Sidney public meetings in 2022

Water And Sewer Committee

The Water and Sewer Committee is meeting to discuss a proposed 2023 water rate increase and to review bids and schedules for the Phase III Water Project, with possible contract awards. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• 2023 water rate increase discussion
• Phase III Water Project bids and schedules review
• Potential award of Phase III Water Project contracts

The committee recommended a base water rate increase to $36.42 per month. It also recommended awarding Phase III Water Project schedules 1-6 to COP Construction, funded by an additional SRF loan.

• Recommended approval of $6.60 base water rate increase (3-0)
• Recommended awarding Phase III Water Project schedules 1-6 to COP Construction (3-0)
• Recommended additional $1,045,653 SRF Loan for water project (3-0)
• Recommended total water project budget of $3,970,253 (3-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council is holding its regular meeting with routine business, including approval of minutes, reappointments, and monthly reports. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Reappoint Walt McNutt to Airport Board
• Reappoint Luke Savage as City Judge
• Approve claims totaling $643,020.58
• Approve water/sewer bank transfer of $188,806.22
• Receive November 2022 reports from police, public works, and treasurer

The Sidney City Council approved routine appointments and financial items. Mayor Norby's reappointments of Walt McNutt to the Airport Board and Luke Savage as City Judge were approved. The council also approved the November treasurer's report, a $188,806.22 water/sewer bank transfer, and $643,020.58 in claims. A discussion about the Quilling's Park ice rink was referred to the Park and Recreation Committee.

• Reappointed Walt McNutt to Airport Board (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Reappointed Luke Savage as City Judge (5-0)
• Approved November 2022 JV report (5-0)
• Approved $188,806.22 water/sewer bank transfer (5-0)
• Approved $643,020.58 in claims (5-0)
• Referred ice rink and warming house discussion to Park and Recreation Committee

City Council

The Sidney City Council is holding its regular meeting with routine business, including approving minutes, a consent agenda with claims totaling $116,431.93, and building permits. Mayor Norby proposes skipping the December 19, 2022 meeting. Department heads will give updates, including police and fire reports.

• Claims to be approved: $116,431.93
• Building permits 2023-32 to 2023-34 and RC2023-19
• Mayor proposes skipping December 19, 2022 meeting
• October 2022 Police Department Report
• October and November 2022 Fire Run Report

The Sidney City Council approved the consent agenda, including claims totaling $116,431.93 and building permits 2023-32 to 2023-34 and RC2023-19. The council voted to cancel the December 19, 2022 meeting unless important items arise, with claims to be reviewed in January. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural with reports and updates.

• Approved consent agenda with claims of $116,431.93 and building permits 2023-32 to 2023-34 and RC2023-19 (5-0)
• Cancelled December 19, 2022 meeting unless important items arise (5-0)
• Approved minutes of November 21, 2022 meeting (5-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council will hold its regular meeting to discuss and vote on renewing the Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID), which funds local tourism efforts through a $1.50 hotel tax. The council will also consider approving a Hazard Mitigation Plan to qualify for FEMA grants and address unfinished business like final payments for construction projects and lot aggregations.

• Renew TBID via Ordinance 597 (2nd reading) with $1.50 hotel tax for tourism funding
• Approve Resolution 3903: Hazard Mitigation Plan to access FEMA stormwater grants
• Approve final payment for Nielson Halvorson project: $54,163.08
• Approve Harris Lot Aggregation with conditions
• Approve Carranza Lot Aggregation with sewer easement adjustments

The City Council approved updates to the Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) city code and appointed five hotels to the TBID Board. The council also appointed the Sidney Chamber of Commerce as the TBID Executive Director and approved the hiring of two new police officers.

• Approved Ordinance 597 updating TBID city code
• Approved Resolution 3904 appointing five hotels to the TBID Board
• Approved Resolution 3905 appointing Sidney Chamber of Commerce as TBID Executive Director
• Approved hiring of police officers Tyler King and Joel Rosales
• Approved $126,594.24 Water/Sewer Bank Transfer
• Approved $54,054.29 in claims and building permit 2023-30
• Approved 2022 Shop Small Proclamation
• Approved October 2022 JV Report

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing regarding the TBID renewal and conduct a first reading of Ordinance 597. The meeting also includes discussions on unfinished business regarding the Nielson Halvorson pay application and the Harris Lot Aggregation.

• Public Hearing: TBID Renewal
• Nielson Halvorson Final Pay Application: $54,163.08
• Ordinance 597: TBID Renewal (1st Reading)
• Resolution 3903: Hazard Mitigation Plan Approval
• Consent Agenda Claims: $140,155.31

The Sidney City Council approved the final $54,163.08 payment to contractor Nielson Halvorson despite unresolved property damage claims. They also adopted Resolution 3903 for a regional Hazard Mitigation Plan and gave first reading to Ordinance 597 renewing the Tourism Business Improvement District. Additionally, the council approved lot aggregations for Harris and Carranza and appointed members to various boards.

• Approved $54,163.08 final payment to Nielson Halvorson (6-0)
• Approved Harris Lot Aggregation with conditions (6-0)
• Approved Carranza Lot Aggregation (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 3903 Hazard Mitigation Plan (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 597 TBID Renewal 1st reading (5-1, Godfrey abstained)
• Approved Christmas Stroll parade and event permits (5-1, Godfrey abstained)
• Approved revised MOU for high school baseball at Moose Park (6-0)
• Approved $140,155.31 in claims and building permits (6-0)

Park And Recreation Committee

The Park and Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss three new business items: looking into the cost of lights for the South Meadow softball fields, a baseball agreement with Sidney Public Schools, and a new location for the hockey ice rink, which was previously in Quilling's Park. No decisions are recorded in the agenda; these are discussion items.

• South Meadow Softball Lights - request to look into cost
• High School Baseball Agreement with Sidney Public Schools
• Hockey Ice Rink new location (was located in Quilling's Park)

The committee recommended adding the high school baseball program at Moose Park to the Sidney Public Schools agreement. The proposal includes requiring the school and RC Baseball to handle their own scheduling and conflicts. A request regarding hockey rink relocation was tabled.

• Recommended adding high school baseball in Moose Park and scheduling requirements to SPS agreement (3-0)
• Tabled hockey ice rink new location until a formal request and plan is presented (3-0)
• Reached general consensus that South Meadow Softball may research lighting costs, but the City will not commit to anything without a formal plan

City Council

The Sidney City Council met on October 17, 2022, to review reports, approve contracts, and discuss future public hearings. The meeting included updates from city departments, a second reading of an ordinance, and approval of financial claims and permits.

• Harris Lot Aggregation (City Planner)
• Ordinance 596 – Parking Commission Code update (2nd Reading)
• Nielson Halvorson final pay application for $54,163.08
• Denning Downey FY21-22 audit contract for $30,599
• Claims approved totaling $139,511.57

The City Council approved an update to the Parking Commission city code and authorized advertising for the Water Phase III Project. Several financial transfers and contracts were approved, while two items regarding lot aggregation and a final pay application were tabled.

