With a light agenda, the Spring Valley City Council held a very brief regular meeting on November 13. Members present included Mayor Tony Archer, Chris Danielson, John Dols, Mike Hadland and City Administrator Deb Zimmer. Luan Ruesink was absent. No citizens asked to address the council. The council chambers has a large tarp covering the east wall, as it is in the process of being repaired.
The council passed a proposed increase in sewer rates, as outlined in Resolution 2019-41. The resolution stated, “Whereas, the last sewer rate increase was approved February 1, 2017, and whereas, there is a need to increase the sewer rates to avoid potential deficit spending in the sewer fund…” Zimmer explained, “As we talked about last time, it’s 25 cents (increase) on the base, and a 25 cent increase on the per-thousand gallons. It comes up, on the average user, it’ll be a $1.50 increase.” The new rate will be effective with the 2020 February 1 billing cycle.
Next, the council considered Resolution 2019-42, regarding a proposed increase to the annual fire relief benefit. The Spring Valley Fire Relief Association Board had already met, and recommended the increase as outlined in the resolution, which states, in part, “Whereas, after examination of assets and liabilities the Board has approved an increase in the annual benefit amount of $40 effective on January 1, 2020.” The total benefit would increase from $1,510 to $1,550. The council unanimously passed the resolution as submitted.
Zimmer shared a letter that the city received from Phillip Holland, requesting he be allowed to have farm animals on his property. His letter stated, in part, “The property I purchased at 2310 West Tracy Road has eight horse grandfathered in, per property purchase agreement.” He asked if the city would allow him to have horses or cattle on the property. Zimmer said, “This property is located where it is zoned residential. City code does not allow farm animals.” She explained that when the property was originally annexed, the owner at that time was allowed to keep horses, but she explained the only way to allow farm animals now would be to change the city code.
Mike Hadland shared his thoughts, saying, “I just don’t want to change the city code at this time. I think the code’s set up pretty decent.” The council voted unanimously to deny Holland’s request.
Chris Danielson and Mayor Archer spoke about their impression after attending the groundbreaking ceremony at the senior living/memory care center. Danielson stated, “It’s great to see that coming into town.”
Mike Hadland reminded motorists, “Everybody be careful driving; it’s that time of year.” The next regular meeting of the council will be Monday, November 25 at 6 p.m. As always, the public is welcome.
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