“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

“When you can’t make them see the light, make them feel the heat…”

attributed to Ronald Reagan

Mayor Haeder called the June 7, 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 and Attorney Larry Nelson standing in the stead of his son City Attorney Sam Nelson.

Agenda Item #3– Approval of the Agenda – was called, with no changes and no discussion the agenda was approved as presented.

Agenda Item #4 – Approval of the minutes for May 3, May 17, and May 24, 2021 – was called and with no changes and no discussion the minutes were approved as transcribed.  I would like to note here it is uncertain who exactly is taking the minutes.  Is it the Alcester Finance Officer (whose duty it is ), is it the finance office aide Wanda Halverson,  is it those from the city attorney or perhaps a collusion of any two or three of them? H-m-m

Agenda Item #5 – Public Input – Public input was called with three responses. 

First up was Gordon Richard responding as a citizen of Alcester and not as a reporter for the Alcester-Hudson Union newspaper. (02:29.73)  Mr. Richard commented that as a resident of three years in the city of Alcester, he was shocked to hear of Chief Jeff Christie’s departure from the Alcester City Police Department.  Mr. Richard stated he had come to know Chief Christie, to appreciate his work as Chief of Police and recognised Chief Christie’s consummate professionalism in his performance of his profession.  Mr. Richard went on to recommend and request, “is there anything the city can do to atone for the circumstances which led to Chief Christie’s decision?” (paraphrased by me)  Mr. Richard received a less than satisfactory response.

Next to comment was Theresa Deem, local businesswoman and owner of the Alcester Bar. (03:31.10)  Ms. Deem asked the council, “just what is the ‘chain-of-command’ as it relates to the city-owned building she leases and in which she houses her bar operation.  Ms. Deem asked who is on the liquor board (who ostensibly controls the building which houses the Alcester Bar)?  Ms. Deem received an answer which named the council members who sit on that board.  (08:41.23)  Planning and Zoning committee should be made up of three council members and three property owning residents rather than the city council in its entirety.  When the city councils acts as zoning commission it causes confusion for the resident tax payers.  I is redundant and not open government (in my opinion).

Last to comment was Vickie Larsen, me.  (07:51.67)  1)  I started out with my FOIA/Sunshine request #05-07-2021 second request for access to select water-bills for properties ( one of which is under the control of a Hammit Family trust) with only non-residential garages.  I asked for access to the garbage fees charged, the minimum water billing, and street maintenance fees charged and I have been ignored.

2)  I introduced Nacha rules (08:11.33) ( with regard to the proper, prompt pay of payrolls and HSA account set-ups as listed in the May 17, 2021, meeting agenda item #10 which listed HSA Bank Account a. Motion to set up HSA Bank Account, Premier Bank, Dan Haeder, David Larsen, Patricia Jurrens and Wanda Halverson as Signers.(12:36.77) Regarding signers on any account, finance office aid Halverson should not be included on the signatory listed as she is not the mayor, she is not the president of the council and she is not the head of a financing department.  In emergency situations if the mayor is not available the city still has a back up for the dual signage required for official documents.  In addition the part-time aid position was put into place to help Finance Officer Mike Kezar during his time of medical recovery process.  Until that time Finance Officer Kezar was well able to fulfill the duties of the Finance Office on his own with occasional advice from the city attorney, other finance officers and the South Dakota Municipal League.

