July 2013 Newsletter - City of Melbourne Iowa

Melbourne City Council Special Meeting Action Minutes
March 18, 2013
The Melbourne City Council met in regular session on March 18, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. Council persons in attendance
were Tom Eckhart, Stephanie Smith, John White, and Jason Curl. Also in attendance were Mayor Stanley C. Randall,
Superintendent of Public Works Gary Fricke, Jed Borton, Mary Pothast. Patty Russo was absent. Mayor Stanley C.
Randall called the meeting to order at 7 PM.
Motion made to approve the agenda by White, 2nd by Smith. Vote was all ayes. Motion was passed.
Plaque was presented to Melbourne Person of the Year, Stacy Porter and Family for all their volunteer time and hours
at the park, concession stands and ball diamonds. Thank you for all your hard work!
Status on Lucas Hauser, police chief was discussed. The weapon and all equipment owned by Lee Posusta was offered
for purchase for $600. Motion was made by White and 2nd made by Eckhart to purchase both items for police
department. Vote was all ayes, motion was passed.
Councilman Curl offered to donate a computer to the police department, when it was brought to our attention that if
there was a subpoena, our computer from the office could be held as evidence for extended time. We will have the
computer hard drive wiped clean and tuned up for police use. Motion to accept the donation was made by White, 2 nd
by Eckhart. Vote was all ayes. Motion was passed.
Heartland Co-op, 410 5th Ave., building permit to construct a grain bin was brought up. Motion made by Eckhart and
2nd by White. Vote was all ayes. Motion was passed. The council will be looking into a TIF program to facilitate
money flow from this project.
Eckhart made a motion to adjourn, 2nd by White. Vote was all ayes. Meeting adjourned at 8:45 pm.
Published prior to approval.
Melbourne City Council Action Minutes
April 8, 2013
Melbourne city council met in regular session on April 8, 2013 at City Hall at 7 pm. Council members present were
Smith, White, Eckhart, Russo and Curl. Also present were Stanley C. Randall, Lucas Hauser, Angie Gibbs, Karis
Gibbs, Chad Andrews, Amy Hill, Bob Monroe, Athena Valdez, Paul Wilsterman, Kay Monroe, Barry Gilgen, Sharon
Greer, Deb Mercer and Mary Pothast.
Mayor Randall called the meeting to order at 7 pm. Motion by White to approve the agenda with the addition of
Andrews building permit – shed and mulch for the library, 2nd by Curl. Vote was all ayes. The minutes of the previous
meeting were changed to show the correction of the address for the Co-op and to say motion was approved for
building permit. Motion to approve these changes by Russo, 2nd by White. Vote was all ayes. Council members had
looked over the bills and a motion was made to approve the bills by White, 2 nd by Smith. Vote was all ayes.
Information about tornado sirens was the first topic. Council wanted to let everyone understand that the tornado siren
issue was not being ignored. The problem is the cost and a siren is only effective for those who are outside. Anyone
can Google NOAA WEATHER RADIOS on the internet and find radios ranging in price from $12 to $80. The Red
Cross also has an app for i Phones and Android phones that will give an alarm to the user when severe weather is
approaching. It works by zip code. It will even sound if the app is not on to give warnings in the middle of the night. It
is a free download at www.redcross.org/mobile-apps/tornado-app.
Motion by White to open a public hearing on sanitary sewer collection system improvement project (per CDBG
requirements), 2nd by Curl. Clerk read the report on the project developments thus far. No public comments had been
received by mail. Paul Wilsterman asked what the project total was. The clerk told him it was $604,470. Motion by
Smith to close the public hearing, 2nd by White. Vote was all ayes.
Motion by Smith to open public hearing to approve budget amendments, 2nd by Eckhart. Vote was all ayes. Clerk read
the budget amendments. No comments had been received by mail and no one present had any. Motion to close the
public hearing by White, 2nd by Smith. Vote was all ayes. Motion by White to approve the budget amendments, 2 nd by
Curl. Vote was all ayes.
Lucas Hauser was sworn in as the new police officer.
Building permits were next. Mike Fuller – 217 College Drive – Shed. Gary had looked it over. Motion by Curl to
approve the permit, 2nd by Smith. Vote was all ayes. Chad Andrews – 608 6th Street – Shed. Gary and Jed had looked it
over. Could not find one of the property pins. They don't think it needs a variance. Motion by White, 2 nd by Eckhart to
approve the permit. Vote was all ayes.
Superintendent of Public Works, Fricke, was asked for his report. Borton explained to the council why they would like
to make a change to Ordinance 96 – Section 96.5, Connection requirements, Subsection 3-Installations and by
amending Subsection 9-Pipe Specifications, removing A. Clay Sewer Pipe. They would like all replacement sewer
laterals, to have owners use PVC and install dual clean outs outside the home and attach access traceable wire.
Motion by White to approve the first reading of Ordinance 96, 2nd by Eckhart. Vote was all ayes. Got estimates to
repair sewer on Butler Street-Rickens was lowest bid. Motion by White to approve the bid for repairs on Butler, 2 nd by
Smith. Vote was all ayes. Fricke told council he would like to purchase a used chipper that was offered to us by City
of State Center for $3500. Motion by White to approve purchase of the used chipper, 2 nd by Eckhart. Vote was all
ayes.
