The City of Juliaetta has a Mayor-Council form of government. City Council meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. City Hall is located at 203 Main St. If you would like to be placed on the agenda, please call City Hall at 208-276-7791 before noon the Wednesday before the meeting.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, those requesting reasonable accommodations need to contact City Hall at 208-276-7791.
The public is encouraged to attend any and all City Council Meetings.
2024 MINUTES
The meeting was called to order at 7:04 pm by Mayor Richard Groseclose. Council members in attendance were Wendi Dodge, Nick Anderson, and Mark Maland. Also present were Clerk Wendy Sandino, Treasurer Bonnie Whismore, Public Works Supervisor Justin Cope, Fire Chief Clifford Heimgartner, and Ryan Lindhorst, City Maintenance.
The minutes of the December 12, 2023 meeting were read. Motion to approve all minutes was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Maland. Motion carried. Bills from the month of December 2023 were reviewed. Motion to approve was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Dodge. Motion carried.
The Clerk swore in Richard Groseclose as Mayor, Wendi Dodge as Councilor, and Judi Fuller as Councilor, all for four-year terms. Each signed their oaths of office and were given Certificates of Election. Discussion was held regarding a new Council President. Councilmember Dodge moved to nominate Councilmember Anderson as Council President, seconded by Councilmember Fuller. Motion carried.
Bailee Schnider of Hayden Ross presented the FY2023 audit. Overall, the audit was favorable; with 24 audit adjustments needed, an improvement from 30 adjustments last year. Internal controls are all done as recommended.
General Fund
Ending fund balance of $888,772. Revenues exceeded expenditures at $320,121 and $288,860, respectively.
Water Fund
Carryover balance of $2,034,276. The City is above the minimum working capital recommendation of the Government Finance Officers Association of $32,237.
Sewer Fund
Increased the net position by $648,318 for a carryover balance of $792,315. The City is currently below the minimum working capital recommendation, but has improved each of the last five years.
Sanitation Fund
Carryover balance of $221,253. The City is above the minimum working capital recommendation.
Ms. Schnider reminded Council that ARPA funds need to be obligated by the end of the current fiscal year, and must be spent by 2026. Due to the wastewater project, a Single Audit will likely be needed for FY2025.
Approval of Amendment #3 with Keller Engineering, the Owner Engineer Agreement in the total amount of $247,000 for the Wastewater Treatment Plant was initially tabled by motion and second of Councilmembers Dodge and Anderson. Stillman Norton of Keller Associates joined later in the meeting by phone, to explain the amendment. SCADA integration services, the programming and panel design, are sometimes bid out during the project. Instead, Keller Associates would complete this work, including any later issues or questions post project. This can be a cost savings for the City, due to not being bid out. The amendment also adds in some federal funding tasks that were originally going to be done by CEDA. There were several factors that led to CEDA requesting these tasks to be done by Keller Associates instead, but USDA has given their approval of the change. This amendment was also reviewed by the City Attorney. Councilmember Dodge moved to approve Amendment #3, seconded by Councilmember Anderson. Motion carried.
City Attorney Jennifer Douglass joined the meeting by phone, assisting Council to set the fee/reserve for professional services and report on the Petition for Road Validation. In setting the fee amount, Council should consider how much cost should taxpayers absorb and how much should be borne by the petitioner. By statute the City is required to have a report prepared by qualified individuals; in this case, Keller Associates will prepare the report at a cost not to exceed $5,000. Legal expenses must also be considered, as well as time and work done by City staff including mailings and publications. Ms. Douglass recommended setting a reserve amount that would need to be paid before work begins. If there are any remaining funds at the end of the process, they will be repaid to the petitioner. After discussion, Councilmember Anderson moved to set the fee with a reserve to be reimbursed if costs are less, at $9,000.00, seconded by Councilmember Dodge. Motion carried. Ms. Douglass will notify Counsel for both parties of the fee.
An Agreement for Professional Services and Task Order by Keller Associates, relating to the Petition for Declaration and Validation of a Public was presented to Council. Ms. Douglass advised Council if they were to accept it, to do so contingent on prepayment of the reserve fee. Councilmember Anderson moved to approve the contract on condition of prepayment of the fee, seconded by Councilmember Dodge. Motion carried.
