As you have already figured out the January 3, 2022, regularly scheduled city council meeting was Covid quarantine/postponed to January 10, 2022.  The meeting was called to order with the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance by Mayor Dan Haeder with Councilman David Larsen, Councilwoman Linda Talbott, Councilwoman Cyndi Peeples, and Councilman Lukas Driesen.  City Attorney Sam Nelson and Councilwoman Darla Reppe absent.

          As you can see at the beginning of the video FO (01:56.13), while FOPAT was busy delivering beverages in mugs and handing out napkins and with a general ‘what can I get you’ solicitousness precipitating a raise in the offing.  When FOPAT finally planted her backside into the seat normally occupied by City Attorney Sam Nelson, Mayor Haeder began (02:05.83) regurgitating all actions, votes and times occurring after he first called the meeting to order and proceeded to stick her snout into the discussions as if she was an equal of the city council members after she practiced her servicing techniques on the council members.

Agenda Item #3 – Approve Agenda

Approved Unanimously

Agenda Item #4 – Approved Minutes of 12/06/2021 and 12/20/2021

Approved Unanimously

Agenda Item #5 – Public Input

#1      I (Vickie Larsen) (03:24.97) started questions about Agenda Item #15 involving the downtown garbage cans (01:39:52.50) at $500 a can, 8 cans plus $900. shipping feet and placed downtown Alcester.  Folks,  eight (8) cans at $500.00 each plus $900.00 shipping fee, I come up with $4900.00 FO Pat wants to spend. Let your council and Mayor know your opinion!

            My next question was the Agenda Item #16(b) ‘Resolution of Fees’, a draft copy should have been placed on the city website so ‘we the people’ see the old saying, “Robbing Peter to Pay Paul” put into action.  So which are you?  A Peter or a Paul?  I spoke of people who contacted me with concerns over the raises in water and sewer rates as well as the accuracy of those reads.(04:54.40)  Folks retain your postcard bill, keep a log with the date of read, your own reading of your meter versus the city read and try to do the reads as close to each other as possible.  Point of interest, some time ago I overheard a city hall conversation between the ‘finance office girls’ concerning cold temperature and meter reads and the comment, “…well we’ll just guess-ti-mate the usage…” (05:22.73) So just how often do we get a cold guess-ti-mate or a hot guess-ti-mate or a “I just do not have the time guess-ti-mate? M-m-m-m?  Also Agenda Item #16(d) First of all the need for an Executive Session to discuss Salaries.  I asked the question (06:06.50) do we even have anyone on salary to which FOPAT answered just Landon.  H-m-m so folks why an hour long Closed Curtain Executive Session to discuss salary? 7:54 p.m. to 8:58 p.m.

          My third topic of question was Agenda Item #17 Volunteer Roster additions of the administrative personnel Finance Officer Patricia Jurrens and her aide-de-camp Wanda Halverson to do ‘volunteer’ work at the Albatross and be protected by Worker Compensation. (06:37.83)

          Lastly my question, did Finance Officer Pat Jurrens or her aide-de-camp Wanda Halverson apologise to the complainant whose private telephone number was shared by Mayor Haeder’s girls-in-the-finance office.  (07:16.53)  Check out Mayor Haeder’s answer…”I apologised via email…” (07:46.37)

#2      Councilman Lukas Driesen reported (08:09.67) he had received a thank you from Fay Hendricks for the work our Police Chief Austin Schuller and Officer Lass in protecting our city and its residents.

Agenda Item #6 – Police Policy and Procedure Manual 

          (09:11.67) Chief Schuller  advised the council the finishing touches had been made to the Police Policy and Procedure Manual and it was ready for City Attorney Sam Nelson’s final legal proofing.  (10:36.73)  Note Finance Officer Jurrens stick her snout into the conversation to offer up her opinion.  Yo! FO, you are there to take notes and advise the council whether we still have money in OUR accounts, NOT to offer up quasi legal primping opinions! (10:47.83)  City Attorney Sam Nelson is our forms guy not the waitress-in-training/bookkeeper!  (11:15.77)  FOPAT says she will draft changes for a city manual for police policy?  Gotta wonder what kind of places she has had her nose into. I realise she has had a history of personal experience with legal summons and legal charges and professes opportunities of broadening her horizons of experience but that does not make her competent in writing policy manuals.

Agenda Item #7 – Police Department

          (13:19.63) Chief Schuller gave updates on department activities and asked for Council approval for his attendance at the Police Chief and Sheriff Spring Training Event in Deadwood. (18:12.67)  FOPAT stuck her snout in to interrupt Chief Schuller from answering the question posed to HIM by Councilwoman Linda Talbott. His request was approved.  (18:51.00) Once again FOPAT needs to be reminded of her place, she is only needed to record the minutes and to report which accounts she move money from and to! Inspired by an old proverb,  “she should only be allowed to be present to take notes during a city council conversation but should not be allowed to speak unless she is directly asked a bookkeeping question.”  In my opinion, a cardboard effigy sitting in a chair with a recording device would work just as well.  Regarding the plus one issue, is a question for Sam since he is both legal and SDML.  In addition, Council members the city was and I presume still is a dues paying member of the SDML and therefore council members can go straight to the horse’s mouth (equi oris) instead of settling for the (bookkeeper ______).  And folks the SDML does speak English so our council members do not NEED an interpreter!

Agenda Item #8 – Community Center – (21:35.03) Clint Nyreen

Mr. Nyreen gave a recap of the opening and updates on finances and outlined operational changes.

A conversation concerning smoking (38:20.30)

SDCL §34-46-13,  SDCL §34-46-15 and SDCL §34-46-14

Smoking in public or place of employment prohibited–Petty offense.

No person may smoke tobacco product or carry any lighted tobacco product in any public place or place of employment. A violation of this section is a petty offense.(Source: SL 2009, ch 171, § 1, approved eff. Nov. 10, 2010; SL 2019, ch 155, § 2.)

Signage discussion.  (46:10.17) 

Community center employees, employment and wage decision are not part of FOPAT’s  job.  Keep taking notes for minutes of the meeting, that is your job FOPAT!  (51:44.13)

(54:34.07) Just who is on the community center committee?

Agenda Item #9 – 2022 Retainer Agreement (1:00:10.27)

Retainer between the city of Alcester and Frieberg, Nelson and Ask.  One Key component of the retainer agreement is:

 “…II.   City shall pay Attorney at the rate of $150.00 per hour for Thomas H. Frieberg and $150.00 per hour for Samuel J. Nelsen for Attorney’s time spend in and out of court on legal matters on behalf of the City;  City agrees to pay Attorney at the rate of $150.00 per hours for attending regularly schedules city council meeting.  Attendance at regular meetings shall not be mandatory but shall be at the invitation of City.  Special meetings requiring Attorney attendance will be billed at the contracted rate.  In addition, City agrees to pay all costs, filing fees, or other expenses associated with Attorney’s representation of City, except for mileage for attending one regular meeting per month.  City Agrees to pay mileage to Attorney in connection with the prosecution of city ordinance violations and representation on other legal matters that involve travel away from Beresford, South Dakota at the federal mileage rate then effect at the time of travel…”

Approved Unanimously

Agenda Item #10 – Street Purchases –

(1:02:18.87) Motion 1 listed  JD 54″ Snow Blower ($1600.00), Ballast Box ($240.00), Cab ($385.00), Skid Steer rush ($1200.00)  Renken Sales – Snow Fund Account.  Second motion for ($1800.00) JD Skid Steer Front Deck Mower.  Renken Sales – Solid Waste Fund.  On a $5000.00 budget, Guess What?  Exceeding budget by  ($225.00)  Didn’t seem to bother the council  ‘Cause Councilman David Larsen made the motion to over-spend the budget for toys rather than support a local entrepreneur. (1:09:27.57)

Both Motions Approved Unanimously

Agenda Item #11 – 2022 Official Newspaper- Alcester Union-Hudsonite  (1:13:49.33)

Approved unanimously

Agenda Item #12 – 2022 Official Bank- Premier Bank (1:14:44.53)

Approved Unanimously

Agenda Item #13 – Golf Course Tree Trimming  (1:15:49.27)

Councilman David Larsen is concerned by an unexpected $13,000.00 expense so he asks the bookkeeper about an additional unexpected expense of $2100.00. (1:17:26.67) Folks listen to her answer. (1:18:28.60)  The attitude seems to be, “what’s another $2100.00 expense”  S-o-o Councilman David Larsen plunges ahead (1:19:58.33) to spend $2100.00 tree trimming expense which could be put off until the $13,000.00 expense overage is resolved.

Approved Unanimously

Agenda Item #14 – Golf Cart – Purchase or Lease? (1:20:53.73)

According to discuss the only option is the trade/purchase option.  Deal offered is to trade our 2005 cart for two (2) 2013 carts plus up to $6000.00.