Clerk requested council to give her permission to move funds within their categories to pay bills. Motion by White to
approve moving the funds, 2nd by Smith. Vote was all ayes.
Mumm's estimate for the manhole replacement was looked at. The manhole is now a 22” and replacement would be
$5310. However, that size is no longer being made. To change it to a 24” would be another $920. OSHA will probably
make it mandatory at some point. The concrete work will be more. Motion by Curl to approve the 24” size at $6230,
2nd by Smith. Vote was all ayes.
Resolution 13-04-01 was given to the council. Motion by White to approve the resolution, 2 nd by Eckhart. Vote was all
ayes.
Clerk showed council the Pay Applications for Visu-Sewer. They are for $48782 and should leave $10120 still to pay.
Motion by Eckhart to approve Pay Applications 1 & 2 for Visu-Sewer, 2nd by Smith. Vote was all ayes.
Clerk shared Change Order #4. This is to approve the addition of 2600 feet of lining to Park Avenue and have no top
hats. Motion to approve Change Order #4 by Russo, 2nd by Smith. Vote was all ayes.
Greer talked to the council about setting up an Urban Renewal area. This can be used for projects such as repairing
the Mousehole, downtown, trailer court, perhaps helping with sewer laterals. Council needs to come up with a list of
projects for next month. Motion by White to adjourn, 2nd by Curl. Vote was all ayes. Meeting adjourned.
REVENUES: General-$6773.23; Road Use-$8713.70; Employee Benefits-$5.54; LOST-Fire Association-$746.56;
LOST-1st Responders-$746.56; LOST-Rec Center-$.59; Pool Sinking Fund-$1493.11; Water-$12695.74; Sewer$12981.87; TOTAL REVENUES-$44156.90. EXPENSES: General-$17182.20; Road Use-$4898.04; Employee
Benefits-$1826.61; LOST-Pool-$336.02; Sewer Liner Project-CDBG-$21596.08; Water-$16407.97; Sewer-$9057.19;
TOTAL EXPENSES-$71304.11.
Melbourne City Council Action Minutes
May 13, 2013
The Melbourne City Council met in regular session on May 13, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. Council persons in attendance were
Tom Eckhart, Stephanie Smith, John White, Jason Curl and Patty Russo. Also in attendance were Mary Pothast, Jed
Borton, Bob Monroe and Judi Pfantz. Mayor Stanley C. Randall was absent. Mayor Pro Tem John White called the
meeting to order at 7 PM.
Request made to add Judi Pfantz to the agenda, the motion was made to approve the agenda and the minutes by Smith,
2nd by Eckhart. Vote was all ayes. Motion was passed. Motion was made by Eckhart and 2nd by Russo to approve the
bills for payment. All ayes, motion was passed.
A motion was made to open the public hearing on the budget amendment by Curl and 2nd by Eckhart. All ayes, motion
passed. Pothast presented the budget amendment. There was no discussion. A motion was made by Curl and 2 nd by
Smith to close the hearing. All ayes, motion passed. A motion was made to approve the budget amendment by
Eckhart, 2nd by Smith, all ayes, motion passed.
Police report from Chief Hauser. He has obtained all certifications necessary, and will begin patrol on this evening.
Due to budget and time constraints, the certifications took longer than hoped. He has been doing ride-alongs with the
Marshall County Sheriff’s Dept. as well. They will continue, as they provide extra training opportunities. The used
laptop has been purchased for $125 as formerly approved by Council, and 2 cans of FOX OC. Two additional TASER
cartridges will need to be purchased, as they were used in training. Former Chief Lee Posusta had to appear for a court
hearing, and has requested payment. It was discussed whether to pay him for 3 hours spent in court, or the 8 hours he
missed from his job. A motion was made by Russo and 2nd by Curl to pay the 8 hours. All ayes, motion was passed.
Building permits were requested by Barry Gilgen at 10 2nd Ave for a gazebo; Jesse and Jen Nason at 102 College
Drive for a house addition; and New Century FS at 307 Railroad Street for an addition to the office. All the permits
had been approved by Public Works Dept. A motion was made by Eckhart and 2nd by Smith to approve all three. All
ayes, the motion was passed. A fourth permit was presented by Raymond Simpson at 612 6th St. for a new garage. A
variance is required. Letters will be sent to all neighbors and a notice of a public hearing will be in the May 24 th
edition of the Mid Iowa Enterprise. It will be addressed at the next meeting.
Report by Superintendent of Public Works was read. In the past month they have had the generator at the rec center
repaired, turned on water at park and pool, checked sewage pumps every 2 hours on evening of 4/17 when heavy rain
hit. No extra pumps or bypass needed due to continued ditching. Ricken Tiling repaired a bad sewer line on Butler
Street. They put rock on the drive at the lagoon, seeded by the library and south of city hall; put new landscape timber
by camper dump, washed out pool which Theresa Daters painted. Council agreed to have them hire Municipal Pipe &
Tool to clean pump stations and storm sewer pits that need it. Spoke to the owner of the trailer court regarding I & I
coming from there. She has agreed to jet and televise the lines there. This should help eliminate some of the water.
Jim Ricken and Jim Pfantz and the city will meet Tuesday morning to lay out waterway west of Butler into his
property. Visu-Sewer is here to finish lining sewer mains. 15 vacant hook-ups have been eliminated on the additional
blocks added by PW. This should eliminate more ground water. The to-do list includes, get pool running by May 25,
mulch at library, trees removed at Lollar Park and taking the dump truck to Hawkeye Truck Repair for hydraulic
work.