Council continued their conversation regarding employee raises for each license earned. Supervisor Cope clarified that the Juliaetta operator and backup operator are required to obtain Class I, Class II, and Class III Water Operator Licenses and Class I and Class II Wastewater Operator Licenses. There are other licenses that employees can also earn, but they are not required to operate Juliaetta facilities. Council could specify that the amount of raise per license depends on if the license is required or not. The City currently pays two other license holders a $250.00 per month retainer fee, each, for having the necessary licenses. After discussion, Councilmember Dodge moved to give employees a $2.50/hour raise for each required water and wastewater license earned, seconded by Councilmember Fuller. Motion carried. Councilmember Dodge moved to give employees a $1.00/hour raise for a CDL license earned, seconded by Councilmember Fuller. Motion carried.
The Treasurer suggested to Council that a new copier/scanner/printer be leased from Royal Business. The Toshiba e-Studio was recommended, at a cost of $102.00 per month plus $22.00 per month for all ink/toner, parts, labor, etc., for a term of 63 months. This machine is much faster at scanning and printing than our current machines. Councilmember Fuller moved to lease the Toshiba digital system, seconded by Councilmember Dodge. Motion carried.
Supervisor Cope reported all the surplus property that was recently sold has been picked up, and he and Ryan Lindhorst are working on palletizing the landscaping blocks. Mr. Lindhorst reported a recall notice was received for the new dump truck; a sensor is scheduled to be fixed at Jess Ford in Pullman.
There was no report from the Fire Department.
At 8:35 pm Councilmember Dodge made a motion to adjourn. Councilmember Anderson seconded the motion and it carried unanimously.
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 pm by Mayor Richard Groseclose. Council members in attendance were Judi Fuller, Wendi Dodge, Nick Anderson, and Mark Maland. Also present were Clerk Wendy Sandino, Treasurer Bonnie Whismore, Public Works Supervisor Justin Cope, Fire Chief Clifford Heimgartner, and Ryan Lindhorst, City Maintenance.
The minutes of the January 9, 2024 meeting were read. Motion to approve the minutes was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Dodge. Motion carried. Bills from the month of January 2024 were reviewed. Motion to approve was made by Councilmember Dodge, seconded by Councilmember Anderson. Motion carried.
Councilmember Fuller asked Council to consider adding the Pledge of Allegiance to every meeting. It is recited at other surrounding cities’ Council meetings, and she believes it will promote patriotism and unity. Councilmember Fuller moved to have the Pledge of Allegiance at each meeting beginning in March, seconded by Councilmember Anderson. Motion carried.
Latah County Sheriff Richie Skiles and Deputy Grasman attended the Council meeting to address some issues that have been reported in Juliaetta. Regarding complaints about shooting, it is allowed in the County, but not within City limits. There have also been complaints of homeless people at the park. Homelessness is not a crime, and unless there is a City Ordinance that closes the park on certain days or times, people can be there. However, individuals can be “trespassed” and not allowed to be at the park if they are causing damage or other disturbances. Dumping/littering and drug use are also illegal everywhere.
Christina Mangiapani reported to Council that the Latah County Broadband Coalition has been awarded $15 million for their efforts to bring internet to Latah County. As Juliaetta already has two internet providers available to residents, those funds will not benefit our City, but she asked that Council continue to offer support to the cause. She explained that towers may possibly need to be built or fiber optic lines installed in Juliaetta, which was concerning to Council due to the damage that has been caused in the past by companies installing fiber optic services. Any future construction would need to be approved by Council. She asked Council to reaffirm their commitment and support by signing Resolution 2024-01 and a Memorandum of Understanding. There was no motion by Council.
Teresa Ahrendts addressed Council about the large number of junk cars parked on State Street. Not only are they an eyesore, they are creating a hazard for drivers. Garbage, overgrown yards, and loose dogs are issues as well. She would like City Ordinances enforced and the town cleaned up. Sheriff Skiles said he would address these issues, and added that a lot of local communities have the same problems. Citizens can contact the Sheriff’s Office with complaints, as well as the City. It was also suggested that letters can be sent to ordinance violators by the Clerk, if no action is taken, then the Sheriff’s Office can give a warning and/or issue a citation.
City Attorney Jennifer Douglass joined the meeting by phone to explain paperwork received by the City regarding Endo International. It is a bankruptcy notice. Because of many lawsuits against opioid manufacturers, Endo International has declared bankruptcy. Governments are collecting monetary damages from opioid manufacturers because of the amount of funding states need to spend on expenses related to issued with opioids. Ms. Douglass is hopeful that the State of Idaho is handling this and other lawsuits on behalf of Idaho cities, but she has not had a response yet to her inquiry. Juliaetta can consult with a bankruptcy attorney and potentially join the lawsuit, or the City can wait for the case to proceed and “get what we get.” She added it is a good idea to contact a State Representative for more information. There was no motion by Council.
