Minutes from the February 19 2024 regular Albion City Council meeting, held @ the Albion City Hall @ 6:30pm.

Mayor Hemming called the meeting to order and the Pledge of Allegiance was said. Roll call was; present were council members D. Loffgren, K. Dostal and C. Eirikson. L. Kelley entered the meeting @6:34pm, absent was council member D. Stanton.

Loffgren made a motion to approve the agenda, 2nd by Eirikson, with a 3-0 vote to approve. Motion carries. Dostal made a motion to approve the consent agenda which consisted of the Minutes from the Jan 2024 meeting, and the Feb 2024 claims list.

Officer Hunt was present to give the Marshall County Sheriff’s report for Jan 2024.  The water/wastewater report from R. Guy of POM, was December water usage totaled 926, 000 gallons averaging 29,700 gal of water pumped per day.  Guy reported that she had been in contact with Hawkins Inc. for results of some samples that were sent in and discussed with their chemist about chemical levels, and adjustments. Guy also asked that residents that continue to have water issues, continue to call the Albion City Hall, so we can continue to log it. Guy reports that there will be a couple of fire hydrants are leaking, scheduled for repairs. Wastewater flows were reported at 941,000 gal averaging 30,000 gal per day. There was more discussion on the feed rate of the chemical and flushing of hydrants.  For department reports, Fire reported that they have had 5 calls since the last meeting, they had been busy with a grass fire on the river bottom at the time of this council meeting. Chief Betts, informed that council that he had 2 people that want to become part of the Albion Volunteer Fire Dept and asked the council to approve this request. The Albion City Council approved the request D. King and B. Rothman were appointed by the mayor as part of the Albion Fire Department. B Rothman was also appointed to the Albion EMS.  It was stated the Rothman can go on calls with EMS, but can not do hands on at this time, until he gets his EMT license reinstated for Iowa.

Kelley made a motion to approve the Dollar General’s Sale of Alcoholic Beverages License for March 2024- March 2025, the motion was 2nd by Eirikson, with a 4-0 vote motion carries. There was a request on the agenda, asking the city council to modify the city sewer along N. Clinton for a new house build, the city council unanimously voted it no, request was not approved.

Dostal made a motion to open the Public Hearing on City’s intent to raise the Surcharge, Eirikson 2nd, 4-0 Public Hearing was opened @7:03 pm. Mayor Hemming explained that we must increase the surcharge to pay back the SRF loan secured to dig the new wells. He went on to explain that the surcharge right now is $12.50, we need to add another $8.50 bringing the total to $21.00 a month. The surcharge of $12.50 was set for 20 years, we currently have 9 more years of that amount, at which time the city council could vote to remove the $12.50 now making the surcharge $8.50 for 10 years or leave at $21.00 and pay back the SRF Loan faster. Two the city council members were against raising the surcharge until, the city gets the discolored water issue taken care of. Public comments were made. After much discussion council voted to table to public hearing and continue it at the April meeting. Kelley made a motion to close the pubic hearing with the continuation happening at the April meeting, the motion was 2nd by Dostal, with 4-0 vote, motion carried. Public Hearing close @7:40 pm

City Clerk informed the council that they will be seeing quotes for new city insurance at the March meeting, and that city needs to send out RFQ for a city attorney, as the current city attorney is not seeking to renew their contract.

There was a discussion on nuisance abatements, and how to go about handling them. There were numerous comments from the public as well as some of the council, that places are getting out of control. There was a request to investigate removing a mail box on a farm to market road, as it is a hazard for turning traffic coming in and out of the Dollar General parking lot. It was stated that the traffic is tearing property owners’ yard and leaving muddy deep ruts, and they do not get their mail there anyway. City council is to look in to the issue.

Dostal made a motion to adjourn, Eirikson 2nd the, vote was 4-0. Meeting was adjourned at 8:20pm

Minutes from the January 31, 2024 regular Albion City Council meeting, held at the Albion City Hall @ 6:30pm.

Mayor Hemming called the meeting to order, the Pledge of Allegiance was said, and roll call was; present were council members, D. Stanton, L. Kelley, K. Dostal, and C. Eirikson. Absent was council member D. Loffgren.

Dostal made a motion to approve the agenda, 2nd by Kelley, followed by 4 ayes and 0 nays. Motion approved.

Stanton made a motion to approve the consent agenda, which consisted of the Dec 2023 minutes, the Jan 4, 2024 special meeting and the Jan 2024 claims list.

The report from the water/wastewater was Hawkins Chemical Co has pulled some special water samples for the city, but the weather has slowed the progress, no results at the time of the meeting. There was a discussion on the city’s actions going forward to continue to resolve the discoloration of the water. It was reported that a Leak detection company came in a found what appears to be one main leaking, and three fire hydrants that are leaking.  The main was fixed, and the hydrants are on order, and will be replaced as soon as possible. The council believes these repairs should help with the discoloration of the water. Council is requesting that anyone with discolored water continue to call the Albion City Hall, so we can continue to try and track it. Public Safety; L. Kelley reports everything is looking good.  Will Clark was present for the EMS, he clarified a termination of a contract notice, with the EMS Service Affiliation.  City Maintenance reports, the city truck is not blowing heat again, council directed to him to take it to the shop again.  There was a discussion on snow removal in alley ways, who is responsible for plowing alley ways city maintenance or residents. Council is going to look further into this, as for now it stays the same as it has been.  The Albion city council set a new public hearing date on The CITY’S INTENT TO RAISE THE SURCHARGE ON WATER BILLS TO PAY BACK THE SRF LOAN SECURED TO CONSTRUCT WELL #7, for February 19, 2024 @ 6:30pm @ the Albion City Hall. The council set a Budget workshop for February 12, 2024 @ 6:00pm @ the Albion City Hall. Mayor Hemming ask for public comments, it was brought up about dogs running loose and killing cats, and stalking up behind people out walking. The clerk informed the public in attendance that the City of Albion does have a leash law. The public was instructed to call the Marshall County Sheriff, when this happens as the city does not have a contract with the ARL. The ARL will not come to Albion to catch the loose running dogs, and the city does not have a kennel for them. If the city maintenance catches the dogs they will be taken to the ARL. If you can identify the dogs and owner the sheriff will handle it. A representative from the Albion County Ball club was present, and asked about the security cameras that were approved to be installed at the Albion Ball Fields. Council member D. Stanton is taking over that project and looking getting the appropriate cameras and having them installed.