Approved Unanimously

Agenda Item #15 – Downtown Garbage Cans (1:24:47.53)

Loren Fischer and FOPAT put their collective heads together to spend more money.  New trash cans (Eco-Tainers)(www.snyderrefuse.com) for down town at $500.00 each for 8 cans with $900.00 for shipping or more for a total of $4900.00.  Folks now the council wants a lock down device for the lids for security reasons at a cost of approximately $50.00 each which would add an additional $400.00 for a grand total of $5300.00. Now this handy dandy lock down device prevents lid removal in an upright position but at a 90 degree angle (I believe) when the moto-arm swings the can to dump it, the lid will release to drop the trash.  Now these polypropylene wonder cans must be placed where the moto-arm can lock onto them.  The idea voice in the meeting was to place the cans near light poles so the sidewalk could be cleared of snow and the moto-arm could latch on to them.  Lord only knows what would happen if ol’ moto-arm latches onto the light pole.  There is another drawback, these polypropylene cans only have a three (3) year limited warranty.  The brochure says these $500.00 pedestal cans are seamless so no seam cracking but they have UV protection added supposedly to reduce fading.  That is fine for your logo but UV stabilizer is also added to polypro to offset the material degradation process for outdoor usage. 

Why the push you say?  Well let’s see, the armed garbage truck cannot pick up our caged trash receptacles so that means someone has to remove the lids, pull out a bag, throw it in the city truck and haul ten bags of trash to a dumpster.  Kind-of-a-no-brainer but then…

Now folks we have ten (10) cage type trash receptacles which hold an approximate 33 gallon plastic container dotted around the city.  These are still usable containers and new lids can be purchased for these units.  So for the cost of one of those $500.00 handy-dandy polypro pedestal cans, the city should be able to purchase five new lids.  However there would be no polypropylene pedestal for FOPAT to stand on and we would still have our light poles.  A-w-w

Mayor Haeder read the brochure (1:26:47.03) “…Pedestal can be weighted up to 70 lbs. for added stability…)The council had the good sense to table this issue (1:39:52.50), but the next meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 17, 2022. (Martin Luther King day)  Contact the council, contact Mayor Haeder and let them know.  The numbers are listed below.

Agenda Item #16 – Finance Office (1:40:44.93)

a)  Warrants – (1:48:44.97)  Approved Unanimously

b)  City Fees Resolution 2022(1:49:15.83)  Approved Unanimously

c)  2022 Municipal Election (1:51:26.33)

d)  2022 Salaries Executive Session (1:52:53.13)

Motion for Executive Session (1:53:28.17)  Approved Unanimously

Entered into Executive Session at 7:54 P.M. with all council members present and by request of Councilman David Larsen, FO Pat Jurrens. 

Council declared out of Executive Session at 8:58 P.M.

(1:56:12.07) Approval of 2022 Salaries Vote Unanimous

e)  Reminders and Updates

Agenda Item #17 – Update of Volunteer Roster Patricia Jurrens and Wanda Halverson (1:57:34.33) 

So tell me Pat Jurrens and Wanda Halverson work for the city, they are already on the worker compensation roster so why are they appearing on the volunteer roster?  H-m-m?  Double Dipping?  (1:57:46.37) Motion by Councilman David Larsen to add City Finance Pat Jurrens and City Finance Office Aide Wanda Halverson to the volunteer roster of the Albatross.  Second by Councilman Lukas Driesen.  Discussion called with Councilwoman Linda Talbott responding:

(1:58:08.07).  Councilwoman Talbott told the council,

“Clint asked her (Linda) what purpose did Pat and Wanda want to come to the Community Center…Clint wants to maintain some sort of semblance of order…” 

(1:58:38.70)  Pat says, 

” I want to train”…

(1:59:10.63) FOPAT says,

“If I look at the schedule…I see holes…or I feel there is not quite enough staff…” 

Apparently if her ‘trained eye calls’ speaks to her. FOPAT fully intends to stick her snout in and interfere in Clint’s operation with her Aide De Camp Wanda at her back.  Nice working conditions, don’t cha think.  Ya got a PAT on your back, with a Wanda Crop. 

Approve Unanimously

Agenda Item #18 – Executive Session 1-25-2 (purpose ?) if needed

Agenda Item #19 – Adjourn (2:00:20.30)

Contact City Council

Mayor Dan Haeder                             605-934-2287      605-770-7929

Councilman David Larsen                  605-934-2434

Councilwoman Darla Reppe               605-934-2602

Councilwoman Linda Talbot              605-254-3074

Councilwoman Cyndi Peeples

Councilman Lukas Driesen

Patricia Jurrens                                  605-934-2517

The Ignis Fatuus is a vapor shining without heat.

Isaac Newton

 It is comforting Uncle Isaac recognized Ignis Fatuus as something which appears in the night over marshy ground and is often attributable to the combustion of gas from decomposing brainless matter as a faux FO.

The December 6, 2021, city council meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Mayor Haeder with council members David Larsen, Darla Reppe, Linda Talbott, Cyndi Peeples and Lukas Driesen present.  Absent was Alcester City Attorney Sam Nelson.

The council quick-timed through the Approval of Agenda and Approval of the minutes of  November 1, 2021, and  November 15, 2021.

Mayor Haeder called Agenda Item #5 – Banner Engineering design update by Tanya Miller.  Ms. Miller walked through the update of the design which is now approximately 50% complete, noting the deletion of certain costs and enumerating the cost additions ranging from site reads to grading to demolitions taking the project from $3,095,000.00 to a projected cost elevation to $3, 295,000.00 +/- million. Document available at city offices (03:35.00)

Agenda Item #6 – Interviews for the vacant Ward II council seat.  No takers.

Agenda Item #7 – Public Input.  (29:29.93) Reporter Gordon Richard asked for the status of the HRC Four Plex, received no answer.  (29:58.80) Theresa Deem had comments concerning the raise in her rent which she characterized as a blind-side..  She stated she had emailed Mayor Haeder and Councilwoman Reppe with no response.  Still no comment from Mayor Haeder and the council.  (32:26.80) Vickie Larsen.  I held up my water bill which I had received in the mail and asked once again for the properties with stand-alone garages hooked up to water because the city finance office (31:56.00) was now sharing personal information such as private telephone numbers with out-of-state people looking to rent homes in Alcester. I stated, “…please tell me that is not accurate. (32:07.30)  NO ANSWER!  I was denied access to whether water was being supplied to specific properties and accused by the Mayor of wasting the city’s time with Freedom of Information requests.  Yet he allows the finance office to apparently “act as a go-betweens or solicit potential tenants, sellers, purchasers or landlords” or in another case give out telephone numbers to a management company for outdoor property maintenance on a property within the city of Alcester. (32:16.37) I requested via email to FO with CC to Mayor Haeder and City Attorney Nelson for a copy of the Promissory Note Resolution prior to the Monday night meeting.  My request was ignored.  I sent a second notice of request for the Promissory Note to FO with CC to Mayor Haeder and City Attorney Nelson.  My request was still ignored with the exception of City Attorney Nelson who sent me a copy.  Folks this document should have been published on the website for the public to read and make comments during Public Input.  Anything coming before the council for a yay or nay vote should be available to the public for comment. Evidently the FO did not feel like doing her job.  (0:33:10.60) Chief Schuller indicated he had asked for agenda time but evidently that did not happen so he made his announcements during public input.  Chief Schuller informed the council and gallery Officer Grayson was now moved into the area and there are elves to be found in the community.  (0:34:22.97)  Theresa Deem spoke again asking, “…did the city take a vote?”  Mrs. Deem also noted the front door was not repaired and there was an odor of sewer gas at the bar sink.  Regarding raising the rent Mayor Haeder opined, “…all kinds of things were going on (yeah like the city setting up competition to Mrs. Deems business)…we didn’t raise the rent last year…”  Mayor Haeder goes on to opine (0:35:30.57). “…we’re all guilty of not having the best communication…”  Depends on the type of telecommunication you are a usin”…”  (0:35:44.37) Councilwoman Cyndi Peeples stated she did not want to see the rent raised until all repairs were taken care of.  (0:38:38.97)  Mayor Haeder asks Councilwoman Peeples, “…are you going to do this plumbing…?  Mayor Haeder, HOW DARE YOU VOICE THAT COMMENT IN A PUBLIC VENUE!  YOU OWE COUNCILWOMAN PEEPLES AN APOLOGY FOR YOUR GROSS LACK OF COURTESY! 

          (0.44:18.03) I asked for permission to speak to your comment nothing had been done to the bar building since Shep (circa 1936) was a pup.  Sir, I responded to you emphatic NO with the comment …Sullivans 2011.    Sir, this was another issue with the bar.  The council extended a lease to these folks with no checks into their backgrounds.  Only one Councilman voted No to extending them a lease, Peter Larsen.  These folks were told all changes had to be approved by the council which they ignored, hired contractors to make repairs and upgrades without the approval of the council and ultimately failed to pay those contractors who initiated a lawsuit against the city.  The city settled, but these changes were made and Sir, Shep was long gone!

Agenda Item #8 Legal Updates  Short discussion of properties on Iowa Street and Ofstad streets.  City Attorney Nelson had asked for an Executive session for this agenda item.  Council went into Executive Session for Legal counseling at 6:47 P.M. and exited the session at 7:16 p.m.  No public action was taken!