• Approved Ordinance 596 updating Parking Commission city code (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 3902 for 2022 BARSAA funds disbursement (5-0)
• Authorized advertising for Water Phase III Project bids (5-0)
• Approved $22,676.00 final pay application for West Holly/Phase II (5-0)
• Approved $30,599 Denning Downey FY21-22 Audit Contract (5-0)
• Approved $139,511.57 in claims and two building permits (5-0)
• Approved Water/Sewer bank transfers of $83,925.02 and $244,578.89 (5-0)
• Tabled Harris Lot Aggregation and Nielson Halvorson final pay application

City Council

The Sidney City Council will hold its regular meeting, addressing several land-use and interlocal agreement items. Key actions include a conditional use permit for an electronic sign at Miller's Corner, a lot coverage variance for Aguilar, and an interlocal agreement with Richland County for the Fire Marshal. The council will also consider the first reading of Ordinance 596 on parking commission appointments and a resolution of intent for the TBID.

• Fire Marshal Interlocal Agreement with Richland County
• Miller's Corner Conditional Use Permit for electronic sign
• Aguilar Lot Coverage Variance
• Ordinance 596 - Amending Parking Commission Appointments Code (1st Reading)
• Claims to be approved: $95,335.58

The Sidney City Council appointed Mayor Norby to the Richland Economic Development Board and approved a resolution to begin extending the Tourism Business Improvement District. The council also approved an interlocal agreement for the Fire Marshal position and a conditional use permit for an electronic sign at Miller's Corner. A variance request for a garage at 805 South Lincoln Avenue was denied due to lot coverage and drainage issues.

• Approved September 19th minutes (6-0)
• Approved Trunk-or-Treat street block with Police Department approval condition (6-0)
• Approved 2022 Extra Mile Day Proclamation (6-0)
• Appointed Mayor Norby to Richland Economic Development Board (6-0)
• Approved Fire Marshal Interlocal Agreement with Richland County (5-1, Rasmussen abstained)
• Approved Miller's Corner Conditional Use Permit for electronic sign (6-0)
• Denied Aguilar lot coverage variance for garage at 805 South Lincoln Avenue (6-0)
• Approved Ordinance 596 amending Parking Commission appointments code (6-0)

Zoning/Board of Adjustments

The Zoning/Board of Adjustment will meet on September 21, 2022, to consider new business. The agenda includes a conditional use permit for Miller's Corner and a variance request from Francisco Aguilar-Morales.

• Miller's Corner Conditional Use Permit
• Francisco Aguilar-Morales Variance Request

The Board approved a conditional use permit for a message board sign at Miller's Corner with specific safety restrictions. A variance request for a covered lot was recommended for approval but ultimately failed a vote.

• Approved Miller's Corner Conditional Use Permit for a message board sign (3-0)
• Denied variance request for a 494-foot covered lot (2-0, 1 abstention)

City Council

The City Council will discuss several appointments to the Police and Parking Commissions. The meeting also includes reports from the Police, Public Works, and Fire Marshal, as well as financial updates.

• Final pay application for 4th Ave Street Improvements totaling $222,390.94
• Change Order 1 for 4th Ave Street Improvements in the amount of -$17,959.06
• Nielson-Halvorson Pay Application #3 for $207,637.50
• Water/Sewer Bank Transfer of $111,412.58
• Approval of $107,362.30 in claims

The City Council approved final payments and substantial completion for the 4th Ave street improvements project. The council also appointed three members to the Police Commission and amended the Parking Commission code. Additionally, the council authorized drafting a resolution to reauthorize the TBID district.

• Approved $222,390.94 final pay application for 4th Ave Street Improvements (5-0)
• Approved Certificate of Substantial Completion for 4th Ave Street Improvements (5-0)
• Appointed Jamie Malsam, Dan Smith, and Janet Sergent to the Police Commission (5-0 each)
• Amended Parking Commission code to include a council representative and reappointed Terry Meldahl (5-0)
• Approved drafting a resolution to reauthorize the TBID district (5-0)
• Approved $207,637.50 pay application for Nielson-Halvorson (5-0)
• Approved $111,412.58 Water/Sewer bank transfer (5-0)
• Approved Kiwanis use of old fire hall west bays for apple fundraiser (5-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council is meeting to discuss several items, including a lease proposal from American Tower, a request from the Food Bank to donate water and sewer services, and unfinished business on TBID board member removal and Slocum Lot aggregation. The agenda also includes routine approvals of claims and building permits.

• American Tower lease proposal
• Food Bank request to donate water and sewer services
• TBID removal of board members with outstanding balances
• Slocum Lot aggregation
• Claims to be approved: $287,469.50

The City Council removed representatives from three hotels from the Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) board due to unpaid balances. The council also approved a $1,000 donation to the Food Bank and maintained the current American Tower cell tower lease.

• Removed TBID board representatives from Holiday Inn, Wingate, and Microtel (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved $1,000 donation to the Food Bank (5-0)
• Approved staying with current American Tower cell tower lease (5-0)
• Approved Slocum Lot aggregation in Wagon Wheel (5-0)
• Approved Morrison Maierle Change Order 2 for Nielson-Halvorson Sewer rehab (5-0)
• Approved $287,469.50 in claims (5-0)
• Approved 7 building permits (5-0)
• Referred summer youth softball field lighting request to Park and Recreation Committee (5-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council is holding a special meeting to finalize the FY22-23 budget, including changes since the preliminary budget was passed. A public hearing on the budget will be held, followed by a series of resolutions that set property tax levies for services like garbage collection, street lighting, snow removal, and park maintenance, as well as the annual mill levy and budget adoption.

• Public hearing on FY 2022-2023 Budget
• Resolution 3886: property tax for garbage collection and disposal
• Resolution 3900: adopting all-purpose annual mill levy for FY22-23
• Resolution 3901: adopting and fixing the budget for FY22-23
• Resolution 3893: assessment for delinquent water and sewer

The City Council approved the FY22-23 budget and the all-purpose annual mill levy. The council also passed 14 resolutions to assess property taxes for various city services and infrastructure improvements.

• Approved FY22-23 budget (6-0)
• Approved all-purpose annual mill levy for FY22-23 (6-0)
• Approved property tax assessments for garbage disposal, street lighting, and street sprinkling/sweeping (6-0)
• Approved property tax assessments for mowing un-kept lots and South Meadow Village Park maintenance (6-0)
• Approved property tax assessments for delinquent water and sewer (6-0)
• Approved property tax assessments for Dutch Elm tree removal and snow removal (6-0)
• Approved property tax assessments for street maintenance and improvements for SID 101A, 102, and 104 (6-0)

Parking Commission

The Sidney Parking Commission is meeting to discuss two new business items: parking related to the Boys and Girls Club, and an off-street parking waiver request for 213 E Main by Tony Hanson. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• Boys and Girls Club parking discussion
• Off-street parking waiver for 213 E Main (Tony Hanson)

The commission discussed parking concerns regarding the Boys and Girls Club and a waiver request for 213 E Main. The waiver for 213 E Main was tabled pending a detailed plan and firm parking numbers from the owner.

• Tabled off-street parking waiver for 213 E Main

Budget and Finance Committee

The Budget and Finance Committee will review several proposed changes to the FY22-23 preliminary budget. The agenda also includes a lease proposal from American Tower and a request from a food bank regarding utility donations.