The Clerk explained a visit by a Juliaetta resident who would like a dedicated area for local kids to sled in the wintertime. Historically, kids have sledded down most City streets, most often 4th Street. However, when the roads are plowed for driver access, it leaves no place for sledding. It was suggested that City Maintenance not plow 4th Street between Water Street and Railroad Street, as no adjacent landowners need that block to access their properties. Councilmember Anderson moved to not plow 4th Street from Water Street to Railroad Street, seconded by Councilmember Fuller. Motion carried.
The Treasurer asked for Council to decide on a date and time to have the first FY25 budget workshop. It will be at 6:00 pm before the Council meeting on March 12. Supervisor Cope and Fire Chief Heimgartner should also attend.
The Treasurer and Clerk would like a temporary helper to scan historic City documents in an effort to convert to digital storage of documents, working during City Hall’s open hours. Councilmember Dodge moved and Councilmember Anderson seconded to hire the temporary employee for scanning. Motion carried.
The Mayor would also like a helper to work on projects with him around the City this summer. The helper will also mow the park and City, clean the park, and other odd jobs. Applicants should be at least 17 years old. Councilmember Dodge moved and Councilmember Anderson seconded to hire a summer helper. Motion carried. Both positions will pay $11 per hour.
Supervisor Cope reported a Lead Line Survey needs to be completed by October, so he and Ryan Lindhorst will be very busy. It was suggested that perhaps the temporary scanning employee could assist Maintenance in the afternoons. He also reported a meeting he had with EPA, and fines for late reporting in the amount of $325. However, there were no plant violations. An inspection of the sewer system was completed for the wastewater project; all was in good order. The lower reservoir was cleaned and at that time there were no recommendations for repairs.
Mr. Lindhorst will take his Water Treatment I (restricted) license test soon. The restriction is due to his not having the required number of hours yet. When he has enough hours, the unrestricted license will be issued.
Councilmember Anderson reported the Christmas lights will be removed at the park very soon.
There was no report from the Fire Department.
At 8:26 pm Councilmember Dodge made a motion to adjourn. Councilmember Anderson seconded the motion and it carried unanimously.
The budget workshop was called to order at 6:00 pm by Mayor Richard Groseclose. Council members in attendance were Judi Fuller, Wendi Dodge, Nick Anderson, and Mark Maland. Also present were Clerk Wendy Sandino, Treasurer Bonnie Whismore, Public Works Supervisor Justin Cope, and Fire Chief Clifford Heimgartner.
The FY2025 budget was read by each line by the Mayor. Changes made included increasing legal fees, accounting, and Christmas lights to purchase a Main Street display. The budget for fire department PPE was increased, as well as for water treatment supplies, as costs have increased tremendously.
The public hearing began at 7:00 pm. The purpose of the public hearing was to hear public comment regarding the increased wastewater rate of $47.85, an increase of $4.50. This amount was voted upon in August 2023; wastewater rates will increase by $4.50 every six months and this revenue will pool in the sewer fund until yearly payments begin in 2026. There was no public comment.
The pledge of allegiance was recited, led by BSA troop members from Lewiston.
The minutes of the February 13, 2024 meeting were read. Motion to approve the minutes was made by Councilmember Dodge, seconded by Councilmember Fuller. Motion carried. Bills from the month of February 2024 were reviewed. Motion to approve was made by Councilmember Anderson, seconded by Councilmember Maland. Motion carried.
Dan Smith, Technology Director of Kendrick Joint School District #283 addressed Council regarding the Latah County Broadband Coalition. He asked Council to remain a part of the coalition by adopting Resolution 2024-01 and approving their MOU. There will likely be no future impact on the City, but the coalition still needs the City’s support for maximum funding opportunities. Although Juliaetta citizens have access to two different broadband fiber providers, this is not the case for many rural kids. Satellite internet such as StarLink is available but terrestrial fiber is far better and more reliable. Councilmember Dodge moved to approve the MOU and Resolution 2024-01, seconded by Councilmember Anderson. The vote tied, and was broken by the Mayor. Motion carried.
Resolution 2024-02 was presented to Council. It is the fee and rate schedule amended to change the sewer rate to $47.85, which will be in effect April 1, 2024. Councilmember Anderson moved to adopt Resolution 2024-02, seconded by Councilmember Dodge. Motion carried.