Agenda Item #9 Mayor’s Statement (0:48:39.37)  Aha, now Mayor Haeder acknowledges he did receive a letter regarding the sharing of private information.  The Blabbing of private information of a resident by the Finance Office.  Sadly this is not a one-time transgression and add window peeping to the mix, the city of Alcester has a problem.  We know the council has a perpetual Executive Session for personnel (SDCL 1-25-2.1), but we never-ever see any type of censure for this apparent on-going behavior. (0:50:28.00)  SO MAYOR HAEDER WHAT ARE YA GONNA DO ABOUT FO BLABBERY?   You responsibility!

Agenda Item #10  Library Board Appointment

Agenda Item #11  Promissory Note Resolution  2021-18

Agenda Item #12 Fund Transfers

Agenda Item #13 Supplemental Appropriation

(01:03:48.43)  Pat’s overtime doing special projects not related to her job description.  Now we know where she goes and what she is not doing in her own words!  (01:12:36.13)  Mayor explains Bookkeeping 101 to us.  “…For those of ‘US” who are not aware of this…”  Hey Mayor why aren’t you aware of this, you have been a councilman and a mayor for at least a year now?  Yet you claim not to be aware of what is going on in the city?  (01:13:07.07)  So Mayor Haeder you seem to be saying being in the Red isn’t really in the RED, we just have the FO wave her wand and she makes RED the new Black?  Is that what you are saying?          

The second penny sales tax is our savior?  So Mayor Haeder what happens when our city owned business runs our privately owned shops out of business???  What do ya think happens to the second penny sale, shoot what happens to the first penny sales tax???  I know ya’ll gettin’ your eyes fixed, but are ya really gonna see that one comin’ down the road at cha???

Agenda Item #14 Finance Office Updates  Warrants for Banner, Motorola and regular warrants approved.  Now onto the FO checks.  (01:21:46.43)  Finance Office monthly spot checks haven’t happened, updated schedule OVERSIGHT OF THE FINANCE OFFICE HAS TO BE RE-SCHEDULED ‘CAUSE FO PAT HAS BEEN TOO BUSY RE-ORGANIZING THE COMMUNITY CENTER KITCHEN AND OTHER UNRELATED BOOKKEEPING CHORES.

This Ol’ Pat, she played one,

She played Knick, Knack on our H-h-m-m

With a Knick, Knack FO Patty’s Whacked,

Give A Pig a home,

Ol’ FOCat is on the roam.

Agenda item #15  Executive Session (SDCL 1-25-2.1) Personnel  Entered into Executive Session at 7:52 p.m. Gallery plus Pat and Wanda banished to the hallway.  Out of Executive Session at 8:24 p.m.  No open meeting action taken on the personnel issue.

Agenda Item # 7 Public Input by Reporter Gordon Richard is revisited for an answer from Mayor Haeder.  HRC meeting yet this year, Mayor Haeder states, “… (01:26:00.60) trying to get out from under the Four Plex issue.”  I have to ask the question, “So how much did Councilwoman Pat Jurrens push for Beck Drive cost the HRC fund?  The street to insolvency for the HRC?

Agenda Item #16  Adjourn at 8:28 p.m.

Contact City Council

Mayor Dan Haeder                             605-934-2287      605-770-7929

Councilman David Larsen                  605-934-2434

Councilwoman Darla Reppe               605-934-2602

Councilwoman Linda Talbot              605-254-3074

Councilwoman Cyndi Peeples

Councilman Lukas Driesen

Patricia Jurrens                                  605-934-2517

Let It All Hang Out*

The Hombres – 1967

written by Jeff Paris/Moon Calhoun

“A preachment, dear friends, you are about to receive
On John Barleycorn, nicotine, the temptations of Eve”
(Bronx cheer)* to Finance Office

No RV parkin’ near the sewer line

Dang that cat needs a tag, ’cause the city’s broke

Water drippin’ out the water tower spout

But we don’t care, let it all hang out!

Mayor Haeder called the November 1, 2021, city council meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. with Councilman David Larsen, Councilwoman Darla Reppe, Councilwoman Linda Talbott, Councilwoman Cyndi Peeples, Councilman Lukas Driesen and City Attorney Sam Nelson present for the city.  Present in the gallery were Gordon Richard-reporter, Jennifer Schuller, Amanda Ericson, Brian Johnson, Aaron Larsen, Theresa Deem, Vickie Larsen-blogger and city ‘what-evah’ Wanda Halverson.  The assemblage recited the Pledge of Allegiance and so it goes, we’re gonna let it all hang out! 

Clingin’ to a metal chair with my knees

Sun is still shinin’ in the street

Nobody knows (not even the Mayor) what the agenda is about

It’s too much man, we’re gonna let it all hang out!

Agenda item #3 – Mayor calls for Approval of the Agenda.  No changes in the line-up, so they’re gonna let it all hang out!

Agenda Item #4 – Mayor calls for Approval of the Minutes of October 4, 2021, and October 18, 2021, and so with no challenges or corrections in FO Pat’s version of the minutes the council voted to accept.

No one steppin’ up to take a Ward II chance

No council interview to make FO Pat spill her Victoria’s Secrets

No time to waste on a fade out

It’s a cause lost, so we’re gonna let it all hang out!

Agenda Item #5 – Interviews of the vacant Ward II council seat.  No takers, FO Pat must be losin’ her touch in her search for protections against Patty Whackers.

Agenda Item #6 – Alcester Chamber of Commerce – Amanda Ericson appeared on behalf of the Alcester Chamber of Commerce to request street closure for the Christmas Tree Lighting event.  Her request was granted by the council but with the codicil Mayor Haeder wanted to consult with Chief of Police Austin Schuller.

Pinned up with my button plea

I listened to the following opinioned input

Much of it held some clout

It smacked and walloped, but we’re gonna let it all hang out!

Agenda Item #7 – Public Input.

(12:42.00) Councilwoman Cyndi Peeples voiced her concerns with the public Facebook criticisms of the Finance Office.  Councilwoman Peeples stated, “…First people I met when I moved here were the city Finance Officer Jurrens…Chief Jeff Christie and Police Officer Austin Schuller.  They are the reason I fell in love with this town…”  (16:27.10) Councilwoman Peeples went on to comment on the signs that were put into place by the Commercial Club-now known as the Chamber of Commerce.  These signs are in a condition which fails to give a welcome message.

(17:57.53)  Vickie Larsen was next.  I asked if Chief Austin’s On-Call was paid.  I was told he had received his On-Call pay November 1, 2021, two weeks after the council voted to pay the On-Call time.  I questioned why the payment was delayed since the council voted to pay the debt on October 18, 2021.  I asked why FO Pat delayed payment.  She used a variety of excuses why she deliberately failed to pay Chief Austin.  From she didn’t want to do a special payroll, so she delayed the payment.  Oh and yes (18:38.80) FO Pat, “…I don’t appreciate that comment…”Yo, FOPat do ya realize the penalty of delaying payment to an employee?  Folks check out the FLSA.  Usually government entities cannot be sued but if any delay in payment is deliberate or punitive, immunity may be waived.  In addition, if a city employee takes this action on her own initiative she may be liable for damages actual and punitive and may rise to criminal. 

>I noted the Freedom of Information for the credit card itemized billings were missing a month or two, but that I would be sending which months were missing in the warrant records I was given access to on Monday, October 11. 2021, at 10:00 a.m. 

>I asked whether former Police Chief Jeff Christie was paid for his On-Call time.  Mayor Haeder answered, (19:10.46) “I believe his account was completely settled up when he left.”  In other words, Mayor Haeder did not know firsthand and was working off FO Pat’s ‘word’ Chief Christies’s On-Call time was paid, on time and in full.  

