved the liquor licenses for Hogberg-Gerszewski Post 353 of the American Legion and The Dell, LLC.

On a motion by David Gunderson, second by Tony Deschene, the following building permits were approved: Julie LaBine: garden shed, Gordon Ellefson: walk in shower, and Noel Weld: cement slab. The Council thinks that a site plan and drawing should be brought in when there is an addition or new construction.

On a motion by Tony Deschene, second by David Gunderson to replace Terry Sundby as building inspector with David Sorenson.

Cold Weather Rule is in effect from October 1, 2021 to April 30, 2022.

The Marshall County Affordable Housing committee meet. The Loan Pool assisted 8 homes and 6 businesses with down-payment assistance in 2021.

The Council is researching the status of Arturo Martinez’s home. The City would like to remove the burnt house and clean up the lot.

There were improvements made to the delinquent policy. The City will now be shutting off customers who are two months delinquent on their utility bill. The office will be contacting the current delinquent accounts to let them know the new policy.

The A.R.E.D.A. Board was curious as to the status on the Mall/Community Center door. The Council feels there is not a need for it at this time.

Terry Sundby has been in contact with Julian Kostrzewski about the removal of house and garage. The County has funds available to assist with the tear down and removal. The Council wants to keep moving forward on this project.

The council was asked if the residential lots available could be used for garages. The Council wants to keep these lots for residential homes.

Motion by David Sorenson, second by David Gunderson, to approve the bills presented for payment and the financial reports.

The City has a job opening for a Maintenance Worker. Applications and job descriptions can be picked up at the Argyle City Office.

The Council discussed trees on the berm.

Being no further business, motion by Aaron Rivard, second by Tony Deschene to adjourn the meeting.

UTILITY PAYMENTS CAN BE MADE WITH A CREDIT CARD 

OR

STOP BY THE CITY OFFICE TO SIGN UP FOR ACH

(AUTOMATIC WITHDRAWAL)

*** CITY OFFICE & CITY SHOP HOURS ***

MONDAY TO THURSDAY 7:00 AM TO 4:30 PM

FRIDAY 7:00 AM TO 11:00 PM

The Council had employee performance reviews with Michael Pagnac and Tony Safranski.

Mayor Terry Sundby called to order the Council meeting on September, 7 2021, at 7:00 PM in the Argyle City Office. Present were Tony Deschene, Aaron Rivard, David Sorenson, and David Gunderson. Also in attendance was Tony Safranski, Jon LaBine, and Tamara Benitt. Motion By David Gunderson, second by Tony Deschene, to approve the minutes of the Previous meetings. Motion carried.

Jon LaBine of Hometown Harvest Ag came before the Council to discuss his future business plans and purchase of land from the City.

Motion by David Gunderson, second by David Sorenson, to approve the Maintenance Report.

The closing date on the Helen Anderson land purchase is Wednesday, September 15th at 10:00 AM.

The Council will receive a bid from Misselhorn Tiling and Excavation on Lincoln Avenue and get on their schedule for Spring.

The council is discussing purchasing the S 1/2 of Lot 46 in Auditors Subdivision.

Motion by Tony Deschene, second by Aaron Rivard, to approve the feasibility study on the new fire hall with Kaizen Architectural Group for the cost of $8,700.00.

On a motion by Aaron Rivard, The City Council of Argyle, Minnesota ordains: Ordinance No. 1-2021 Curfew

Section 1. Certain Minors Forbidden on the Streets at Night. No person under the age of sixteen years shall be or loiter upon any of the public streets, alleys, or public grounds of the municipality between the hours of 10:00 pm and 5:00 am unless accompanied by and under the control of some person of lawful age, or upon some errand by permission or direction of his or her parent, guardian, or employer. Such minor person shall not then loiter on the way nor make any undue noise to disturb the peace and quiet of the municipality.

SECTION 2. Enforcement. Violation of this ordinance shall be a petty misdemeanor.

Second by Tony Deschene to approve the City Council to ordain ordinance No. 1-2021 related to curfew.

Mike Peterson from The Dell addressed the Council on his new liquor license and some future plans.

On a motion by Tony Deschene, second by Aaron Rivard, the resolution 15-2021 Property Tax Levy was adopted.

Motion by Aaron Rivard, second by David Sorenson, to raise residential rates $.35/month for a total of $11.85.

On a motion by David Gunderson, second by David Sorenson, the resolution 16-2021 Proposed 2022 Budget be approved.

The Council tabled wages for 2022 until the November Council Meeting.

The Council is interested in turning Lots 98-99 of Auditor’s Subdivision into commercial lots instead of residential lots. This is tabled until next meeting.

On a Motion by Tony Deschene, second David Gunderson to approve the following building permits: Frank Rybaski: shingles, Charles LaBine: turn porch into closet, Anita Brazier: windows and outside updates.

Motion by David Gunderson, second by David Sorenson, to approve the Community Water Supply Service Connection Fee of $9.72 to be billed on the October bill and to pay the State of Minnesota.

Motion by Tony Deschene, second by Aaron Rivard, to approve to turn Alicia Boman over to a collection agency: $1,016.18

Northwest Service Cooperative did a training for the City Crew.

Motion by Aaron Rivard, second by David Sorenson, to approve the Argyle fire Department purchase of a 2005 Sterling, Model Acterra, 3000-gallon water tender for the price of $6,000.00.

Minnesota’s Water Assistancee Program will be available October 1st, 2021.