3)  I distributed handouts to the six council members. (09:03.40)  Contained within those handouts was a document * (nacha.org/content/payments-myth-busting) regarding payroll payments,:” ‘direct deposit payroll will be available in employee accounts by 9a.m. Friday to withdraw or make payments’ and if made Friday morning, ‘the funds will be available to the employee by 5p.m.using the ACH Networks Same Day ACH capability.'” *Another document contained within my handouts to the council was an email exchange between myself and Shaun Van Oort of AB Business Solutions. (vendor from which the city purchased the eight (8) tablets)  An allegation made by Finance Officer Pat Jurrens that I had posed as an employee of the Alcester Finance Office. The date on that email exchange was September 21, 2020, at which time I was a seated city councilwoman.  I was unable to give lie to Jurrens accusation made to the council because I was handed the document generated over two days time (as claimed by Kay) by Councilwoman Kay and was allowed only five (5) minutes to look at the document with no real expectation to read, respond or ability to offer up evidence to support my denial.  In the courts of our land, the accused is given time to offer up evidence and make defense argument. The charge must tell the time, date and place that the criminal act allegedly took place, the alleged involvement of the accused, and the details of the crime itself.  After being notified, the defendant has a certain period of time to file an answer admitting or denying the allegations made in the complaint. This statement by the defendant usually explains why the plaintiff should not prevail. It may also offer additional facts, or plead an excuse.  When I raised those questions, I was told I did not have the right.  *Finally a copy of the May 24, 2021, minutes which described the circus type juggling of proper procedure involving the 2021-09 Ordinance Temporary Ordinance. In addition (08:41.23)  Planning and Zoning committee should be made up of three council members and three property owning residents rather than the city council in its entirety.  When the city councils acts as zoning commission it causes confusion for the resident tax payers.  It is redundant and not open government (in my opinion).

(09:50.40)  I spoke to the Water Tower which ran out of water.  An alarm had been in place which would send a signal to South Lincoln Rural Water letting them know the level in our water tower was low. at that point they would contact the city so they could stop a water tower failure. Perhaps that should be checked on, maybe the alarm system should be repaired or replaced.

(10:27.20)  I spoke to the donation plea I had received by mail on city letterhead asking for my financial help ’cause there was still $150,000 matching funds waiting for our donation and to be debt free.  Folks check out agenda item #7 Community Center bond.  Doesn’t look to be debt free to me.  In addition, the operational debts incurred by the community center will fall on the good-will, faith and taxes of the citizens of Alcester and those who shop here. 

(11:11.13)  I spoke to the meeting that mayor Haeder and Councilman Curtis Keiser (I believe) had with the Union County Commissioners on June 1, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. in which mayor Haeder attempted to get county law enforcement coverage for Alcester due to the Police Chief leaving as a result of the city attempt to ‘screw the police department’ and mayoral request fell flat.  I told the council of previous attempt to dump the Alcester police department in favor of county sheriff department coverage.  I also told the council to be sure and check with residents of Hudson on how well that has worked for them.  County seat cities do well with County Sheriff coverage but outlying cities don’t.

Agenda Item #6 – Ordinance 2021-09 Mary Jane Ordinance.  Council still messing around with a temporary ordinance.  Finally the council after an amendment to correct Finance Office error in Section 1, line 4 to the correct number of SDCL 34-20G-72 decided to sit on their hands until the state decides what it is going to do.

Agenda Item #7 – Community Center Bond- AMKO Mark DeRaney spoke to the amount of money the city was looking at to pay out for city stated maximum debt on the community building.  Mr. DeRaney stated (26:02.93) “I got a call last week from Pat saying, ‘We need some money to finish up for the community center'”.  Finance Officer Jurrens seems to be using a bait and switch scam where she trims off certain costs of the community building project so it looks more attractive to the taxpayers to get the program passed, only to add those costs-plus-some under the guise of ordinances, fees, bonds and etc. to cover the funds she trimmed. 

(32:07.87)  Councilman Curtis Keiser asks Mr. DeRaney for a definition and clarification of Revenue Bond.  (37:00.47)  Councilman Curtis Keiser asks about the additional amount of $150K.  Now folks there was the land purchase which I do believe was $220K, so is that included in what is now listed at $575K including Underwriters 12% discount, costs of issuance, deposit to Debt Service Reserve Fund (DSRF), deposit to Project Construction Fund and with a Rounding Amount. Handout below for those of you who like to run the numbers?

(see insert )

Agenda Item #8 – Legal Updates – Attorney Larry Nelson

Mr. Nelson addresses the Banner Engineering agreement Updates and changes.