(19:18.40) Jennifer Schuller voice her displeasure of the delay in payment to Chief Austin for his On-Call time.  She spoke of On-Call time covering a span from June 6, 2021 to September 25. 2021.  She spoke of the FO Pat’s failure to post the job opening for several weeks. (20:26.93) Councilwoman Linda Talbott, Alcester City Safety Committee responded to Jennifer Schuller’s comments, acknowledging the city dropped the ball.  (21:53.43) We should have been doing our job.  (22:56.27)  Mayor Haeder states it is going to be paid, it is being paid acknowledging the city failed Chief Austin.  (23:49.90)  FO Pat injections. “I’m going to stand up for our office because our office took the brunt of all these negative comments that were made…there was not communication from the public safety committee or the mayor”.  WOW such loyalty, you sure did through your bosses under the bus.  Too bad your employee evaluation cannot be made public.  Maybe the public would like to file their own evaluation of how ya’ll are doin’ your job.  FO Pat goes on to say, “…we didn’t know…”,   Yo Pat welcome to our world, you commented one time in the office at the auditorium when I was in the hallway waiting, “what the council doesn’t know…”!  (25:39.27)  Mayor says, “we’re not trained…there’s no class we can go to”  Tell us again Mayor Haeder, ’cause FO Pat knows about them and so should City Attorney Sam Nelson.  It’s call SDML (South Dakota Municipal League) and the city of Alcester is a member.  In fact folks there was a conference just this past October.  Point of fact, October 7, 2021, Thursday at 9:00 a.m. there was a workshop/class for Elected Officials:

“9:00 a.m.  Elected Officials Workshop 1. Public Nuisances: Problems and Solutions Dave Pfeifle, Director, SDPAA ` Ryan Sage, Assistant City Attorney, Sioux Falls • Authority to Access Property for Inspection and Photos • Entry onto Property for Abatement • Junk Car Removal Process • Bring your questions for discussion! 2. Connecting With Your Community, Even During Crisis Heather Hitterdal, Owner, H Squared Communications A variety of projects require public buy-in to succeed. The best intentions don’t matter if the project never gets off the ground because of public controversy. Heather will help you engage the community with accurate and timely information that will inspire trust, acceptance, and support.” https://www.sdmunicipalleague.org

In fact I know Pat Jurrens, a June 2012 council appointee filling the Ward II city council vacancy attended a SDML workshop on Property Maintenance in Pierre.  By-the-way the city paid for her registration and she only attended one class on her way fishing.  Pat Jurrens has also attended the SDML Finance Officers School and Municipal Elections workshop so her whiny excuses, “I didn’t know” should have the Pinocchio rule applied or is there an app for that.  (31:43.90) Mayor Haeder states, “we should have thought about this three months ago…”  IT WAS YOUR JOB, MAYOR!

(33:44.43)  Councilwoman Linda Talbott asked about the interviews and how should she handle the documents arising out of those interviews.  Put them in a safe place and keep them out of the hands of the Finance Office.  ‘Cause I have found in the past, things just ‘disappear’.

(34:44.47)  Theresa Deem asked if the hours of the Golf Course Bar were going to be enforced.  Note the tap-dance Mayor Haeder did about enforcement.  He never said a word about the employee who allegedly sold multiple packs of beer, locked up but left the patrons still sitting on the patio of the golf club house.  (39:23.67)  After a lengthy discussion on city and state laws on alcohol, it was acknowledged it is against the law to send a patron out with a glass of booze in their hand.  OMG shades of the BYOB Birthday party and sending out open bottles of booze with the clean-up crew of one.

(42:26.77) While the Alcester Community Center is not officially open, they have been granted temporary occupation.  Now the building must be inspected by certified professionals in the various fields of inspection to be allowed to have public events or occupations.  Guess who did the inspections?  Why is was none other than Geoff Fillingsness, the city code enforcement officer who is employed at $25 per hour by the city of Alcester to do property maintenance inspections.  What is wrong with this picture? Is he really going to tell Pat he cannot inspect her…building?   Yeah right.

(43:28.03) Mayor Haeder had input regarding the HRC.

Agenda Item #8  –  Legal Updates-nothing consequential.

Agenda Item #9 – Redistricting Resolution- No action taken, draft was not completed.

Agenda Item #10 – Sterling Snow Truck –  (47:35.30)  The Mac is out but now we have a better (?) pick.  It is a 2006 Sterling A9500 for the great price of $39.900.00.  Lonnie Johnson, street department was traveling to Cedar Rapids Monday morning at 7:00 a.m. to have a-look-see.  According to Pat we looked at it on-line and for the edification of the council Pat made copies.  I went on line and looked at the pictures, I sure hope the Sterling stays in Cedar Rapids.  My problem is the warrant and check (?).  Pat says, “…we couldn’t tell from the pictures…” (about the cracks?)  Right fender had a spider webs of what appeared to be cracks in the fiberglass.  This was on the website showing the vehicle.  I believe there were 16 pictures of the interior and the spider-web on the right fender.  Those were not on the handouts.  Unfortunately when I went back to the site to save those photos the unit was no longer on the site.

It is still smokin’ in the big window council room

So FoPat and Wanda how does Face timing with social media mess you up?

Eatin’ you Panera baguettes, bistro soup and Greek sandwiches

Suck it up mesdames, let it all hang out!

Agenda Item #11 – Community Center Staff Hire (54:30.43)

Agenda Item #12  – Community Center Cleaning Contract (01:04:25.87)

Voted to spend $1300 a month for cleaning.

Agenda Item #13 – Community Center Equipment (01:06:48.00)  $19,160.36

Dinnerware , Tableware, food service items.  Now folks I really gotta share this with you ’cause it shows how hard the Finance Officer works.  FO Pat met with Mr. Nyreen and Mr. Nygard October 11, 2021, in the city offices while I was present.  The conversation I heard went like this, FO Pat saying, “…should we use plates for salads or bowls for salads…” and “…we’ll go up to Maxwells tomorrow afternoon make final decisions…”  She spent almost an hour and a half  put her two cents in on what kind of dinnerware, tableware and other items.  Council voted to accept the $19,160.36 price tag.  Oh yeah lest we forget the purchase of 33 dozen dinner plates was included in that figure.

Agenda Item #14 – Wastewater Facility Upgrade  (01:12:35.07)  Council voted to approve boring bid of $6250.00 with a $15.00 per foot. 

Agenda Item #15 – HRC  (01:20:58.53)

Agenda Item #16 – Finance Office Update  (01:31:21.37)

Agenda Item #17 – Executive Session 1-25-2.1 Personnel (01:33:03.33) 

27 minutes of disgusting personnel. 7:34 p.m.- 8:01 p.m.

Agenda Item #18 – Adjourn  8:02 p.m.

Writ’ the story all day, took notes all night

Eyes tired,  Brain numb, can’t stop now

For sure, there ain’t no doubt about FO Pat’s snout,

Kept an open mind and now I’m gonna let it all hang out!*

*inspired by the lyrics of the song, (Let It All Hang Out) 1967 performed by The Hombres written by Jeff Paris/Moon Calhoun

I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation to the folks who attended the city council meeting Monday night, November 1, 2021, to support Police Chief Austin.  You have read, heard and viewed what went on in that meeting.  The Facebook conversations referred to in that meeting, were from individuals offering up their opinions as individuals not entities or organization.   

Mayor Haeder and the council hold the power of the Finance Office, not the other way around.  When FO Pat Jurrens is directed, told, commanded to do something within her job description, she is to do it forthwith!  Not delay, dally or defer to a time when she feels like doing her job.

When I have been questioned by Mayor Haeder or the council at the council meetings, they ask me why am I speaking of the issue?  I usually respond it is something I myself has witnessed or gathered irrefutable proof.  I do have folks who come to me because they feel council listens yet does nothing.  People are afraid for their jobs or retaliation from the Finance Office or Council members if they push back.  I have a bit of advice, for any city employee or any city official who elects to harass a citizen in their workplace, particularly if the citizen is a federal employee.  Be very careful!

Oh yeah, Wanda you happily collect overtime for what-ever-it-is you do but our police officers cannot not!

After what I have witnessed, heard and overheard, it appears we need the Busy Bees come and fumigate our Finance Office and we will gladly pay $1300. 00 for that service.

Heard a man lying through his teeth

Watched a woman honing her on-going criminality skills

Making Charles Ponzi look like a girl scout a sellin‘ cookies

Sorry ’bout that, but I am gonna let it all hang out.*

*inspired by the lyrics of the song, (Let It All Hang Out) 1967 performed by The Hombres written by Jeff Paris/Moon Calhoun

Contact City Council

Mayor Dan Haeder                             605-934-2287      605-770-7929

Councilman David Larsen                  605-934-2434

Councilwoman Darla Reppe               605-934-2602

Councilwoman Linda Talbot              605-254-3074

Councilwoman Cyndi Peeples

Councilman Lukas Driesen

Patricia Jurrens                                  605-934-2517

Stand and Deliver

Eric Clapton

“Stand and deliver

You let them put the fear on you

Stand and deliver

But not a word you heard was true

But if there’s nothing you can say

There may be nothing you can do” *

September 18, 2021 City Council Meeting –Agenda Item #9 – (38:06.87) On Call Pay  Police Chief Austin Schuller presented his claim for his unpaid on call time of  $1.36 per hour compensation for his on call status. Folks as the council tried to grasp of paying their chief of police what was due him and I suspect what was withheld from for Police Chief Christie by Finance Officer Jurrens and Mayor Haeder. 

Listen carefully to the discussions:   (51:41.80), (55:47.77), (1:01:56.80), (1:03:04.47),  (1:03:25.23) and (1:04:15.87).  Now pay special attention to FO Ass’t Wanda Halverson.  Where does Wanda get off comparing her duties of filing, sweeping and shopping with the duties and obligations of law enforcement? 

At the October 18, 2021, council meeting video marker (1:03:04.90) Wanda says,

“can I say something?…Nobody else gets on-call pay, they (?) get calls all weekend long… you don’t want your water treatment plant uh plant flooding.

Chief Schuller who actually had the floor,

“you get to go to Sioux Falls whenever you feel like…when you are off?”

