TheSacNews.com: 5/1/11

Minutes of the May 31, 2011 Sac County Supervisors meeting

Board Room
10:00 AM

The Sac County Board of Supervisors met in regular session with all members present, Jack Bensley, Chairman, presiding. The minutes of the last meeting were approved as submitted.

It was moved by Stock and seconded by Hecht to approve the agenda as posted. Ayes all, motion carried.

Dale Rohe with Feld Fire & Equipment mad a presentation to the Board for installing a smoke and fire detection system on three floors of the original courthouse building. The proposal included smoke and heat detectors, pull stations and horn strobes for a cost of $20,629.00. The Board took no action but directed the County Auditor to secure another proposal.

The Board reviewed the bids for replacing shingles on the senior center in Sac City and the original part of the ambulance shed in Sac City. It was moved by Stock and seconded by Hecht to accept the low bid of $5,648.70 to replace the shingles on the senior center and $5,285.04 to replace the shingles on the ambulance shed, both of which were submitted by Mentzer Landscape and Construction. Ayes all, motion carried.

Cynthia Voorde, Calhoun County Attorney, called to inform the Board of Supervisors that the shared assistant county attorney 28E committee had agreed to shift the time allocation of the assistant county attorney to 40% Calhoun County and 60% Carroll County. This arrangement would allow Sac County to remain a part of the 28E agreement but to not use the assistant and not be financially responsible at this time.

Ben Smith, Sac County Attorney requested that the Board of Supervisors go into closed session pursuant to Iowa Code Section 21.5 C and G to discuss possible litigation and pending criminal investigation. It was moved by Hecht and seconded by Stock to go into closed session at 12:07 PM. Roll call vote; ayes Hecht, Stock and Bensley; nays none, motion carried.

It was moved by Hecht and seconded by Stock to go out of closed session at 12:40 PM. Roll call vote; ayes Hecht, Stock and Bensley; nays none, motion carried.

As a result of the closed session, the County Attorney will prepare a request to present to the Board of Supervisors at the next regular meeting.

The County Engineer was unavailable for the meeting.

With there being no further business, on motion, the meeting was adjourned.

Secretary S/ James W. Dowling, Chairman____________________, Date___________

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SAC CITY ELECTION: The Sac City Chamber-Main Street's mission statement is...

by Curtis Bloes

"The mission of Chamber-Main Street Sac City is to promote the economic, social and political life of Sac City and its surrounding trade area. Source

How about the executive board members of the Chamber review their own mission statement and try to remember that when it comes time to look out for Sac City's "political life" there may be a more important question you could direct your lackey at the Sac Sun to ask than the question, "What do you like best about living in Sac City?" maybe you could have him find out something a little more important like, "Please list the private organizations to which you belong that may at some point ask the city to give them money."

Might that be a little more important, don't you think, Chamber?

How about a debate this time around? How about instead of making it nearly impossible for candidates to publicly challenge each other's worthiness to sit on the council or be the Mayor, you actually help, as opposed to standing in the way like you did last time?

Stop with the 'Afraid of your Own Shadow' act and put on a freaking debate like you care bout the roughly 80% of the citizens in this town who aren't dues paying members, but for whom you claim to be looking out.

It's your mission statement. Earn it, or admit that it is a scam and remove it.

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SAC CITY ELECTION: Bill Brenny Facts

FACT #1
When faced with the decision about how to fill a vacant city council seat, Bill Brenny chose to make the decision himself and voted to appoint Gary Hansen, rather than let voters decide.

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SAC CITY ELECTION: Sac City Chamber/Mainstreet candidate facts

This will be an ongoing series. Right now this is speculative. As candidates come forward who are acting in the interests of Sac City Chhamber/Mainstreet, they will get their own "Fact" page. Click on the "Chamber Mainstreet Candidte Facts" tag at the bottom of the page to see the list of all related articles.

FACT #1
This fall, Sac City Chamber/Mainstreet will attempt to place people on the Sac City Council whose only job will be to vote to give themselves as much of your tax money as they can get their hands on...

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SAC CITY ELECTION: Gary Hansen Facts

This will be an ongoing series. Click on the "Gary Hansen facts" tag at the bottom of the page to see the list of all related articles.

FACT #1
Gary Hansen was not elected to serve his current term. The Sac City Council members Bill Brenny, Jim Frederick, Jim Johnston and Nich Frohardt bypassed the voting process and used a loophole in the law to appoint him.