L. Kelley made a motion to adjourn, 2nd by D. Stanton, roll call vote was 4 ayes – 0 nays. Mayor Hemming adjourn the meeting @ 7:47pm

Minutes from the Albion City Council Special meeting held January 4, 2024 at the Albion City Hall @ 6:30pm.

Mayor Hemming call the meeting to order @ 6:30pm.  Roll call was; present were council members C. Eirikson, K. Dostal, D. Stanton, L. Kelley was late. Absent were council members D. Loffgren. Kelley entered the meeting @ 6:35pm. Dostal made a motion to approve the agenda, 2nd by Stanton; vote was 4-0 motion carries.

Dostal made a motion to accept CGA as the engineering firm to work with the city of Albion on the Sewer project, motion was 2nd by D. Stanton, roll call vote was; Kelley- yes, Stanton -yes, Dostal- yes and Eirikson- yes.

Stanton made a motion to accept CIT as the cleaning & televising company to work with the City of Albion on the sewer project, 2nd by Kelley. Roll call vote was; Kelley- yes, Stanton- yes, Dostal-yes and Eirikson- yes. Motion carries.

D. Stanton made a motion to approve and adopt Resolution 2024-01; A RESOLUTION FOR THE CITY BANKING, ALLOWING FOR A COUNCIL MEMBER TO BE REMOVED FROM HAVING ACCESS TO THE CITY ACCOUNTS AND CHECK SIGING PRIVILEGES, AND REPLACE WITH A NEW COUNCIL MEMBER, GRANTING FULL ACCESS TO THE CITY ACCOUNTS AND CHECK SIGNING PRIVILILEGES. ALL OTHER COUNCIL MEMBERS GRANTED ACCESS WITH WRITTEN APPROVAL FROM THE ALBION CITY COUNCIL. Motion was 2nd by Eirikson, followed by a roll call vote; Kelley- Absent, Stanton – yes, Loffgren- absent, Eirikson- yes, Dostal -yes. Motion carried.

There was a short discussion on the 3 leaking fire hydrants found during a leak detection process.

Stanton made a motion to adjourn, 2nd by Dostal, followed by 4-0 vote. Meeting adjourned @ 6:49pm

Minutes from the December 18th 2023 regular Albion City Council meeting held @ the Albion City Hall, located @ 107 S. Main St Albion Iowa.

Meeting was called to order by Mayor P. Hemming @ 6:30pm.

The Pledge of Allegiance was said, and roll call was; present were council members D. Stanton, S. Wickam and K. Dostal, absent were council members D. Loffgren and L. Kelley. Mayor Hemming asked for a motion to approve the agenda, motion was made by S. Wickam, 2nd by D. Stanton, vote was 3 ayes- 0 nays, agenda approved. Mayor Hemming asked for a motion to approve the consent agenda, which consisted of the Nov 2023 Albion City Council Meeting minutes and the Dec 2023 claims list, a motion to approve was made by D. Stanton, 2nd by K. Dostal and voted 3-0 for approval.

The Marshall County Sheriff’s report was read. R. Guy was here to give her Water/wastewater report for Oct 2023. Guy informed the city council that, there was issues with the Master Meter at the pumphouse, that it had since been replace and was recording again. Guy informed the council, that with all the testing that was done with the Wells this summer, we missed an Official test for the Manganese at the Well house, this generating a Notice of Violation for the water system from the IDNR. Guy reports that there are still some brown water issues and is asking the public to call the Albion City Hall, so we can accurately track and get as much info as possible. There will be no more flushing of the hydrants due to the weather and as the water system needs to rest. All regulatory testing and reporting are back in order with the IDNR permit. Guy reports that a blower motor was replace at the lagoons and not working properly, and was trying to figure out if it was a warranty Item. This discussion had been going on for 1+ years, they finally came to replace it on Dec 5, 2023.  When city maintenance went to check the building the next morning the new motor had blown up. EP techs had not put oil in it, they are replacing at no cost to the city of Albion. Guy reminded the council they needed to decide on an engineering firm and a Collection system contractor.

Department reports were given. Council moved on to the motions. Mayor Hemming asked for a motion to table the acceptance and approval of the RFQs for the Engineers & Televising/cleaning of the Sewer lines until Jan 4th, where a special meeting will be held, due to not all council members were present to weigh in on the decision. A motion to table decision until Jan 4th 2024 was made by K. Dostal, 2nd by D. Stanton, voted was 3-0 in favor of tabling until Jan 4 2024. Motion approved.  A motion was made by K. Dostal to approve Fire Chief Betts request to have the City of Albion write a check for the total amount of $12,489.00 for the 4 new sets of Fire Gear, with the Fire Department writing a check to the city for $9,366.75 to cover the purchase of 3 of the set, with the city paying for 1 set as was agreed to, when discussed at a previous city council meeting. Then motion was 2nd by D. Stanton, followed by a 3-0 vote, motion approved.