Wanda,

“U-h-m, not all the time…No…not if there is something going on…We (who is we?) usually stay at home and make sure nothing is needed…  (Here Wanda raises her voice) I’M JUST SAYING NOBODY  ELSE GETS TO GO TO…YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN… NOBODY ELSE GETS ON-CALL DUTY AND THEY ARE…HE ( who is he?) DOESN’T GET ON-CALL PAY.”

Councilwoman Linda Talbott says,

“…but this is in our policy…”

Wanda,

“…But isn’t everybody else…shouldn’t everybody get on-call pay?  If one department does…I get stupid ones (phone calls) at home…there’s a dog running-at-large…I need the dump key…the..the shed over there…the park shelter… the shelter.”

Councilman David Larsen breaks in with,

“…Let’s, let’s figure out much that is…” (?)

Folks. I want to go back to Alcester employee Wanda’s reference to a phone call “…I need the dump key…”  Hell-O?  So folks is the city office just handing out dump keys to anybody to dump anything.  REALLY?  The dump-site has hours in which waste is accepted, those manned hours should be published at the dump-site, the city offices-site and the city web-site.  The city web-site does publish the Rubble site hours, so there ya go.  Shouldn’t need a key if ya’ll show up during open hours.

          Now going back to Wanda’s whine fest over ON-CALL duty.  I will again refer back to Mayor Haeder’s favorite public response when citizens of Alcester complain about certain decisions of the city council, “Suck-it-up buttercup!”  So in the Mayor’s own vernacular Ms. finance office employee, Suck it up Buttercup. 

Actually,  “suck it up, buttercup”  is another way of saying, “quit whining, and put your big girl (Duluth brand?) panties on” 

            So Wanda, nobody else got that $100 medical insurance stipend that you did ’cause you were already on a family policy through your spouse’s work place.  In the past, medical insurance for city employee’s was take it or leave it, not go screeching down the aisle let’s make a deal.

          By the way does the city withhold the proper taxes for those windfall stipends or it is up to W-the-WNR to claim those stipends she gets as income.  Folks, “Stipends are fixed amounts that are paid to an individual to offset certain expenses…Smaller stipends are sometimes offered to defray specific costs like phones.  For example a monthly $30 phone stipend allows the employee to pay for a phone of their own choosing.  BUT using your own telephone, private email or computer with a city app. has inherent problems.  For instance, if the city records are subpoenaed for cause, so to may your personal telephone, your personal computer, your personal email and ALL information they contain.  Now that would be entertaining for the good citizens of Alcester to read any subpoenaed transcripts of emails or computer contacts of say the finance officer or the mayor.  So why do the council members not have city-generated emails where citizens can contact them and the city snoop patrol not have access to private emails.  Laziness?

          Because stipends are not wages for services, Social Security and Medicare taxes are not withheld.  Stipends are still considered taxable income.  Since employers are not required to withhold taxes on a stipend, employees of the city receiving stipends should maintain records of those quarterly stipends you receive throughout the year.

          Back to the On-Call issue. 

  “Policy 5:  Hours of Work – 5.6 ON CALL TIME:  ‘Police Department:  The Chief of Police  (not the mayor, not the finance officer nor Wanda Halverson)will schedule on-call time.  Officers who are on-call will comply with the same standard of care and conduct as the on-duty officers.  While on-call, officers will remain within 15 miles of the City of Alcester, and avoid situations where they would not be able to receive and respond to calls from dispatch.

          Officers who are on-call will respond to calls for police services as quickly and as safely as possible.  When responding to calls for police services, officers will consider the nature of the call, the need for immediate assistances, road conditions, weather conditions, traffic conditions and other circumstances that may pose risks to public safety.  Response times will reflect these conditions.’”

After Wanda’s whining the council spoke of dealing with ON-CALL FOR ALL or ON-CALL FOR NONE.  That is bull***t.  Come to the November 1, 2021, 6:00 p.m. meeting and make your voice hear.

You wanna be your own driver

Or keep on flogging a dead horse?

Do you wanna make it better

Or do you wanna allow it to be made worse?

*

Do you wanna our law enforcement to be free

Or do you wanna them to be slaves?

Do you wanna then to wear those FO $$ chains

Until they’re lying in the grave?

*

Stand and Deliver

You let her put the fear on you

Slow down that river called follow the leader council  voting

If there’s nothing you can say (according to the mayor)

There may be something you CAN do.

*

Stand and Deliver

Stand and Deliver

*

Stand and Deliver your view on November 1, 2021.**

Do we want safety for and with our law enforcement team or do we want this:

    October 18, 2021, Video marker (1:01:53.73) Councilman David Larsen opinion,

“If there’s a school shooting, county’s going to have to take care it…If someone is burglarizing my house, I’ll take care of it!”

Vigilantism?

Folks you want to take back control?

Tell the council!  Do not just tell them, trusting something will be done.  Look them in the face, make them look at you and then tell you to your face to Buck it up Buttercup. 

The Buck stops with WE THE PEOPLE

Stand and Deliver!

Make Alcester Great Again!

Come to the meeting Monday, November 1, 2021 – 6:00 p.m.

**Inspired by the song, Stand and Deliver, Written By Van Morrison – Performed by Eric Clapton

Release Date December 4, 2020

Contact City Council

Mayor Dan Haeder                             605-934-2287      605-770-7929

Councilman David Larsen                  605-934-2434

Councilwoman Darla Reppe               605-934-2602

Councilwoman Linda Talbot              605-254-3074

Councilwoman Cyndi Peeples

Councilman Lukas Driesen

Patricia Jurrens                                  605-934-2517

Mayor  Haeder called the October 18, 2021, city council meeting to order with the Pledge of Allegiance.  Council members present were Councilwoman Linda Talbot,  Councilwoman Darla Reppe, Councilman David Larsen, Councilwoman Cyndi Peeples. Councilman Lukas Dreisen and City Attorney Sam Nelson.

Agenda Item # 3 Approval of the agenda was called (01:16.93).  There was discussion of a change/addition to the agenda but was not acted upon.  Judge for yourselves folks. (01:30.70)  Does adding an executive session to Agenda item 10(f) constitute a change?  I think it does.  Note Mayor Haeder’s reaction to this news (01:56.07), it is the Mayor job to set the agenda.

Agenda Item #4 – Public Input – was called (03:03.27) with two responses.  Vickie Larsen (03:05.40) presented items of interest Pig Ordinance, Crosswalk at Lincoln and Jefferson, Redistricting, No city video on city website, city website not current, water cost raises may be in error due to previous rural water loan and Mayor Haeders remarks regarding wasting time. (04:57.70)

Reporter Gordon Richard (05:22.17) asking for the official date of opening of the Alcester Community Center.

Agenda Item #5 – Council vacant seat candidates.  None

Agenda Item #6 – 307 Iowa Street nuisance – Legal updates (06:39.07)

Agenda Item #7 – Redistricting of District #16  Motion was received to prepare a Resolution for no change to the District 16 Boundaries.

Agenda Item #8 – Chairpersons updates of departments. (15:34.40)

a) Street Department- Councilwoman Linda Talbott gave an update on the desire to bid at Auction on a used snow plow/truck.  (16:42.13)  Bookkeeper Jurrens butted into the discussion to display her expertise of “Cats, Macs and Sterling Snowplows” Oh My!  Bidding ends October 28th. 

The Mayor Haeder diverted from the agenda to discuss upcoming reviews of employees.  Folks here is your chance to voice your opinion on employee performance and behaviors.  Contact the Mayor.

b)  Cemetery – no report

c)  Water/wastewater –  (25:10.93) The city failed to pass water quality due to Toxins present.  Another test will be performed.  This test uses (25:49.30)  a bioassay using the Daphnia Magna’s  super sensitivity to toxins in monitoring water quality.  Daphnia Magna, Order Cladocera is a fresh water crustacean carrying the common name of water flea solely due to its appearance and jerky movement through the water resembles that of a land flea but has no biological connection to the Flea, Order Siphonaptera.

d)  Police  Update –

e)  Library Update – Handicap button arrived for installation for handicap access.

f)  Golf Course – slow to no patronage.

g)  Finance Office – Flitting like a flea doing “construction things”.  Why and with what ‘expertise’?  (37:17.47)

Agenda Item #9 – (38:06.87) On Call Pay  Police Chief Austin Schuller presented his claim asking for his unpaid on call time of  $1.36 per hour compensation for his on call status. Folks as the council tried to grasp of paying their chief of police what was due him and I suspect what was withheld from for Police Chief Christie by Finance Officer Jurrens and Mayor Haeder.  Listen carefully to the discussions at (51:41.80), (55:47.77), (1:01:56.80), (1:03:04.47), ( 1:03:25.23) and (1:04:15.87).  Now pay special attention to finance office assistant Wanda Halverson.  Where does Wanda get off comparing her duties of filing, sweeping and shopping with the duties and obligations of law enforcement? 

