The Spring Valley city council held a brief regular meeting on May 23. All council members were present (Mayor Tony Archer, John Dols, Chris Danielson, Luan Ruesink, and Greg Brooks). City Administrator/Clerk Deb Zimmer also participated. No visitors had signed up to address the council.
Greg Brooks talked about the Spring Valley 100 bicycle race, which was held May 21. He stated, “We really had a good turnout at the SV 100 this weekend… We had a lot of local businesses that really stepped up and sponsored the event, and they really had a good time.” Mayor Archer added that there were 108 riders who finished the event, and 276 who had registered. He suggested in future years, perhaps the event could include some Friday evening attractions, to encourage participants and spectators to make a weekend of it when coming for the race.
Regarding Emergency Management, the city’s plan to purchase a used pickup hit a small snag. The plan was to purchase locally, for $10,000, but because of the current supply shortages, that hasn’t worked out as planned. Brooks explained, “Right now, with used vehicles, it’s hard to find them.” Deb Zimmer added, “They are not able to order a pickup, so they’re going to get one off the lot, and that increases the price, since that can’t get the discount.” She added that the pickup would be bought in Waterloo, but the price would be $11,000 instead of the planned $10,000. The council approved the difference.
Written reports from several departments were included in the meeting agenda/packet, including a report from the Park & Rec Department, submitted by John Fenske, that said, in part, “We have started on the pool. The plan is to have it up and running by May 30, with an opening date planned for June 6. Still looking for more lifeguards. So far, we have hired Devin Carr, Madison Hindt, Hailey Hindt, Emily Bjugan, Macie Rasmussen, Morgan Phillips, Elise O’Connor, Shelby Beck, and Jayden Brink… Mass registration for summer activities began on May 2, and the early bird prices will continue through May 26. Summer Rec staff we hired for this summer will be: Alexy Harwood, Morgan Langeslag, Kennedy Fenske, and Lucie Voigt.”
The Economic Development Authority report submitted by Chris Hahn included, “Wednesdays on Broadway kicks off June 15. Currently have about 45 vendors and exhibitors signed up and are looking forward to a fun first event. Other dates this summer are July 20, August 17, and September 21.”
Jenny Simon’s library report included, “Summer Reading Program registration starts the 6th of June and programs will be held June 15, 23, 29, July 13 and 20 at 1:30 p.m. Programs will include Bee Buzziness, The Magic of Isaiah, National Eagle Center with a live eagle, Snake Discovery, and Maria Klingsheim.”
Deb Zimmer’s administrator’s report included, “May has been busy in the office with renewal of dog licenses and side-by-sides along with registration for summer Park Dept activities/pool passes… Deputy Clerk position remains open. Concern with summer activities taking John and Chris out of the office a lot of the time and vacation schedules. May need to find a temp for the summer and address a permanent replacement in the fall.”
The council approved liquor license renewals for TJ’s Liquor, Stellar 181, Valley Lanes, and Rack’s.
The next meeting of the Spring Valley city council will be Monday, June 13 at 6 p.m., at city hall. The public is welcome.
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