Second reading of Ordinance 96 for Sewer Laterals. There was no discussion. Motion to approve made by Eckhart, 2 nd
by Curl. All ayes, motion passed. 3rd reading of Ordinance at next council meeting.
Public Works Assistant, Jed Borton spoke to the Council regarding acquiring a laptop for PW. It was agreed that it
would be very helpful for them to be able to access information without having to use the office computers. Also,
eventually if they could have all sewer and water maps on the computer it would be beneficial. Motion was made by
Curl and 2nd by Eckhart to allot $400 for a laptop and router. All ayes, motion was passed.
There was a letter from Child Abuse Prevention Services in Marshalltown, requesting a donation. A motion was made
by Eckhart and 2nd by Smith to donate $100. All ayes, motion passed.
City Clerk Mary Pothast requested permission and funds to attend Iowa Municipal Professionals Institute in July. The
cost of taking the full course for beginning clerks is $854. The classes were a requirement of taking the position.
Motion was made by Russo to approve the attendance and payment and 2 nd by Eckhart. All ayes, motion was passed.
Bob Monroe addressed the Council about the fund for fireworks being about $600 short to put on a show at both July
4th and Mousehole Days. Due to other organizations collecting cans for fund raising, they do not have as much as
normal. It was suggested that a public request be put out to the community for donations. If the money is not raised
by the next Council meeting, any shortage will be addressed then.
There is an issue with a sewer line needing to be repaired at 205 College Drive. It has been a problem over the winter,
and needs to be taken care of. A letter will be sent citing the Code of Iowa, Sec. 364.12 (3), giving the owner thirty
(30) days from the date of the official notice to correct the problem.
Information was presented by Pothast regarding Sewer Line Warranty, a service offered to homeowners to purchase
insurance for their water and sewer lines from the street to the home. The city needs to approve the service and give
their logo so the city knows that it is a legitimate deal. The cost is approximately $50 per year, and according to
information, will pay up to about $4000 per break or leakage. Marshalltown currently endorses this service and is very
happy with it. A motion was made by Curl and 2nd by Russo to approve the endorsement. All ayes, motion was passed.
A motion was made by Eckhart and 2nd by Curl to adjourn. All ayes, motion passed. Meeting was adjourned at 8:12
pm.
EXPENSES: General 32021.93, Road Use Total 5569.95, Employee Benefits 1075.64, LOST Fire Assn. 2447.23,
LOST 1st Responders 2447.23, Sewer CDBG 9077.00, Sewer SRF 101,081.23, Water 15,375.00, Sewer 19,324.90—
TOTAL EXPENSES BY FUND 188,420.11
REVENUE: General 55.023.24, Road Use Total 5815.94, Employee Benefits 305.62, LOST Fire Assn. 746.56, LOST
1st Responders 746.56, Pool Sinking Fund 1493.11, Sewer Project SRF 89.084.71, Water 10.620.07, Sewer 11.976.95
—TOTAL REVENUE BY FUND 175.814.92.
Melbourne City Council Action Minutes
June 10, 2013
Melbourne city council met in regular session on June 10, 2013 at City Hall at 7 pm. Council members present
were Eckhart, White, Smith, Russo and Curl. Also present were Vanessa Curl, Jed Borton, Bob Monroe, Kim Elder,
Amy Hill, Chad Woosley, Sharon Greer, Deb Mercer and Mary Pothast.
Councilperson Russo led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Mayor Pro Tem White called the meeting to order at 7 pm.
Motion by Russo to approve the agenda with the addition of Bob Monroe to the agenda and move Kim Elder to the
public comments and concerns, 2nd by Eckhart. Vote was all ayes, motion passed. Motion by Eckhart to approve
minutes from last meeting, 2nd by Curl. Vote was all ayes, motion passed. Motion by Eckhart to approve the bills, 2 nd
by Smith. Vote was all ayes, motion passed.
Kim Elder presented the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Marshall County Emergency Medical
Services Association (MCEMSA). It is a mutual agreement between all EMS services in the county and a handful of
services in nearby counties in case of disaster incidents. This would allow the services to charge each other for the use
of their services. She asked for the council's approval and Mayor 's signature. Motion to approve the MOU by Russo,
2nd by Eckhart. Vote was all ayes, motion passed.
Motion to open public hearing on Variance for Ray Simpson-612 6th Street-New Garage by Smith, 2nd by Curl. Vote
was all ayes, motion passed. Clerk had not received any comments from the public. Motion to close the public hearing
by Russo, 2nd by Curl. Vote by roll call—Eckhart, aye; Smith, aye; Russo, aye; Curl, aye. Motion passed. Motion by
Smith to approve the building permit for Ray Simpson-612 6th Street-New Garage, 2nd by Eckhart. Vote was all ayes,
motion passed.
Building permit for Eric Osgood-802 Knox St.-Deck on back of house. Borton had looked at the permit and told
council everything looked fine with it. Motion by Eckhart to approve the permit, 2nd by Smith. Vote was all ayes,
motion passed.
The third reading of Ordinance 96 was done. Motion to approve by Curl, 2nd by Eckhart. Vote was all ayes, motion
passed.