...with the blessing of Mayor Barb Powell/Bloes.

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SAC CITY ELECTION: Barb Powell/Bloes Facts

This will be an ongoing series. Click on the "Barb Powell Facts" or "Barb Bloes Facts" (depending on which name she uses with you,) tag at the bottom of the page to see the list of all related articles.

FACT #1
During the 2007 election, Barb Powell/Bloes was so afraid of her opponent, that she had to be talked into running with the promise that she would not have to debate. That promise was kept. Chamber/Mainstreet "forgot" to hold a debate that year.

In order to find out anything about this woman, private citizens, at their own expense, had to arrange for a Q+A with the candidates which was held at the last minute.

Meanwhile, Barb Powell/Bloes refused an invite to an actual mayoral debate being arranged by the then fledgling news corporation, TheSacNews.com.

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2011 Sac City, Iowa Memorial Day Ceremony

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Auburn, Iowa man gets deferred judement for OWI

Auburn man gets deferred judement for OWI

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Sac County Small Claims Court – May 17, 2011 to May 23, 2011

Sac County Small Claims Court – May 17_ 2011 and May 23_ 2011

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Minutes of the May 16, 2011 Auburn City Council Meeting

Minutes of the May 16_ 2011 Auburn City Council Meeting

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2011 Lake View, Iowa Memorial Day Ceremony

LAKE VIEW, IOWA - MAY 30, 2011 - MEMORIAL DAY

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Sac County Supervisors Amend Budget

At 10:35, the Chairman opened the public hearing on the proposed budget amendment for the 2010-11 Sac County budget. The county auditor explained the changes in the revenues and expenditures for the current year. The major changes included the purchase of an additional sheriff’s vehicle, a new ambulance, increased mental health costs, additional costs for the 2010 general election, increased fuel costs and two conservation projects. There was no one from the general public to support or oppose the proposed amendments.

2011 Sac County Iowa Budget Amendment and Explanation

It was moved by Hecht and seconded by Stock to close the public hearing. Ayes all, motion carried.

It was moved by Stock and seconded by Hecht to approve the amendment to the2010-11 Sac County budget. Ayes all, motion carried.

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Sac County Supervisors approve request to build 30,000 gallon ammonia tank

SAC CITY, IOWA - MAY 24, 2011
Devin Mogler, VP of Agronomy Operations with Farmers Cooperative Company, requested permission to construct two 30,000 gallon anhydrous ammonia tanks at the Greenfield Site development on Highway 71 South of Early. This will be in addition to the proposed grain storage and seed warehouse at the same location. Mr. Mogler indicated that he had gotten approval from the County Zoning officer for this project. It was moved by Hecht and seconded by Stock to approve the request to build the anhydrous ammonia storage tanks at the site. Ayes all, motion carried.

Plans for FCs Ammonia Storage Tank

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Turing back the clock not the answer to drainage district problems

SAC CITY, IOWA - MAY 24, 2011

Leo Lease appeared before the Sac County supervisors on May 24, 2011 to have addressed his concerns regarding erosion control in drainage districts 2 and 51 in Sac County. Lease is the landowner whose land through which all of the water in the district drains. According to Lease, addressing the erosion and water quality issues facing the district has to happen through a three pronged engineering, administrative, and social approach.

Lease characterized the Sac County supervisors attitude toward drainage as one of merely getting rid of the water and then washing their hands, (so to speak,) of all further responsibility. Of particular concern to Mr. Lease are nitrates which he claims people downstream have to spend considerable money getting rid of in order to make their water usable.

Lease seemed concerned that as the urban areas grow they will gain the power to dictate what farmers do with their land and he indicated that he would rather start taking care of the problem of erosion and chemicals in the water now rather than be at the mercy of the future urban populations.

Lease advocated that the Sac County supervisors, in addition to taking care of their legal obligation to control erosion in the drainage districts, also take the opportunity to make a statement to the rest of the state by voluntarily taking steps to improve the quality of the water that they are sending downstream. He suggested that by taking this voluntary stand now the supervisors will be setting themselves up to take advantage of possible future funding should any future funding be designated to the counties for water quality improvement.

Lease suggested to the supervisors that they do a feasibility study to find out just what it would cost to start putting best management practices into place that would improve water quality. He suggests that while conducting the study they do so without regard to cost so that they could tell exactly where they stand.

