Four members of the Britton City Council were sworn into office Monday evening as the council reorganized for the coming year and approved several items related to upcoming Harvest Days festivities.
Taking the oath of office were Roger Cease, Kirk Greeno, Torrey Jones, and Jerome Marlow.
Following the swearing-in ceremony, Mayor Clyde Fredrickson announced that Norm Mack had resigned from the council. Mack was to start a one year term this month. Fredrickson said he had spoken with Phil Pruitt, who ran for a council seat in the recent election, about serving by appointment. Council members expressed general support for the idea, but because the appointment was not listed on the agenda, no action could be taken. It will be added to next month’s agenda.
During the public comment period, Marlow noted that state law requires members of the public attending meetings remotely to be given an opportunity to ask questions. City officials asked those attending through Zoom if they wished to speak, but no comments were offered.
As part of the annual reorganization, the council elected Marlow as council president and Cease as vice president. Members also assumed annual committee assignments and annual appointments, though they left some seats unassigned until they appoint another council member. See the meeting minutes in next week’s paper for the full listing of committee and board assignments. The council also completed its required yearly review of South Dakota’s Open Meetings Law, including procedures for entering executive session.
The council received an update on the city’s ongoing water meter replacement project. Acting Public Works Supervisor Cameron Gerken said city staff has identified the sizes of most installed water meters, although some older meters lack records and may need to be estimated. Gerken also said the city is continuing to consider a monthly surcharge to help offset the cost of the project. Marlow questioned whether city code places responsibility for water meter costs on the city or individual property owners.
The council approved a request from Audrey Schuller for an exception to the city’s tree ordinance to allow three trees to be planted within the setback area of her property. Following discussion, council members approved the request and agreed to review the city’s tree ordinance to determine whether changes should be considered.
In preparation for Harvest Days, the council approved special alcohol licenses for the Britton Chamber of Commerce and Snappers. The council also authorized the Harvest Days fireworks display after hearing that the required indemnity agreement had been signed, insurance had been secured through Knox Fireworks, and emergency services had been consulted.
The council also approved a $1,500 contribution toward the fireworks, with members agreeing the event benefits the community and promotes the city.
Event Center Director and Pool Manager Laken Werner asked the council to consider providing a cell phone reimbursement, noting that most Event Center business is handled through her personal phone. No action was taken at this time.
New council member Roger Cease suggested that applicants seeking variance requests should obtain written approval from neighboring property owners. The council directed City Attorney Justin Scott to review the city’s ordinances and determine what changes, if any, may be appropriate.
Marlow also suggested creating a Pool, Parks and Event Center advisory board to assist with fundraising efforts. Werner agreed the idea could be beneficial, and city officials will determine whether there is community interest in serving on such a board.
During committee reports, Werner updated the council on the Event Center’s annual inspection by G&R Controls. The inspection identified issues with an air handler, circulator pump and rooftop unit that need to be repaired before the heating season. Werner said she is obtaining quotes from CDJ and plans to bring the information back to the council at its next meeting.
Library Director Sonya Lang also shared updates, including recent grant funding, new shelving and plans to begin developing a five-year strategic plan that will include a public survey to identify future facility needs.
Gerken also reported that a camper staying at the city’s RV park has exceeded the allowable time limit and has failed to make payments. The council directed Scott to work with county officials regarding enforcement options.
The meeting concluded with the council entering executive session for a personnel matter at Marlow’s request. No action was taken afterwards.