• American Tower lease proposal
• Food Bank request to donate water and sewer to 517 E Main
• $250,000 increase for 200K Gallon Water Tank spray lining
• $2,500 increase each for streets, water, sewer, and sweeping equipment to purchase 2 used Pepsi pick-ups
• Increase TBID revenue and expenditures to $300,000

The Budget and Finance Committee recommended leaving the American Cell Tower Lease Agreement unchanged, citing potential for greater revenue. They also recommended approving a $1,000 donation to cover the Food Bank's water and sewer bills at their new location. Additionally, the committee recommended approving specific increases to the FY22-23 Preliminary Budget for water projects, equipment, and TBID funds.

• Recommended leaving American Cell Tower Lease Agreement as is
• Recommended approving $1,000 donation for Food Bank water/sewer bills
• Recommended approving FY22-23 Preliminary Budget changes (water, equipment, TBID)

City Council

The Sidney City Council will consider several committee recommendations, including a motion for South Meadow Playground equipment and a resolution to approve the FY22-23 preliminary budget. The council will also discuss a TBID petition, an interlocal agreement with Richland County, and a lot aggregation. Public hearings and reports from city departments are also on the agenda.

• Resolution No. 3885: Preliminary Budget Approval FY22-23
• South Meadow Playground Equipment recommendation and motion
• ARPA Minimum Allocation Grant (HB632) Project recommendation
• TBID Petition to Continue due September 15, 2022
• Building Official Interlocal Agreement with Richland County

The City Council approved the preliminary budget for FY22-23 and authorized the use of an ARPA grant for a water tower project. The council also approved a building official agreement with Richland County and a proclamation for Suicide Prevention Week.

• Approved FY22-23 Preliminary Budget via Resolution No. 3885 (6-0)
• Approved using ARPA Minimum Allocation Grant (~$1.081M) for water tower project (6-0)
• Approved South Meadow Village Park playground location with specific fencing and netting conditions (6-0)
• Approved interlocal agreement with Richland County for building official services (5-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved 2022 Suicide Prevention Week Proclamation (6-0)
• Approved $176,042.62 in claims and six building permits (6-0)
• Approved July 2022 Water/Sewer Bank Transfer of $125,371.35 (6-0)
• Tabled removal of TBID board member and Slocum Lot Aggregation

Water And Sewer Committee

The Water and Sewer Committee will meet to discuss new business regarding the ARPA Minimum Allocation Grant (HB632) Project. No other specific project details or dollar amounts were provided in the agenda.

• ARPA Minimum Allocation Grant (HB632) Project

The committee discussed using ARPA Minimum Allocation Grant funds for a water tower project estimated at $4 million to $4.5 million. Members debated whether to rehab the current 300,000-gallon tank or replace it with a 750,000-gallon tank. The minutes record a motion and a single 'Yea' vote, but do not state a final outcome.

• Discussed ARPA grant for water tower rehab or replacement (outcome not recorded)

Nuisance Committee

The Sidney, MT Nuisance Committee is meeting to discuss an update on properties that have already received nuisance notices. This is a routine follow-up on enforcement actions.

• Update on already noticed nuisance properties

The committee reviewed the status of six noticed nuisance properties and discussed updating the zoning ordinance regarding inoperable vehicles. The City Attorney will resend certified letters to two vacant properties, and letters will be posted on-site with a ten-day response window.

• Agreed to propose changing zoning ordinance to allow zero inoperable vehicles on properties
• Determined certified letters will be resent and posted for two vacant properties
• Added Bill Long to the nuisance properties list for dead trees

Budget and Finance Committee

The Budget and Finance Committee is meeting to discuss new business, specifically the FY22-23 budget. The agenda contains only this single item, so the meeting is focused on budget review.

• FY22-23 Budget review

The committee reviewed the proposed preliminary budget for fiscal year 2022-23, which utilizes all authorized mills and maintains current tax assessment rates for several city services. The committee voted to recommend the budget for approval.

• Recommended approval of the FY22-23 preliminary budget (3-0)

Park And Recreation Committee

The Park and Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss new business, specifically the SMV playground equipment. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

• Discussion of SMV playground equipment

The Park and Recreation Committee recommended approval of a site plan for playground equipment in South Meadow Park. The recommendation includes specific safety requirements for fencing and parking barricades, as well as additional field improvements.

• Recommended approval of playground equipment location with conditions for a 5-to-6-foot fence, moved barricades, and additional netting (3-0)
• Recommended approval of dugout roof updates and concrete installation under bleachers on field 3 (3-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council will hold its regular meeting, including a public hearing, committee reports, and new business. The most consequential item is a proposed contract with SDI Architects for the City Hall remodel. The council will also consider approving claims totaling $121,530.01 and several building permits.

• SDI Architects Contract for City Hall Remodel
• Claims to be approved: $121,530.01
• Building permits: David Knapp fence (305 10th Ave SW), Kelly Prop. fence (538 35th Ave NW), Evenson Const. fence (409 7th St SE), Bridget Basta fence (807 9th Ave SW), Cindy Gjesdal fence (535 33rd Ave NW), Jake Lunderby home (12314 Cty Rd 351), Sky Towers cell tower (34024 MT HWY 200), Corie Kliner addition, Victor Galindo mobile home, Travis Gerten greenhouse
• Public Hearing (no specific topic listed)
• Water/Sewer Committee meeting on ARPA funding grant; Old Dump Ground Interlocal Agreement with Richland County

The City Council approved a full-project contract for the City Hall remodel and authorized June water/sewer bank transfers. The council also approved $121,530.01 in claims and several building permits. An interlocal agreement regarding the old dump ground was tabled.

• Approved $125,500 SDI Architects contract for City Hall remodel (6-0)
• Approved June 2022 Water/Sewer Bank Transfer (6-0)
• Approved $121,530.01 in claims (6-0)
• Approved 9 building permits (6-0)
• Tabled old dump ground interlocal agreement with Richland County (6-0)
• Approved July 18th, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council will consider a resolution setting the FY22-23 payroll, a recommendation to update the police pay scale, and a variance request. They will also hear reports from the police chief, public works director, and fire marshal, and approve claims and building permits.

• Resolution #3883 setting FY22-23 payroll
• Update to police pay scale
• Solberg-Rodier variance
• WWTP P3 Draw #33 for $126,418
• Claims to be approved: $344,359.80

The Sidney City Council approved Resolution 3883 setting the FY22-23 payroll, with Alderwoman Rasmussen abstaining. It voted to hold the police department pay scale increase for a year and review it next fiscal year. The council also approved a variance for Solberg-Rodier conditioned on relocating a fence once hops are dormant, and approved several public works items including a Nielson Halvorson change order, a Morrison Maierle task order amendment, and WWTP P3 Draw #33. It sent a review of the dog running at large city code to the Police and Fire Committee.

• Approved FY22-23 payroll Resolution 3883 (5-0, Rasmussen abstaining)
• Held police pay scale increase for a year and will review next fiscal year (6-0)
• Approved Solberg-Rodier variance with condition fence be relocated once hops are dormant (6-0)
• Sent review of dog running at large city code to Police and Fire Committee (6-0)
• Approved Nielson Halvorson Change Order 1, decreasing price by just over $25,000 and adding 6 contract days (6-0)
• Approved Morrison Maierle Amendment 4 to Task Order 12 (6-0)
• Approved WWTP P3 Draw #33 (Nielson Halvorson) for $126,418 and the pay application (6-0)
• Approved FEMA grant application contract and preliminary drawings with Morrison Maierle for North and South Meadow (6-0)

Zoning/Board of Adjustments

The Zoning/Board of Adjustment is meeting to discuss new business, specifically a variance request from Solberg. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

• Solberg variance request

The Sidney Zoning/Board of Adjustment held a public hearing on the Solberg Variance, a request for a 6-foot right side corner variance to allow a sunroom. No proponents or opponents spoke at the hearing, and the clerk said the only resident contact was in favor. The board approved the variance with the condition that the front yard fence be brought into compliance with current city code. The vote was 4-0 (Smith, Jones, Meldahl, Hintz), and the meeting adjourned at 8:32 am.