Mayor Hemming set a Public Hearing date for Jan 15, 2024 @ 6:30 to discuss the city’s intent to raise the surcharge on the monthly water bill another $8.50 to start paying back the SRF loan for Wells 6 & 7.

H. Karim the library director for the Albion Municipal Library has submitted 3 quotes to have push button handicap doors installed to the Albion Municipal Library. D. Stanton made a motion to accept and approve a bid from DHPACE in the amount of $4,866.00. The motion was 2nd by S. Wickam, followed with a 3-0 vote, Mayor Hemming declared the motion approved.

There was a motion made by S. Wickam to remove himself from the city’s banking and check signing, and to assign a new council member as his term is set to end Dec 31st 2023. The motion was 2nd by D. Stanton followed by a 3-0 vote. Motion carried. Mayor Hemming asked if K. Dostal would be willing to added to the city’s banking and sign checks. To be voted by resolution at the Jan 4th special meeting.

D. Stanton made a motion to approve building permit 2023-15, Wickam 2nd and a 3-0 vote followed, motion carried.

K Dostal made a motion to approve an application for tax abatement on a new house, 2nd by Stanton, followed by a 3-0 vote, motion carries.

Dostal made a motion to approve a letter that the clerk was to type up to be sent out with water bills, explaining the city’s intent to raise the surcharge on the monthly water bills to pay back the SRF loan, for the Well project and to ask the public to call the Albion City Hall with concerns with the discolored water so that, issues could be more accurately tracked. The motion was 2nd by Wickam with a 3-0 vote. Motion approved.

The Oath of office was given to all the newly elected officials that will take a seat on the Albion City Council beginning Jan 1 2024. Those elected officials being Kim Dostal, Chris Eirikson, Doug Loffgren and Derek Stanton. Mayor Hemming Thanked S. Wickam for serving his 2-year term with the Albion City Council.

Mayor Hemming asked for any public comments at this time. There were some concerns about cleaning up the town, there are quiet a few properties that are getting out of control. What happened to getting a full council and updating the ordinances, where is the follow through? Mayor Hemming informed the public that he had been in contact with few other mayors of little towns around Albion to consider going together and hiring a Nuisance Officer.

Dostal made a motion to adjourn, Wickam 2nd the vote was 3-0. Mayor Hemming adjourn the meeting @ 7:52pm.

Minutes from the November 20, 2023 regular Albion City Council meeting held @ 107 S Main St Albion, Iowa. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Hemming @ 6:30pm. The Pledge Allegiance was said. Roll call was; members present were D. Stanton, L. Kelley, D. Loffgren, and K. Dostal; absent was council member S. Wickam.

L. Kelley made a motion to approve the agenda, 2nd by Stanton, followed by 4-0 vote; motion carried.

Dostal motioned to approve the consent agenda, which consisted of the minutes for the Oct 16, 2023 meeting, the minutes from the special November 6, 2023 meeting and the November 2023 claims list, the motion was 2nd by Loffgren, followed by 4-0 vote, Mayor Hemming declared motion carried.

The Marshall County Sheriff’s Report was read as; 151 Deputy-initiated activity and 14 calls for service.

R. Guy was present to give her report for water/wastewater management and to present the city council with the respondents for the RFQs to move forward with the city’s Wastewater Compliance Schedule. The city received information from 3 engineering firms and Sewer System Contractors, folders were passed out to each council member to take home and review. There was a short discussion, and council members were instructed to review and study the folders, to decide at the December meeting.

Fire Chief A. Betts was present to give a department report; he reports they had 8 calls and made roughly $14,000.00 at annual Firemen’s breakfast. Chief Betts reports that the new turnout gear that was purchased has arrived, he discussed the remodeling of the kitchen, they have received a free commercial grade kitchen for free to start the project. Chief Betts asked the city council for their appointment of T. Hazen to the Albion Volunteer Fire Department, the Albion City Council as a whole, gave approval of the appointment of T. Hazen to the Albion Volunteer Fire Department.

H. Karim, the Albion Library Director was present to talk about the new sign, and activities being held @ the library. As well as asking council to consider the 3 quotes for a handicap push button door to be installed at the Albion Municipal Library.

The city clerk presented the FY2-23 Annual Finance Report, Loffgren made a motion to approve the ARF for submittal to the state, 2nd by Dostal, followed by 4-0 vote, Mayor Hemming declared motion approved.

Loffgren made a motion to approve a request for livestock (chickens) within the Albion City Limits per city Ordinances, the motion was 2nd by Kelley, followed by 4-0 vote, motion carries request approved.

Loffgren made a motion to open the Public Hearing on the Proposed Rate Increase to the Surcharge to pay back the SRF loans secured to build the Wells, Stanton 2nd the motion, a vote followed, with a 4-0 vote the public hearing opened @7:12pm. Mayor Hemming told everyone in attendance that the city needed to raise the $12.50 surcharge already on the water bills another $8.50, to pay back the SRF loan for the construction of the new deep well. Mayor Hemming explained that we are already into year 11 of 20 years of paying the $12.50 on Well 6 and that in 9 more years, that 12.50 could come off the bill or be left as is to pay off the SRF Loan for Well 7 faster. Kelley raised some concerns about raising the surcharge while there are still some citizens who are still experiencing some discoloration in their water. After a lot of discussion on what the city has done and continues to do to resolve the issue with discolored water, and asking the public in attendance if they had issues, and how often and how bad, Kelley suggested that council table the public hearing until Jan 2023. He suggests sending out letters with the December water bills, stating the city’s intention to raise the surcharge and why, and asking that if you have discolored water to notify the Albion City Hall right away. The Albion City Council agreed. Mayor Hemming tabled the public hearing until January 2024. Stanton made a motion to close the Public Hearing on the Proposed Rate Increase to the Surcharge to pay back the SRF loans secured to build the Wells, 2nd by K. Dostal, followed by 4-0 vote. Hemming closed the public hearing at 7:45pm.

