The Vermillion City Council met on November 4, 2025, to address routine approvals, public hearings, ordinance readings, and new business items including vehicle purchases and facility repairs. Key decisions included approval of liquor license renewals, adoption of two ordinances, a resolution to raise curbside recycling fees, and selection of state-bid vehicles over local vendor quotes. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the previous meeting were approved unanimously. - Agenda was adopted as presented. - Consent agenda (including invoices payable, fuel quotes, and resolutions authorizing purchase of two police interceptor SUVs and one pursuit-rated pickup truck for the police department) was approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Katie Heine, Manager of the Vermillion Area Chamber and Development Company, presented and read a proclamation declaring Saturday, November 29, 2025, as Small Business Saturday in Vermillion and Clay County. The proclamation recognized the economic importance of small businesses and encouraged local support. No other public comments were offered. - A Veterans Day proclamation was deferred as the representative from the Human Relations Commission was not present; council agreed to accommodate his appearance if he arrived later. Discussion Items - Annual Liquor and Wine License Renewals: The police chief’s report on licensee performance was noted. Councilor Holland thanked staff for clarifying that incident counts do not necessarily reflect owner responsibility. A motion to approve all renewals passed unanimously. - Second Reading of Ordinance 1543: Amended city code to allow current liquor license holders to obtain special daily licenses for off-premise events and to permit on-sale liquor under such licenses. A roll call vote resulted in 9 yeas, 0 nays. - Second Reading of Ordinance 1546: Updated the address of the police department in city code to 1250 Stanford Street (new law enforcement center). A roll call vote passed 9-0. - Agreement with Clay Union Electric: Transfer of electric service territory for Munger Track (annexed in August). Clay Union confirmed no existing services or infrastructure on the property; no cost for the transfer. The agreement was approved and will go to the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission after board approvals. - Resolution to Amend Curbside Recycling Fees: Proposed increase of $0.10/month for residential (from $3.90 to $4.00) and $0.50/month for commercial (from $12.50 to $13.00), expected to generate about $3,400 annually. Effective for billings after January 1, 2026. Motion approved. - Resolution Authorizing Purchase of Three Vehicles (Items C, D, E): Staff presented state bids and local dealer quotes for a Chevy Equinox (administration), two Chevy Silverado 4x4s (Light & Power and Solid Waste). The local vendor (Jerry’s Chevrolet) did not match the state bid; Vermilion Ford, which matched state bids on consent items, was not bidding on these Chevy products. Councilor Price argued that purchasing from Jerry’s would be a “slap in the face” to Vermilion Ford and recommended state bids to save the city roughly $3,931. Councilor Cheesman agreed. Three separate motions to accept state bids passed (Item C: 9-0; Item D: 9-0; Item E: 9-0). - Agreement with AMS Building Systems for Lions Park Restroom Floor Repair: Staff reported that the floor had sustained unrepairable water damage and vandalism, compromising structural integrity. Estimated cost $34,163, not budgeted for 2026, requiring a budget revision. The repair will replace tile with poured concrete to reduce vulnerability. Motion approved. Key Outcomes - Approved (unanimous): Consent agenda, liquor license renewals, recycling fee resolution, Clay Union Electric service transfer, Lions Park restroom contract, and all three vehicle purchases via state bids. - Adopted Ordinances: Ordinance 1543 (special alcohol beverage licenses) and Ordinance 1546 (police department address) on second reading, both with 9-0 roll call votes. - Directives: Staff to purchase vehicles from state bid suppliers (Lamb Chevy for the Equinox, Beck Motors for the pickups). The Lion’s Park restroom repair contract with AMS Building Systems will proceed pending budget revision. - Upcoming Meetings Noted: Human Relations Commission (Nov 6), Planning & Zoning Commission (Nov 10, conditional use permit for veterinary clinic), Historic Preservation Commission (Nov 12). City offices closed Nov 11 for Veterans Day.
Public Meetings - Vermillion, South Dakota