The council had to make a decision whether to appoint to fill the Mayor vacancy or to have a special election. It was
decided to appoint. Motion by Eckhart to approve Resolution 13-06-01 to fill the vacancy by appointment, 2 nd by Curl.
Vote was all ayes, motion passed. A notice of intent to appoint will be published in the Mid Iowa Enterprise notifying
interested parties to submit a letter of interest to the City Clerk at City Hall by noon on Friday June 21, 2013.
There have been some problems with a citizen in town. This citizen has had confrontations with the pool employees
and with City employees. The problem was discussed and a motion to bar the citizen from the pool and City Hall
properties was made by Eckhart, 2nd by Smith. Vote was all ayes, motion passed. A letter will be sent to the citizen to
inform them of the decision.
Bob Monroe had some back up in his basement when the lateral to his home was not cut out. He turned in bills for the
clean up. Motion by Curl to approve turning these in to insurance and the city will pay the balance that the insurance
does not, 2nd by Eckhart. Vote was all ayes, motion passed.
Council looked at contracts from Service Line Warranties of America (SLWA). One is a revenue contract where
SLWA would pay the City, every month, a royalty of fifty cents ($.50) for every warranty subscription remains in
force. The other would have the City forgo the royalty and SLWA would offer the $.50 savings to the residents.
Motion by Curl to give the savings to the residents, 2nd by Smith. Vote was all ayes, motion passed.
Motion to adjourn by Eckhart, 2nd by Smith. Vote was all ayes, motion passed. Meeting adjourned.
REVENUES: General-$19313.89; Road Use-$3757.57; Employee Benefits-$63.01; LOST-Fire Association-$746.56;
LOST-1st Responders-$746.56; LOST-Pool-$8839.95; LOST-Rec Center-$.65; Pool Sinking Fund-$1493.11; Sewer
Liner Project-CDBG-$100,546.15; Sewer Project-SRF Total-$2648.85; Water-$11405.87; Sewer-$12003.11; TOTAL
REVENUE-$161,565.28. EXPENSES: General-$21447.72; Road Use-$2415.41; Employee Benefits-$3982.63;
LOST-Pool-$262.54; Sewer Liner Project-CDBG-$91469.15; Water-$8558.86; Sewer-$8153.33; TOTAL
EXPENSES-$136,289.64.
Published prior to approval.
Notice: CCR
Please be advised that there is a copy of the CCR report in this newsletter. This is an annual report that the city is required
to provide to all residents regarding the drinking water for the city. This report is called a Consumer Confidence Report or a
CCR. It provides test results to you as the consumer of our daily testing results on an annual average.
All of the city water is tested daily to ensure that it continues to be safe for all to drink, cook, bath, and wash with. Next
time you see one of our hardworking “City Guys”, tell them thank you for keeping you safe. They work hard to make sure
equipment runs properly, constant maintenance is done, and the proper testing gets done to regulate and treat the drinking
water for the entire city. You can also go to the following link, (http://iowaccr.org/Melbourne), to see this report.
Sites of the Month
Great Sites to Check Out
(from Partner Communication's monthly newsletter)
Play Virtual Keyboard
bgfl.org – Here's a way to add a musical note to your day – try your hand at
playing this virtual keyboard. Choose piano, organ, saxophone, flute, pan
pipes, strings, guitar, steel drums, or double bass. Who knew you could sound
so good?
Find Money that Might Be Yours
unclaimed. Org – Billions of dollars are waiting in unclaimed property programs and some of it could by yours. Do a
search at this site from the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators, affiliated with the National
Association of State Treasurers and Council of State Governments.
A Tree-mendous Resource
arborday.org – Arbor Day was celebrated April 26 in the U.S. which is a great time of year to pick out and plant trees.
You'll find all the help you need to dig into tree projects at this Arbor Day Foundation site. It includes a tree guide,
nursery, care tips, forums and more.
Take a Virtual Tour of the Smithsonian
mnh.si.edu/panoramas – The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History showcases amazing collections that
give visitors a look at ancient life forms, rare gems, and a variety of other natural science specimens and artifacts. If
you can't make it to Washington, D.C., take a virtual tour and roam around at your leisure.
Learn The Latest Sunscreen Guidelines
skincancer.org – While skin protection is an all-year issue, it becomes particularly critical during summer months
when more skin is exposed. Before you shop for your next bottle of sunscreen, check out this site. If defines the
acronyms (UVA, UVB, AND SPF) and gives the new rules for sunscreen labels.
Don't Settle for Ho-Hum Hamburgers
allrecipes.com – May was National Hamburger Month. There is still time to fire up the grill and celebrate. If you're
hungry for some new ideas, look through this site's hamburger receipes that range from basic to gourmet. Be sure to
watch the video on how to make a perfectly cooked hamburger.
Enter For A Chance To Win $20,085 From Gerber
facebook.com – Oh baby! Gerber is celebrating its 85th birthday and is giving away cash prizes for 85 days to mark
the occasion. Visit this Facebook page today to “blow out” the candle on the Gerber birthday cake and enter for your
chance to win the $585 daily proze and $20,085 grand prize.
Budget-Friendly Patio Design Ideas
houzz.com – If you're like many people, your patio becomes a hotspot for entertaining during the summer. To make it
look great and function well, check out this photo collection of creatively designed patios. You'll find all kinds of
outside ideas that will fit inside your budget.