The City Clerk gave updates on all the changes to the upcoming FY24-25 Budget, how it effects the city, and the unofficial results of the November 7 2023 City/School Election.

W. Dooley gave the council an update on the DNR Tree Survey.

Loffgren motioned to adjourn, 2nd by Stanton followed by 4-0 vote. Mayor Hemming adjourned the Albion City Council meeting @ 7:56pm.

Minutes from the regular Albion City Council meeting held Oct 23, 2023 @ 6:30pm @ the Albion City Hall

Mayor Hemming called the meeting to order, the Pledge of Allegiance was said. Present were council members; Derek Stanton, Doug Loffgren and Kim Dostal. Absent were council members; Logan Kelley and Seth Wickam.

D. Loffgren made a motion to approve the agenda with the amendment of adding approving and accepting bid for concrete patches, the motion was 2nd by D. Stanton, followed by a 3-0 vote; Hemming declared motion carried.

K. Dostal made a motion to approve the consent agenda, which consisted of the Sept 2023 council meeting minutes and the Oct 2023 claims list, the motion was 2nd by Loffgren, followed by a 3-0 vote, Hemming declared motion carried.

Mayor Hemming read the Marshall County Sheriff’s report. Maguire Water Tank Experts were here to give a report on the water tower inspection that was done when they came and cleaned the inside of the water tower on Aug 16 2023, and what still needs done for tower maintenance. The council ask them to put together a quote and payment option to be presented to the council at the Nov 2023 city council meeting. R. Guy was here to give her report on the water/wastewater report, and to get the Albion city council’s permission to send out request for quotes and request for immediate cleaning and televising of the city’s entire sewer system, and request for qualifications for a Wastewater engineering firm. Mayor Hemming asked for a motion for approval to allow Guy to send the request out, the motion was made by Loffgren, 2nd by Dostal, followed by 3-0 vote; permission was granted.

The city clerk presented the FY-23 Street Finance Report to the council for approval and approval to submit the state, Stanton made a motion to approve the SFR and submittal to the state, 2nd by Dostal, followed by a 3-0 vote; Hemming declared the motion carried.

Loffgren made a motion to approve building permits 2023-13 &2023-14, 2nd by Dostal, a 3-0 vote followed, motion approved.

Stanton made a motion to approve Mayor Hemming’s appointments to the buildings commission, who were D. Loffgren, K. Dostal and C. Eirikson, the motion was 2nd by Loffgren, followed by 3-0 vote. Motion carries.
The was a motion to approve and accept a quote for trimming of trees in the city, that was tabled due to it being the property owner’s responsibility according to the Albion City Ordinances.

The amendment to accept and approve bids for the concrete patches was tabled, council member Loffgren wanted bids redone, with both contractors having the exact same sizes and areas to be repaired. New bids were to be at the city hall by Nov 1, 2023 and a special meeting will be held on Nov 6, 2023 for acceptance and approval.

A public hearing date was set for Nov 20 2023, to start the discussion of raising the surcharge on the water bills to start paying back the SRF loan for the well project. Motioned by Stanton, 2nd by Dostal followed by a 3-0 vote. The public hearing will be held on Nov 20 2023 @ the Albion City Hall @ 6:30pm.

Loffgren made a motion to adjourn, Stanton 2nd a 3-0 vote followed. Mayor Hemming adjourned the meeting @ 8:13pm.

Minutes from the regular Albion City Council meeting held on September 18, 2023 @ the Albion City Hall @ 6:30pm.

Mayor Hemming called the meeting to order @6:30pm, the Pledge of Allegiance was said. Roll call was done present were council members D. Stanton, D. Loffgren and K. Dostal. Absent were council members L. Kelley and S. Wickam. City Clerk R. Wonders was also absent.

Loffgren made a motion to approve the agenda, 2nd by Stanton, 3-0 vote; motion approved. Stanton made a motion to approve the consent agenda, which consisted of the Aug 2023 minutes and the September 2023 claims list, motion was 2nd by Dostal, 3-0 vote; consent agenda approved.