Agenda Item #9 – Police Department –  mayor announced the appointment of interim police chief, Austin Schuller.  Mayor Haeder stated the necessity of this move as the requirement of  SD DCI (South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation) to have contact with the Chief of Police, we no longer have a police chief so it was necessary to make an emergency appointment of a police chief and certain predilections of the finance officer to overstep her authority may make it necessary for the DCI to investigate, again. Folks this was the entity which investigated the election violations of Finance Officer Jurrens and which found evidence of credible election violation on the part of the Finance Officer.  Please note mayor Haeder’s comment which relates to how valuable our police chief is and how important making amends to our Chief of Police Jeff Christie for a fellow employee’s retaliatory actions. (46:22.97)  Mayor I can certainly see why you should be ashamed to look Chief Jeff in the eye, when you refused to rein in Finance Office Jurrens and back Chief Christie from the scurrilous excoriations of the all-protected FOPat.  I heard of a previous councilmember comment made we cannot afford to fire/lose the finance officer. As well as another a councilmember comment, “screw the police department”.  WOW  Evidently Mayor Haeder is willing to lose our Police Chief and endanger community safety all in the name of protect the FO.  Screw the police department and we are all screwed.  “We cannot replace our finance officer, SURE we can.  We hire a temporary accountant and we advertise for a new finance officer.  I feel certain there are many young accountants willing to work and do the job of city finance office for us.

Agenda Item #10 – Department Head Updates

Agenda Item #11– Purple Heart Trail proposition

Agenda Item #12 – Back Bar Door Replacement – While the Deem’s bar operation should be safe and secure, the $4555.00 price tag seemed high.  I must admit there was no supportive documentation on the requirements of what appears to be one pricy door presented for public consumption.  Now Folks you need to realize it is the city’s expense. not the Deem’s to replace the door of a city owned building.  The city insurance should pay for the costs of door replacement. 

Agenda Item #13 – July 5, 2021, Council first July meeting date moved back to July 12, 2021.  Two council members have stated they will be absent for either of those  meetings dates.  Councilwoman Peeples and Councilwoman Talbott.

Agenda Item #14 – Finance Office Updates – (01:09:33.90) 

SO WAS CHIEF CHRISTIE PAID ALL MONEYS TO WHICH HE WAS LAWFULLY ENTITLED????? 

Somehow I have my doubts knowing the vindictiveness of FOPat.

Agenda Item #15 – Alcester Community Center – meeting on Tuesday.

Agenda Item #16  – Fair Update – Bull Riding

Agenda Item #17 – Executive Session 1.25-2.3 Legal counsel on LITIGATION/LAWSUIT REVIEW.  Entered into closed session at 8:07 p.m. and back into session at 8:15 p.m.

Agenda Item #18 – Adjourn  Council adjourned at 8:16 p.m.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

It was announced during the council meeting the street chip-seal coating was completed Monday, June 7, 2021.  Interesting ’cause it appears Beck Drive and Dakota Street in front of the city offices was chip-sealed, however Union street between Third Street and Second Street is untouched.  This street seems to have been orphaned out of the city street family tree.  Folks residents on the block were left to dig their vehicles out of the muddy mess ignored by the city.  This ‘street’ does not even have enough small to medium pebbles to be called a gravel road, yet the residents are still required to pay the $ per foot street maintenance fee?  Folks go for a ride, see for yourselves the state of that street.

However it seems after months of me mentioning the failure to build a retaining wall on the variance awarded to Sunnyside Storage, it does appear to be in the process of construction.

Oh and one other thing, this has to do with Tiny homes and what can happen with Patti-zoning and Buy-me-a-variance running amok.  The city of Alcester has in the past entertained allowing Tiny homes in Alcester.  Yeah Folks, it might be worth a look-see…There is a tiny home North of Hwy 46 on the east edge of Beresford.  First came the tiny home, then came the tiny-garage and now I noticed another tiny-type storage shed on what appears to be the same parcel of ground.  

In theory it is the same as combining lots along Beck Drive and selling them off for $15K.  Last I knew, the HRC was going to have to sell each lot for $25K just to make the balloon payment and now it appears there is a fire-sale on those properties.