Lease summed up his stance by saying that what he is about is enabling future generations to continue to be able to have productive land for their use.

As he concluded his presentation he asked for input from the supervisors.

Supervisor Rick Hecht, in his opening statement, said that he agreed with Lease in that the county is charged with controlling erosion in the drainage districts. The water quality part on the other hand Hecht characterized as “more difficult to do “. According to Hecht water quality management will now be more difficult due to new Federal rules that make the buffer strip program that catches a lot of the runoff unfeasible to maintain. On top of that slowing down drainage would be impeding the rights of other property owners that they are entitled to by code.

Lease seemed to disagree, indicating that he doesn’t think his fellow farmers are mercenary about the land and that if they only have the proper education they would see the value of slowing that runoff in order to preserve the land for future generations.

At this point in the conversation Hecht turned the conversation over to Ivan Droesler who explained that in this particular case the property owners have petitioned for drainage relief and that though there will be a larger volume of water all together, the peak water that will be running through the districts in question will not increase due to the fact that there still ponding areas that will hold onto storm water and released it slowly over 48 hour period into the tile system. Droesler went on to explain that in order to put Mr. Leases plan into place farmers would have to divert agricultural and into treatment wetland.

According to Droesler, Iowa’s changing weather patterns which are producing bigger more intense storms which are causing increased need for more drainage. In light of that reality the current drainage in the district is too restrictive and there is a need for additional drainage relief at the upper end. To accomplish that they have to go through a wetland check to verify how many of these parcels upstream have any actual true wetlands left.

When asked if he would be willing to convert his ag ground into treatment wetland and which would have the effect of allowing the district to slow down drainage on the upper end, Lease indicated that he would be willing to do that but also suggested that he viewed that type of solution as a mere spot fix and would rather see a comprehensive plan in which the clock was turned back and more wetland area was integrated back into the drainage district.

Droessler disagreed saying, ”That’s the trouble with many of the false ideas out there that going back to having small little wetlands and inpondment areas in the upper portion of the watershed do very little for treatment in regard to nitrates, because the water that you’re trying to treat is after that water has moved through the soil profile and picked up the nitrates. Basically putting a vegetative wetland in little pockets throughout the upper portion of the watershed will not effectively treat nitrates out of the water. That’s been studied through Iowa State [University ]. They have over 20 years of study gathering on that issue. ”

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Wall Lake man sentenced in beating

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May 24, 2011 Sac County Supervisors Call to Order

The Sac County Board of Supervisors met in regular session with all members present, Jack Bensley, Chairman, presiding. The minutes of the last meeting were approved as submitted. It was moved by Stock and seconded by Hecht to approve the agenda as posted. Ayes all, motion carried.

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Minutes of the May 23, 2011 Wall Lake City Council Meeting

Wall Lake, Iowa May 23, 2011

Wall Lake City Council met in regular session at 7:00 p.m. in council chambers, presided by Mayor Steven Druivenga.

Councilmen present: Ray Boeckman, Francis Riedell, Rob Germann, Daryl Potthoff, and John Morrow

Visitors: Mark Determann, Rick Hoppe, Gary Faber, Michelle Bahr

Morrow moved to approve the printed agenda, seconded by Potthoff. Ayes: All, motion carried.

Germann moved to approve the May 10, 2011 minutes seconded by Boeckman. Ayes: All, motion carried.

Boeckman moved to approve bills with two additional bills, Reidell seconded. Two additional bills, I Wireless for $78.97, and MEAN $8827.06. Ayes: All, motion carried.

Council asked Rodman to give cost and potential cost savings of changing all meters, water and gas, to radio read. Rodman presented cost of gas meters at $55 apiece for a total cost of $13,970. The cost savings of gas meters would be minimal because our meters are new. The cost of water meters will be $55 to $125 depending on the amount of new meters already in place. Hoppe thought the new meters numbered around 200. This would mean the cost would be 200 meters at $55 and 230 meters at $125 for a total cost of $39,750. The gas and water meters will not be changed at this time but will be revisited in the coming years.

Rodman spoke to council about the well, water/waste water generator. Morrow recommended attaining more than one bid. Potthoff wants to know how much another bid will cost before moving forward. Rodman will talk to Joe Behrens at Region VII to get some contacts for this project.

