Rolfe council approves permits, introduces mayor and council ordinance changes and hires grant writer for fire truck

The Rolfe City Council on Monday approved its consent agenda and multiple building and digging permits, introduced two ordinances that would change provisions for the mayor and city council, and voted to hire a grant writer to pursue funding for a new fire truck.

The council unanimously approved the consent agenda and permits, including building permit #11-2025 to replace antennae and radio equipment at 600 Broad St., building permit #12-2025 for a basement foundation replacement at 205 Walnut St., building permit #13-2025 for a new shed at 401 First St., and digging permit #14-2025 to remove sidewalk at 907 Oak St. The motions to approve were recorded as moved by Aaron Cox and seconded by Dan Allen, with the minutes showing “all ayes.”

Treasurer Sindergard presented financial reports for July and August, which the council approved by the same unanimous motion. The meeting packet also listed payroll, city bills, and a revenue/expense summary for city funds.

At 5:45 p.m. the council opened a public hearing to consider amendments to Chapters 15 and 17 of the city code—changes affecting mayoral and council provisions. Several citizens attended and no written objections were on file. During the hearing, a citizen asked whether a council member could donate their $50-per-meeting pay; the response explained that council members may donate funds after pay is issued. A question about whether the mayor has set working hours was answered that no formal schedule exists and that the current mayor contributes substantial time. The hearing closed at 5:55 p.m., and the council voted to introduce both ordinances on first reading.

To advance purchase of a replacement fire truck, the council approved hiring Karin Anderson for grant-writing services at a cost of $2,400. Legal counsel advised the city to secure alternative funding options in the event a grant application is unsuccessful; the council’s motion to hire Anderson passed unanimously.

Council members also set community Halloween activities for Oct. 31: a library Halloween party from 4–5 p.m.; trick-or-treat and trunk-or-treat from 5–7 p.m.; the Lion’s Club will serve a meal in the Community Center from 5–7 p.m.; and a dance at the golf course is scheduled 8–10 p.m. A motion to confirm the schedule passed with all ayes.

Utility worker James Perry reported on smoke testing, saying that one problematic line was found and will be examined for repair. The council agreed to consult with the county sheriff’s office about running a noon whistle Monday through Saturday to verify tornado sirens; that plan was approved unanimously.

The council tabled consideration of a Black Hills Energy agreement until the next meeting and agreed to revisit the status of the property at 605 Elm St. A longstanding claim by M. Pirie for a previously paid utility deposit remains unsupported by documentation; the council voted not to refund the deposit unless Ms. Pirie provides proof of payment. Council members noted two current court cases against the city and additional cases scheduled; legal fees to date were reported as $3,857.50.

The meeting adjourned at 6:47 p.m.