FEMA has contacted City of Juliaetta in the past, asking for Council to adopt their flood ordinance. The last City Attorney advised the Clerk that the ordinance conflicts with the City’s code, and suggested a meeting with the building inspector to make necessary changes. The building inspector was unable to do so. The FEMA flood ordinance was then given to the K-J Planning and Zoning chairperson, Cynthia Nye, for her review. She has found discrepancies and has noticed that FEMA’s flood map is incorrect. The City currently has a flood ordinance and does not allow new construction in the flood zone. No citizens currently have FEMA flood insurance. Councilmember Dodge moved to table further action with the flood ordinance until a meeting with FEMA can be held, seconded by Councilmember Anderson. Motion carried.
Supervisor Cope has received a quote of $8,800 from Precision to mitigate 46 trip hazards on city sidewalk. This involves cutting off high spots to make the surface as even as possible, keeping the cuts at 2” or less to maintain structural integrity. It will not create new approaches at intersections, and the company will not fix crumbling surfaces. He also reported a quote given by Poe Asphalt for overlays on 1st Avenue, the top of 3rd Street, and State Street, as well as in front of the fire station. Including flagging, the cost will be $70,375. Knife River has also contacted Supervisor Cope and wants to provide a paving bid. The sidewalk budget has been mostly spent for this budget year, but the full paving budget remains. ARPA funds can be spent on sidewalks as well as paving. Councilmember Anderson moved to table the decision on sidewalks and paving until all information is obtained from quotes, seconded by Councilmember Dodge. Motion carried.
A Mutual Automatic Aid Agreement between Cities of Juliaetta and Kendrick was presented to Council. A similar agreement has been in place prior to now, but needs to be updated. The agreement was reviewed and edited by the City Attorney. The agreement effectively doubles the manpower in case of fire in either city; it also has a positive effect on the departments’ ISO rating. Councilmember Dodge moved to sign the Mutual Automatic Aid Agreement with City of Kendrick, seconded by Councilmember Fuller. Motion carried.
A four-year CD is about to reach its maturation date at P1FCU. The CD is in the amount of $67,05.93. Current rates are: 6 months – 4.76%
1 year – 4.67%
18 months – 4.43%
2 years – 4.18%
The six-month rate is the best, and gives the City both sooner access to funds if necessary, as well as the ability to take advantage of a potential improved rate later this year. Councilmember Anderson moved to renew the CD for a six-month term, seconded by Councilmember Dodge. Motion carried.
Supervisor Cope received a more detailed report from Midco following their recent cleaning and inspection of the lower reservoir. A vent needs to be lengthened, and a small door needs to be installed within a larger door; there are no structural issues. He also reported that Ryan Lindhorst resigned his position with the City on February 29. A job announcement has been posted at City Hall and the Post Office, in the Lewiston Tribune, and online on the City’s website and indeed.com. The job will be posted until March 25. Supervisor Cope will attend a conference the first week in April and Frank Groseclose will cover water and wastewater duties while he’s away. The sweeper and backhoe have been fixed.
Chief Heimgartner reported five firefighters will attend the Clearwater Fire Academy.
At 7:51 pm Councilmember Anderson made a motion to adjourn. Councilmember Dodge seconded the motion and it carried unanimously.
The budget workshop was called to order at 6:30 pm by Mayor Richard Groseclose. Council members in attendance were Judi Fuller, Wendi Dodge, Nick Anderson, and Mark Maland. Also present were Clerk Wendy Sandino, Public Works Supervisor Justin Cope, and Fire Chief Clifford Heimgartner.
The FY2025 budget was reviewed and changes were noted.
The regular meeting was called to order. The pledge of allegiance was recited. The minutes of the March 12, 2024 meeting were read. Motion to approve the minutes was made by Councilmember Dodge, seconded by Councilmember Anderson. Motion carried. Bills from the month of March 2024 were reviewed. Councilmember Fuller questioned why the City collects funds via City bills for the Juliaetta Television Association. Motion to approve bills was made by Councilmember Dodge, seconded by Councilmember Anderson. Motion carried.
Cities are required to set a date for the next fiscal year’s budget hearing. Councilmember moved to set the date of the FY2025 budget hearing as August 13, 2024 at 7:00 pm, seconded by Councilmember Fuller. Motion carried.
In March Council was given information about sidewalk repair by Precision Concrete Cutting wherein trip hazards would be mitigated throughout Juliaetta by shaving down high spots where structure can still be maintained. The estimate for this service is $8,804.30. A paving bid from Poe Asphalt was also received in the amount of $53,550 for portions of State Street, 1st Avenue, and 3rd Street. This amount is already budgeted for in the current budget and streets to be resurfaced is determined by the Transportation Plan Study. The bid also added an estimated cost of $16,825.00 to asphalt the approach to the fire station, for a total cost of $70,375.00. Should the Council decide to do all the work covered in the bid, Poe will reduce the cost at a discount of $6,000. Remaining ARPA funds can be used to pay costs that are not covered by the current budget. The Mayor would like to get an additional bid for Hallet Street between 2nd and 4th Streets, a part of the school bus route; Councilmember Maland would like to see a bid for 3rd Street below Main Street. The decision for additional paving will be tabled until these bids are received. Councilmember Fuller moved to repair the sidewalks as bid, seconded by Councilmember Dodge. Motion carried.