Short Tutorial – How To Add Smileys To Your Facebook Comments
Want to go a step beyond text-only emoticons such as :-) when you comment on a friend's Facebook post?
As long as you know the "code," you can insert a cute and colorful smiley instead.
Simply type in the right characters, provided in the chart on the next, and they will change to the
corresponding smiley when you post a comment. You'll note there are sometimes several different shortcuts
listed for the same smiley; just take your pick.
Scam Alert – Fake Antivirus Phone Scam Is Stealing Money And
Identities
Many online scams start with an email but you also need to be
cautious when the phone rings. There have been an increased
number of reports recently of phone scammers claiming to be
from Microsoft, or an antivirus company, or some random tech
support facility. These callers will claim their systems have
detected viruses and/or malware on your computer and they
can help you with a lifetime of guaranteed support for just a
one-time payment of $100 or so.
The process typically goes like this:
1. The scammers first want you to download a remote
access service and grant them access to your PC.
2. Next the scammers want you to buy and install antivirus
software that's usually counterfeit or just a trial version
that leaves you with non-functioning, useless protection.
They may also recommend the latest Windows operating
system, which is also likely to be counterfeit.
3. Because the scammers were given unfettered access to
your PC through the remote access service, they may
install a backdoor Trojan — a malicious application that enables them to steal your
passwords, use your system and Internet connection to send spam, and more.
If you receive a call from someone saying your PC has been compromised, just hang up the
phone. Reputable companies will not make unsolicited calls about the health of your computer.
Microsoft recommends these do's and don'ts to help prevent becoming a victim:
DO
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Be suspicious of unsolicited calls related to a security problem, even if the caller claims to
represent a respected company.
Use up-to-date versions of operating system and application software.
Make sure security updates are installed regularly.
Use strong passwords and change them regularly.
Make sure your firewall is turned on and that antivirus software is installed and up to date.
DON'T
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Provide personal information, such as credit card or bank details, to an unsolicited caller.
Go to a website, type anything into a computer, install software, or follow any other
instruction from someone who calls out of the blue.
Partner Pro Tech Services offers diagnostic services on your PC starting at only $24.95 per month,
so don’t take that computer to the big box store! If you do have viruses, we offer PC virus &
spyware removal for only $69.95! Contact us today at 877-482-7701
or [email protected].
The Anatomy of City Government
The “heartbeat” of the city consists of elected and appointed officials. Our elected officials are Mayor and
Council. Our appointed officials are Library Board of Trustees, Parks and Recreation Board, Planning and
Zoning Commission. Other appointed officials are City Clerk and Deputy Clerk.
The mayor is the chief executive officer of the city and presides over council meetings. The mayor
manages the meetings and maintains order. The mayor cannot vote on items before the council, but can
veto an ordinance or resolution of the council.
The authority of the city resides in the city council. The council votes on and passes motions, resolutions
and ordinances. Resolutions are statements of policy and ordinances are the laws of the city. The votes of
each council member are recorded in the minutes of a meeting. The council also approves expenditures
and the budget, contracts, city policies and zoning changes. The City Clerk has many responsibilities that
are set by the Code of Iowa. Each city also appoints a city attorney to provide legal advice.
Collectively these officials come together and offer their time and talents for public service. Each and every
one takes the opportunity to represent the City of Melbourne with integrity, professionalism and making all
decisions based on what is the very best for our community.
This election year there are 3 vacancies. Mayor and two council positions that will be filled this November
2013. The City of Melbourne is fortunate to have so many good people to offer their time and talent. Do not
be afraid to offer of yourself and become even more involved in the community. If you are interested in
becoming more involved call City Hall, 641-482-3338, for more details. The campaign process as well as
the election process is extrememly date sensitive so please call now. The first day you can get nomination
papers is Monday, August 26, 2013 and the last day to turn in papers is Thursday, September 19, 2013 by
5 pm.
Bill Payment Options: Take Your Pick
Paying the bills is a task none of us likes. At the City of Melbourne, we try to make paying your
utility bill easier. Check out the options below.
1) DIRECT PAY….THE EASY WAY!
This payment plan saves you time and money! It is an option that automatically withdraws
your water payment from your checking or savings account around the 5th day of each month.
You will receive a bill just like you do now but you avoid the hassle of writing checks and mailing
bills! No more missed payments, late fees or searching for stamps.
To sign up for DIRECT PAY, stop at the clerk’s office or call to have an authorization form
mailed or emailed to you.
2) PAY at CITY HALL
Payments may also be made at City Hall. Please bring your billing statement along if
possible. We accept cash (exact amount only, we do not keep cash in the office), checks or money
orders.
NIGHT DEPOSIT for Night Owls. Put your payment in the mail slot in City Hall front door.
(Not in the mail box) You can drop payment off anytime day or night.
CITY NEWS QUICKIES
 Remember to keep your grass/weeds mowed. The City adopted a mowing ordinance in 2010 which sets
height limits and mowing time frames as well as fines. (Copies of ordinances can be seen at City Hall or the
library.)
 Water/Sewer bills are due by the 15th of the month. A 10% penalty is added after that date.
 Be sure to keep your animals on your property and under your control. Be sure to pick up after your pet
when out walking.
 If you have a digging project, be sure to call Iowa One Call at 1-800-292-8989 before you dig. They will
notify the utilities to mark all lines. Stay safe when you dig.