• Approved the Solberg 6-foot corner variance for a sunroom, conditioned on bringing the front yard fence into compliance with current city code (4-0: Smith, Jones, Meldahl, Hintz)

City Council

The Sidney City Council met on July 5, 2022, to review committee recommendations, approve claims and building permits, and discuss budgets and contracts. Items included waterline replacement, library mill levy, and ARPA funding updates.

• Approved claims totaling $156,962.76
• Approved building permits for Bible Baptist Church (502 S Central), JC Youngquist (2675 3rd St NW), and Everett Crum (1281 14th St SW)
• Reviewed FY22-23 Water and Sewer Budgets
• Discussed Library Mill Levy amendment to City/County contract
• Received 2nd tranche of ARPA funding: $790,784.75 (total $1,581,569.50)

The City Council approved the second reading of Ordinance 595 to update building codes and authorized a $78,875 expenditure for the Nielson-Halvorson waterline replacement. Additionally, the council voted to terminate the city's agreement with East Main Water Depot due to contract compliance issues and approved a $130,000 allocation for the library.

• Approved Ordinance 595 updating building codes (4-0)
• Approved $78,875 for Nielson-Halvorson waterline replacement (4-0)
• Approved $130,000 library allocation (4-0)
• Approved food trailer use in Peterson Park (4-0)
• Approved extending Fire Marshal/Building Inspector contracts (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved termination of East Main Water Depot agreement (4-0)
• Approved $156,962.76 in claims (4-0)
• Approved three building permits (4-0)

Police and Fire Committee

The Police and Fire Committee is meeting to discuss new business, specifically the FY22-23 payroll. The agenda contains only this single item, with no other substantive topics listed.

• Discussion of FY22-23 payroll

The committee reviewed a proposed 3.5% increase to the police department payroll budget for the 2022-2023 fiscal year. Following discussion regarding market adjustments and general fund impacts, the committee voted to recommend approval of the proposal as presented.

• Recommended approval of FY22-23 police payroll proposal (3-0)

Budget and Finance Committee

The Budget and Finance Committee is meeting to discuss the FY22-23 mill levies, the general fund budget, and oil and gas donations. These are new business items, meaning they are up for discussion and potential recommendation to the full council.

• FY22-23 mill levies
• FY22-23 general fund budget
• FY22-23 oil and gas donations

The Budget and Finance Committee recommended increasing the Richland County Library allocation to $130,000. The committee also recommended approving the Oil and Gas Fund budget while reducing the Richland Economic Development allocation to $8,000. The General Fund budget presentation was tabled pending payroll decisions from the Police and Fire Committee.

• Recommended increasing library allocation to $130,000 (3-0)
• Recommended cutting Richland Economic Development allocation to $8,000 (3-0)
• Recommended approval of the Oil and Gas Fund Budget (3-0)
• Tabled FY22-23 General Fund budget presentation

Water And Sewer Committee

The Water and Sewer Committee is meeting to discuss new business, including the Nielson-Halvorson water line replacement and the proposed FY22-23 budgets for the water and sewer departments. These items are under discussion and no final decisions are noted in the agenda.

• Nielson-Halvorson Water Line Replacement
• FY22-23 Water Department Budget
• FY22-23 Sewer Budget

The committee recommended approval of the FY22-23 budgets for both the water and sewer departments. It also recommended approval for a water line relocation project to meet DEQ separation requirements.

• Recommended approval of Nielson-Halvorson water line relocation by Hanson Independent for $78,875 (3-0)
• Recommended approval of FY22-23 Water Department Budget (3-0)
• Recommended approval of FY22-23 Sewer Budget (3-0)

Police and Fire Committee

The Police and Fire Committee is meeting to discuss new business, specifically the FY22-23 payroll. The agenda contains only this single item, with no other substantive topics listed.

• Discussion of FY22-23 payroll

The committee tabled the discussion regarding the FY22-23 payroll to allow for further review of budget figures and proposed wage increases. The committee scheduled a follow-up meeting for July 5, 2022, to finalize the payroll plan.

• Tabled FY22-23 payroll for further review (3-0)
• Scheduled follow-up meeting for July 5, 2022 (3-0)

Park And Recreation Committee

The Park and Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss new business, specifically the South Meadow Playground Equipment. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• Discussion of South Meadow Playground Equipment

The Park and Recreation Committee discussed a proposal from Brandie Azure to place playground equipment for children ages 2 to 12 at South Meadow, on the west side of the concessions building with fencing. Aldermen said they need to see the equipment type and size first, and PWD Hintz offered to prepare a scale drawing using the park's CAD plans. The committee voted 3-0 to table the matter. The meeting adjourned at 5:47 p.m.

• Tabled South Meadow playground equipment proposal (3-0) pending a scale drawing of the equipment footprint

City Council

The Sidney City Council is meeting to consider several financial and policy items, including a permissive health levy, FY22-23 payroll, and updates to building codes. They will also hear requests to waive airport building permit fees and to close a street for a Kiwanis pie social. The agenda includes routine reports and consent agenda items.

• Airport request to waive building permit fees ($14,051.82 total, including $3,643.07 to Kyle Harlan and $10,408.75 county fees)
• Sidney Kiwanis Club request to close 5th St SW from Central Ave to 3rd Ave SW for Pie Social on 7-8-22
• Resolution 3883: FY22-23 Payroll
• Resolution 3884: Amending Employee Handbook Policies 2.22 On-Call Duty and 4.15 Overtime and Compensatory Time
• Ordinance 595: Updating Building Codes (first reading)

The Sidney City Council approved waiving $14,051.82 in building permit and plan review fees for the Sidney Airport Authority's project and approved the FY23 Permissive Health Levy. Council members voted to table Resolution 3883 regarding FY2022-23 payroll for further study by the Police and Fire Committee, while approving Resolution 3884 to amend employee handbook policies on on-call duty and overtime with added supervisor approval requirements. Additionally, the council approved the first reading of Ordinance 595 to update building codes and authorized claims totaling $1,102,301.53.

• Approved waiving $14,051.82 in building permit and plan review fees for the airport (6-0)
• Approved the FY23 Permissive Health Levy (6-0)
• Approved closure of 5th St SW for the Kiwanis Club pie social on July 8, 2022 (6-0)
• Tabled Resolution 3883 for FY2022-23 payroll to the Police and Fire Committee (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 3884 amending employee handbook policies with additions (6-0)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 595 updating building codes (6-0)
• Approved FY21-22 budget transfers and May 2022 JV report (6-0)
• Approved May 2022 Water/Sewer bank transfer of $66,242.43, claims of $1,102,301.53, and consent agenda (6-0)

Budget and Finance Committee

The Sidney, MT Budget and Finance Committee will discuss previously tabled items including an on-call policy, exempt employee comp time policy, and FY22-23 payroll. The committee will also review the permissive health levy.