          I would quote from the 2020 city personnel policy, “Policy 5:  Hours of Work – 5.6 ON CALL TIME:  ‘Police Department:  The Chief of Police  (not the mayor, not the finance officer nor Wanda Halverson)will schedule on-call time.  Officers who are on-call will comply with the same standard of care and conduct as the on-duty officers.  While on-call, officers will remain within 15 miles of the City of Alcester, and avoid situations where they would not be able to receive and respond to calls from dispatch.

          Officers who are on-call will respond to calls for police services as quickly and as safely as possible.  When responding to calls for police services, officers will consider the nature of the call, the need for immediate assistances, road conditions, weather conditions, traffic conditions and other circumstances that may pose risks to public safety.  Response times will reflect these conditions.'”

Agenda Item #10 – Community Center (1:14:17.37) Note the motions to hire personnel, pay for equipment purchase of TV, Grills, Griddles and stand.  Then we get to the conundrum of the great Coke Sponsorship.  (1:30:13.63)  Quid Pro Quo?  As I researched this ‘wind-fall’ I found this involves an application.  So who filled out the application?   I noted Coke had a Covid type sponsorship which FOPat seems to gravitate toward.  Anyhow, when she said the magic number of  $135,000.00 +/- to be delivered in two installments of $67.000.00 just reached up and grabbed Mayor Haeder by his spend-nerve.  Now folks there is a contract Coke requires for participation, a rather lengthy, provocative and naturally favors Coke.  Alcester city attorney Sam Nelson read the contract and expressed his concern over several items contained within the contract language. 

          Needless to say, here is where the unapproved agenda change comes in.  City Attorney Sam wanted to ‘talk’ in Executive Session and so the Motion so Councilman David Larsen could listen to a ten minute explanation of Attorney Sam’s concerns.  The council went into Executive Session at 7:34 p.m. and was back out at 8:02 p.m. some 30 minutes later.  So at (1:35:00.07) the motion was called to allow Mayor Haeder to sign this great sponsorship deal upon advice of city attorney Sam Nelson’s opinion of form and manner.  Yup the council voted to blindly allow Mayor to sign us up for gosh only knows what. 

Agenda Item #11 – Finance Office 

City Offices will be closed on October 22, 2021, so our Finance Officer and her minion may ‘work’ on cleaning and prepping the Great Alcester Albatross for its first event. (1:44:54.40)  Before that event can take place the place must be inspected to satisfy fire code.   H-m-m  (1:45:54.83)

Agenda Item #12 – Executive Session  Not needed

Agenda Item #13  – Adjourn  –  Meeting adjourned at 8:16 p.m.

Folks it is past time for the removal of Ms. Jurrens as finance officer!  Her review is imminent, let the council and mayor know how you feel.  We have lost two Police Chiefs due to her interference, we have lost at least three council members who worked for the people and now we are in danger of losing more law enforcement due to the lamentable lack of controls over the finance office.  We have a large number of residents who cannot afford the fees, street taxes and water fees levied against them and who have no one to speak for them. 

          We now have an albatross wrapped around our collective necks, with a business plan designed apparently to just break even or if we are really unlucky goes bust leaving us with an empty event center with no community in it!  We have allowed the city to run competition to several businesses in the bar and restaurant fields which effectively shuttered those businesses.  With the shuttering of those businesses we lost sales tax revenues, when we allow stand-alone garages in residential zones (i.e. a $25K garage instead of a $100K home) we lose property tax revenues and property values, when we cannot attract businesses to town we cannot offer jobs and our homes lose their value.

Contact City Council

Mayor Dan Haeder                             605-934-2287      605-770-7929

Councilman David Larsen                  605-934-2434

Councilwoman Darla Reppe               605-934-2602

Councilwoman Linda Talbot              605-254-3074

Councilwoman Cyndi Peeples

Councilman Lukas Driesen

Patricia Jurrens                                  605-934-2517

“Ethical behavior is doing the right thing when no one else is watching–even when doing the wrong thing is legal.”

(Aldo Leopold)

I am repeating the above quotation due to the abysmal failure of the mayor to do his job to do the right thing!  It has come to my attention that Councilman Curtis Keiser and Councilman Brian Johnson have left the council and rumor has it for much the same reasons as Chief Christie resigned. The right thing would have been to rein in finance officer Patricia Jurrens before the decimation of the police department and the Alcester city council, now it is left to the residents to solve the problem by removing her from the finance office!

I was not present at the September 7, 2021, council meeting, but I did have the meeting recorded for me.  My blog is based upon information from that recording and some judicious sleuthing.   Folks since Mayor Haeder does record the meetings, his recording of the meeting can be procured by Freedom of Information/South Dakota Sunshine Laws.

Mayor  Haeder called the September 7, 2021, city council meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. with the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.  Council members present were Councilman David Larsen, Councilman Curtis Keiser, Councilwoman Cyndi Peeples, Councilwoman Darla Reppe and City Attorney Sam Nelson.   Absent were Councilman Brian Johnson and Councilwoman Linda Talbott (01:35.37)

Agenda Item #3 – Mayor Haeder called for Agenda Approval which passed unanimously.

Agenda Item #4 – Mayor Haeder called for approval of the minutes from the August 2nd and August 16th city council meetings.  The council unanimously approved those minutes without changes to what who-ever writes them recorded.

Agenda Item #5 – Mayor Haeder called for the approval of the Watershed/Wastewater Treatment Facility Improvement 2022 – Dale Pearson.  Mr. Pearson reported on the rusting pipes issue at the small shack across the street from our Water Tower which houses the valve joining from the feed pipe from the South Lincoln Water Port located just off  what used to be the Alcester Meats facility to our Water Tower.  The pipe is underground and needs to be lifted to be repaired.  Ideally a larger shed would make repair and future operation easier but Mr. Pearson indicated he felt he could make it work if he had to.  Mr. Pearson did suggest perhaps the City could work with South Lincoln by combining their water port directly to our  water main.  Drawback to that plan is South Lincoln has implemented a Flow Restriction Safeguard and their connection is just off the former  meat pack facility.  Realistic estimated costs to repair pipe/valve connection is $60,000. Mr. Pearson also remarked on the need for a larger control valve in case of emergency.  Given this cost, Alcester has an obligation to its citizens to meter all uses of water ( billed or not billed ) within the city limits. 

          This means the metering and monitoring usage by ALL entities from the pool to the firehouse so the city has a real-time usage of water.  Not necessarily to bill at this time but to have a true concept of usage should we ever have to dial back our water usage.

          Folks we cannot afford to put off the water feed repair.  We cannot afford the loss of any water due to a fore-seeable catastrophe.  No action taken.

Agenda Item #6 – Public Input  Mayor Haeder announced there was about two (2) minutes until the scheduled Public hearing of the Alcester Planning and Zoning Board but he did ask if anyone had any Input.   Aaron Larsen (09:58.20) brought up a problem with the administration of the Facebook pages of the city golf course and the utter lack of over sight.  Mr. Larsen stated he had recently moved back into town and was looking for the fees for the local golf course.  He stated he had talked to golf course personnel asking why the fees and golf course information was not published on Facebook.  He was given the answer that no one had the password to effect a change in information.  Folks I have to ask why wasn’t a copy of the golf course password kept in the golf course file in the city offices?  There was a brief discussion about the Facebook page and announcements.  However, at this point the Public Hearing had to take precedence due to the agenda scheduled time of 6:15 p.m.

Agenda Item #7  Public Hearing – Zoning Medical Cannabis

Agenda Item #7 (a) – (0:15:02.17)Motion to convene jointly as Planning Commission and City Council.  Now folks it needs to be explained about the Planning and Zoning entity and the city council.  I used the word entity because in 7 (a) and 7 (b) the group is named Planning Commission but in 7(e) the group is referred to as the Planning and Zoning Board then it flips back in 7(j) to Planning Commission.  So which is it, Planning Commission or Planning and Zoning Board.  If the Mayor and Finance Officer cannot tell the difference how the devil is the city council members much less the general public supposed to keep up with the musical chair name changing.

7(b) Motion for the Planning & Zoning Board to recommend 2021-17 Ordinance with a second received but no vote taken.  Board members question why no vote. Mayor Ya Mucked Up Buttercup!  Why the devil did you turn and ask the Bookkeeper about the NO vote when ya got City Attorney Sam sitting at yer right hand? (0:17:55.60) Mayor Haeder opens the Planning & Zoning Board meeting to Public Input. (0:18:13.40)  During the public input of the Planning & Zoning Board Mayor Haeder campaigns on approval of proposed Ordinance 2021-17. (0:20:05.97)  Dale Pearson asked a question with regard if the city does not approve the Ordinance 2021-17 what consequence for the city.  Simply put, the State will issue its mandates for the city after which the only changes the city can make to the State mandate is to be more restrictive and cannot relax the mandates issued by the State.  With no further public input for the Planning &Zoning Board, Mayor Haeder moved to further Planning & Zoning Board to discussion just among the board members (0:25:46.57)  At (0:26:50.77)  Mayor Haeder called for a roll call vote.  Councilwoman Talbott was not attending via telephone at this point.  So after the $2232.00+/- Covid money spend on the IPads, why were they in operation for this meeting?  At (0:27:20.23)  Mayor Haeder calls as the Dept. of Redundancy the City Council must now vote.  At (0:27:35.70) Councilwoman Cyndi Peeples makes the motion for the City to approve Ordinance 2021-17 Zoning Provisions.  At (0:28:44.33) Mayor Haeder calls for a roll call vote from the City Council.  Vote unanimous for approval for first reading.  At (0:38:08.60) Mayor Haeder calls for motion on Ordinance 2021-16 Licensing of Medical Cannabis Sales. (0:39:16.80) Mayor calls for roll call vote to approve .  At (0:39:36.27)September 20, 2021, is set for second reading.  At (0:39:54.70)      Mayor Haeder calls for a motion to adjourn the Planning & Zoning Board.  Board is adjourned and the Alcester City Council returns to its regular agenda schedule. 