Contact City Council

Mayor Dan Haeder                   605-934-2287

Councilman David Larsen        605-934-2434

Councilwoman Darla Reppe    605-934-2602

Councilwoman Linda Talbot    605-934-1849

Councilwoman Cyndi Peeples

Councilman Brian Johnson

Councilman Curtis Keiser

(ongoing criminality?)

Mayor Dan Haeder called the April 19, 2021, city council meeting to order with the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.  Council members present were Councilman David Larsen, Councilwoman Darla Reppe, Councilwoman Linda Talbott, Councilwoman Melissa Kay and City Attorney Sam Nelson with Councilman Marcus Ireland participating via telephone. 

Agenda Item #3 – Mayor Haeder called for Approval of the Agenda.  An adjustment was made to add an additional Executive Session SDCL 1-25-2.3 Legal Contract to Agenda Item #6.  Like we really needed another Executive session last night.

Agenda Item #4 – Public Input – 

*Vickie Larsen – Wheel Loader throwing good money after bad.  (0:07:07.00)  Direct Deposit for employees.  I ask the question does the city offer direct deposit to its employees.  Finance Office Jurrens answer was no. (0:37:70)  So Why not?  Don’t know how FOPat?  Too much work for you?  I handed out ‘how to direct deposit’ to the council with a detailed packet to Mayor Haeder.  The detailed packet I handed to Mayor Haeder explained how direct deposit would save the city money. Folks keep this mind, ’til you get to the HSA Healthcare provider change Agenda Item #10 (0:54:42.90) and (0:55:14.87)

*Don Drown – (0:10:10.10) Junk and dead cars in the city.  Mr. Drown was asked by Attorney Sam Nelson, “have you contacted the city?” (0:14:01.53)  Mr. Drown answered, “…numerous times…” (0:14:12.23)  Attorney Sam tells Mr. Drown to keep contacting the city office to establish a time line (0:14:19.00)  Mayor Haeder says, to talk to him, talk to your councilmember (0:15:18.20)  I asked about the a complaint form (0:16:11.77)  FOPat answers the city has a form, really?  Why didn’t you have Mr. Drown fill out a complaint when he spoke to you all those numerous times?  Councilman David Larsen asked, “…Are they (the complaint forms) on the website (0:16:28.57)  FOPat replied, : No, but I can put them on it….What you waiting for, why are ya draggin’ your feet FOPat?

*Councilwoman Darla Reppe – (0:17:37.20) Musical Garbage Cans Game the Alcester home version.  Frost is out, time to change back.  (0:18:36.33) Councilwoman Talbott thinks we should keep the game of Musical Garbage Cans going and FOPat well FOPat says (0:18:45.97), “Actually Loren loves it…”  Of course “Loren” loves it, he can get into town and get out of town so he can pick up more garbage on the route and get home.  He does not have to pay the street maintenance fee!

*Councilwoman Melissa Kay – Interstate 29 Sign –  My advice to Councilwoman Kay, do your homework before you suggest another Bambee-like fiasco such as interstate signage.  For instance madam Kay, SDCL 31-29-1 through SDCL 31-29-87.  That is just the South Dakota, the Union County, local licensing fees.  Then there is the IOWADOT (Iowa Outdoor Advertising Regulations of Interstate Highways) and then there is the Linchpin Article, How to Effectively Use Outdoor and Billboard Advertising at https://linchpinseo.com/the-guide-to-outdoor-advertising/    updated 03/16/2021 author Team Linchpin.  Folks I took the advertising course in school.  Leisure Sports looked into Bill Board advertising when we became a Recreational Vehicle Dealer.  Want to know the potential costs, let’s see there is the annual state licensing permit ranging from $16 to $72 per sign based upon size, State zoning restrictions apply, County zoning restrictions apply, Cannot be in public right-of-way or over-hang it, the maximum area of one sign can be 1200 sq ft and cannot exceed thirty feet in height and 60 feet in length. private property contract for land rent for structure of the sign, and now the biggie. Traditional billboard require a monthly payment of $250.00 to $14,000.00 or more.  Digital billboards monthly payments start from $1200.00 to $15,000.00 or more.  Now folks FOPat is all hot-to-trot to replace the decrepit signs North of Alcester and South of Alcester.  There would be tear down fees, licensing fees from South Dakota and Union County along with any zoning changes along with any restriction as to content of the signage. (0:20:30.97)