• On-Call/Call-In Policy (tabled since 5-25-22)
• Exempt Employee Comp Time Policy (tabled since 5-25-22)
• FY22-23 Payroll (tabled since 5-25-22)
• Permissive Health Levy

The committee recommended several personnel policy changes and budget items for City Council approval, including a new on-call policy and a permissive health levy. They also recommended a new pay scale for patrol officers and general payroll increases.

• Recommended adopting Whitefish's on-call policy with flex time additions and police exemption (3-0)
• Recommended exempt employee comp time max accrual of 180 hours and 140-hour cash out (3-0)
• Recommended patrol officer 6-year pay scale (Option 1) with a 3-year review (3-0)
• Recommended payroll schedule and increases up to 5.9%, including wage increase for James Meissel to $35.42/hour (3-0)
• Recommended approval of permissive health levy for FY22-23 to cover health insurance costs (3-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council is meeting to consider several items, including an ordinance updating zoning codes for M-1 and B-1 districts, a 3% health insurance increase for FY22-23, and approval of payments for sewer projects. The council will also discuss a Farmers Market using the City Corner Lot, an ice rink at Quilling's Park, and a letter of agreement with SDI Architects. The agenda includes routine items like minutes approval, claims, and building permits.

• Ordinance 594 updating zoning code for M-1 and B-1 districts (tabled from 5-16-22)
• FY22-23 health insurance increase of 3%
• Nielson-Halvorson Sewer Rehab (WWTP P3) Draw 32 for $201,960
• West Holly/Phase III Draw #6B for $7,193.00
• Claims to be approved: $107,565.79

The Sidney City Council gave final approval to Ordinance #594, updating the zoning code for M-1 and B-1 districts, after untabling it from the May 16 meeting. The council also approved the city covering a 3% increase in MMIA health insurance for FY22-23, and approved two public works draw payments: $7,193.00 for West Holly/Phase III Draw #6B and $201,960 for Nielson-Halvorson Sewer Rehab (WWTP P3) Draw 32. A proposed contract with SDI Architects for a city hall remodel was tabled until a more reliable contract is available. The consent agenda, including $107,565.79 in claims and several building permits, was approved.

• Approved Ordinance #594 updating zoning code for M-1 and B-1 districts (final reading, untabled from 5-16-22)
• Approved city covering 3% MMIA health insurance increase for FY22-23
• Approved West Holly/Phase III Draw #6B for $7,193.00
• Approved Nielson-Halvorson Sewer Rehab (WWTP P3) Draw 32 for $201,960
• Tabled SDI Architects letter of agreement for city hall remodel until a more reliable contract is provided
• Approved consent agenda including claims of $107,565.79 and building permits BP2022-081 through BP2022-086 and RCBP2022-029
• Approved Park and Rec Committee recommendation not to leave the Quilling's Park ice rink up for the summer; a new location needs to be established
• Approved City Council 5-16-22 minutes, Park and Rec Committee minutes, and Budget and Finance Committee 5-25-22 minutes

Budget and Finance Committee

The Sidney, MT Budget and Finance Committee will discuss employee compensation policies and the FY2022-2023 budget, including health insurance costs and payroll adjustments. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• MMIA Health Insurance Increase
• FY22-23 Payroll
• Exempt Employee Comp Time Policy Review

The Budget and Finance Committee voted to recommend that the City of Sidney pay the 3% increase in health insurance premiums rather than adding it to employees' share. The motion by Christensen, seconded by Rasmussen, passed with two yea votes recorded (Rasmussen, Christensen). The committee tabled four other items — an on-call/call-in policy, an exempt employee comp time policy review, FY22-23 payroll options, and the FY22-23 mill levy — until its next meeting on June 13, 2022.

• Recommended the City pay the 3% health insurance premium increase (2 yea: Rasmussen, Christensen)
• Tabled on-call/call-in policy until next meeting
• Tabled exempt employee comp time policy review until next meeting
• Tabled FY22-23 payroll options until next meeting
• Tabled FY22-23 mill levy until next meeting

Park And Recreation Committee

The Park and Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss new business, specifically the Ranger Hockey Rink located in Quilling's Park. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• Discussion of Ranger Hockey Rink in Quilling's Park

The Committee denied a request to leave the Ranger Hockey Rink permanently installed in Quilling's Park due to irrigation and soccer usage conflicts. The Committee will continue to look for an alternative location for the rink.

• Denied request to leave hockey rink up year-round in Quilling's Park (3-0)

Water And Sewer Committee

The Water and Sewer Committee met May 19, 2022 to take public input on the proposed 9th Avenue Sewer Extension Project, a $150,000 project that PWD Hintz said could save homeowners $350,000-$550,000 by using City materials and mostly City labor. No project was approved or denied. The committee reached a general consensus to meet again after PWD Hintz investigates whether the cost of connecting to the new main could be placed on property taxes and looks into contractor availability and liability issues.

• No formal decision made on the 9th Avenue Sewer Extension Project; public input taken only
• General consensus to meet again on the project after PWD Hintz investigates further
• PWD Hintz to look into including the homeowner connection cost as a one-time option on property taxes
• PWD Hintz to look into contractor availability and liability issues for work not on City property

City Council

The Sidney City Council tabled the second reading of Ordinance 594, which would conditionally allow single-family residences in M-1 and B-1 zoning districts, after questions arose about mobile homes and a wording error. The council approved several routine items, including the April 2022 JV report, a $339,599.40 water/sewer bank transfer, a $19,986.00 WWTP Phase 3 payment, and workers comp presumptive coverage for firefighters. John Seitz was approved as the new Deputy Fire Chief, and a Kids to Park Day proclamation was approved. A request to keep the hockey rink up year-round was not on the agenda and will be placed on a future agenda.

• Approved minutes of the 5-2-2022 regular meeting (5-0)
• Approved John Seitz as Deputy Fire Chief (5-0)
• Approved Kids to Park Day proclamation for May 21, 2022 (5-0)
• Tabled second reading of Ordinance 594 amending zoning codes M-1 and B-1 to conditionally allow single-family residences (5-0)
• Approved WWTP Phase 3 Draw 31 for $19,986.00 (5-0)
• Approved April 2022 JV report (5-0)
• Approved April 2022 Water/Sewer Bank Transfer of $339,599.40 (5-0)
• Approved workers comp presumptive coverage for the Fire Department (5-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council approved the 4th Ave Street Project with Sidney Schools, which will pay $130,000 or up to half the total cost. The council also approved the 2022 Sunrise Festival, a three-year appointment to the City/County Planning Board, and the first reading of Ordinance 594 amending zoning to allow single-family homes in B-1 and M-1 districts by conditional use permit. The council tabled Workers Comp Presumptive Coverage for the Fire Department and approved the consent agenda including $409,723.73 in claims and seven building permits.