Public Meetings - Vermillion, South DakotaThe Vermillion City Council met on October 21, 2025, to address a variety of agenda items including liquor licenses, zoning variances, ordinance amendments, and infrastructure projects. Key decisions included approval of a variance to reduce a setback to zero feet for a mixed-use development, advancement of an ordinance to allow small animal veterinary clinics as conditional uses with no distance requirement, and approval of a change order for the North Carr Street construction project. The meeting also saw the resolution for a restaurant license fee reduction die for lack of a motion. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes from the October 6, 2025 special meeting and regular meeting. (Motion by Councillor Murray, second by Councillor Holland; approved unanimously) - Adoption of the agenda. (Motion by Councillor Price, second by Councillor Lieber; approved unanimously) - Consent agenda items: invoices, annual write-off of accounts receivable, declaration of surplus emergency communications equipment, and resolution to transfer a 2013 console to Painton County. (Motion by Councillor Lieber, second by Councillor Price; approved unanimously) Public Comments & Testimony - Jim Peterson (Vermillion Chamber Development Company) spoke in favor of the variance for 16 High Street, noting support from the brewery owners and the potential for increased property tax and sales tax revenue. He also thanked the council for expediting the veterinarian ordinance. - Nick Mart (Mark Brothers Construction) spoke in support of the variance, stating that reusing the existing foundation would be cost-effective and that the new building would be on the same footprint. - No other public testimony was offered on other agenda items. Discussion Items - Special Daily Malt Beverage and Wine License for Clay County Agricultural Fair Association (November 22, 2025, 5-10 p.m., 200 attendees, alcohol served at bar only, IDs checked). The police chief's report noted no prior issues. Approved unanimously. - Variance Request for 16 High Street: Request to reduce the required setback from 20 feet to zero feet for a mixed-use building (commercial ground floor, residential above) on the same footprint as the existing building. Staff recommended approval, noting that the existing building is already at the property line and that the variance would allow the owner to either remodel or build new. The council discussed the non-conforming use and parking. Approved unanimously (6 of 9 votes needed, but no roll call was taken; motion carried by voice vote). - First Reading of Ordinance 1347: Amending zoning regulations to allow small animal veterinary clinics as a conditional use in the General Business district without the 150-foot distance requirement and with no outdoor kenneling. The Planning Commission recommended unanimously (8-0). Councillor Jennoy expressed concern about eliminating the distance requirement entirely but supported advancing the ordinance to meet the immediate need for a veterinarian. Advanced to second reading (special meeting October 27, 2025). - Second Reading of Ordinance 1545: Rezone 1200 West Street from NRC to R1 for a residential addition. Approved by roll call vote (7-0). - First Reading of Ordinance 1543: Allowing current alcohol license holders to obtain special daily licenses for on-sale liquor. Advanced to second reading. - Resolution Amending Fee for On-Sale Full Service Restaurant License: Proposed reduction from $95,000 to $70,000. After discussion, no motion was made; the item died for lack of motion. Councillor Price noted that the VCDC meeting indicated no interest from potential restaurant owners, and that current license holders opposed the reduction. - First Reading of Ordinance 1546: Update the address of the Vermillion Police Department from 15 Washington Street to 1250 Stanford Street. Advanced to second reading (November 3, 2025). - Bid Board 2 (Business Improvement District 2) Reappointments: Reappointed current members with staggered terms (Patrick Morrison and Becky Earnquist Schroeder to 2026; James Waters and Martin Pendergrass to 2027; Michelle Maloney to 2028). Approved. - North Carr Street Construction Change Order: Increased contract by $129,847.56 (largely due to poor soil conditions, $92,000). Original contract $447,552.93; new total $577,400.49. The work has been completed. Approved. - Resolution Amending Landfill Disposal Rates: Multi-year increase for 2026 ($7/ton), 2027 ($5/ton), 2028 ($3/ton). Minimum fee increased to $14 (unchanged for 2027-2028). Approved with clarification. - Water Treatment Plant Improvement Bid Opening: Awarded base bid to RP Constructors LLC ($6,103,940) and rejected bid alternate ($293,922). The project is funded by a $7 million SRF loan, with $1.3 million already used for distribution improvements. Additional funding is being sought. Approved. Key Outcomes - Approved: Special daily malt beverage and wine license for Clay County Agricultural Fair Association (unanimous). - Approved: Variance to reduce setback to zero feet for 16 High Street (unanimous voice vote). - Advanced to Second Reading: Ordinance 1347 (veterinarian zoning) and Ordinance 1543 (special alcohol licenses) and Ordinance 1546 (police address). - Approved (Roll Call 7-0): Ordinance 1545 (rezoning 1200 West Street). - Died for Lack of Motion: Resolution to reduce restaurant license fee to $70,000. - Approved: Bid Board 2 reappointments (unanimous). - Approved: North Carr Street change order (unanimous). - Approved: Landfill rate resolution (unanimous). - Approved: Water treatment plant bid award (unanimous). - Next Meetings: Special city council meeting October 27, 2025 (noon) for second reading of Ordinance 1347; regular meeting November 3, 2025.
The Vermillion City Council met on October 7, 2025, to consider a wide range of items including public comments on an employee termination appeal, proclamations, a special permit, rezonings, a zoning appeal for a veterinary clinic, multi-year infrastructure project updates, and several appointments. The meeting lasted approximately two hours and included robust discussion on the city's on-call policy, enforcement of zoning distances, and a delayed lift station project. Consent Calendar - Invoices payable, fuel quotes, and surplus declarations for the Vermillion Police Department (firearms and accessories) were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Brandon Steenek employment matter: Multiple speakers (Jordan Defenbah, Ron Jupiter, Brian Somerwald, Candy McDonald, Christina Steenek) spoke in support of city employee Brandon Steenek, who faced potential termination over an alleged two-minute violation of an on-call response time rule. Speakers argued that the policy is outdated, that Steenek had consistently responded on time from his sister's home (well within the 15-minute window), and that the rule should be revised to a 30-minute or mileage-based standard. They noted Steenek's excellent performance record, his military service, and that selective enforcement undermines morale. The mayor acknowledged the comments but stated the matter is a legal issue not on the agenda. - Veterinary clinic appeal: Steve Waller, Mary Waller, Jim Peterson (VCDC), and building owner Donnie Stewart spoke in favor of Dr. Green's proposed small animal vet clinic at 306 Bower Street, citing the community's need for a vet and the suitability of the location. They noted that the property is only about 120 feet from a residence (the ordinance requires 150 feet) but that the neighboring owner had no objection. The clinic would be a satellite office open a few days a week with no overnight kenneling. Discussion Items - Proclamations: The council read and approved three proclamations: October 13, 2025 as Native American Day; October 5–11 as Fire Prevention Week (focusing on lithium-ion battery safety); and October 5–11 as Public Power Week (celebrating the city-owned electric utility). - Special assessment roll (nuisance abatement): A resolution to impose special assessments for mowing, snow removal, and property cleanup on 14 properties was adopted after a public hearing. No public testimony was offered. - Special permit for noise: A permit allowing amplified sound at Radigan Platz on October 18, 2025 from 3:45 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. for the Vermillion Rising No Kings community sing-along was approved. - First reading – Ordinance 1545 (rezoning from NRC to R1): A request to rezone 1200 West Main Street from Natural Resource Conservation to R1 Residential to allow an addition to an existing house. