On September 14, the Wykoff City Council met in regular session. All council members were in attendance (Lyle Morey, Richard Gleason, Mayor Al Williams, Mary Tjepkes and Mary Sackett) as well as City Clerk Becky Schmidt and Deputy Clerk Luann Hare.
Maggie Ramaker addressed the council on behalf of Wykoff Commons. She spoke about a request that was also outlined in a letter she’d sent to the city. The letter stated, in part, “Wykoff Commons has identified a critical need in Wykoff and the surrounding community. It is the lack of internet service in homes.” The letter describes the need for area students to have access to the internet, especially during these times when distance learning is at least a portion of the schoolwork expectation.
The letter further explains, “Arvig has donated free internet service for a year at Wykoff Commons, however we are requesting assistance (from COVID funds sent to the city from the Federal Government) to cover the cost of installation and necessary equipment. We want to provide a media center and distance learning hub with quiet study space for students. In addition, we will have coworking space for adults who have the option to work from home due to COVID… Wykoff Commons, LLC is requesting $8,500 to purchase three desktop computers, a printer, paper, ink cartridges and hand sanitizer, disinfectant and paper towels.” Ramaker stated that the requested funding would also help pay heating and utility bills at Wykoff Commons.
There was discussion about the allowable uses for CARES Act funds, with Becky Schmidt stating, “It would have to be very carefully looked at, to see if it qualifies.” She added that the funding is meant exclusively for expenses that were not budgeted for, but which resulted from the unique challenges presented by the arrival of the coronavirus.
The council considered spending $6,005 of the city’s available CARES Act funds on seven iPads for the city (five for council members, one for the clerk, and one for the deputy clerk). These devices would allow for a paperless system and online meetings. The devices suggested by Schmidt are 11-inch iPad Pro 128GB devices, and would be engraved with “City of Wykoff” on the back. Rich Gleason stated his concern that if Wykoff makes this purchase, then the city should immediately begin planning ahead for the inevitable replacement of technology devices that would be needed in a few years, by setting aside funds every year to build up a reserve. He suggested earmarking roughly $1,000 per year, and said, “As long as we commit to doing that, I’m fine with this.” Lyle Morey agreed this was a good suggestion. The council voted to approve the purchase.
Dennis Skogstad addressed the council regarding a vacant home near his property. Regarding the property owner, Skogstag stated, “All that guy’s doing is buffaloing you.” Skogstad said the property is not only an eyesore, but a safety concern. Council members said there has been a long history of concerns with the home and property. Ongoing concerns include the overgrown yard, as well as how structurally safe the home itself is. After discussion, the council agreed to consult with the city attorney, to begin the process of condemning the property.
The council approved two additions to the city’s Zoning Committee. Ryan Breckenridge will replace Amanda Goodman (term ending December 31, 2020) and Doreen Bergo will replace Randy Mensink (term ending December 31, 2021). The council also approved the proposed zoning map parcel corrections.
Regarding Wykoff’s annual fall cleanup day, which was held September 12, Mayor Williams stated, “I think it went very well.” The council’s next regular meeting will be Monday, October 12, at 7 p.m. The public, as always, is welcomed.
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