Rodman informed council the Schroeder’s First Addition letter will go out on Tuesday May 24th.

Pool security cameras were discussed at this time. Rodman gave council the invoices from Andrew’s Security showing how many cameras have been purchased and how many cameras currently in use. Council asked Rodman to attain a cost from Jeremy at Cornbelt Telephone. Germann suggested the community center or the fitness board could come up with the funds to do what is asked for here. Council also suggested we should fill the remaining five spots on the DVR.

Council asked many questions about the clerks report at the last meeting. Savings wind/turbine; why is this account not $145,000, did insurance money get deposited elsewhere? Answer: This account is $131,000, the funds transfers have not been done in the computer. This will be fixed. How much is left on the Gas Bond? Answer: $365,000. What is the vehicle repair/gas in the Natural Gas fund? Answer: The vehicle repair/gas was $81,000 and $80,000 is a gas purchase. This is an accounting error and will be fixed. Why are operating supplies so far off budget? Answer: I am not sure but think we need to budget more for these expenses. I also think we have to break down these expenses into a little more detail. We may be able to code to another expense. These are all issues we have to work on to fix so it may take a few months.

Morrow moved to approve the Westside Bank Resolution 2011-03, seconded by Potthoff. Roll call vote was taken. Morrow, Aye; Germann, Aye; Potthoff, Aye; Reidell, Aye; Boeckman, Aye. Ayes, All, motion carried.

Germann moved to approve property resolution 2011-04 stating there will be a public hearing at the next regular council meeting June 13th at 7PM, seconded by Reidell. Roll call vote was taken. Morrow, Aye; Germann, Aye; Potthoff, Aye; Reidell, Aye; Boeckman, Aye. Ayes, All, motion carried.

Summer Electric Rates were discussed at this time. Boeckman did a rate study that suggested the City of Wall Lake would generate a total of $4,700 of revenue if the rates were raised to summer rates. Boeckman suggested the city could absorb this raise and suggested the rates stay as they are. Council agreed the electric rate will stay as they are.

Building permits were discussed at this time. A building permit was turned in at the city clerk’s office requesting an addition to the back of a house. Council thought there was an ordinance that stated the main structure could take up only a certain percentage of the lot. Council suggested the building permit be sent to the Planning and Zoning committee for further review.

Pool Shelter house was discussed at this time. Rodman detailed the plan to the council. The pool house will cost an estimated $85,000 to construct. The pool house committee has raised $25,000 already. We are applying for a Bank Midwest grant and the Gil Renze grant so we need to show the city is backing our project fully. Rodman suggested the pool house committee would like to request the Gil Renze committee to match any funds raised from June 1 to June 15, up to $15,000. Council agreed with this idea. Germann moved to approve giving the pool house committee $10,000 at this time, seconded by Reidell. Roll call vote was taken. Morrow, Aye; Germann, Aye; Potthoff, Aye; Reidell, Aye; Boeckman, Aye. Ayes, All, motion carried.

Carpet cleaning was discussed at this time. Germann moved to have the carpets and tile cleaned, seconded by Morrow. Funds for the floor cleaning will come from the community center maintenance and upkeep fund. Ayes: All, motion carried.

Germann moved to approve the Outdoor Service for Lake Lanes, seconded by Morrow. Council asked about an outdoor liquor license. Rodman will check on this. Ayes: All, motion carried.

TIF was discussed at this time. Morrow presented council with a three year accounting of the TIF funds. Morrow also asked city to transfer funds from city account to TIF account. Council discussed TIF functions and background. TIF districts and Urban Renewal areas were discussed. Ground for Industrial and commercial property discussed. TIF incorporated because they wanted the city to deed the airport property to TIF in trade for the Rowedder building. Morrow discussed letter sent out by TIF to land owners around Wall Lake, inquiring about property for industrial site.

Potthoff moved to adjourn, seconded by Reidell. Ayes: All, motion carried.

Steven Druivenga, Mayor

Attest:
Chris Rodman
City Clerk

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June Calendar of events at the Sac City Library

June 2011 Calendar of Events

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The Lake View Planning and Zoning commission eyes current zoning map for changes

LAKE VIEW, IOWA – MAY 17, 2011

At the May 17, 2011 lake view Iowa planning and zoning commission meeting, the commission started preliminary talks allow how to tackle properly zoning the existing industrial areas.