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval. The council advanced the ordinance to second reading on October 20, 2025. - Appeal of zoning administration decision – Conditional use permit for vet clinic: The VCDC appealed the staff's denial of a CUP for a small animal vet at 306 Bower Street because the property was less than 150 feet from a residential structure. The council discussed whether the ordinance should distinguish between clinics and kennels, and whether to allow a variance. After legal advice that the appeal could only be granted on grounds of illegality (which did not exist), the council voted to deny the appeal (6–0). However, the council directed staff to prepare an ordinance amendment to reduce the distance requirement for vet clinics without outdoor kenneling, with a target of having the new ordinance effective by November 20, 2025, and then the CUP could be considered. - Second readings: - Ordinance 1541 (rezoning 1313 West Cherry Street from GB to R3) approved (9–0). The owner plans to convert a motel into studio apartments and build 20 additional units. - Ordinance 1542 (adding Marv Tract 1 and Munger Tract 4 to the rural service district) approved (9–0). - Ordinance 1544 (revising ward boundaries to include annexed properties) approved (9–0). - Blue Peak annual presentation: A representative gave an update on Blue Peak's fiber network expansion, noting an $8.3 million investment, community sponsorships of $27,000 in 2025, and ongoing Wi-Fi 7 upgrades. Council members raised concerns about slow burial of temporary cables and intermittent outages, especially affecting remote workers. The representative promised to look into both issues. - Tom Street Engineering Amendment No. 2: Staff requested an additional $59,860 for engineering services due to construction delays on the lift station project (now 494 days past original completion date, with $666,900 in liquidated damages accruing). The council expressed frustration but approved the amendment without the $15,000 contingency (motion passed). The contingency would require a separate request if needed. - 2024 audited financial report: Accepted with no discussion. - Storm drainage fee increase: A resolution to increase the fee by 3% (from $37.88 to $39.00 annually for a single-family home on a 10,000 sq ft lot) was adopted. Key Outcomes - Appeal denied, ordinance amendment initiated: The council denied the appeal of the zoning administrator's decision regarding the vet clinic, but directed staff to draft an ordinance amendment to reduce the 150-foot setback for vet clinics without outdoor kenneling. The amendment will go to Planning and Zoning on October 20, with first reading by council on October 27, second reading on November 3, and effective date approximately November 20. - Tom Street project: The council approved $44,860 of the requested $59,860 engineering amendment, removing the contingency. Liquidated damages are being tracked and may be pursued. - Appointments: - Dennis Falcos appointed to the Historic Preservation Commission (term not specified). - Russell Olsen reappointed to the Tree Board. - Joseph Tenier (Holiday Inn manager) appointed to the Business Improvement District (BID) Board. - Upcoming events: Ribbon cutting for the new Law Enforcement Center on October 7 at 4 p.m.; Police/Fire/EMS open house on October 8, 5–7 p.m.; Public Power Week open house on October 10, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.; City offices closed October 13 for Native American Day.
The Vermillion City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, September 15, 2025 (transcript dated September 16) at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. The agenda covered budget approvals, zoning changes, wastewater rate adjustments, liquor license amendments, a TIF developer agreement, and several resolutions. The council approved all second readings, held public hearings, and tabled two items for further stakeholder input. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session at 7:28 p.m. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved minutes from the September 2, 2025 joint meeting with Clay County, special meeting, and regular meeting. - Agenda: Adopted as amended to add an executive session for legal matters. - Visitors to be Heard: No public comment on non‑agenda items. Public Hearings - Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Application for Boys & Girls Club: Nick West McBain, facility chief for Northern Plains Boys & Girls Club, presented a request for the city to sponsor a $2.02 million CDBG grant for renovations at 300 High Street. The project includes roof, window, HVAC, security upgrades (80 cameras), and a commercial kitchen. The city would pass through funds. No public testimony. The council later approved the resolution authorizing the application (see New Business). - First Reading – Ordinance 1541 (Rezone 1313 West Cherry Street): City Planner Jose presented a request to rezone approximately two acres from General Business (GB) to R3 Residential to allow apartment development. The planning commission recommended approval 7‑0. Council advanced the ordinance to second reading on October 6, 2025. Old Business (Second Readings) - Ordinance 1538 (Rezone 440 Adam Street): Rezone from R2/R4 to R3, effective June 