Photo by Zech Sindt
The Wykoff City Council gathered for its regular monthly meeting on Monday, August 11, at 7 p.m. Mayor Ryan Breckenridge called the meeting to order, joined by council members Jeffrey Hare, Barbara Fate, Jane Baker, and Missy Musel. City Administrator Becky Schmidt and Administrative Assistant Luann Hare were also in attendance.
The council quickly approved the agenda and consent agenda, which included the minutes from the July 14 meeting, the list of bills, and the treasurer’s report. No visitors were present for public comment.
At the wastewater treatment plant, Rick Whitney reported a busy month of work and maintenance. Fire Chief Mike Lund said there were a few calls in July and that his department has been dedicating many hours to getting the old fire truck ready for Fall Fest. The restoration has proven to be a larger job than first expected, but Lund assured the council that the goal remains to have the truck ready to go by Fall Fest.
For the First Responders, Schmidt provided the monthly update in the absence of Director Cory Bremseth. The group has already responded to five calls this month, and three members will be taking an emergency vehicle operations course in September.
On the streets side, Mayor Breckenridge and Jane Baker reported that the work being done near the Commons is expected to be finished Wednesday.
The Community Education Committee brought forward some ideas, including the creation of a community garden next spring. The idea is to bring residents together for planting and harvesting while beautifying the city and promoting fresh produce. They also discussed offering internship opportunities for local youth, giving them a chance to work on community projects and learn valuable skills.
Several zoning issues came before the council. At 235 S. Gold Street, the owners requested a variance to the city’s chicken ordinance so they can double their flock and allow the birds to move freely between two adjoining properties. The council approved moving the matter forward to a zoning meeting, and notices will be sent out. At 314 N. Gold Street, a request to build a permanent accessory structure over an existing chicken coop was approved. The council also approved a fence permit for 200 E. Fillmore Street.
The council reviewed an update to the Shouse Ordinance. The proposed language would align with Preston’s definition of a dwelling, requiring a continuous frost-free footing and limiting attached garages to 45% or less of the home’s footprint. The definition would apply to all types of residential dwellings, including barndominiums. A public hearing on the ordinance change will be scheduled.
A condemnation matter also came up. With the city attorney from Nethercut Schieber preparing for deployment and reducing their caseload, Schmidt recommended using Novotny Law Office for this case. The council approved the change.
The topic of tree work was short and to the point. The council approved having Norby Tree Service remove eight trees for $3,600.
The long-running situation involving the RV parked behind the Gateway took a turn toward resolution. The owners have purchased a double lot where they plan to relocate the RV. They also intend to build a shed on the property, with the possibility of converting it into a Shouse later. This change will open up space along the street and help improve the area’s appearance.
Schmidt updated the council on new state legislation that will require paid family leave for all employees. Contributions will come from both payroll deductions and employer payments. Wykoff’s estimated annual employer share will be $492.80, with total contributions totaling $739.20. Schmidt noted that the state has not clarified how the law will apply to city council members or volunteer firefighters.
A discussion on rising MiEnergy rates was postponed to the August 25 budget meeting, giving the council more time to consider how the increases will affect the city budget.
The council also reviewed information on three proposed solar projects for the wastewater treatment plant, community center and city hall. Plans prepared by Solar Connection Inc. showed each project being fully funded through state grants and federal tax credits, with no net cost to the city and immediate reductions in electric bills. At the WWTP, a 54 kW ground-mounted system could save about $5,487 annually and over $206,000 over 30 years. The community center’s 10.67 kW roof-mounted system could save $889 per year and over $31,000 in three decades, while city hall’s 13.58 kW system could save $1,059 annually and more than $37,000 over the same period. Environmental benefits across all three sites would equal the carbon offset of more than 35,000 trees planted. However, the council noted that the projects remain under consideration because of unknown long-term costs such as insurance, maintenance, and future repairs. Depending on those expenses, the systems could ultimately cost more than simply continuing to pay the city’s current utility bills.
The council approved a request from one resident to waive $61.10 in sewer charges after a water leak on the property was confirmed to have bypassed the sewer system. Schmidt also mentioned another recent leak involving a toilet in a private home and reminded residents to check plumbing fixtures regularly. Unnoticed leaks, she said, can quickly become expensive problems.
Looking ahead, Cleanup Day is scheduled for September 13. So far, only one person has volunteered to help. The council discussed possible tasks for students who will be assisting that day and agreed that battery-powered tools should not be used by high school students. Schmidt plans to make a Facebook post to encourage more volunteers, particularly those willing to help elderly residents with household or yard work.
In final business, the council approved a gambling license and a liquor license for the Fire Relief Association. Kingsland students will also participate in a community service day in September, giving them another opportunity to connect with residents and contribute to local projects.
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