Agenda Item #5 – Wastewater Facility with presentation by Banner Representative Ms. Tanya Miller.  (0:23:11.03)  Duties of the engineering, too bad the city did not have this in place during the SRTS fiasco which bought the city a tort suit.  (0:34:23.80)  Executive session #1 SDCL 1-25-2.3 Consulting with legal counsel or reviewing communications from legal counsel about proposed or pending litigation or contractual matters;  Length of session was 6:34 pm – 7:02 pm equaling a total time of 28 minutes.

Agenda Item #6 – Executive Session SDCL 1-25-2.3 Consulting with legal counsel or reviewing communications from legal counsel about proposed or pending litigation or contractual matters;  discussion and decision to settle the claims of Terry and Jessica Christensen under any terms and conditions recommended by outside counsel.  Length of session was 7:08 pm – 7:17 pm for a total discussion time of  eight (8) minutes.

Agenda Item #7 – Executive Session SDCL 1-25-2.1 Personnel 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;Motion made by Councilwoman Melissa Kay.  The group entered Executive Session at 7:19 pm and was out of Executive session at 8:09 pm for a total time of 50 minutes.  Boy-howdy somebody was in deep do-do.

Agenda Item #8 – Library- Hired a part-time summer read person at $9.60 per hour.

Agenda Item #9 – Wheel Loader – bill $12,629.37  The Wheel Loader which was purchased used at a cost of $39,500.00 and as I remember to work on streets.  Ours wheel loader is a 2000 John Deere 544 (K) unknown hours with a speculative value somewhere around $15K to $30K in running condition.  So it appears the city just did $12,629.37 worth of repairs on a machine valued at or around $12K and that doesn’t include the hauling charge to and from Sioux City? (0:48:01.00) diagnosis:

*Leak in Boom Lift

*Replace O-rings

*Bad U joint

*Oil

*Rebuild Fuel Pump

*Full Service

*Alarms going off due to bad connector

*Issues with shifting

*Issues with Steering

(0:51:49.50) leave it up to the operators.  What operators?  Why would we leave a $12629.37 bill in the hands of operators?  Vote went to pay the $12,629.37 without question.

Agenda Item #10 – Health Plan change from Sanford to Wellmark with HSA option.  (0:54:42.90)  Pat’s health plan.  So Pat cannot handle direct deposit for the city employees but she is more than willing to take on the management of an HSA for the employees and the city?  Really it seems that FOPat is playing Robin Williams’  “Pinocchio, the Home Game” again.

Agenda Item #11 – Department Head reports –

Garbage pick-up moved to accommodate Park Street and Sixth Street rip up. (1:06:09.97)

Ordinances to be reviewed in the paper.

Agenda Item #12 – Reminders and Updates

Agenda Item #13 – Adjourn  8:35 pm

Karma

Contact City Council

Mayor Dan Haeder                   605-934-2287

Councilman David Larsen        605-934-2434

Councilwoman Melissa Kay     712-557-0689

Councilwoman Darla Reppe    605-934-2602

Councilwoman Linda Talbot    605-934-1849

Councilman Marcus Ireland     605-370-1193

“Without dreams, there can be no courage. And without courage, there can be no action.” 

Wim Wenders

Mayor Dan Haeder called the March 15, 2021, city council meeting to order with the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.  Councilmembers present were Councilman David Larsen, Councilwoman Darla Reppe, Councilwoman Linda Talbott, and Councilwoman Melissa Kay with Councilman Marcus Ireland via telephone.  No city attorney present.

Mayor Haeder called for Approval of the Agenda.

About five minutes into the meeting chiming started. A phone.