 Contact the city clerk’s office to find out about building permit requirements for any building project you
have planned. Building permits are not required for roofing and siding projects.
 If you will be moving, contact the city clerk’s office before your final date. We need to know your
forwarding address and when you will be moving.
RENT THE REC. CENTER
(weddings, receptions, graduations, class reunions, birthday parties, etc.)
Our Rec. Center is available for rent to the public. We have two rooms available
for rent, or you can rent the entire building for a large event. You can rent the
rooms by themselves or you can use the kitchen if you need it. The smaller room will hold a
group of about 75 people and the large room will hold about 200-250. Below are the prices:
A ____Banquet room ONLY @ $90.00 per day
B ___ Banquet room and kitchen @ $125.00 per day
C____Small room ONLY @ $40.00 per day
D____Small room and kitchen @ $75.00 per day
E____All churches @ $42.50 per day
F____3 hours banquet room or small room & kitchen @ $50.00
G___ Small room, banquet room, and kitchen @ $200.00
A deposit equal to the rent must be sent in a separate check. If you are having alcohol at your
event, there is a $200.00 deposit. Contact City Hall at 641-482-3338 to check for open dates
and to have a rental agreement sent to you.
The City of Melbourne offices will be closed
on July 4 for Independence Day and
September 2 for Labor Day.
By: Amy Hill
NEW RATED G & PG DVD’S ADDED TO OUR COLLECTION:
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Wreck-It Ralph
Diary of a Wimpy Kid – Dog Days
Life of Pi
Freaky Friday
Return to Nim’s Island
Madagascar
Diary of a Wimpy Kid – Rodrick Rules
Rise of the Guardians
Urban Cowboy
The Lion King
Cinderella
Spectacular Spider-Man
NEW RATED PG-13 & R DVD’s ADDED TO OUR COLLECTION:
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This is 40
Django Unchained
Les Miserables
Lincoln
Bully
Mean Girls
Pitch Perfect
Real Steel
Taken 2
Risky Business
The Guilt Trip
Pretty in Pink
Safe Haven
Silver Linings Playbook
Identity Thief
By: Amy Hill
New Books Added to Our Collection:
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The Bridge of Peace – Cindy Woodsmall – Adult Christian
The Waiting – Suzanne Woods Fisher – Adult Christian
The Search – Suzanne Woods Fisher – Adult Christian
Loving – Karen Kingsbury – Adult Christian
Autumn’s Promise – Shelley Shepard Gray – Adult Christian
Grace – Shelley Shepard Gray – Adult Christian
True Courage – Dee Henderson – Adult Christian
Allison’s Journey – Wanda E. Brunstetter – Adult Christian
Defending Jacob – William Landay – Adult Fiction
Alex Cross, Run – James Patterson – Adult Fiction
Shiver – Karen Robards – Adult Fiction
The Storyteller – Jodi Picoult – Adult Fiction
Iron Lace – Emilie Richards – Adult Fiction
Rising Tides – Emilie Richards – Adult Fiction
Lover’s Knot – Emilie Richards – Adult Fiction
Starting Now – Debbie Macomber – Adult Fiction
Unintended Consequences – Stuart Woods – Adult Fiction
Six Years – Harlan Coben – Adult Fiction
Guilt – Jonathan Kellerman – Adult Fiction
Don’t Go – Lisa Scottoline – Adult Fiction
12th of Never – James Patterson – Adult Fiction
Silken Prey – John Sandford – Adult Fiction
Entwined With You – Sylvia Day – Adult Fiction
Samuel’s Mission: A Family’s Return to Joy – John Henkels – Adult Nonfiction
The Gluten-Free Bible – Adult Nonfiction
No T. Rex in the Library – Toni Buzzeo – Juvenile Fiction
Dinosaur Dig! – Penny Dale – Juvenile Fiction
Bats at the Ballgame – Brian Lies – Juvenile Fiction
Paddington Bear in the Garden – Michael Bond – Juvenile Fiction
Grandma, Grandpa, and Me – Mercer Mayer – Juvenile Fiction
By: Amy Hill
New Books Added to Our Collection Continued:
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The Lost Dinosaur Bone – Mercer Mayer – Juvenile Fiction
The Berenstain Bears: Trouble With Money – Stan Berenstain – Juvenile Fiction
The Berenstain Bears: Dollars & Sense – Stan Berenstain – Juvenile Fiction
Curious George Says Thank You – Margaret Reys – Juvenile Fiction
One Potato, Two Potato – Cynthia DeFelice – Juvenile Fiction
A Green, Green Garden – Mercer Mayer – Juvenile Fiction
Digger Man – Andrea Zimmerman – Juvenile Fiction
Let’s Talk About Divorce – Fred Rogers – Juvenile Nonfiction
Rocks, Fossils, & Arrowheads – Laura Evert – Juvenile Nonfiction
Saving Money – Rebecca Rissman – Juvenile Nonfiction
What is Money? – Rebecca Rissman – Juvenile Nonfiction
How a Seed Grows – Helena J. Jordan – Juvenile Nonfiction
Wonderful Worms – Linda Glaser – Juvenile Nonfiction
Dinosaurs – Penelope Arlon – Juvenile Nonfiction
Let’s Go Rock Collecting – Roma Gans – Juvenile Nonfiction
A Handful of Dirt – Raymond Bial – Juvenile Nonfiction
If You Find a Rock – Peggy Christian – Juvenile Nonfiction
Shooting the Moon – Frances O’Roark Dowell – Young Adult
Penny From Heaven – Jennifer Holm – Young Adult
See You at Harry’s – Jo Knowles – Young Adult
Burned: Pretty Little Liars – Sara Shepard – Young Adult
The Encyclopedia of Me – Karen Rivers – Young Adult
The Kiss – James Patterson – Young Adult
My Life in Pink & Green – Lisa Greenwald – Young Adult
Beautiful Creatures – Kami Garcia – Young Adult
Beautiful Darkness – Kami Garcia – Young Adult
Beautiful Chaos – Kami Garcia – Young Adult
The Serpent’s Shadow – Rick Riordan – Young Adult
How to Eat Fried Worms – Thomas Rockwell – Young Adult
The Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad Treasure Hunt – Megan McDonald – Young Adult
Underground – David Macaulay – Young Adult
Hello, my name is Lucas Hauser and I am the new Police Chief for the
City of Melbourne. I have lived in town for several years now. I grew
up not far from here just north of LaMoille on a family farm. I’m sure
most of you have seen me in some capacity at this point as I’m
involved in the Melbourne Fire Department as well as First
Responders.
