Spring Valley City Council held a regular meeting on November 25. Members present included Mayor Tony Archer, Luan Ruesink, Chris Danielson, John Dols, and City Administrator Deb Zimmer. Mike Hadland was in his sheriff’s department uniform, so although he was in the room, he was not performing in his role on the council. No citizens asked to address the council.
Library Director Jenny Simon had submitted a written report, and Mayor Archer read the highlights, including a reminder to all citizens that, “The donation bins are no longer there. People are bringing things and dropping them off at the door. Do not do that.”
Regarding the ongoing repairs to the water damages on the east wall of the council chambers, Zimmer said, “They’re going to be sealing our brick…it’s a very strong odor. I’m going to try to get it scheduled for a Friday. If that doesn’t work, wondering about the possibility of working remotely.” The council agreed this could be an option if needed, but would require putting a message on the answering machine, since the calls could not be forwarded elsewhere. Zimmer also said she’ll try to get an estimate on the final cleanup that will need to be done whenever the current repairs are completed.
Sue Puffer addressed the council with a request to approve the hiring of two new EMTs/EMRs. She explained that, “We would like them to start. However, because we have a new EMT that just started, a returning EMT who is working her way back into it, and someone that’s just on the cusp of being on his own, we’re going to delay starting them (the two proposed new hires) until after the first of the year.” She added that one of the proposed new hires is a high school student, so he would not be expected to answer calls during school, adding, “We are going to push that he needs to be a student first, and EMR second.” The council voted to approve adding the two onto the hiring list.
Puffer also stated that regarding the ambulance service, “It’s been busy, but we’re keeping up with the calls.” She also informed the council that the ambulance monitors will soon become obsolete, as the manufacturer (Zoll Corporation) will no longer be supporting them. Puffer is investigating available grant options to help with the purchase of new monitors, which she said are around $24,000 each. She will keep the council updated on options.
Aaron Hamersma updated the council on happenings at the Wastewater Treatment Plant, saying, “It’s been a pretty quiet month… flows are still coming down from the little rain we had.” He also said the plant is preparing for the expected snowfall and resulting runoff.
Mayor Archer read a letter that Kingsland had sent to the city, thanking Spring Valley for helping to get the word out regarding the recent levy referendum. Kingsland was very pleased with the voter turnout. The next regular meeting of the council will be Monday, December 9. On that evening, the annual Truth in Taxation meeting will be held at 6 p.m., with the regular council meeting to follow. As always, the public is welcome. The council will also hold a very brief meeting during the final week of December, just to consider/approve bills, as needed.
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