Agenda Item #6   Public Input (continued (0:40:56.17) )  At (0:43:51.37)  Aaron Larsen continued with his discussion of the Alcester Golf Course/Alcester Golf Club Facebook presence.  Folks here are examples out there I have found  (1) Facebook.com/Alcester- Golf- Course- 291512377591356 , page created April 13, 2012  (2) Facebook.com/Alcester.golfcourse1, created February 1, 2017  (3)  Facebook.com/pages/Alcester-Golf-Club/794477947364425, created December 21/2015   (4) Facebook.com/alcestergolf, created February 19, 2014  with photos of Alcester, UK  Folks evidently no one has a password to any of these?  Now FO Pat wants to drop this sack of flaming Halloween manure (0:42:07.83) on Mr.  Huber’s door step but as you can see the many of the creation dates are long after Mr. Huber’s departure from Alcester City employ.

Agenda Item #8  Legal Updates – Sam Nelson Alcester City Attorney.

(a)  (0:44:47.47)  307 Iowa Street -Nuisance  Once again this is a feature legal issue for the city of Alcester.  Now folks, I believe this issue has been going on for at least one year if not two.  I will look that up.  First let’s deal with the attorney fee per hour on this nuisance.  Back in around 2018 there was a great deal of whizzing and moaning about his legal fees (around $110.00 per hour) from council member, mayor and finance officer.  They took every opportunity to critique our city attorney who was giving the city a discount in his fees because he was a resident and a business owner.  Finance Officer Jurrens publicly badgered, publicly criticized him in meetings, the council would require his presence for an hour worth of council meeting and then dismiss him. Finally Finance Officer Jurrens marched Mayor Glass down to the law office the morning after the city council unanimously approved his legal retainer to tell our City attorney she and the mayor did not feel he was a good fit for the city of Alcester. There was no council vote.  Mr. Haugland understandably rescinded his retainer, yet Finance Officer Jurrens continued to use his work product (without his permission) in her attempts to ‘write’ legal.  Now we have Mr. Nelson and Mr. Frieberg at fees of somewhere around $130-$150 per hour.  Mr. Nelson occupies a chair for an average of 2-3 hours per meeting rarely offering up an opinion unless the city is being sued.  Watch, listen to the video of the meeting.  Here we have Mr. Nelson dealing with this nuisance for a year or more, folks you do the math.  Now let’s deal with the Property Maintenance Code Enforcement Officer Fillingsness.  The city pays Mr. Fillingsness $25 per hour for code enforcement.  The whole purpose of Mr. Fillingsness is to be the face of code enforcement so the Finance Officer or the Mayor do not have to take the heat of throwing people out of their homes.  Now folks if you have ever wondered what Finance Officer Jurrens and Wanda Halvorson are touring the streets of Alcester, taking pictures during the work day?  Do the math first.  Ya got a Finance Officer who is making $30+ per hour, ya got her aid making around $20 per hour wandering up and down the streets of Alcester.  Ya got $50+ /hour  worth of personnel just drivin around takin pictures and writin down addresses.  How long after those afternoon drives do we all-of-a-sudden have property maintenance issues to hand over to $25 per hour Fillingsness (So when is ol’ Fillingsness in town inspecting)and then hand off to $130-$150 per hour legal team.  You do the math.  Then ask yourself, “Who is answering the phones at city hall?”  Yeah right.

          Next up under Legal is the great roll-off question (0:45:27.33) followed up by a language question on ordinance (0:48:44.63).

          Moving on to the (0:49:17.40) to the 2021-11 RV ordinance and the (0:53:53.80) 2021-15 (Attempt to revoke covenants running with the land which is not within the wheel house of the city.)  The relaxing of variances rules.  The variances rules were put into place to protect bordering land owners from encroachment and devaluation of their property by some Yahoo who wants to put a stand along barn/shed.  Part of the existing variance rule in Alcester is it must be an emergency, not just an inconvenience.  Mr. Joe Constance commented on his application for variance and that it apparently was still in limbo He was understandably upset to hear this variance change being expedited while he is still waiting and winter is coming. (1:01:54.00)  Folks listen to Finance Officer Jurren’s response, “…Here is what I will do…”  Here is what you will do Ms. Bookkeeper?  Ms. Bookkeeper it is the council that will be doing, it is their decision!  You have no authority, that lies with the city council!

          October 4, 2021, is the hearing date for the variance.

Agenda Item #9  Police Department

          Updates on the hire of a part-time police officer, hiring a full time police officer and the order for radios.  (1:19:15.67)  Mayor says to Chief Schuller, “if you have any issues, do not hesitate to contact somebody.”  Contact somebody Mayor?  In your own vernacular Mayor Haeder, that somebody is you Buttercup!”

Agenda Item #10  Office Building Door

Quote for exterior entrance door discussion.  Finance Officer Jurrens had contacted Mr. Jami Schempp representing the owner of the old school building to ask about a payment arrangement between the two entities for the $9K+ proposed cost of the door she wanted  Finance Officer Jurrens was annoyed with the answer she received and made the recommendation that (01:26:28.23) “…if they  (the Industrial Board won’t split the bill) I recommend we don’t pay rent this year…”  Bookkeeper Jurrens where do you get off making a threat like you just made?  You are NOT a city council member, you the bookkeeper!  (01:27:20.10)  Now Wanda Halvorson who is also NOT a city council member offers up her unsolicited opinion.  Gee I did not realize this agenda item offered public input!  Whew!

Agenda Item #11  Finance Office Updates

At approximately 7:40 p.m. a call was initiated to City Councilwoman Linda Talbott (01:36:34.63)

(a)  Motion for warrants. Unanimously approved.

(b) 2022 Mayor Haeder Budget was read by Bookkeeper Jurrens.  Evidently the council was not presented to the council before hand therefore they could have read the thing and asked questions.  Evidently this way Bookkeeper Jurrens can have the floor all to herself, drone on and not be bothered with any substantial questions.  Oh yeah, Bookkeeper Jurrens would like a TV for her office (01:44:57.83)  Mayor Haeder calls for a motion to approve the first reading the tardy budget (02:26:19.60)  Call for a roll call vote for first reading with the unanimous approval vote. (02:26:57.07)

(c)  2021-19 Street Maintenance Tax  (02:28:26.33)  voted unanimously.  However folks this little ol’ can be referred.  (02:29:23.20)  Mayor Haeder states every year this fee must be done.  Horse Pucky!  If the budget was properly done and properly handle this extra Tax would not have to be levied.

(d)  2021-20 Wastewater Surcharge (02:30:52.13) Yeah another fee with vague language as to purpose other than get around the deficiency in handling budget adequately.  Mayor calls for motion (02:32:41.60)  unanimous vote.  Folks this too, can be referred.

(e)  2021-21  Water Surcharge Tax/Fee  Charges for new meters and meter reading device.  (02:33:55.30)  Mayor calls for motion to approve this Tax (02:35:03.30)  Unanimous vote, again this can be referred.

Agenda Item #12 – Update of Volunteer Roster

Agenda Item #13 – Executive Session for Personnel

Statue cited was SDCL 1-25-2.1  Discussing the qualifications, competence, performance, character or fitness of any public officer or employee or prospective public officer or employee. The term, employee, does not include any independent contractor; and 1-25-2.3 Consulting with legal counsel or reviewing communications from legal counsel about proposed or pending litigation or contractual matters;

Executive session at 8:44 p.m.

Executive session ends approximately  9:42 p.m.

NO ACTION TAKEN

Agenda Item #14 – Alcester Community Center Staff

Agenda Item #15   Adjourn

Council adjourned at approximately 9:45 p.m.

I was notified by Councilman Keiser he had resigned via email and requested I remove his contact information from my blog.  Mr. Keiser had asked about the expenditure for computers and why they were not in use.  He did not receive an answer.  Mr. Keiser as a councilman was not provided with one of those computers so he could more effectively take part in city meetings when he was away from the city.  He was disappointed with an expenditure of money for I-Pads which were in effect not put into use.  I am sorry he has resigned.  The council needed a business person as a member who could advise them on the business side of a city.  Thank you for your service.

I also learned Councilman Johnson had left the council apparently much for the same reason Police Chief Christie left.  We are losing good people and that is a shame.   