I look forward to meeting more people and helping this community
grow and flourish. In order for this to happen we all need to remember
to follow the rules and laws provided to us. As I drive around town I see a lot of people either not
making great efforts to slow down and/or stop at stop signs. We all need to be cognizant of our
surroundings as summer approaches and kids are more active outdoors.
I also want to remind everyone that golf carts need to be registered at city hall, and golf carts need to be
off the streets by 10 pm.
If at any point you have concerns or problems that don’t require immediate attention, leave a message
at city hall and I will get back to you.
If you need immediate assistance call 911.
We just recently received a new defibrillator from MMSC. We have not had a chance yet to train on it,
but we will soon be doing that. All the EMS squads in Marshall county received a new one. We are
very thankful for that. MMSC will also be providing training dollars to each of the Marshall county
squads. That sure will be a nice investment that the hospital is putting back into their county. Thank
you MMSC for everything.
Recently we have been very busy, in 1 week we had 9 EMS calls. The problem with that is there aren't
many of us around during this busy part of the year. With vacations and people's work schedules
constantly changing and then every one keeping up with their kids and their busy family life it gets
tough for us to always be around. Please if you call 911 and we don't arrive quite as fast as you think
we should, it may be we aren't even around, but someone WILL be there to help. We have a wonderful
relationship with other squads close to us and also the ambulance crew from MMSC. Please be patient
with us.
Please be sure to drink plenty of fluids now that our summer has finally arrived. Stay hydrated! Also
wear sunscreen, and reapply often! That sun is nasty and it doesn't take long to burn.
Have a safe and fun summer
Melbourne EMS
Gary, Angie, Tonia, Lucas, Scott, Ashley, Deb, Chris and Donna
Hi from St. John UCC!
Our worship service is held at 8:30 a.m. all summer followed by a Social Time in the basement. We are
planning to start our Sunday School in September. MASCK(The after school program) will also start
sometime in the fall. We are going to have a kick off picnic on Wednesday, September 25 for the MASCK
children and their families along with anyone else who would like to come. Watch for posters later in the
summer. Also watch for Bible School posters.
Pastor Brandon is hosting a Picnic at the Parsonage once a month for anyone in the community who would like to
come. Our first picnic was June 5 and there was a good turnout. Just bring a side dish. Meat and beverage is
provided. We will visit and play some games in the yard, weather permitting. Next picnic is Wednesday, July 10.
We have also started a monthly book club in the church basement on the second Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. We
have an informal discussion of the book we read and a hostess serves a snack. Suggestions are made as to what book
we want to read for the following month. So far we have read "Secret Life of Bees" and "Tall Grass". Our selection
for July is "Year of Wonders" by Geraldine Brooks. This is open to the community and we would like to invite
anyone who enjoys reading to come and at least try it out.
We will be serving snacks at the Park on August 3 for Mousehole Days. Plans are in the works for the community
worship service at the Park on August 4. Watch for details.
We would like to invite you to visit our Facebook page for details about our church and the UCC. If you have
questions or needs and do not have a church, please contact us. Our e-mail address is [email protected]. You
may also contact our pastor, Judy Brandon, at 641-691-3648 or St. John UCC church at 641-482-3424 and leave a
message. Someone will return your call.
St. John UCC - "Growing in Faith - learning and serving in Christ's love"
New Horizons United Methodist Church
Services The West Marshall Charge of the Methodist Church has decided to put a time on each
of the services that will not be changed yearly.
Town Full of Garage Sales
for signing up.
It was another successful year. Hope everyone enjoyed the day. Thank you
Board Meetings These are held in the third week of each month. The board is looking for ways to help
the community. If you have ideas let one of the board members know.
UMW The United Methodist Women meet on the second Thursday of each month. They are planning the
ice cream social for Mousehole Days.
Upcoming Events
Vacation Bible School if you feel you want to help. Let Joey Rudkin know. The more hands the better.
Mousehole Days we will be serving lunch at the church with ICE CREAM and desserts.
Free Community Lunch and Clothing Give Away This is in the planning stages. Watch for the signs.