Officer Cole was present to read the Mashall County Sheriffs Report, which consisted of 166 Deputy-initiated activities and 6 call for service. R. Guy along with Maguire Water Tank Experts was scheduled to speak at the meeting, that was moved to the Oct 2023 meeting. Reports from the departments, was Fire: 5 calls since the last meeting, new turn out gear has been ordered, Fire Convention went well, the 18th Annual Pancake Breakfast will take place on October 14th from 6:30am -10:00am, and there will be a Soup Supper held by K. Mercer @ the Fire Station November 18 2023. Mayor Hemming moved on to the motions. Loffgren motioned to approve the 28E agreement for Marshall County, County/Municipal Mutual Aid Agreement for Fire, the motion was 2nd by D. Stanton followed by a 3-0 vote. Mayor Hemming declared the motion approved.  Stanton motioned to approve the city clerk to attend the IMFOA Fall Conference, with mileage to be paid as she will be traveling in her car back and forth to Des Moines, motion was 2nd by K. Dostal, with a 3-0 vote; motion approved. Stanton made a motion to approve building permits 2023-09, 2023-10, 2023-11, & 2023-12, motion was 2nd by Loffgren; 3-0 vote followed, Mayor Hemming declared motion carried. The City Clerk informed the Albion City Council that the Heart of Iowa loan for the demolition of the Albion Community Center was paid in full in May 2023, and the city received a copy of the Promissory Note marked Paid May 15 2023.  The clerk asked the council to set a date for Trick or Treat this year, council set the date of Saturday October 28 2023 for Trick or Treat Night, from the hours of 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The council discussed the trimming of trees that are hanging over the roads, alleys, and sidewalks. Mayor Hemming asked city maintenance to get a price to have all tree trimmed up, to present at the Oct. meeting. C. Clerk asked Mayor Hemming to appoint 2 council members, and 1 person from the public, for the buildings commission, that city council will vote on at the Oct meeting. Mayor Hemming appointed D. Loffgren, K. Dostal, and C. Eirikson for the building commission.  Public comments; K. Betts informed the council for the Betterment Committee that, the city sign @ the south end of town is being replace, they will be changing out the flower pots, to fall, then Christmas décor. The annual Ham Roll dinner will be held October 28, from 4pm -7 pm @ the Fire Station. Mayor Hemming asked for a motion to adjourn. Loffgren motioned to adjourn, 2nd by Stanton with 3-0 vote. Hemming adjourned the city council meeting.

Minutes from the regular August 2023 Albion City Council meeting, held at the Albion City Hall @ 6:30pm on August 21 2023.

Mayor Hemming called the meeting to order, the Pledge of Allegiance was said. Roll call was; present were council members; L. Kelley, D. Loffgren, S. Wickam by phone. Absent was D. Stanton and 1 vacant council seat.  Mayor Hemming made an amendment to the agenda to include an update from the Strategic Development Committee. Kelley motion to approved the agenda with the amendment, 2nd by Loffgren. Vote was 3-0, motion carried. Kelley made a motion to approve the consent agenda, which includes the minutes from the July meeting and the August claims list, motion was 2nd by Loffgren, vote 3-0 motion carries. Mayor Hemming informed the council they had letters of intent to fill a vacant council seat, gave council a moment to look over and discuss who to appoint. Mayor Hemming asked for a motion, Loffgren made a motion to appoint Kim Dostal to the Albion City Council, stating the reason being is Mr. Dostal had already served once before and has knowledge of how the upcoming budget season works. The motion was 2nd by Kelley, Hemming did a roll call vote; S. Wickam – Yes, D. Loffgren- Yes, L. Kelley – Yes. Mr. Dostal was given the oath of office and took his seat at the table.

Hemming read the Marshall County Sheriff report for the month of July, which consisted of 175 Deputy-initiated activities and 7 calls for service. R Guy was present to give her water/wastewater report; June water usage totaled 1,695,000 gallons averaging 56,000 gallons per day, June wastewater flows were reported at 1,794,000 gallons, averaging 58,000 gallons per day. All regulatory testing is on schedule to meet IDNR permit expectations. Guy went on to say that the water tower has now been cleaned and inspected on the inside. She did not have the official report at the time of the meeting, however did ask that she receive it by September 1, 2023. and that a representative from Maguire be at the Sept meeting to further discuss why the council should consider delaying the cleaning of the outside of the tower at this point.

Loffgren made a motion to approve the Partial Payment #13 to Cahoy Pump to Recognize and correct a $27.00 discrepancy in a previous payment, 2nd by Dostal, vote was 4-0 motion carried.  Kelley motioned to approve building permit 2023-07, 2nd by Loffgren, vote was 4-0 motion approved. Kelley made a motion to approve building permit 2023-08, 2nd by Loffgren, vote was 4-0 motion approved. Council was to consider assembling a building commission to approve future building permits, to be addressed at the next meeting. D. Baccon asked to address the Albion City Council concerning the EMS, Baccon wanted to make the council aware that she was removed from the Albion EMS, without notice and wanted to know why. EMS was present to give their answer as to why. Mayor Hemming informed all parties involved that the Albion City Council has no authority over this decision and that all parties should work it out within their department.

W. Dooley was present to give an update from the Economic Strategic Development Committee on the Iowa River Watershed project, stating that they are at this point looking for board members, and the IDNR tree survey, saying that the survey was completed but will probably take a couple of months to get the results.
The clerk updated the council on the T-Mobile tower rent. There was a discussion on what department the rent should go into, council would like it to go into tower maintenance if that is allowed, to be continued at the next meeting. City Clerk reminded everyone that the city/school elections are happening on November 7, 2023, voting is @ the Liscomb Comm Center. City Clerk also informed council and public that candidate filing papers are available starting August 28, 2023 and must be turned back in by September 21, 2023 by 5:00pm.

Loffgren made a motion to adjourn, Dostal 2nd the motion, vote 4-0, Mayor Hemming adjourn the Albion City Council meeting @ 7:42 pm.

Minutes from the July 17, 2023 regular Albion City Council Meeting held at the Albion City Hall at 6:30pm

Mayor Hemming called the meeting to order at 6:30pm, the Pledge of Allegiance was said. Roll call was; present were council members D. Stanton, L Kelley, Seth Wickam, 2 vacant seats. Stanton made a motion to approve the agenda, 2nd by Wickam, 3-0 vote agenda approved. Stanton motioned to approve the consent agenda, consisting of the minutes from the June 2023 City council meeting, and the July 2023 Claims list. Motion was 2nd by Wickam, followed by a 3-0 vote, consent agenda was approved.