At 6:02 p.m. Mayor Haeder opened the Alcester Board of Equalization with just one appeal of valuation.  Karen Huenink was present to make appeal the valuation of the Huenink home.  The council meandered through the process of figuring out the percentage rise in value, the basis used to increase the value, and trying to answer the question, “…how did they know about updates/upgrades to raise the valuation?” (0:12:29.23) to which FOPat answered through building permits and routine valuation hikes.

Agenda Item #5 – Public Input  Bret Doering (0:29:39.20)was present to voice his appreciation and to personally thank our police department for their quick response to the break-in of his car-wash operation.

Councilwoman Darla Reppe (0:31:32.30)reported three issues.  John Wegh (0:31:43.47) local funeral home director contacted Councilwoman Reppe concerning street and alley approach failures to his business.  Councilwoman Reppe went on to report contact with the parents of lifeguards (0:34:28.17) employed by the city were concerned about WSI and lifeguard certification fees.  Most communities pay for the certifications, Alcester pays for one-half of the certification fee.  The fees are reported to be around $300.00.  The council considered the question, if the city wishes to retain lifeguards it would be in their best interests to pay the whole fee but in a contact situation where the lifeguard must work for a specific amount of time once they have certified at the expense of the city.  Councilwoman Reppe mentioned the continuation of an exposed pipe (0:41:23.90) in Lincoln Circle in which a street pipe was exposed and presented a safety issue.

Councilman David Larsen (0:42:55.83) asked a question regarding the garbage route which has presented some safety issues for our older residents who must schlep their garbage cans across the street to have the garbage truck pick up their garbage “to preserve the street”.  Evidently the garbage truck is not ambidextrous, its arm only swings one way.

Agenda Item #6 – Email Scam-  Emails were sent to some residents with Mayor Haeder listed as the sender.  He was not.  Emails requested help using the purchase of gift card.

Agenda Item #7 – Proper Police Department contact procedure. 

Agenda Item #8 – Proposed Street Maintenance – Mayor says be patient, it is not going to happen right away.  Folks prior to 2012 the street department would make their recommendation to the mayor, the street committee would also go out in the spring of the year to evaluate street conditions with those reports compared to previous years treatments and decisions would be made to take care those problem areas on a 3-4 year revolving plan.  Now it is not just the streets but the utility infrastructure under those street which needs attention.  My opinion the city needs to adopt a schedule and a plan of action with funding to repair our streets from west to east.

Agenda Item #9 – Library Board- the council voted to seat Cosette Heman for the three year term given up by Pam Hughes.

Agenda Item #10 – Paint South Dakota 2021- Still needs a chairperson and volunteer crews.  Deadline is April 15th, 2021 for implementation.  Will be placed on the April agenda.

Agenda Item #11 – Surplus chairs- Evidently Alcester EMS is in need of chairs, so the city elected to donate 20 chairs to the organization.

About 64 minutes into the meeting phone chiming continues on and off every minute or so. Again the chiming starts at about 68-69 minutes into the meeting. Yeah Wanda’s phone messaging her. Can we not find a solution to the chiming phone causing interruptions?

Agenda Item #12 – Personnel Policy Manual Changes.  Several observations here.  Human Resource Guru Councilwoman Kay and FOPat have been pushing the merit, longevity and of course the all-time favorite employee evaluation.  Motivation?  Well let’s see, when an employee starts at the top of the wage scale raises are limited to cost-of-living raises.  So after much, much discussion and conversation dealing with personal experiences and expectations from the mayor Resolution 2021-05 amendment to the Personnel Policy was moved to first reading.

Resolution 2021-06 amendment to the Personnel Policy was introduced with a cautionary warning from Councilwoman Darla Reppe who had done some research on the issue.  Councilwoman Reppe had been warned the city should steer clear of any policy change as outline in this resolution because it becomes a major problem. Vote was taken with four aye and one nay (Councilwoman Reppe)

Resolution 2021-07 Amendment to the Personnel Policy, was presented for first reading.  The Mayor asked, “What is the highest annual salary for an employee right now…” (1:29:56.77) FOPat answered, “… it is between the Chief and myself…” (1:30:14.57)  then Mayor Haeder asks, “…what number is that…” (1:30:22.33) and after a long, calculating pause Mayor Haeder paraphrased, “…we’ll call it $50K” (1:31:10.23) Resolution approved for first reading with amendment to percentages cut in half.