Contact City Council

Mayor Dan Haeder                             605-934-2287      605-770-7929

Councilman David Larsen                  605-934-2434

Councilwoman Darla Reppe               605-934-2602

Councilwoman Linda Talbot              605-254-3074

Councilwoman Cyndi Peeples

Councilman Brian Johnson – Resigned

Councilman Curtis Keiser – Resigned 

Patricia Jurrens                                  605-934-2517

A bad manager can cause the best employees to flee and the remaining employees to lose all motivation.

Mayor Haeder called the August 2, 2021,  City Council meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. with the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.  Council members present were Councilman David Larsen, Councilwoman Darla Reppe, Councilwoman Linda Talbott, Councilwoman  Cyndi Peeples, Councilman Brian Johnson, Councilman Curtis Keiser (via telephonic participation) and Alcester City Attorney Sam Nelson.

          Agenda Item #3 – Approval of the Agenda.  Mayor Haeder called for approval of the agenda.  The agenda was approved with deletion of agenda item (c) and agenda item (f) changes to Agenda Item #10.  Hey I have a question, so the meeting in September is scheduled for September 7, 2021, and according to

SDCL 9-22-23 Annual estimate by auditor or clerk of expenses and revenue.

The auditor or clerk shall report annually, on or before the first day of September, to the governing body an estimate of the expenses of the municipality and likewise the revenue necessary to be raised for the current year. In municipalities of the first and second class, the budget form shall be similar to that recommended in the municipal accounting manual provided by § 4-11-6.

          Agenda Item #4 – Approval of the Minutes of the July 19, 2021, and July 26,2021, meetings.  Mayor Haeder called for approval of the July 19th and July 26th council meeting with the minutes of those meetings approved as presented.

          Agenda Item #5 – Public Input –

I started out asking (for the third time) for Sunshine on certain water bills on non-residential buildings in residential zones.

Mike Bucholz made a complaint against Mayor Haeder and FO Patricia Jurrens (00:06:28.37)  Mr. Bucholz had and continues to be harassed by FO Jurrens with regard to his camper parked in the street.  FO Patricia Jurrens commanded the unit be ticketed and towed.  Mr. Bucholz presented three examples of camper trailers parked on Broad Street since June 14, 2021, asking FO Jurrens, “who owns those campers?”   FO Jurrens did not respond, once again Mr. Bucholz posed the question, “Who owns the camper at 4th and Broad?” and again FO Jurrens would not respond.  Mr. Bucholz stated the camper at 4th and Broad registered owner’s name was Jurrens. (00:07:49.40)  Imagine that!

A gentleman shared his feelings on the upcoming Liquor License and gave support to Acting Police Chief Austin Schuller.  I must apologise, I failed to get the name of this gentlemen.  I would suggest the council ask each person responding with input to give their name.

Another gentleman introduced himself as Eric MacMuller (sp) of Total Stop shared input concerning the Liquor License.

With no further input, this ended the public input until Agenda Item #8 Public Hearing on the Off -Sale Alcohol License for Total Stop scheduled at 6:15 p.m.

          Agenda Item #6 – DANR (Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources-2020 merger of Department of Agriculture and DENR (Department of Energy and Natural Resources) Award Certificates to Dale Pearson and Lonnie Johnson.

          Agenda Item #7 – September Council Meeting rescheduled to September 7, 2021, at 6:00 p.m.   Council approved unanimously to this change.

          Agenda Item #8 – Public Hearing  6:15 p.m.   (00:17:11:60) Hearing on granting an Off-Sale Liquor License to Total Stop.  Mayor Haeder polled the council regarding constituent reactions.  Councilwoman Linda Talbott reported her constituents were against the license grant.  Councilwoman Cyndi Peeples reported her constituents were against the license grant. Remarks and opinions were reported by Kama Johnson-Alcester Bar Employee, Teresa Deem-Alcester Bar Operator, Sherry Total Stop Operations Manager, Joe Constance-interested party, I – Vickie Larsen asked the question was the liquor mark-up going to be applied equitably to Alcester Bar, Total Stop and the Golf Course/Community Building?  Point of information here, the city of Alcester owns the building which houses the Alcester Bar.  This building is leased by the City of Alcester to Deem Enterprises, LLC which operates a bar carrying the name Alcester Bar.

After public comment was complete, Mayor Haeder called for a motion and upon failure to receive a motion to grant, the question died due to lack of motion.

          Agenda Item #9 – Medical Cannabis – Discussion took place on the questions of a Licensing Ordinance and a Restrictive Zoning Ordinance. 

          Agenda Item #10 – Legal Updates

          a)  Nuisance property-still in the works

          b) Vacation of Alley-city cannot abandon by ordinance.  (see Chapter 9-45-7 through 9-45-15) and for an interesting read check out (Chapter 9-45-20 and Chapter 9-45-24)

          c) Garbage – (not ready for consumption…O lord did I just type that?)  Garbage needs more work (still on a roll, guess I will move on).

          d) Ordinance -update of Tile 5, Chapter 5.01 Offenses Against Public Welfare- 2021-13 An ORDINANCE AMENDING THE REVISED MUNICPAL ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF ALCESTER, SOUTH DAKOTA, TITLE 5-OFFESNCES, CHAPTER 5.01 OFFENSES AGAINST PUBLIC WELFARE, SECTION 5.0108 PENALTY.  5.0108 Penalty    A violation of this Chapter shall be shall be punishable for a fine of twenty-five dollars ($25.00), for each offense.   Folks setting aside rule #1 of writing Ordinance, Thou shall proof-read what thou wrote.

           Ordinance Update of Title 7 – Chapter 7.05 Parking, Stopping. 2021-12  AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE REVISED MUNICIPAL ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF ALCESTER, SOUTH DAKOTA, TITLE 7, TRAFFIC CODE, CHAPTER 7.05 PARKING, STOPPING, SECTION 7.0501- PARKING PROHIBITED IN CERTAIN PLACES.  7.0501 (J)

          Folks trying to decipher all the meanderings of legal language from eight different sources and one bookkeeper was nigh unto impossible to keep up with.  So with a phrase here and a phrase there, here a phrase, there a phrase an ordinance was cobbled together enough to earn a first reading.  What is a goat rodeo without a bathroom break!  Oh listen to the Bookkeeper push her agenda (01:30:31:33)  Say, you do realize that a car parked across the sidewalk on Iowa Street is unlawful and that is an ongoing illegal action.

          f) Resolution Personnel Policy Manual, Policy 7 – Leave of Absence Section 7.02(a) Vacation Leave.  Folks this one was not ready for consumption, either.

          Agenda Item #11 Police Department– Call for a motion to go into Executive Session SDCL 1-25-2.1 Personnel, For as many times SDCL 1-25-2.1 has been used in the past eight years the council should know SDCL 1-25-2.1 by heart.  At 7:38 p.m. the council went into Executive Session, at which point the gallery which included Wanda Halverson, Melissa Kay with her phone contact Marcus Ireland, Gordon Richards, Finance Officer Patricia Jurrens and Kerry Hedden moved to the hallway, leaving City Attorney Sam Nelson and Police Chief Austin Schuller in the closed session.  At 8:00 p.m. the council was called back into session where Interim Police Chief Austin Schuller was hired as Full Police Chief with a salary of $23.00/hour dating back to June 5, 2021.   Next item of Police Department business was to publish an ad for police officer.  Wording of the advertisement was reserved by Police Chief Schuller with the approval of the City Council. (01:45:18:70)

          Agenda Item #12 Committee Chairperson Updates –

          a) Street committee update – none

          b) Pool committee- Councilwoman Reppe related a disciplinary incident with a group of boys.  Hey Melissa 0616 I did turn to see your face, so did ya catch the exasperated comment made. (01:52:00.00)  So are ya gonna spend two days a writin’ about that comment like ya did with me in your Confidential Memorandum?

          c) Cemetery committee-  Pine tree fatalities which appear to be lack of attention.

          d) Water-wastewater committee – none

          e) Police/Public Safety Committee -statistics report

          f) Library -Library Board member resigned

          g) Golf Course – given by Councilman David Larsen

          Agenda Item #13 – Finance Office

Call for approval of warrants for the July Warrants- which were duly approved with no questions.

          Agenda Item #14 – Community Center  There will be a employment booth at the Fair.

          Agenda Item #15 – Fair Board – Councilwoman Darla Reppe  The City Float was brought up and touted by FOPat.  Not a lot of interest among the Council to sit in a golf cart parade.

          Agenda Item #16 – Executive Session (if needed) Nope,  not yet anyway.

          Agenda Item #17 – Adjourn Call for adjournment with vote, council adjourned at 8:31 p.m.

Contact City Council

Mayor Dan Haeder                       605-934-2287      605-770-7929

Councilman David Larsen            605-934-2434

Councilwoman Darla Reppe         605-934-2602

Councilwoman Linda Talbot         605-254-3074

Councilwoman Cyndi Peeples  

Councilman Brian Johnson           605-214-0282

Councilman Curtis Keiser             605-214-7604

Patricia Jurrens                             605-934-2517