1, 2026. Roll call vote: 6‑0. Approved. - Ordinance 1539 (2025 Budget Revision): Adjusted appropriations including TIF 8 demolition costs ($449,000), sales tax rebate, and tennis/pickleball facility. Roll call: 6‑0. Approved. - Ordinance 1540 (2026 Budget): Adopted with rate increases for sanitary sewer, curbside recycling ($3.90 to $4.00/month), and stormwater fee. Roll call: 6‑0. Approved. New Business - Midco Annual Franchise Presentation: Brian Crump reported 2024 metrics: 1,700+ truck rolls, 95% first‑time right, 94% on‑time arrival, 9.8/10 customer satisfaction, average repair time 2.2 hours. Network extended to 8 new businesses, 1 apartment building, 3 single‑family homes. Total construction investment: $92,855. No action required. - Wastewater Rate Adjustment Resolution: Approved increasing rates to 211% (effective April 2027) to meet loan requirements for the $23.1 million wastewater treatment plant improvements. Average monthly bill for 4,346 gallons will increase from $52.56 to $65.23 ($12.68/month). Council noted the increase is a year and a half away and may be reduced if less funding is borrowed. - Revenue Bond Authorization for Wastewater Treatment Facility: Authorized up to $23.1 million in revenue bonds at 3.25% interest over 30 years. Approved. - First Reading – Ordinance 1543 (Special Alcohol Beverage Licenses): Proposed to allow current liquor license holders to sell alcohol at off‑premise special events and to allow on‑sale liquor for special licenses. Public comment from Chad Grunwald (Lumber Co.) and Blaine Schulerman (Bunions) expressed concerns about nonprofits selling liquor and market saturation. Council tabled the item to October 20, 2025 for further input from license holders. - Resolution on Full‑Service Restaurant Liquor License Fee: Proposed to set the fee at $70,000 (down from $95,000). Public testimony from Chad Grunwald and Garner Hanson (Docks Bar) urged tabling for more input. Council postponed to October 20, 2025. - TIF 12 Developer Agreement with AMS Building Systems: Approved for 502 Cottage, maximum TIF of $1,107,917 over 20 years. Includes $15,000 administration fee and performance standards. - CDBG Sponsorship Resolution for Boys & Girls Club: Approved authorizing the application and designating the Mayor as certifying officer. - Historic Preservation Commission Appointments: Reappointed Dedrick Vanderhill and William Denninger for three‑year terms. - First Reading – Ordinance 1542 (Rural Service District Addition): Added Marv Tract 1 and Munger Tract 4 to the rural service district for tax purposes. Approved. - Final Plat – Blue Stem Trail Edition: Approved 15‑acre plat near East Clark and Crawford Road for future development. - First Reading – Ordinance 1544 (Ward Boundaries): Updated ward boundaries to reflect recent annexations. Advanced to second reading. - Resolution in Support of Solera LLC for SD Housing Development Authority Loan: Approved name change from Stencil Group to Solera LLC for a low‑interest loan. - Fireworks Permit for Dakota Days: Approved for October 3, 2025 (rain date October 4) at Polaris parking lot. City Manager’s Report - Special meeting September 22 at noon for USDA ambulance grant public hearing. - Joint powers board meeting September 18 at 5:30 p.m. at Yankton City Hall. - Planning commission meeting September 22 at 5:30 p.m. (rezone 1200 West Main, conditional use permit for veterinarian). - Housing survey open through September 26. - Openings on BID 1 board (owner/manager of lodging) and Historic Preservation Commission; expressions of interest due September 25. - Homecoming parade September 19 from 1‑3 p.m., Main Street closures. - Library awarded exemplary accreditation by South Dakota State Library. Invoices Payable - Approved as presented. Key Outcomes - All second readings and resolutions approved as listed. - Ordinance 1543 and the restaurant liquor license fee resolution tabled to October 20, 2025 for further stakeholder input. - Council entered executive session at 7:28 p.m. for legal matters.