Mayor Hemming informed the council they would be voting on the letters of interest to fill a vacant seat on the Albion City Council. Each council member had a copy of all letters of interest to make their decision. L. Kelley motioned to appoint Doug Loffgren to the vacant seat, that motion was 2nd by Wickam followed by a 3-0 vote. Mayor Hemming appointed D. Loffgren to the vacant council seat and the oath of office was given by city clerk, Loffgren then took his seat at the council table.  Wickam made a motion to formally accept a council member’s immediate resignation and to post intent to fill vacant seat notice, 2nd by Stanton, vote was 4-0 motion carried. Stanton motion to approve building permit 2023-05, 2nd by Wickam, 4-0 vote motion approved. Loffgren made a motion to accept and approve Bolar Gill Tree Removal Service’s bid, to remove dead trees at the Albion City Park, 2nd by Wickam, vote was 4-0 motion carries. Stanton made a motion to approve T-Mobile proposed modification to existing install on their tower on top of the water tower, 2nd by Wickam, vote 4-0, motion approved. Wickam made a motion to open the Public Hearing on the continuation of the Dollar General voluntary annexation, 2nd by Stanton, vote 4-0 meeting opened at 6:55pm. Mayor Hemming asked the public for any comments or concerns. No one replied. Loffgren made a motion to close the public hearing, 2nd by Wickam, vote 4-0, public hearing was closed @ 7:00pm. Loffgren made a motion to approve Resolution 2023.01.C A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN APLLICATION FOR BOLUNTARY ANNEXATION OF CERTAIN LAND TO THE CITY OF ALBION, IOWA. 2nd by Wickam, vote was 4-0. Resolution 2023.01.C approved.

W. Dooley gave an update from the Strategic Development committee on the IDNR tree inventory, Dooley was going to meet with them on August 3, 2023 and report back to council @ the August meeting. Dooley was also going to attend the Middle Iowa River Watershed meeting and bring more info back to the Albion City Council.

Loffgren made a motion to adjourn, 2nd by Stanton vote was 4-0. Meeting adjourned at 7:10pm

Minutes from the May 2023 Regular Albion City Council meeting held on May 15 2023 @ 6:30pm at the Albion City Hall, located at 107 S. Main St Albion, Iowa. Meeting was called to order @6:30 pm by Mayor Pat Hemming, the Pledge of Allegiance was recited, roll call was; present were council members D. Stanton, L. Kelley, K. Swaim, S. Wickam absent D. Loffgren.

A motion to approve the agenda was made by S. Wickam, 2nd K. Swaim; vote was 4 yes 0 nays. Motion carried.

D. Stanton motioned to approve the consent agenda, which consisted of the April 2023 minutes and the May 2023 claims list, motion was 2nd by L. Kelley; vote was 4 ayes 0 nays. Motion carried.

Mayor Hemming read the Marshall County Sheriff report for the month of April 2023.

L. Kelley made a motion to formally accept the resignation of council member D. Loffgren, motion was 2nd by D. Stanton; vote was 4 ayes 0 nays; motion carried. City Clerk was requested to post a Notice of Intent to fill Vacant seat, will all letters of interest to be received by June 14 2023.

A motion was made by D. Stanton to approve the renewal of Woody’s Roadside Tavern’s liquor license, 2nd by L. Kelley; vote was 4 ayes, 0 nays, motion carried.

A motion to approve Casey’s Tobacco Permit renewal was made by L. Kelley, 2nd by S. Wickam, vote was 4 ayes and 0 nays. Motion carried.

There was a motion to approve 3 livestock requests, motion was made by L. Kelley and 2nd by S. Wickam vote was 4 ayes to 0 nays, motion approved.

S. Wickam motion to open the public hearing for the application and approval of the proposed voluntary annexation of certain property from the Dollar General to the City of Albion, the public was told that a section of the property they bought for the store is outside the Albion city limits, and they would like to annex it into the Albion City limits. The public was given a chance to ask questions at that time. K. Swaim motioned to close the public hearing, motion was 2nd by D. Stanton vote was 4 ayes 0 nays, public hearing was closed @ 6:55pm. L. Kelley made a motion to continue the Public Hearing for the application and approval of the proposed Voluntary Annexation of certain property to the City of Albion @ the June 19 2023 regular Albion City Council meeting, motion was 2nd by S. Wickam vote was 4 ayes 0 nays, motion carried.

The Albion City Council discussed a request from Moler Sanitation about trimming trees that hang over the streets, and who was responsible for trimming the trees hanging over the road, it is the property owner’s responsibility even though the trees on the easement and should be trimmed and kept trimmed 12 feet from the bed of the street; according to the Albion City Codes. Also discussed were some nuisance complaints, which are being tabled at this time as to give the Albion City Council a chance to set up Ordinance workshops, where they will go over update and make changes.

K. Swaim motioned to go into closed session per Iowa Code 21.5 Employee evaluation, D. Stanton 2nd 4-0 vote, city council entered closed session 7:15 pm.  L. Kelley made a motion to close the closed session Iowa Code 21.5 Employee Evaluation, motion was 2nd by S. Wickam, vote 4-0 session closed @ 7:45 pm

L. Kelley motioned to approval what was discussed in closed session, motion was 2nd by S. Wickam with a 4-0 vote, motion carried.