• Approved 4th Ave Street Project with Sidney Schools (4-0)
• Approved 2022 Sunrise Festival (2-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved Travis Rosaaen to City/County Planning Board for three-year term (4-0)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 594 amending zoning code B-1 and M-1 to allow single-family residences by CUP (4-0)
• Tabled Workers Comp Presumptive Coverage for Fire Department (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda claims of $409,723.73 and seven building permits (4-0)
• Approved March 2022 JV Report (4-0)
• Approved March 2022 Water/Sewer Bank Transfer of $88,813.61 (4-0)

Sanitation Committee

The Sidney Sanitation Committee will discuss a proposal to expand garbage collection services to non-resident property owners. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• Proposal to provide non-resident garbage services

The Sidney Sanitation Committee discussed requests to provide garbage services to non-residents, such as The Depot Restaurant and Sidney Circle, due to issues with the current private provider's reliability. City staff and officials noted concerns regarding truck maintenance, parts, fuel costs, potential strain on city services, and the impact on private businesses. The committee approved a motion directing the Mayor and city staff to contact the other garbage services to discuss their issues and report back.

• Directed Mayor and city staff to reach out to other garbage services and report back (3-0)

Street and Alley Committee

The Street and Alley Committee is meeting to discuss new business, specifically the 4th Avenue Street Project. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• Discussion of 4th Avenue Street Project

The Street and Alley Committee discussed high bid costs for the 4th Avenue Street Project near Sidney High School, where Sidney Public Schools agreed to provide up to $130,000 or half the cost. The committee ultimately voted to award all three schedules of the project to Century Companies to be completed this year in cooperation with the school district.

• Awarded Century Companies on all three schedules of the 4th Avenue Street Project to be completed this year in cooperation with Sidney Public Schools (3-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council will hold a public hearing on proposed zoning code changes to allow single-family residences in M-1 and B-1 zones. The council will also consider approving multiple 2022 park use agreements, a $19,986.00 payment for WWTP Phase 3, and claims totaling $85,039.35 related to a snow storm. Several reports from city departments and committees are on the agenda.

• Public hearing: zoning code changes to allow single-family residences in M-1 and B-1 zones
• Approval of 2022 park use agreements (Richland County Baseball, Girls Fast Pitch, Sidney Schools MOU, Tackle Football, Youth Flag Football, Youth Girls Softball, Trap Club)
• WWTP Phase 3 Draw #30 for $19,986.00
• Claims to be approved: $85,039.35 due to snow storm
• Building permits: 2022-069 Kayla Anderson (216 7th St SE fence), 2022-070 Megan Dotson (410 S Central fence), RC2022-22 Vertex Tower (CR 107 Savage tower)

The City Council approved several 2022 park use agreements and voted to keep swim pass costs unchanged. The council also approved a $19,986 payment for the WWTP Phase 3 project and held a public hearing on zoning changes for single-family residences.

• Approved 289 ribbons and banner for Veteran's Park for Mental Health Month
• Approved 2022 Swim Meet schedule for June 25-26
• Approved park use agreements for Richland County Baseball, Girls Fast Pitch, Sidney Schools, Sidney Tackle Football, Sidney Youth Flag Football, Sidney Youth Girls Softball, and Sidney Trap Club
• Approved maintaining current 2022 swim pass costs
• Approved WWTP Phase 3 Draw #30 for $19,986.00
• Referred 4th Ave Parking Project bids to Street and Alley Committee
• Referred request for non-resident solid waste services to Sanitation Committee
• Approved building permits for 216 7th St SE, 410 S Central, and Vertex Tower

Water And Sewer Committee

The Water and Sewer Committee is meeting to discuss new business, specifically the 9th Avenue Sewer Extension. The agenda contains only this single item, so the meeting is focused on that discussion.

• 9th Avenue Sewer Extension

The Water and Sewer Committee voted 3-0 to recommend moving forward with the 9th Avenue Sewer Extension project. Public Works Director Hintz and engineer Jordan Mayer described a plan to use City-owned 10-inch pipe and City crews to cut the project cost to roughly $115,000, compared with an original engineer's estimate of over $400,000. The next steps would be narrowing down cost estimates and sending letters to property owners to gauge interest. The minutes do not record a final Council decision or a funding vote.

• Recommended moving forward with the 9th Avenue Sewer Extension project (3-0: Koffler, Rasmussen, Godfrey)
• No final approval or funding action recorded; next steps are refining cost estimates and sending letters to property owners

Park And Recreation Committee

The Sidney Park and Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss new business, including 2022 park use agreements, 2022 Svarre Pool ticket prices, and amendments to the special event application/process. These items are under discussion and no final decisions are noted in the agenda.

• 2022 Park Use Agreements
• 2022 Svarre Pool Ticket Prices
• Amend Special Event Application/Process

The committee recommended approval of seven park use agreements, including baseball and softball contracts, while placing others on hold pending facility repairs or ownership clarification. Pool pass prices for the 2022 season were kept the same as 2021, with staff directed to reduce payroll and capital budgets instead of raising costs. A proposal to update the special event application process was tabled for further staff review.

• Approved seven park use agreements (3-0 vote)
• Adult Softball agreement put on hold pending shed repair
• RC Baseball agreement put on hold pending school MOU amendment
• Tigershark Swim Team agreement put on hold pending dock/gutter meeting
• Trap Club agreement approved despite property ownership confusion
• Pool pass prices kept same as 2021 season (3-0 vote)
• Special Event Application amendment tabled (2-1 vote)

City Council

The Sidney City Council will hold a public hearing on a FY2021 budget amendment and discuss an upcoming zoning code change to allow single-family residences in M-1 and B-1 zones. They will also consider choosing an architect for the City Hall remodel, a $20,000 water revenue bond engagement letter, and several other items including fee changes and contracts.

• Public hearing on FY2021 Budget Amendment
• Upcoming public hearing on zoning code change to allow single-family residences in M-1 and B-1 zones (scheduled 4-18-22)
• Dorsey Engagement Letter for Water Revenue Bond: $20,000
• West Holly & Phase III Draw #5B: $7,193.00
• Morrison Maierle Amendment 3 to Task Order 2: Construction Surveying Services for 2022 Nielsen Halvorsen Sewer Rehab for $10,060

The City Council approved SDI as the architect for the City Hall remodel and passed a budget amendment for FY2021. The council also increased the frozen/new water meter charge to $85 and approved several infrastructure payments.

• Approved SDI as architect for City Hall remodel (6-0)
• Approved FY2021 Budget Amendment Resolution No. 3882 (6-0)
• Increased frozen/new water meter charge to $85.00 (6-0)
• Approved $7,193.00 for West Holly & Phase III Draw #5B (6-0)
• Approved $10,060 for Morrison Maierle construction surveying services (6-0)
• Approved $20,000 Dorsey engagement letter for Water Revenue Bond (6-0)
• Appointed Shawn Storm to the City Planning Board for 3 years (6-0)
• Approved Tyler Christensen lot aggregation with conditions (5-0, 1 abstaining)

Budget and Finance Committee

The Budget and Finance Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on FY2021 budget amendments and the FY2021 audit report. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

• FY2021 Budget Amendments
• FY2021 Audit Report

The Budget and Finance Committee recommended approval of amendments to the FY2021 budget. The committee also reviewed the FY2021 Audit Report and its four findings.

• Recommended approval of FY2021 Budget Amendments (2-0)

City Council

The Sidney City Council is holding a special meeting to interview two architectural firms, SDI-Miles City and EAPC-Williston, for a City Hall remodel project. The agenda is otherwise limited to standard procedural items like the call to order, pledge, and roll call.