Supervisor Cope reported the Sanitary Survey will be completed. Of the five that were selected, three applicants were interviewed for the City Maintenance position; one person accepted a different job, and another did not show for the interview.
Councilmember Fuller says people have told her they have been turned down to be on Council agendas, and that meetings need to be audio recorded and kept for six months. She wants microphones for Councilmembers and speakers and a recording system. Councilmember Dodge requested to have the grass area in front of the JCIA Community Center graveled for parking. Supervisor Cope spoke with an employee of ITD, who said Highway 3 from Arrow to Juliaetta will be repaved this year or next, and also that they will install two pedestrian crossing flashers across Main Street. Councilmember Anderson would like to ask ITD again about lowering the speed limit in Juliaetta from 35 to 25 mph. Councilmember Maland reported several people are driving on the trail. He would also like a permanent brush bin for citizens to use instead of burning. There was no report from the Fire Department.
At 7:34 pm Councilmember Anderson moved to go into executive session pursuant to Idaho Code 74-206 subsection 1: (a). To consider hiring a public officer, employee, staff member or individual agent, wherein the respective qualities of individuals are to be evaluated in order to fill a particular vacancy or need. This paragraph does not apply to filling a vacancy in an elective office or deliberations about staffing needs in general. A roll call vote was held: Councilmember Fuller, yes; Councilmember Dodge, yes; Councilmember Anderson, yes; Councilmember Maland, yes. Councilmember Anderson moved to return to regular session. Councilmember Dodge seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Joe Dodge was selected by the Mayor and Supervisor Cope for the city maintenance position at a wage of $23.00 per hour. As he lives just outside city limits, he will be allowed to drive his city vehicle to and from work. Councilmember Maland moved to hire Joe Dodge at $23.00 per hour, seconded by Councilmember Anderson. Motion carried.
At 7:47 pm Councilmember Anderson made a motion to adjourn. Councilmember Maland seconded the motion and it carried unanimously.
The meeting was called to order. The pledge of allegiance was recited. The minutes of the April 9, 2024 meeting were read. Motion to approve the minutes was made by Councilmember Dodge, seconded by Councilmember Maland. Motion carried. Bills from the month of April 2024 were reviewed. Motion to approve bills was made by Councilmember Dodge, seconded by Councilmember Maland. Motion carried. An amendment to the agenda was requested by the City Attorney. Councilmember Maland moved to move item #9 on the agenda to directly after item #4, seconded by Councilmember Fuller. Motion carried.
City Attorney Jennifer Douglass joined the meeting by phone. A packet dated April 16, 2024 from James Smith’s attorney Mark Snyder was received regarding the Smith Acres subdivision. He states the conditions set forth by K-J Planning and Zoning have been met. The City Attorney suggests that Council send this information to P & Z for their determination. She directed Council, in the meantime, they may listen to what individuals have to say on the matter but not discuss anything with anyone until a property noticed hearing. Mr. Snyder clarified that the previous petition to validate is still valid. City Council decided to send the packet back to P & Z for review.
Ms. Douglass then addressed Council regarding the possible contract with Latah County for building inspection services. She has been in contact with the Latah County Attorney as well as ICRMP. Language in the contract suggested the City would pay the County to handle interpretation of the building code. Building inspection should be covered by insurance the language suggests the City should hold the County harmless if the building inspector makes a mistake. She proposed instead that the City should indemnify the County in that the City will cover its own actions and the County will cover theirs, but the County will not agree. Ms. Douglass has asked ICRMP if they agree with her interpretation of the language in the contract but has not yet received an answer. Therefore, she does not yet have a final recommendation, but allowed that the City’s new legal counsel may have a different opinion. Councilmember Dodge moved to table further action and discussion, seconded by Councilmember Fuller. Motion carried.
James Fry introduced himself as a candidate for Latah County Sheriff. Among his experience is 29 years with the Moscow Police Department and 8 years as Police Chief. As Sheriff he wants to work more with City Councils.