The City of Vermillion City Council and Clay County Commission held a joint meeting on September 2, 2025 (recorded September 3) starting at 6:00 p.m., followed by the regular city council meeting. Key actions included approval of a light industrial zoning amendment, first reading of a controversial rezoning ordinance, budget readings, and various administrative items. Public Comments & Testimony - Dr. Damon, Vermillion School Superintendent – Expressed gratitude to both the city and county for ongoing support of the school system, particularly the School Resource Officer program and road maintenance for school buses. - Sue Christensen (resident, 1818 Constance Drive) – Opposed the proposed light industrial zoning amendment (Ordinance 1533) citing noise concerns and requested hours be restricted, as the allowed 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. seemed excessive. - Patrick Roach (1818 Constance) – Concerned about pneumatic wrench noise during early morning or evening hours, and asked whether work would be indoors. - Kelly Person (1330 Overdrive) and Cheryl O’Connor – Expressed skepticism about noise levels from train cars and questioned the existence of an access road easement through their property; argued that railcar repair is heavy, not light, industrial. - Jim Peterson (Chamber and Development Company) – Supported the light industrial zoning change, stating the prospective company (unnamed per NDA) would service grain cars, create 15–25 family-wage jobs, and use a quiet tugger; noted the governor’s office supports the project. - Cole Crosby (company representative, North Dakota) – Clarified that railcars would be dropped once a week during daylight, noise is intermittent, and their other locations near residential areas have had no issues. - Julie Berry (resident, 447 North Plum 53, via letter read by Jose) – Strongly opposed the rezoning of Plum Vista Trailer Court (Ordinance 1538), stating it would displace six families, many on fixed incomes, and asked for relocation assistance and a clear timeline. - Jim Peterson (also speaking on Ordinance 1538) – Noted the mobile homes are personal property with 30-day leases; acknowledged human impact but recommended approval to allow redevelopment. - William Wood (new property owner) – Expressed willingness to delay development until June 1, 2026, and to work with tenants on relocation, but would not offer direct financial assistance for moving trailers. He stated he would not force people out without developing the property. - Lenny Billberg (Plum Street resident and library board member) – Urged council to proceed with Carnegie Library restoration, offering support for fundraising. Discussion Items - Second Reading – Ordinance 1533 (Light Industrial Zoning Amendment) – Noah presented noise level data (max 85 decibels inside facility, quieter than a lawnmower) and described the tugger used to move railcars. Hours set 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Council discussed that the site is motivated by a former grain elevator site and that decibel levels are logarithmic. Public testimony as above. The joint body voted unanimously to approve (city council 9-0; county also passed). - Building Permit Fee Waivers for Public Entities – A commissioner proposed a resolution to waive permit and inspection fees for city, county, and school district projects. Superintendent Damon supportive. Council agreed in concept; city attorney to draft a resolution for future meetings. - First Reading – Ordinance 1538 (Rezoning from R2/R4 to R3 for Michael’s Edition) – Jose explained the property is split between R2 (south two-thirds) and R4 (north one-third, mobile homes). Owner William Wood plans higher-density apartments. Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval 4-2. Concerns about displacing six existing trailer households. Council discussed delaying the effective date. Mr. Wood offered a delay to June 1, 2026. The first reading initially failed on a roll call (4 yes, 5 no) due to lack of a delayed effective date. A subsequent motion to reconsider with the effective date of June 1, 2026 passed (6 yes, 2 no, with one abstention? Roll call: Lieber no, Price yes, Holland yes, Genoine yes, Hellwig yes?, Cheeseman yes, Murrah no, Mayor yes? – Actually from transcript: after reconsider, roll call: Lieber – no, Price – ?, Holland – yes, Genoine – yes, Hellwig – yes, Cheeseman – yes, Murrah – no, Mayor – yes. So 6 yes, 2 no. So first reading approved with delayed effective date.) - Review of Malt Beverage Markup Receipts – John presented the ordinance requiring annual review. All proceeds go to Prentice Park bond debt service ($197,725 annually). Projected 2026 markup revenue: $150,000. Council voted to continue the 5% wholesale fee. - Human Relations Commission Appointment – Jose recommended Jordan Bonstrom to fill a vacancy, citing his prior experience. Approved. - Resolution on Special Assessment Hearing for Nuisance Abatement – Set public hearing for October 6, 2025 on unpaid nuisance abatement costs. Approved. - First Reading – Ordinance 1539 (Budget Revision for 2025) – General fund increased from $9.8M to $10.5M; changes include transfers for TIF 8 demolition and Carr Street