L. Kelley motion to adjourn, S. Wickam 2nd the motion with a 4-0 vote. Mayor Hemming adjourned meeting @ 7:50 pm.

Minutes from the March 20, 2023 regular Albion City Council Meeting, held at the Albion City Hall @6:30pm

Meeting was called to order @6:30pm by Mayor Hemming, the Pledge of Allegiance was said, followed by roll call. Present were city council members; D. Loffgren, D. Stanton, L. Kelley, K. Swaim, S. Wickam.  Kelley made a motion to approve the agenda, 2nd by Loffgren, roll call vote was 5-0, motion carried.  Kelley made a motion to approve the consent agenda, which consisted of the February minutes and the March 2023 claims list, motion was 2nd by Stanton, roll call vote was 5-0, motion carried.

The Marshall County Sheriff report was read by Mayor Hemming, the report was 154 Deputy-initiated activities and 1 call for service for the month of February 2023. Reports from the departments are as followed; Wastewater/Water-waiting on water samples, water levels look good and increase the polymer feed, Sewer- issues with residential, got jet machine running, city maintenance with the help of Betts will start jetting city sewer lines, EMS, City Maintenance, Streets, Library had nothing to report, Public Safety asked City Maintenance to work on low hanging tree branches, Fire Chief Betts reports 1 call since the February meeting, and still working on getting quotes for roof repairs. Parks still working on getting internet service for cameras for the city park and ball diamonds due to the vandalism. There was a motion made by Loffgren to approve a building permit, 2nd by Stanton, voted 5-0, permit approved. The requests for Albion City Council’s written approval for Livestock within the Albion City Limits was tabled until the April 2023 city council meeting.  K. Swaim motioned to approve the Public Hearing for the Max Levy date of April 10 2023, 2nd by Loffgren, vote was 4-0 with one abstained, motion carried.  A motion to set a Public Hearing Date of April 27 2023 for the FY23-24 City Budget was made by Swaim and 2nd by Loffgren, vote was 4-0 with one abstained, motion approved. Loffgren made a motion to approve the Dollar General Class B Alcohol & Tobacco License, 2nd by Swaim with a vote of 5-0, Mayor Hemming declare motion carried. Loffgren motion to approve Woody’s Roadside Tavern Liquor License, 2nd by Stanton with 5-0 vote, license approved. Kelley motioned to introduced Resolution 2023-01.B A RESOLUTION RATIFING THE CONSULATION METTING RELATED TO ACCEPTIN FOR FILIN AN APPLICATION FOR BOLUNTARTY ANNEXATION OF CERTAIN LAND TO THE CITY OF ALBION, IOWA AND SETTING A NEW DATE FOR A PUBLIC HEARING THEREON, FOR  MAY 15, 2023 @ 6:30PM, 2nd by Stanton, with a 5-0 vote Mayor Hemming declared Resolution 2023-01B approved. The Albion City Council discussed changing the Food Vendor fees to $75.00 for a season pass, to be discussed again at the April meeting. Kelley made a motion to adjourn, motion was 2nd by Loffgren, roll call vote was 5-0, Mayor declared meeting adjourned at 7:21pm.

Minutes regular Albion City Council meeting help on February 20, 2023 @ 6:30pm, at the Albion City Hall located @ 107 S. Main St Albion , Iowa

Mayor Hemming call the meeting to order @ 6:30pm, the Pledge of Allegiance was said. Roll call was done. Present were council members; D. Loffgren, L. Kelley, K. Swaim and S. Wickam.  Absent was council member D. Stanton.

Loffgren made a motion to approve the agenda, 2nd by Swaim, with a 4-0 vote; agenda approved.
Swaim motioned to approve the consent agenda; consisting of the January 2023 minutes and the February claims list, motion was 2nd by Loffgren, 4-0 vote followed, motion carried.

The Marshall County Sheriff report was read, 180 Deputy-initiated activity with Warning /Citations and 5 calls for service for the month of January 2023.

B. Veenstra was present to discuss the continued water issues, stating there are two issues to address at this time. One being that the PH levels are to low and the Phosphate feed needs to be increase. Council member Kelley brought a sample of water from his house drawn just prior to the meeting, and asked what do we need to do to correct this issue, we keep revisiting this every month and not making any headway? Veenstra suggested to switch back to Well #6, install the Sodium Hydroxide Feed system and increase the Poly Feed for Well #7. Veenstra and Guy discussed the different water chemistry of the 2 Wells. Guy stated you can run the same test but the results will not be the same due to the difference in the water chemistry of the Wells. Kelley asked about flushing hydrants, Loffgren stated the water tower also. Guy told the council that they should wait to flush hydrants until spring and that it needs to be done methodically, and not all in one day, needs to be done over a period time, and should let the hydrants run longer that previously ran by a couple of minutes. Veenstra suggested flushing they hydrant on East Chicago Street as a temp fix, seeing what happens. Guys stated it will just go dirty again. Veenstra instructed the city to switch back to Well #6. Veenstra talked about the SRF loan forgiveness and the final payout making the water debt about $19,000.00 per year. The council wants to start discussion on increasing the monthly surcharge by $8.00 to cover the SRF Loan payment estimated at $19,000.00. Waste water report by Guy was that there needs to be a phone line @ the sewer plant to run the alarm there. The January report from Guy was; December 2022 water usage totaled 1,276,000 gallons averaging 41,000 gallons per day. All regular permit testing is on schedule for IDNR and in compliance. The waste water flows were reported at 1,083,000 gallons averaging 34,000 gallon per day. All regulatory testing is on schedule to meet IDNR permit expectations. For sewer City Maintenance reported he had several calls about sewer issues along Clinton St. He had the sewer jetted from Chicago St all the way south on Clinton Street to the lift station. City Maint asked about getting the city’s jet machine running again, Betts was asked to look at it. Fire Chief Betts  reported he has quotes coming for the roof repair, and was advised not to put a steel roof on the Fire Station, he also reported 5 calls since the Jan 2023 meeting. Swaim for parks dept, has been trying to get in contact with Heart of Iowa to get a price range to have cameras installed at the city park and ball diamonds. The Library reports that they had a great seed swap and is eager to start a community garden.