James Waham addressed Council regarding the death of James Mauney. He was concerned about the lack of response from the City during and after the situation. He wanted to know how to get more information to residents from law enforcement. The City countered that they didn’t have any information to share with residents. Mr. Waham suggested the City could have offered condolences or some kind of statement regarding the tragedy. Councilmember Dodge countered that the City’s facebook page generally only gives information to residents, but allowed something about assistance after a crisis or similar could have been posted. A resident suggested Juliaetta could have some kind of emergency alert system. Latah County Sheriff’s Deputy Frantz stated it is difficult for their office to stay ahead of the citizens who listen to scanners and then spread information to friends and neighbors via social media, text, and word of mouth. This information is often incorrect and incomplete. Mr. Fry added that if information hasn’t come from the police department, it’s not official information.
Judy Skabo addressed Council regarding public nuisances on and around her property on Browns Court. She is unhappy with the amount of “junk cars,” trash, and other hazards. She explained she offered a trailer to Tony Shipman, with the caveat that it needed to be brought up to code and that an occupancy permit needed to be obtained from the State. He then started bringing in “junk cars,” dumping, and generally making a mess of the property. As a first step, she would like to see the cars hauled off the property. She also believes neighbor Ed Groseclose’s special use permit is illegal. Mr. Groseclose was asked to send a copy of his special use permit to the City. Neighbor Jenny Henriksen says her property has lost value due to the state of neighboring properties. Council explained that City Code has been changed so that ordinance can be enforced and citations can be issued by the Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s office is waiting on procedural clarification before they can begin issuing citations on behalf of City of Juliaetta.
Attorney Todd Richardson introduced himself to Council as being interested in the position of City Attorney. In the past he has been City Attorney for Clarkston, Washington, and is currently City Attorney for Troy and Deary. Based in Clarkston, he is also licensed to practice in Idaho. When asked, he did not believe he anticipates having any conflicts of interest as far as his working relationships with other attorneys. He added that in the matter of citations being issued for infractions, Cities of Troy and Deary each have their own ticket book, which then allows for prosecution. After discussion, Dodge moved to accept Todd Richardson as Juliaetta City Attorney, seconded by Councilmember Fuller. With only two ‘yes’ votes, Mayor Groseclose added a ‘yes’ vote. Motion carried.
Ty Bromley addressed Council in his goal to raise $40,000 for lights on the baseball field at Juliaetta Centennial Park and asked for a donation. He is not part of the J-K Baseball Association, but funds he raises will be combined with funds the Association is also collecting for the lights, in an account held by them. Some materials and labor have already been donated or promised to the project. Any extra funds raised will be retained for future use on/at the ballfields. Councilmember Dodge moved to table a decision until the June meeting, seconded by Councilmember Maland. Motion carried.
Fire Chief Clifford Heimgartner gave Council a quote for signs with safety flashers to be installed near the Fire Station on Highway 3. The signs will have solar powered lights that can be activated when fire department vehicles are preparing to enter the highway. Chief Heimgartner is requesting $10,000 for the purchase of the signs. Councilmember Maland moved to purchase the signs, seconded by Councilmember Fuller. Motion carried.
Councilmember Fuller explained the need for speakers/recorders with Bluetooth capability so that Council and guest speakers can be heard and recorded during meetings; it would also allow for ease of anyone who needs to join the meeting by phone. Councilmember Dodge moved to purchase the proper device for meetings, seconded by Councilmember Maland. Motion carried.
Supervisor Cope informed Council that on May 28 Precision Concrete will do the sawing work on City sidewalks. He also received a bid from Poe Asphalt for paving:
$16,500.00 for Hallet Street between 2nd and 4th Streets on the school bus route
$18,250.00 for 3rd Street
This total is $34,750.00. There will be an additional $6,000.00 discount if this work is done.
He also introduced new City Maintenance employee Joe Dodge. Mr. Dodge has already helped out immensely by fixing two pumps and some other equipment. Supervisor Cope also noted that the estimate for the new lawnmower should be received soon.
There were no further staff reports from Council, City Staff, or the Fire Department.
At 8:44 pm, Councilmember Dodge moved to go into Executive session pursuant to Idaho Code 74-206 subsection 1 : (a) To consider hiring a public officer, employee, staff member or individual agent, wherein the respective qualities of individuals are to be evaluated in order to fill a particular vacancy or need. This paragraph does not apply to filling a vacancy in an elective office or deliberations about staffing needs in general. A roll call vote was held: Councilmember Fuller, yes; Councilmember Dodge, yes; Councilmember Maland, no. Mayor Groseclose voted yes.
Councilmember Dodge moved to return to regular session, seconded by Councilmember Fuller.
Councilmember Maland voted to hire Carson Hogan as the temporary summer employee, seconded by Councilmember Fuller. Motion carried.