• Interview architects for City Hall remodel: SDI-Miles City
• Interview architects for City Hall remodel: EAPC-Williston

The Sidney City Council held a special meeting on March 28, 2022, to interview two architecture firms for a planned City Hall remodel. SDI of Miles City and EAPC of Williston each presented their qualifications, timelines, and experience. No decision was made; Clerk/Treasurer Chamberlin said the choice will be placed on the April 4, 2022 agenda for action. The meeting adjourned at 7:00 PM.

• No decision made on City Hall remodel architect; selection placed on April 4, 2022 agenda for action

City Council

The Sidney City Council will hold second readings of Ordinance 592 (nuisance code update) and Ordinance 593 (zoning code update for recreational marijuana sales), which could lead to adoption. The agenda also includes reports from the police, public works, fire marshal, and treasurer, plus approval of claims totaling $76,565.35 and a water-sewer bank transfer of $83,328.65.

• Ordinance 592: Nuisance Code Update – 2nd Reading
• Ordinance 593: Zoning Code Update for Sale of Recreational Marijuana – 2nd Reading
• Claims to be approved: $76,565.35
• February 2022 Water-Sewer Bank Transfer: $83,328.65
• Open Planning Board Positions – 2, two-year term positions

The Sidney City Council approved second readings of two ordinances: an updated nuisance code (with 'dead animals' removed from one section) and a zoning code update for the sale of recreational marijuana. Both passed 6-0. The council also approved the February 2022 JV report and an $83,328.65 water-sewer bank transfer, and approved the consent agenda with claims of $76,565.35. No motion was made on a proposed foundation fundraiser and concert after the police chief raised concerns about street closures and content.

• Approved second reading of Ordinance 592 (nuisance code update), amended to remove 'dead animals' from section 8-3-3 paragraph four (6-0)
• Approved second reading of Ordinance 593 (zoning code update for sale of recreational marijuana) (6-0)
• Approved February 2022 JV report (6-0)
• Approved February 2022 water-sewer bank transfer of $83,328.65 (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including claims of $76,565.35 and no building permits (3-0, with Rasmussen, DiFonzo, Stevenson voting yea)
• Approved March 7, 2022 regular meeting minutes (6-0)
• No motion made on Kris Entzel foundation fundraiser and concert after police chief raised concerns
• No action taken on two open Richland County Planning Board positions; council members agreed to reach out to potential appointees

City Council

The Sidney City Council will hold public hearings and first readings on updates to the nuisance ordinance and zoning code for recreational marijuana sales. The council will also consider several contracts, including construction administration services and a street project payment, plus a police department hire and K9 oath. Other items include a proposed street dance, a wellness proposal, and approval of claims and building permits.

• Public hearing and Ordinance 592: Nuisance Code Update (1st reading)
• Public hearing and Ordinance 593: Zoning Code Update for Sale of Recreational Marijuana (1st reading)
• Award Western Municipal for Nielson Halvorson Project, contingent on SRF approval
• West Holly & Phase III Draw #4B for $85,094.02
• Claims to be approved: $52,720.21

The City Council approved a monthly employee wellness program and passed the first readings of ordinances updating nuisance and recreational marijuana zoning codes. Additionally, the council authorized a $1,150 donation for a memorial park bench, approved a police department hire, and awarded a construction contract for the Nielson Halvorson project.

• Approved $425/month employee wellness program
• Approved first reading of Nuisance Ordinance 592 (5-1)
• Approved first reading of Marijuana Zoning Ordinance 593 (5-1)
• Approved $1,150 donation for Paul Quilling memorial bench
• Approved hiring James Drager for Police Department
• Awarded Nielson Halvorson project contract to Western Municipal
• Approved $85,094.02 payment for West Holly & Phase III Draw #4B
• Approved $52,720.21 in claims

City Council

The Sidney City Council is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving minutes, receiving reports from departments, and considering a contract for on-call engineering tasks. They will also announce public hearings for city code changes regarding nuisance ordinances and recreational marijuana, and hear requests from local groups about pool road closure and caution signage.

• Public hearings announced for nuisance ordinance and recreational marijuana code changes on 3-7-22
• Morrison Maierle TO 13 to Master Agreement: On Call Tasks with $15,000 cap
• December 2021 Water/Sewer Bank Transfer: $106,489.17
• January 2022 Water/Sewer Bank Transfer: $63,347.57
• Claims to be approved: $222,336.76

The Sidney City Council voted to deny Eastern Montana Meats permission to hook onto the city sewer system. The council also approved a bike show road closure, a street dance and BBQ event, and caution signage on 32nd Ave NW paid for by LYREA. Additionally, the council approved an on-call task order agreement with Morrison Maierle carrying a $15,000 cap, various financial reports, water and sewer bank transfers, and claims totaling $222,336.76.

• Approved February 7th, 2022 regular meeting minutes and water and sewer committee meeting minutes
• Approved Lower Yellowstone Abate road closure in front of the pool for a bike show on April 30th, 2022
• Approved Cattle AC street dance and BBQ on August 27th, 2022, subject to police department requirements
• Denied Eastern Montana Meats hookup to city sewer services
• Approved LYREA installing caution signs on 32nd Ave NW at no cost to the city
• Approved Morrison Maierle master agreement for on-call tasks with a $15,000 cap
• Approved December 2021 and January 2022 JV reports and Treasurer's reports
• Approved December 2021 water/sewer bank transfer of $106,489.17 and January 2022 transfer of $63,347.57

Zoning/Board of Adjustments

The Zoning/Board of Adjustments will meet on February 9, 2022, to discuss new business. The primary item on the agenda is a review of the zoning code regarding recreational marijuana.

• Review of Zoning Code regarding recreational marijuana

The Zoning Board of Adjustments held a public hearing regarding the regulation of recreational marijuana sales within city limits. Following testimony from city staff, law enforcement, and business owners, the Board voted to recommend that the City Council maintain current language prohibiting the sale of both recreational and medical marijuana without a federal license.

• Closed public hearing on recreational marijuana code amendments (3-0)
• Recommended City Council prohibit recreational and medical marijuana sales (3-2)

City Council

The Sidney City Council is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, receiving department updates, and acting on a consent agenda with claims totaling $232,653.28. The agenda includes several financial items, such as a WWTP Phase 3 draw and a West Holly Phase III draw, but no building permits are scheduled for approval.

• Claims to be approved: $232,653.28
• WWTP Phase 3 Draw #29 for $2,921.00
• West Holly and Phase III Draw #3b for $48,831.00
• Public hearing (item 6, no details provided)
• Fire Run Report for December 2021 and January 2022

The Sidney City Council approved an agreement with the Montana Department of Transportation for the Holly Street Pedestrian Bridge, which will replace the current bridge with construction anticipated in 2023 or 2024. The council also approved a letter of support for the Dry Red Water Authority's water project, clarifying it does not commit the city to purchasing water, and approved several payment draws and a cell tower lease amendment. All votes were unanimous among the five aldermen present, with Alderman Godfrey absent.