project. Approved for second reading. - First Reading – Ordinance 1540 (2026 Budget Appropriation) – Property tax revenue increases to $3.3M (growth plus TIF 6 closure); sales tax projected 3% increase; includes 3% COLA for employees; utility rate increases for sewer, recycling, stormwater. Approved for second reading. - Resolution on Blue Peak Cable Asset Transfer – Consent to transfer franchise to a wholly owned subsidiary; no change in services or rates. Approved. - Carnegie Library Restoration – City received $14,000 grant requiring $14,000 match. Two quotes: $96,000 (Restoric) and $9,400 (Scott Peterson) for window removal to assess dome damage. Council voted to accept Scott Peterson’s quote to proceed with evaluation and possible repair, with intent to use the grant funds. - Declare Surplus Airport Tug – USD gifted a newer, enclosed tug; the city’s old 1950s army surplus tug will be sold via Purple Wave auction. Approved. - Temporary Street Closure for High School Homecoming Parade – Main Street from Norbeck to High Street closed September 19, 1:00-3:00 p.m. Approved. - Fuel Quotes Bid Openings – Low bids accepted for fuel items. - Special Meeting Request – Council agreed to hold a special meeting on September 22 at noon to approve a USDA grant application for a new ambulance. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 1533 (Light Industrial Amendment) – Approved by both city council (9-0) and county commission. - Ordinance 1538 (Rezoning to R3) – First reading approved with an effective date of June 1, 2026. Second reading scheduled for September 15, 2025. - Malt Beverage Markup – Continued at 5% to fund Prentice Park bond. - Human Relations Commission – Jordan Bonstrom appointed. - Nuisance Abatement Special Assessment – Public hearing set for October 6, 2025. - Budget Revisions and 2026 Budget – First readings approved; second readings at September 15 meeting. - Blue Peak Cable – Consent granted for asset transfer. - Carnegie Library – Approved to proceed with Scott Peterson for window removal/evaluation. - Airport Tug – Declared surplus; authorized sale via Purple Wave. - Homecoming Parade – Street closure approved. - Fuel Bids – Low bids accepted. - Special Meeting – Scheduled September 22, 2025 at noon for ambulance grant approval.
The City of Vermillion held a joint jurisdiction meeting with the Clay County Commission followed by its regular city council meeting on August 19, 2025 (the transcript references Monday, August 18 for the regular meeting start, but the provided timestamp indicates August 19, likely due to the meeting lasting past midnight). Key actions included advancing a zoning ordinance for rail car repair, approving a Tax Increment Finance (TIF) district for affordable housing, purchasing a new ambulance, and adopting new consent agenda procedures. Joint Jurisdiction Meeting – First Reading of Ordinance 1533 - Ordinance 1533 proposes amending the joint jurisdiction zoning regulations to permit a train car repair and maintenance station in the Light Industrial District. The city and county planning commissions recommended limiting hours of operation to 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. - Public Comment: Jim Peterson (Vermillion Chamber and Development Company) expressed strong support, noting the project would create 15–20 family-wage jobs, involve no hazardous materials, and bring rail-car inspection to an underutilized site. Cole Crosby (company representative) clarified that rail cars would be delivered during daylight hours and that BNSF would not schedule nighttime deliveries. - Council/Commission Discussion: No further discussion; both bodies voted unanimously to advance the ordinance to second reading. - Votes: City: motion to advance by Councilor Holland, second by Councilor Murrah, approved by voice vote. County: motion to advance, seconded, approved by voice vote. Regular City Council Meeting Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the previous meeting (August 4, 2025) – motion by Councilor Cheesman, second by Councilor Holland, passed by voice vote. - Adopted the agenda – motion by Councilor Price, second by Councilor Hellwig, passed by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Civilian Hero Awards: Chief of Fire EMS Matthew Callahan presented awards to Cash Mockler and Diane Hanson for their swift, life-saving actions at the city swimming pool on June 27, 2025. No public comments on non-agenda items. Old Business - Second Reading of Ordinance 1537 (Rezoning Lot 8a, Block 7, Ericsson Addition from General Business to General Industrial): Staff introduced the request. No