At 8:55 pm Councilmember Dodge made a motion to adjourn. Councilmember Fuller seconded the motion and it carried unanimously.
The meeting was called to order. The pledge of allegiance was recited. The minutes of the May 14, 2024 meeting were read. Motion to approve the minutes was made by Councilmember Dodge, seconded by Councilmember Fuller. Motion carried. Bills from the month of May 2024 were reviewed. Motion to approve bills was made by Councilmember Dodge, seconded by Councilmember Anderson. Motion carried.
Judy Skabo addressed Council. The deadline has passed for cleanup on properties that were notified by letter regarding public nuisances. She advised she has retained a lawyer to handle issues on her property, and feels her property is devalued because of the junk in the neighborhood. She also said a realtor will not list her property for sale because they’re ashamed.
She would like the junk to be screened or fenced. When contacted, the Association of Idaho Cities (AIC) said the Mayor could uphold code. Some other cities have their own ticket book, so that citations can be written for infractions. Along with the sheriff’s office, the City Attorney or a code enforcement officer can issue tickets. City Attorney Todd Richardson asked if the City offers abatement, where nuisances are taken care of by the City then billed to the resident or landowner. He will research ordinances and contact City Hall with more information about writing tickets. Councilmember Dodge moved to table further action until July, seconded by Councilmember Anderson. Motion carried.
Treasurer Whismore asked Council to consider donating funds that were raised for the splash pad to the Light the Field fundraiser instead, as Council is not interested in the Splash Pad project. Last year, funds kept in the “Trail Account” were moved into the general fund and funds raised for the splash pad were then deposited in the “Trail Account.” Treasurer Whismore, along with her husband, has raised a total of $11,341.76 as of the meeting date, through various fundraisers and running the concession stand at baseball and softball games. They have donated all their own time. She would like to donate $10,000 of those funds raised to Light the Field, and hold back the remainder for future fundraising next year. Councilmember Maland moved to transfer $10,000 from the “Trail” splash pad account to donate for ballfield lights, seconded by Councilmember Fuller. Motion carried.
Ty Bromley, who is spearheading the Light the Field fundraiser, addressed Council. He was accompanied by Brian Neace who held who held a shooting competition locally. Mr. Neace’s competition raised and donated $10,193.00 to Light the Field. Mr. Bromley organized an Alumni Game Fundraising event the prior weekend; about $3,000 was raised at that event. He reported that brackets, wire supplies, labor, and boom truck use are some of the things that have been or will be donated. He said they are reaching their fundraising goal, and any surplus funds will be retained for future projects such as an announcing booth and enclosed batting cages. Mr. Bromley opined that Juliaetta’s ballfields are among the best around, and having lights will only enhance them. They will allow high school games to begin later in the day, which will be help both players and parents; double header games will be able to be held. Other events, such as the Blackberry Festival, could continue later in the evening under the lights.
Councilmember Fuller addressed Council about the Juliaetta Television Association. Marilou Markley also addressed Council. The association was established in 1954, Dick and Janice Groseclose took over operations in 1982. The association had eventually dissolved but the Groseclose family kept it running to continue providing TV to residents. Juliaetta City Council voted in 1964 to add “TV” to the utility bills for the purpose of collecting donations to use the local reflected signal, and funds have been collected in that way since. Residents have to opt-in for the TV donation to be listed on their utility bill. TV donations are deposited into a city general fund and then a check is written and the same amount is deposited into a private Juliaetta Television Association account. AIC says this is a conflict of interest, as Mayor Groseclose is an accountholder on that account, even though this conflict of interest was not created intentionally. Councilmember Fuller said there are other ways this donation can be collected. She also stated the association’s 501(c)(4) status must benefit the entire community. Ms. Markley countered that the TV signal does benefit all citizens, even though all may not choose to use it. She added that Mayor Groseclose has maintained the TV equipment for decades, often spending his own money for renting the property on which the reflector is located, paying the insurance, and the power bill. He also works with KUID engineers who volunteer their time to help keep the TV reflector operating. City Attorney Richardson said the City cannot collect funds if the City does not control those funds. The question was raised if the City could take over the TV Association, and then continue collecting the donation to keep the service available for residents. Council consideration to take over the Juliaetta Television Association will be on the July City Council agenda for further discussion. Councilmember Fuller moved to remove “TV” from all city utility billing, seconded by Councilmember Maland. Motion carried.