Agenda Item #13 – Legal – Settlement Cap for SRTS Lawsuit against City of Alcester, McLaury Engineering by Christensen.  Cap of $10K by city or rather city liability insurance(01:43:37.40) Mayor Haeder says, “…I don’t feel bad about them (Alcester liability insurance carrier) paying…” and like amount to be matched by co-respondent McLaury Engineering.  Vote approved the cap settlement amount with the attorneys to be advised of the vote.

Agenda Item #14 – Reminders and Updates

Agenda Item #15 – Executive Session needed by Councilwoman Melissa Kay 1-25-2.1 Personnel.  Councilwoman Kay instructed Wanda Halverson to stay in the session.  Into Executive Session at 7:49 P.M. and out of Executive Session at 7:55 P.M.

Agenda Item #16 – Adjourn  City Council Adjourned at 7:56 P.M.

Contact City Council

Mayor Dan Haeder                   605-934-2287

Councilman David Larsen        605-934-2434

Councilwoman Melissa Kay     712-557-0689

Councilwoman Darla Reppe    605-934-2602

Councilwoman Linda Talbot    605-934-1849

Councilman Marcus Ireland    605-370-1193

          The February 15, 2021,  Alcester City Council meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Mayor Dan Haeder with a recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.  Councilman David Larsen, Councilwoman Linda Talbott and Councilwoman Melissa Kay in person.  Councilman Marcus Ireland and Councilwoman Darla Reppe, were counted present via telephone and City Attorney Sam Nelson was absent but I understand(by hear-say not through any announcement) available by phone if needed.  H-m-m

          Agenda Item #3 – Approval of Agenda –  Call to approve the agenda, motion was made, second was made and with no discussion the motion was approve by a five (5) count unanimous aye vote.  Three in person and two by telephone.

          Agenda Item #4 – Public Input – I (Vickie Larsen) started out. 

Why a custom built computer?  Why not use one of those extra Cares Computers?

Now compare what was said in council (01:04:08.93) Identical, really? I will deal with that one in another blog.

Website–where is it? (0:04:48.93)

Contact number for Councilman Ireland still not published for constituents. (0:05:14.50)

Cemetery roads clean off (0:05:34.17)

Question on city-owned bar as it related to mask mandate (0:06:02.70)

Wake Up call Armstrong City Council legal troubles (0:06:23.07)

(0:08:13.10) Councilwoman Kay questioned my comment as to the article related to ongoing criminality…”So are accusing someone of criminality?”  Madam Councilwoman is that the only question in your playbook?  If I were to accuse someone of criminality, it would be plain and you wouldn’t have to guess.  In addition, I would have concrete proof should I ever make a public accusation.  My answer (01:08:15.78)  was No!  Councilwoman Talbott squawks (0:08:19.87) “…you just said…it is going on here…”  Councilwoman Talbott I suggest you listen before you squawk! 

But since you brought it up Councilwoman Talbott, let’s compare shall we?

Folks you decide, You fill in the questions marks!

Yes or No

Source : https://esthervillenews.net/news/local-news/2021/02/13/multi-year-investigation-leads-to-arrest-of-armstrong-officials/

Mayor Haeder reported input (0:08:59.17) regarding pet licensing and increased fees.  (0:09:31.10)

Councilman Ireland reported input on complaints on the wreaths on the lights in the park.(0:10:59.67)  Folks thought it was tacky.  (0:11:33.03) further comment/discussion on keeping lighting in the park.  I believe at the time the ‘north to south’ leading to the shelter house sidewalk was formed in the park there were regular lights placed along that walkway.  So there were already lights existing in the park before the wreaths were attached.