public comment. Approved by roll call vote 8–0. New Business 1. Resolution R‑2025‑XX – TIF 12 Project Plan (502 Cottage Avenue) - Project: Developer’s TIF for 24 affordable two‑bedroom apartment units. Base assessed value $226,633; total eligible costs $1.8 million; requested TIF amount $1,107,917. The developer, AMS Billing Systems (Nick Slattery), stated the project cannot move forward without the TIF. - Public Comment: - Jim Peterson (Chamber) reiterated the acute housing shortage in Vermillion, citing a July 2025 study showing fewer than 15 apartments available and a need for over 200 units. - Nick Slattery (AMS) described the company’s local investments and commitment to filling the housing gap. - Don Peterson (attorney for the developer) and Skylar Mickelson (legal counsel) answered questions regarding eligible costs and interest. - Council Discussion: - Councilor Toller opposed, citing high interest cost per bedroom ($9,300) and a TIF interest‑to‑total cost ratio of 40%, far exceeding prior TIFs. He argued this sets an expensive precedent. - Councilor Holland expressed concern that nearly half the TIF was for interest, but noted the project would bring infrastructure to an empty lot. - Councilor Genowine asked about affordable housing definitions; rates provided for 2024 (60% and 80% area median income). - Councilor Cheesman and Mayor Cole balanced the need for housing against fiscal caution. - Outcome: Motion to approve by Councilor Holland, second by Councilor Genowine. Roll call vote: 5 in favor (Price, Holland, Genowine, Cheesman, Murrah) and 3 against (Toller, Hellwig? – transcript unclear but tally was 5–3). Approved. 2. Resolution R‑2025‑XX – Ambulance Purchase - Authorized purchase of a 2026‑or‑newer Ford F‑550 Wheeled Coach ambulance from Feldfire Equipment (Carroll, IA) for $334,509. Clay County will fund and write the check; the city will own the vehicle. Delivery expected March 2027. Approved unanimously by voice vote. 3. Commercial Collection License – Bubba Dump LLC - License for Mark Holmes to rent 20‑yard dumpsters in Union and Clay Counties. Annual fee $300. Approved unanimously by voice vote. 4. Amendment to City Council Rules and Procedures – Consent Agenda - Added a consent agenda for routine, non‑controversial items; removed the consensus agenda. Procedures allow any council member to remove an item for discussion. The amendment also authorizes inclusion of invoices payable on the consent agenda. Effective October 6, 2025. Approved with an amendment to strike “invoices payable” as a separate order‑of‑business item (motion by Councilor Hellwig, second by Councilor Price) – voice vote. 5. Resolution for Jolly Edition Lot Sales - Authorized the city manager to sign purchase agreements and the finance officer to attest, after city council approval of offers. Proceeds repay HIF loans. Approved unanimously by voice vote. City Manager’s Report - Reminders: City offices closed Sept. 1 for Labor Day; next council meeting Sept. 2. Planning commission meets Aug. 28 for a rezoning request at 440 Adams Street. - USD move‑in day closures Aug. 22 (Rose Street and North Plum Street). - Board openings: Human Relations Commission (1‑year term), BID Board 1 (3‑year term), Historic Preservation Commission (three 3‑year terms). - Received a $20,000 ICMA/Gates Foundation grant for income‑qualified homeowner improvements; survey forthcoming. - Two raffle notifications: Vermillion High School football (beef prizes) and Vermillion Rotary Club (Monday Night Football books). Invoices Payable - Item 51 (HW Contracting, $148,068 for Tom Street lift station) was pulled for separate vote; approved contingent on contractor providing required information – motion by Councilor Price, second by Councilor Holland, passed by voice vote. - Remaining invoices approved en bloc (motion by Councilor Price, second by Councilor Cheesman) – voice vote. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 1533 advanced to second reading (unanimous, both bodies). - Ordinance 1537 approved 8‑0. - TIF 12 project plan approved 5‑3. - Ambulance purchase approved (unanimous). - Bubba Dump license approved (unanimous). - Consent agenda rules approved with amendment (unanimous). - Jolly Edition resolution approved (unanimous). - Invoices: Item 51 contingent; remainder approved. Note: The transcript includes a discrepancy in the date of the regular city council meeting. The meeting was called to order as “Monday, August 18th at 6 p.m.”, but the provided timestamp (2025-08-19 00:39:23+00:00) indicates the recording occurred after midnight on August 19, 2025. This summary uses the date provided.