The crux of the struggle was in the attempt to define whether are not they wanted to look at individual properties or to address the problem through the zoning code.

According city administrator Scott Peterson right now the code is intentionally vague. As Peterson pointed out, if the code wasn’t vague, then it would be a list wherein every prohibition would have to be spelled out. In fact the code indicates that in order to be zoned industrial the business in question must be industrial in nature.

The commission engaged in a light debate touching briefly on whether or not the businesses in the industrial zone that is adjacent to downtown is industrial for light industrial in nature. They also landed briefly on the subject of whether not they even want in industrial zone in the middle of the downtown area.

They did not take any action nor is there any action pending or expected. This was merely an exploratory discussion.

The commission also considered the R3 areas on the outskirts of town. Typically those kinds of areas are designated AG.

The commission directed Peterson to return at a future meeting with more information.

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Kraft scores 91 at Livermore

"...Adam Squires (72) turned in the low individual score. East Sac County freshman Justin..."

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Minutes of the May 24, 2011 Sac County Supervisors meeting

May 24, 2011

Board Room
10:00 AM

The Sac County Board of Supervisors met in regular session with all members present, Jack Bensley, Chairman, presiding. The minutes of the last meeting were approved as submitted. It was moved by Stock and seconded by Hecht to approve the agenda as posted. Ayes all, motion carried.

Leo Lease, a landowner in Drainage District 2 and 51, was present to ask questions about the proposed repairs to that district and suggested a different approach to erosion control. No action was taken.

Devin Mogler, VP of Agronomy Operations with Farmers Cooperative Company, requested permission to construct two 30,000 gallon anhydrous ammonia tanks at the Greenfield Site development on Highway 71 South of Early. This will be in addition to the proposed grain storage and seed warehouse at the same location. Mr. Mogler indicated that he had gotten approval from the County Zoning officer for this project. It was moved by Hecht and seconded by Stock to approve the request to build the anhydrous ammonia storage tanks at the site. Ayes all, motion carried.

At 10:35, the Chairman opened the public hearing on the proposed budget amendment for the 2010-11 Sac County budget. The county auditor explained the changes in the revenues and expenditures for the current year. The major changes included the purchase of an additional sheriff’s vehicle, a new ambulance, increased mental health costs, additional costs for the 2010 general election, increased fuel costs and two conservation projects. There was no one from the general public to support or oppose the proposed amendments.

It was moved by Hecht and seconded by Stock to close the public hearing. Ayes all, motion carried.

It was moved by Stock and seconded by Hecht to approve the amendment to the2010-11 Sac County budget. Ayes all, motion carried.

It was moved by Stock and seconded by Hecht to acknowledge and approve the annexation resolution submitted by the City of Early for a parcel of land adjacent to Lutheran First Addition and Lutheran Second Addition to the Town of Early and Lot one of Lutheran First Addition and part of Lot One Lutheran Second Addition to the Town of Early. Ayes all, motion carried.

Mike Gooding with Hedberg and Son Roofing Company presented samples of his product prior to the bid letting for reshingling the senior center and the ambulance shed.

The Board opened and reviewed the following bids for replacing the shingles on the Sac City Senior Center and the South part of the ambulance shed in Sac City:
Mentzer Landscape and Construction bid a 35 year laminate shingle at $5648.70 for the senior center and a 35 year laminate shingle for the south part of the ambulance shed at $5,285.04; Brent Wilhelm bid a 35 year Pinnacle shake style or a 30 year Owens shingle at $6,130.00 for the ambulance shed; Welco Industries bid a 35 year laminate shingle for the Senior Center at $9,210.00 and 35 year laminate shingle for the ambulance shed at $7,125.00; JR Roofing bid a 50 year laminate shingle for the senior center at $10,400.00 and a 50 Laminate shingle for the ambulance shed at $8,500.00, a Decra (steel) roofing for the senior center at $12,800.00 and a Decra (steel) roofing for the ambulance shed at $12,800.00, and an Eco Star roofing system (recycled rubber) for the senior center at $31,500; Hedberg and Son Roofing bid a 35 year laminate shingle for the senior center at $10,625.00 and a 35 year laminate shingle for the ambulance shed at $10,500.00, a Metro (steel) roofing system for the senior center at $17,500.00 and a Metro (steel) roofing system for the entire ambulance shed at $31,500.00 and an Eco Star roofing system (recycled rubber) for the senior center at $27,500.00. All bids included removal of the old shingles and landfill costs. The Board will review the bids and consider a contract at the next meeting.