Our annual fish fry is coming up August 2rd , the first night of Mousehole Days. We will be serving fish
or hot dogs, coleslaw, cheesy potatoes, roll dessert and lemonade or ice tea. We are still taking
donations of cans and bottles for the fireworks on July 4th and Mousehole days; please put your
donations in the container at the fire station. If you have extra large quantities of cans or bottles please
contact a fire department member to arrange for your donation to be picked up. We would like to thank
everyone who has donated this year. We will be leaving the collection bin out to start raising funds for
next years fireworks show.
.
We will be working on this year’s parade again. Line-up is at 9:30 am at the Fire Station and the parade
starts at 10:30 am.
We are always looking for new members. If you are interested in joining and serving your community
as a volunteer firefighter contact Fire Chief Bob Monroe or any member of the department. It can be
one of the most rewarding things that you can do to help your neighbors in their time of need. We hold
our meetings the 1st Wednesday of the month at 7:00 pm, and training the following Tuesday at 6:30
pm. Stop by either night if you are interested in seeing what it is all about.
The Fire Department will be presenting fire works on July 4th at the city park at dusk, with a rain date
of July 5th.
We want to remind everyone that your house number should be on your house facing the street and be
visible from the street. This will help us find your address much quicker if help is needed.
Have a safe and happy 4th of July we hope to see you at the fireworks July 4th and the fish fry on August
2rd.
Melbourne Fire Department
THE CITY OF MELBOURNE WOULD LIKE TO THANK CENTRAL IOWA
WATER ASSOCIATION FOR THEIR VERY GENEROUS DONATION
TOWARD THE FILLING OF THE MELBOURNE POOL FOR THE 2013
SEASON.
Community Clothing Drive,
FREE to Everyone,
August 9th, 2013 from 4-8pm at the Melbourne
Rec Center.
Come get items needed (for back-to-school?)
(If anyone one would like to donate any gently used clothing and shoes, you can drop
them at New Horizons Methodist Church, 224 Main St, on July 22nd-25th from 6-8pm)
For more information contact Joey (641)751-6544
Several groups in Melbourne and several individuals have donated medical
items for use by citizens who have short-term medical needs. In case of
broken bones, surgery, illness, etc. If you have such a need please call City
Hall, 641-482-3338, to see if we have the item you need.
Right now we have a couple of wheelchairs, 1 set of crutches, an adult commode, a toilet
riser, and several walkers.
BACK TO SCHOOL:
Safety tips for motorists
Sharing the road safely with school buses.
School buses are on of the safest forms of transportation on the road today. In fact,
accourding to the National Highway Traffic Safety Admisistration, riding a bus to school
is 13 times safer than riding in a passenger vehicle and 10 times safer than walking to
school. The reality of school bus safety is that more children are hurt outside the bus
than inside as passengers. Most of the children who lose their lives in but-related
crashes are pedestrians, four to seven years old, who are hit by the bus or by motorists
illegally passing a stopped school bus. For this reason, it is necessary to know the proper
laws and procedures for sharing the road safely with school buses:
● All 50 states have a law making it illegal to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload
children.
● School buses use yellow flashing lights to allert motorists that they are preparing to stop to load
or unload children. Red flashing lights and an extended stop sign arm signals to motorists that
the bus is stopped and children are getting on or off the bus.
● All 50 states require that traffic in both directions stop on undivided roadways when students
are entering or exiting a school bus.
● While state laws vary on what is required on a divided roadway, in all cases, traffic behind the
school bus (traveling in the same direction) must stop.
● The area 10 feet around a school bus is where children are in the most danger of being hit. Stop
your car far enough from the bus to allow children the necessary space to safely enter and exit
the bus.
● Be alert. Children are unpredictable. Children walking to or from their bus are usually very
comfortable with their surroundings. This makes them more likely to take risks, ignore hazards
or fail to look both ways when crossing the street.
● Never pass a school bus on the right. It is illegal and could have tragic consequences.
RIDING THE BUS TO SCHOOL
Safety Tips for Children
Getting on the school bus
• When the bus arrives, stand at least three giant steps (6 feet) away from the curb.
• If you have to cross the street in front of the bus, walk on the sidewalk or along the side
of the roaduntil you are five giant steps (10 feet) ahead of the bus. Then you can cross
the street.
• Be sure the bus driver can see you and you can see the bus driver.
• Never walk behind the bus.
• If you drop something near the bus, tell the bus driver. Never try to pick it up first
because the driver may not be able to see you.
•
Behavior on the bus
• When on the bus, find a seat and sit down. Loud talking or other noise can distract the
bus driver and is not allowed.
• Never put head, arms or hands out of the window.Keep aisles clear—books or bags are
tripping hazards and can block the way in an emergency.
• Before you reach your stop, get ready to leave by getting your books and belongings
together.
• At your stop, wait for the bus to stop completely before getting up from your seat, then
walk to the front door and exit, using the handrail.
•
Getting off the school bus
• If you have to cross the street in front of the bus, walk at least ten feet ahead of the
bus along the side of the road until you can turn around and see the driver.
• Make sure the bus driver can see you.
• Wait for a signal from the driver before beginning to cross.
• When the driver signals, walk across the road keeping an eye out for sudden traffic
changes.
• Do not cross the center line of the road until the driver has signaled that is is safe for
you to begin walking.
• Stay away from the wheels of the bus at all times.