The was a motion made by Kelley to accept and approve the purchase of the equipment for the Sodium Hydroxide feed system from Hawkins, 2nd by Swaim followed by a 4-0 vote, Hemming declared the motion approved.  Swaim made a motion to approve a request made to have livestock ( Chickens) in the Albion City limits, per city ordinance, 2nd by Loffgren followed by a 4-0 vote, Hemming declared motion carried. There was some concern from the public in attendance about those who have livestock in town and have not come to the city council asking for approval, how were those cases going to be handled, the clerk was asked to read the ordinance, which she did. After much discussion, the clerk asked the council for their instruction on how they want it handled. The clerk was instructed to send letters to those who have livestock and have not approached the city council asking them to do so and to include a copy of the livestock ordinance with the letter. There was a motion made by Kelley to approve T-Mobile to perform maintenance /modification to the equipment on and around the water tower, 2nd by Wickam followed by a 4-0 vote, motion carried. Loffgren wants them to change the red light on top of the tower as well.  Resolution 2023-01; A RESOLUTION ACCEPTIONG FOR FILING AN APPLICATION FOR VOLUNTARTY ANNEXATION OF CERTAIN LAND TO THE CITY OF ALBION, IOWA SETTING THE DATE FOR A PUBLIC HEARING AND A CONSULTATION MEETING AND PROVIDING FOR NOTICE OF PROPOSED CITY COUNCIL ACTION, was read Loffgren made a motion to approve Resolution2023-01, Kelley 2nd the motion; followed by a 4-0 vote. Mayor Hemming declared Resolution 2023-01 approved. The public hearing for Resolution 2023-01 will be set for the March meeting. Public comments from J. Mann, Mann stated she was asked by L. Raymon to let the Albion Cit Council know that he is planning a Memorial Day program @ the Veterans Park on May 29 2023 @ 8:00 am. Kelley motion to adjourn, 2nd by Wickam followed by a 4-0 vote, Hemming adjourned meeting at 7:57pm

Minutes from the regular January 16 2023 Albion City Council meeting held at the Albion City Hall located at 107 S. Main St. Albion Iowa @ 6:30 pm. 

Mayor Hemming call the meeting order, the Pledge of Allegiance was said and roll call done with city council members; Loffgren, Stanton, Kelley, and Swaim present, Absent was Wickam.

Mayor Hemming asked to make an amendment to the agenda; to add a quote from Hawkins Inc, for the Sodium Hydroxide feed system under discussions.

Stanton motion to approve the agenda with the amendment, Swaim 2nd and the vote was 4-0

Kelley motioned to approve the consent agenda, which consist of the Minutes from Dec 2022 meeting and the Jan 2023 Claims list, motion was 2nd by Swaim, followed by a 4-0 vote.

B. Veenstra discussed with the Albion City Council a change order to allow Cahoy Pump Services to relocate the electrical service attached to the exterior of the casing shield for Well No. 3 in the spring. Stating if the city chose to have it moved during the winter months the cost would be $12,938.00, if the city waits until spring thaw it would be $7,769.00. Veenstra also informed the city council that they could hire someone else to move the electrical service for considerably less money, but by doing so it would not be covered un the SRF Funding, by allowing Cahoy Pump Service to do it the cost would be covered under the SRF funding. Veenstra asked council members to consider approving the change order.  Kelley motioned to approve change order, Loffgren 2nd motion followed by a vote 4-0 motion carried.

No Sheriff Report at the time of meeting, R. Guy's water/wastewater report for water was; Total water usage was 901,000 gallons, averaging 30,000 gallons per day. All regular permit testing is on Schedule for IDNR and in compliance, All regulatory testing is on schedule to meet IDNR permit expectations, and Guy made some minor adjustments to the poly feed to increase the clarity of the water, we will continue on this path as long as needed. Report for wastewater was, wastewater flows were reported at 915,000 gallons averaging 30,000 per day. All regulatory testing is on schedule to meet IDNR permit expectations. Fire Chief Betts gave his report of 3 calls so far for the month of January, the shipping container for cold-storage was delivered and set. Chief Betts reports that they would like to start working on the kitchen/meeting room of the Fire Station this spring, turning it into an industrial kitchen, and asked the city council to consider the possibility of the Fire Meetings to be held at the Albion City Hall instead of having them at the Fire Station. City Maintenance updated the council of the status of the Orange City Plow truck, still not firing, trying to locate the issue with Betts help. The Library Director updated the council a 45% in the door increase, that being new people to come in and use the facility and that she has doubled the internet speed for the same price.

Mayor Hemming gave an update on nuisance abatement, City Maintenance updated the city council that the meter change out has started on Jan 16 2023. City Clerk informed the city council of the upcoming Voluntary Annexation process for the Dollar General.

The Albion City Council discussed the quote from Hawkins, on the price for the Sodium Hydroxide feed system. This system allows the PH levels in the city water to be raised. Veenstra advised the council that we already have the permits from the IDNR and should consider purchasing the equipment and be ready for the install. Veenstra will be working with Hawkins, and would like for this to be added to the Feb agenda for action.

The city council also set a budget workshop date for January 25 2023.

Swaim made a motion to adjourn, 2nd by Kelley followed by a 4-0 vote; Mayor Hemming declared meeting adjourned at 7:32pm.

Click Here for 2022 City Council Minutes