Supervisor Cope last month talked about additional paving to be done in Juliaetta, as requested by City Council. Poe Asphalt has already completed paving work in Juliaetta, but as they will be working in the area frequently this season, will be able to return if this “second phase” is approved. The bid includes $16,500.00 for work done on Hallet Street between 2nd and 4th Streets on the school bus route, and $18,250.00 for work done on 3rd Street between Railroad and Water Streets. The total, including a $6,000.00 discount, is $28,750.00. The Treasurer explained that although the budget line-item amount for paving has already been exceeded, there are plenty of funds in the street budget for this project. Councilmember Maland moved to have the street repair done as bid, seconded by Councilmember Dodge. Motion carried.
Councilmember Fuller would like to have City Hall hours expanded and simplified, as some citizens have complained. After discussion, Councilmember Fuller moved to change City Hall’s hours to 7:00 am-1:00 pm, Monday-Friday. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Dodge, and carried.
Supervisor Cope presented a bid from Agri-Service for a new lawnmower. This bid is usually received earlier in the spring, but was delayed due to the sale of the company from Blue Mountain Ag to Agri-Service. The retail price of the mower is $12,323.78, and subtracting a trade in value of $7,500.00 for the mower, brings the total purchase price to $4,823.78. Councilmember Anderson moved to purchase the new mower, seconded by Councilmember Fuller. Motion carried.
Information received from CivicPlus for a social media archiving subscription was presented to Council. After discussion there was no motion made.
Treasurer Whismore addressed Council about the need for microphones and speakers in Council Chambers. She contacted Dan Smith at Kendrick Joint School District for his input and opinion, as well as Jay Thompson at B&I Computer. Council received information about a Pyle Pro microphone system and speaker, and said it could be connected to a recording device. Councilmember Maland recommended looking into Rodecaster products, while Councilmember Anderson recommended Owl products.
Supervisor Cope reported that Well #9 has not been working for about a month. An electrician said to replace the pump and redrill the casing would carry a cost of approximately $50,000-$55,000. The reason for the failure of the current pump is sand in the casing. The well pump has historically been replaced every 4-6 years. Drilling a new well would not be cost effective as municipal wells are held to much higher standards and other testing criteria, it is far better to repair the current well. Due to the cost of the project, at least three written requests for bids will need to be sent to contractors. Councilmember Dodge moved to submit the bid requests and to accept the lowest bid, seconded by Councilmember Anderson. Motion carried.
Maintenance worker Joe Dodge worked on the 1997 backhoe and found a leak in the fan housing. Western States estimates the repair will be a 20-hour project at a rate of $200/hour for onsite service, or $170/hour if the backhoe is brought to their shop, plus the cost of parts. Their cost to transport the backhoe is $500. Mr. Dodge can do the repair work himself but it will likely take more time. The repair is important as there can be no leaks when working around the water system. Councilmember Maland move to have the backhoe transported to Western States for repair, seconded by Councilmember Maland. Motion carried.
Treasurer Whismore asked Council to consider moving the bulk of the funds in the Community Library Project – City of Juliaetta account into the State Treasury Local Government Investment Pool (LGIP). The interest rate there is 4.5% and there are no penalties for early withdrawl. She has also received a letter from the Latah County Library Board giving their blessing to transfer those funds that were originally earmarked for a new library. They are still looking for options for the a new Juliaetta Community Library. The amount to be withdrawn and transferred to the LGIP is $22,308.63 minus the amount necessary to keep the account open. Councilmember Dodge moved to move the funds into the LGIP, seconded by Councilmember Fuller. Motion carried.
Treasurer Whismore also asked Council to consider investing $200,000 in cash carryover/unreserved funds into LGIP. With a similar annual investment she hopes to earn more interest to be able to repay the upcoming WWTP loan at a faster rate and potentially allow user sewer rates to not increase as much. Councilmember Anderson moved and Councilmember Maland seconded to table the issue until more information is gathered. Motion carried.
Councilmember Maland is still seeing motorized vehicles driving on the trail and unlicensed vehicles on city streets, and has been reporting them.
There was no report from the Fire Department.
At 9:07 pm, Councilmember Dodge moved to go into executive session pursuant to Idaho Code 74-206 subsection 1 : (b) To consider the evaluation, dismissal or disciplining of, or to hear complaints or charges brought against, a public officer, employee, staff member or individual agent, or public school student. A roll call vote was held: Councilmember Fuller, yes; Councilmember Dodge, yes; Councilmember Anderson, yes; Councilmember Maland, no.
Councilmember Anderson moved to return to regular session, seconded by Councilmember Dodge. Motion carried.
At 9:40 pm Councilmember Dodge made a motion to adjourn. Councilmember Maland seconded the motion and it carried unanimously.