• Approved MDT Holly Street Pedestrian Bridge Agreement (5-0)
• Approved letter of support for Dry Red Water Authority water project, not a purchase commitment (5-0)
• Approved WWTP Phase 3 Draw #29 for $2,921.00 (5-0)
• Approved West Holly and Phase III Draw #3b for $48,831.00 (5-0)
• Approved American Tower cell tower lease expansion, increasing payment by $250.00 (5-0)
• Approved claims totaling $232,653.28 (5-0)
• Approved minutes of Water and Sewer Committee 1-10-2022, Regular Council 1-18-2022, and City Buildings/Street Lighting 1/24/2022 (5-0 each)
• No building permits to be approved

Water And Sewer Committee

The Sidney Water and Sewer Committee is meeting to discuss new business, specifically a proposal from Eastern Montana Meats to connect to the city sewer system. No decisions are recorded in the agenda; the item is listed for discussion.

• Eastern Montana Meats proposal to connect to city sewer

The Water and Sewer Committee voted to recommend denial of Eastern Montana Meats' proposal to connect to the city sewer system. Alderman DiFonzo said he saw little benefit for the City and that the City would assume most of the liability, including testing and maintenance requirements raised by MMIA and MLCT. PWD Hintz said the company would have to pretreat its industrial waste because of the City lagoon and discharge requirements. The motion to recommend denial was made by Rasmussen, seconded by DiFonzo, with Koffler, Rasmussen and DiFonzo voting yea.

• Recommended denial of Eastern Montana Meats' proposal to connect to city sewer (3-0; yea: Koffler, Rasmussen, DiFonzo)

Nuisance Committee

The Nuisance Committee is meeting to discuss a proposed revised nuisance ordinance. This is the only item on the agenda, and no decisions have been made yet.

• Proposed revised nuisance ordinance

The Nuisance Committee reviewed a proposed revised Nuisance Ordinance #574, which City Attorney Kalil said would streamline court litigation and cut the city's time and costs. Members discussed how the city would recover towing costs (attached to the property owner's property taxes) and whether to post nuisance meetings in the Sidney Herald and on the city's website. A motion by Koffler, seconded by Hintz, passed with all four members voting yea; the meeting adjourned at 5:40pm.

• Motion by Koffler, seconded by Hintz, approved (4-0: Rasmussen, Koffler, Norby, Hintz) after review of proposed revised Nuisance Ordinance #574

City Buildings and Street Lighting Committee

The City Buildings and Street Lighting Committee will meet to discuss new business. The primary item on the agenda is a review regarding the purchase of the KC Sand Building.

• Review purchase of KC Sand Building

The City Buildings and Street Lighting Committee voted to move forward with purchasing the KC Sand Building, a roughly 60-by-150-foot structure in the BNSF right of way in front of the City Shop Yard, for about $150,000 to use as cold storage. Aldermen Koffler and Stevenson said they want the railroad lease terms confirmed (PWD Hintz said he was told $200/month) before proceeding. The purchase was not budgeted, and Clerk/Treasurer Chamberlin said a budget amendment will be required and that she will look into whether ARPA funds can be used. The motion directs the matter to the Budget and Finance Committee for specifics.

• Approved moving forward with purchase of the KC Sand Building, contingent on Budget and Finance Committee review and confirming lease specifics (Koffler, Stevenson voting yea)

City Council

The City Council will discuss updates to the zoning code regarding recreational marijuana and nuisance properties. The meeting also includes reports on water/sewer requests, subdivision updates, and the purchase of the KC Sand Building.

• Zoning code updates for recreational marijuana and nuisance properties
• Eastern Montana Meats request to connect to city sewer
• Anderson Subdivision water and sewer updates
• KC Sand Building purchase
• Approval of $871,765.17 in claims

The Sidney City Council approved its consent agenda including $871,765.17 in claims and a building permit, and approved a November 2021 water/sewer bank transfer of $180,856.84. The council sent a proposed nuisance-property code update to the Nuisance Committee for review, and directed a proposed KC Sand building purchase to the City Buildings and Street Lighting Committee. A request to use the City Hall parking lot for an April 28 fundraiser was tabled pending a plan addressing alcohol, street access, and insurance. All recorded votes were unanimous (6-0).

• Approved corrected minutes of the 1-3-2022 regular meeting (6-0)
• Sent nuisance-property code update to Nuisance Committee for review (6-0)
• Approved November 2021 JV Report (6-0)
• Approved November 2021 water/sewer bank transfer of $180,856.84 (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $871,765.17 in claims and building permit 2022-062 (6-0)
• Directed KC Sand building purchase to City Buildings and Street Lighting Committee (6-0)
• Approved PWD Hintz looking further into Growth Policy and Capital Improvement Plan updates (6-0)
• Tabled request to use City Hall parking lot for 4-28-2022 fundraiser pending a plan

Zoning/Board of Adjustments

The Zoning/Board of Adjustment is meeting to discuss a recreational marijuana zoning update, based on a staff report from City Planner Sanderson. The agenda contains only this one new business item, with no other substantive matters listed.

• Recreational marijuana zoning update discussion

The Zoning Board of Adjustment prohibited marijuana as an in-home occupation in all districts. The board also voted to strike the word 'medical' from existing marijuana code to ensure all dispensaries are treated the same and remain prohibited pending further review.

• Prohibited in-home occupations for marijuana in all districts (All aye)
• Approved striking the word 'medical' from marijuana zoning code to treat all dispensaries the same (All aye)
• Tabled remaining discussion on marijuana dispensaries until February 9, 2022 (All aye)

Water And Sewer Committee

The Water and Sewer Committee will meet to discuss new business. The primary item on the agenda involves a request for Eastern Montana Meats to connect to the city sewer system.

• Eastern Montana Meats sewer connection

The Sidney Water and Sewer Committee discussed a request from Eastern Montana Meats to increase their proposed wastewater discharge to 16,300 gallons per day. Officials noted that the facility falls under EPA categorical industrial discharge standards and would require pretreatment and a rate study. The committee voted to consult MMIA for insurance review before making a final recommendation to the City Council.

• Voted to consult MMIA regarding the Eastern Montana Meats proposal (3-0)
• Tabled final recommendation to the City Council for a future committee meeting

City Council

The Sidney City Council will hold its regular meeting, including the election of a council president for 2022, setting committee assignments, and hearing a request from Eastern Montana Meats to connect to city sewer services after a previous denial. The agenda also includes routine items like approval of minutes, claims totaling $291,270.85, and updates from city staff.

• Election of City Council President for 2022
• Setting 2022 Council Committees
• Eastern Montana Meats request for city sewer services (previously denied July 27, 2021)
• WWTP Phase 3 Draw #28 for $4,142.00
• Claims to be approved: $291,270.85

The Sidney City Council approved the December 20, 2021 minutes, elected Tami Christensen as City Council President for 2022, and approved 2022 committee assignments, all by 6-0 votes. It approved soliciting an architect for a City Hall remodel within the ARPA budget, approved WWTP Phase 3 Draw #28 for $4,142.00, and sent Eastern Montana Meats' request to connect to city sewer to the Water and Sewer Committee for review. The consent agenda approving $291,270.85 in claims and no new building permits passed 6-0.

• Approved December 20, 2021 regular meeting minutes (6-0)
• Reappointed Troy Jensen to Airport Board At-Large Member, 5-year term (6-0)
• Elected Tami Christensen as City Council President for 2022 (6-0)
• Approved 2022 council committee assignments (6-0)
• Approved soliciting an architect for City Hall remodel
• Approved WWTP Phase 3 Draw #28 for $4,142.00 (6-0)
• Sent Eastern Montana Meats sewer connection request to Water and Sewer Committee (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda: $291,270.85 in claims, no new building permits (6-0)