After some discussion, motion by David Gunderson, second by David Sorenson, to approve the new hours Monday-Thursday 7:00 am-4:30 pm and Friday 7:00 am-11:00 am for the City Office and City Shop. AYE: Gunderson, Rivard, Sorenson NAY: Deschene

The City of Argyle accepted the resignation of Trevor Hoeper and are taking applications for a Maintenance Worker. Applications can be picked up at the Argyle City Office.

The Council received a Thank You note from Ex-Mayor Bob Clausen. I would like to thank the City Crew, Karen, and City Council for helping me plan and work the appreciation supper for Bob.

Tony Safranski brought up the Olson Underground boring bill for Misselhorn Tiling & Excavation. He asked if the Council would want to help Misselhorn pay for any of it. No action was taken by the Council.

The Council reviewed the Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet, Delinquent Accounts, account balances and the bills presented for payment. Motion by Tony Deschene, second by David Gunderson, to approve the bills presented for payment.

The Council will review the Personnel Policy at the October meeting.

Being no further businesses, motion by Tony Deschene, second by Aaron Rivard, to adjourn. Motion carried.

CITY OFFICE & CITY SHOP HOURS

MONDAY TO THURSDAY  7:00 AM TO 4:30 PM

FRIDAY  7:00 AM TO 11:00 AM

SWCF

The state mandated community water supply service connection fee of $9.72 is on the October Utility bill. This payment goes to the State of Minnesota and is a yearly fee.

The Council had an employee performance review with Trevor Hoeper.

Vice Mayor David Gunderson called to order the Council meeting on August 2, 2021 at 7:00 PM in the Argyle City Office. Present were Tony Deschene, Aaron Rivard, David Sorenson, and David Gunderson. Absent was Terry Sundby. Also in attendance was Trevor Hoeper, Mark Hendrickson, Jon LaBine, Dennis Rousseau, and Tamara Benitt. Motion by David Sorenson, second by Aaron Rivard, to approve the minutes of the previous meetings. Motion carried.

On a motion by Aaron Rivard, second by David Sorenson, to accept the land description for the overall 32.85 acres and purchase the land from Brian Anderson. Jon LaBine is inquiring about purchasing some of this property once the City owns it.

Scott Winge of Northern Sanitation came before the Council to discuss the City wide Clean-up day on August 18, 2021.

Dennis Rouseau shared some of his concerns with the Council.

Motion by Tony Deschene, second by David Sorenson, to approve the Maintenance Report. Motion carried.

The Council wants Tamara to send out letters to residents that have diseased trees on their property stating that the homeowner is responsible for taking down the tree, if they don’t the City will hire someone at the homeowner’s expense.

Kaizen Archietechutural Group will be asked for an estimate on providing a feasibility study on the fire hall.

The Council discussed ways to spend the American Rescue Plan Act money they received.

The Council reviewed an estimate from Misselhorn Tiling & Excavation on work to Lincoln Avenue. After some discussion, the Council wants to table Lincoln Avenue repairs.

On a motion by David Sorenson, second by Tony Deschene, Resolution 14-2021, Establishing watering use restrictions was adopted. Motion carried.

Motion by Tony Deschene, second by Aaron Rivard to approve the Mayor and Clerk to sign all documents needed to enter into online business banking at United Valley Bank.

Motion by David Sorenson, second by Tony Deschene, to adopt Resolution 13-2021, Approve Signature Updates on Bank Signature Cards. Motion carried.

The Council was asked to find a location for the two benches that are being donated by the Class of 1970 and 1971. The Council decided Pedestrian Park would be a great location.

The City Shop and City Office both need some upgrades. The City Shop’s overhead door needs safety eyes installed. The City Office needs heavier duty walk-in doors, window installed where air conditioner was, and new window installed in Clerk’s office. The Council also decided to install security lights in the Community Center. Motion by Aaron Rivard, second by David Sorenson, to approve the new City Office and City Shop upgrades. Motion carried.

Motion by Aaron Rivard, second by David Sorenson to approve the Argyle Fire Department cashing out CD#62085 and depositing the amount $31,247.87 to Argyle Fire Relief Association general account. They will reinvest the money elsewhere as interest rates are higher.

An appreciation meal for Bob Clausen will be at Kurz Park shelter on Thursday, August 26th at 6:00 PM. Tamara will order the food and send invite to Messenger. David Gunderson will prepare a short program.

On a motion by David Sorenson, second by Tony Deschene, the following building permits were approved: Terry Sundby-new siding and SAC-install new playground. Motion carried.

Motion by Tony Deschene, second by David Sorenson, to acknowledge and approve excluded bingo activity for St. Rose Church during their bazaar on October 24, 2021, at the Community Center. Motion carried.

Council was informed a LGA payment and a Small City Assistance Program payment was received.

Karen Gunderson will search for Art work grants available. David Gunderson mentioned the DNR has a grant for bike/walk trail.

The City purchased an air compressor. Motion by Tony Deschene, second by Aaron Rivard to remove the air compressor from the rental schedule. Motion carried.

The Council wants the City Crew to search for a 100-150 horsepower tractor.

Aaron Rivard will contact Ross at Rivard’s Turf & Forage to check what other products are available for dust control besides Calcium Chloride.

The Council reviewed the Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet, Delinquint Accounts, account balances and the bills presented for payment. Motion by Aaron Rivard, second by Tony Deschene, to approve the bills presented for payment. Motion carried.

Being no further businesses, motion by David Sorenson, second by Aaron Rivard, to adjourn, Motion carried.