          Agenda Item #5 – Property Tax Abatement – Extend an abatement to an elderly disabled resident.  Motion made and passed.

          Agenda Item #6 – Department Updates –

Police Department had no update.

Street Department report was presented by Patricia Jurrens in the absence of Mr. Johnson.  This involved putting on a touch for additional street lights on Lincoln from Anderson street southward to First Street westward.  Madam  Bookkeeper made her suggestions known to the group.  Discussion was introduced as a ‘safety issue’ for walkers.  As you can hear from the discussion very little information was handed to the council, just a couple of pictures with some hand drawn stars for placement.  As the discussion progressed it became apparent the council was having trouble following the rationale and the discussion twisted and turned more than the road.  It was shared Southeastern Electric Cooperative was provider of record for that part of the city.  However Ms. Jurrens opined where the poles would be placed and that if the city agreed to wood poles there would be no charge other than the added electricity. 

          Now here is where it becomes interesting.  Mayor Haeder opines to, “… go with the wood poles, ’cause it will be free…” (0:20:59.27)  Not free, sir!  Councilman David Larsen asks the question, “…do we need a motion…” (0:21:36.50) and Mayor Haeder says don’t think so.  Silence.  No councilmember asked the question how many light poles are we talking about?  No councilmember asked the question how much electricity per pole is going to be charged against the city?  Is there going to be a charge for the pole?  Really silence.  Now no vote?  The council should have made the motion to accept the deal of free poles and installation, state the number of poles and where they would be placed.  Keep in mind the city has set back right-of-way approximately 33 feet from the center of the street outward.  If the area the poles were to be placed was on the east side of Lincoln Drive which I do believe is outside of the city limits and the city has no control over.  Yup, I do believe it would have a real good idea to have a true, complete and accurate record of what this council is doing.

NO VOTE TAKEN!

          Agenda Item #7 – Discretionary Taxing Formula Ordinance  2021-04 – After some brief discussion, no attorney present Mayor Haeder called the question to approve the first Reading of Ordinance 2021-04.  Councilman Ireland asked for clarity’s sake that it was his understanding that the formula was not being changed just adapting language which would agree with South Dakota/City Statute.  Then the group approved the first reading.

Agenda Item #8 Finance Office –

          Electronic Readers, Water meters.  One of the hand held readers quit working.  Bookkeeper Jurrens thought it just needed a new battery.  Easy peesy, right.  Now FoPat is coming to the council with a radio meter read proposal  at a project today’s cost of $125K,  But guys, we can do drive-by-reads.  However Folks we are likely to get hit with the purchase of a vehicle to drive the street to read meters.  There is to be a meeting Wednesday to talk to representatives from Core & Main out of Sioux Falls at 11:00 a.m.  Now folks how will affect US?  Think about the meters we are presently using, Now think about the cost of new meters, installation to enable radio reads.  Guesses?  It appears these new meters can be installed in the city right-right-of-way, generally the city pays for the initial cost with the cost spread across increased water rates for residents.  Any questions you can think of?  Ask you council!

          City Records to be destroyed, Council sure did vote for that!

          Reminders and Updates –

          Petition deadline-  Folks get your election petitions in by February 26th.

          Election day, April 13, 2021.  Be aware that South Dakota Municipal League strongly advises against Finance Officers and their minions not circulate absentee ballots, supervise signatures or influence any voting procedure.

          Board of Equalization meets March 15, 2021. 6:00 p.m.

          2021 Chip Sealing bid Opening March 1, 2021.

Agenda Item #9 – Executive Session –  Not necessary- Personnel must be having a quiet two weeks.

Agenda Item #10 – Adjourn Meeting

          Meeting adjourned at 6:31 P.M.

Contact City Council

Mayor Dan Haeder                   605-934-2287

Councilman David Larsen        605-934-2434

Councilwoman Melissa Kay     712-557-0689

Councilwoman Darla Reppe    605-934-2602

Councilwoman Linda Talbot    605-934-1849

Councilman Marcus Ireland    605-370-1193