Wolf Point Council To Consider Triangle Park Sale, Little Free Library Discussed
During the public comment period of the Wolf Point City Council’s regular meeting Monday, Aug. 19, council member Lance FourStar referenced a letter from Town Pump corporate offering to buy a .34 acre park property next to their store for $20,000.
Norene Hohman from Town Pump also spoke about the purchase proposal. She said the lot in question attracts panhandlers. “We want to expand the store,” Hohman added.
Mayor Chris Dschaak sent the matter to the parks/recreation/ cemetery/tree committee for further consideration and possible public hearings.
Hohman also suggested advertising positions with the Wolf Point Police Department using salary figures versus the hourly wage offered. “We pay our employees more than that,” Hohman said.
City attorney Montana Wilson gave the council an update on two pending evictions. He discussed details from the Cape Air terminal lease contract currently under development and updated them on pending criminal matters.
During the public works report, pothole and street repairs were reported. Damaged mains were inspected and repaired. The storm water survey has been completed, enabling grant submissions.
Greg Lukasik with Great West Engineering addressed the council about the possibility of assisting with flood plain issues. He said the cost could be as high as $5,000. Ken Luckow is pursuing certification as a flood plain administrator with online classes in September.
Dschaak said a revocable license is in process following a request from local author Lisa Dunn to place a little free library at Nellie’s Park. Dunn’s request was made during the June council meeting. Wilson outlined steps needed to get the library approved by the September council meeting. A motion was passed to provisionally approve legal work on the project.
A motion was passed to approve possible legal action needed to remove a residential structure that did not receive a building permit prior to construction. Dschaak also mentioned complaints the city has received about the turnaround time for building permits. Lukasik said Great West Engineering does not have a permit engineer on staff. Options for addressing the problem were discussed.
A curb system was discussed for Faith Home to prevent misuse of the area by cars and trucks. No action was taken.
The Wolf Point Police Department submitted their monthly activity report, The council voted not to accept a contract with Roosevelt County involving shared costs on some personnel. Their stated goal in rejecting the contract was to open further negotiations and improve the city’s position.
Motions were approved for Phase 2 of wasterwater and sewer projects, which included draw requests in the amounts of $5,101.09, $12,095.45,$1.628.50 and $39,994.30, respectively. Bids were opened for additional work and Bishop, Inc. was approved at a cost of $9,435.00.
During personnel, policy and wage, a motion was approved to amend city policy determining wages to include updated language ensuring longevity pay.
Christopher Greybear was approved for hire as a police officer, effective Aug. 5. Jayde Fourstar was approved for hire as maintenance worker and Jon Erickson was approved as airport manager.
The treasurer’s cash report for June was approved, along with the activity report.
The next regular council meeting is Sept. 16 at 7 p.m.