The County Engineer updated the Board on activities of the county road crews and the status of current maintenance and construction projects.

It was moved by Hecht and seconded by Stock to approve an amendment to the current DOT secondary road budget. Aye all, motion carried.

Ivan Droesler and Gregg Villegas from Kuehl and Payer discussed several issues concerning drainage district 2 and 51 and drainage district 86. No action was taken.

With there being no further business, on motion, the meeting was adjourned.

Secretary S/ James W. Dowling, Chairman____________________, Date___________

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Minutes of the May 16, 2011 Auburn City Council Meeting

Minutes of the May 16_ 2011 Auburn City Council Meeting

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Sheriff's Department says Lake View man drove car through garage pushing wife's car through the back wall

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Passed Away - Herbert Johnson

Herbert Johnson

October 06, 1918 - May 27, 2011

Storm Lake, Iowa

Visitation: 1:00-2:00 p.m. May 29, 2011 at St. John Lutheran Church in Storm Lake, Iowa
Funeral Service: 2:00 p.m. May 29, 2011 at St. John Lutheran Church in Storm Lake, Iowa
Interment: May 29, 2011 at Buena Vista Memorial Park Cemetery in Storm Lake, Iowa

Herbert Johnson, age 92, of Storm Lake, Iowa died on Friday, May 27, 2011 at the Buena Vista Regional Medical Center in Storm Lake.
Herbert Clarence Johnson was born October 6, 1918 in Odebolt, Iowa to Carl E. Johnson and Amanda Noyd Johnson. He was baptized at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Odebolt, Iowa and was later confirmed at St. Pauls English Lutheran Church in Schaller, Iowa on March 25, 1934.

Herbert attended school in Schaller, Iowa. Following his education he joined his father with his farming operation.

He was united in marriage with Elda Gerke Johnson on February 19, 1950 at Zion Lutheran Church in rural Storm Lake. To this union were born a son, Richard and a daughter, Joan. Following their marriage they farmed near Storm Lake where Herb was a lifetime farmer. He and Elda worked together both indoors and outdoors. Later his son Richard joined him with his farming operation. He was a faithful member of the St. John Lutheran Church where he served as an elder, many years as an usher and was involved in other church activities.

Herb especially enjoyed spending time with his family, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends. He also provided childcare for his grandson, Michael, while his parents worked.

Herb farmed his entire life and enjoyed the land and animals. He found joy in listening to music, especially church music and polkas. He was proud to be a farmer, enjoyed working outdoors, gardening with his wife Elda and raising livestock. Herb loved to drive around and look at the crops in his pickup truck. He never wanted to retire and lived on the farm until he joined his heavenly father. Family and church were very important to Herb. He enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren at church and school activities. In 1991 he lost his wife and best friend. In 2002 he was involved in a tractor accident and was seriously injured. He fought back with intense rehab and was able to continue to live on the farm with the help of his family and friends. Herb’s pastor at that time called him “The Miracle Man”. He then spent many days outdoors enjoying himself on his scooter.

His memory lives in the hearts of his son, Richard Johnson of Storm Lake, Iowa; daughter, Joan and Gary Christen of Storm Lake, Iowa; grandchildren: Michael Christen of Storm Lake, Iowa and Christy Christen of Petal, Mississippi; great-grandchildren: Alex and Cylee Case; and Andrew Baker; sister-in-law: Esther Lamb of Storm Lake, Iowa; brothers-in-law: Donald Gerke of Sioux Rapids, Iowa; and Clifford and Doris Schmidt of Storm Lake, Iowa; many nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.

In heaven he joins his wife, Elda; his parents, Carl and Amanda; brother, Elmer Johnson; and sister, Hazel Johnson.

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Passed Away - Richard E. Anderson

Richard E. Anderson

October 18, 1923 - May 25, 2011

Storm Lake, Iowa

Visitation: 4-8:00 p.m. Masonic Service at 7:30 p.m. followed by a Odd Fellow Service May 27, 2011 at Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Storm Lake, Iowa
Funeral Service: 10:30 a.m. May 28, 2011 at United Methodist Church in Storm Lake, Iowa
Interment: May 28, 2011 at Early Union Cemetery in Early, Iowa

Richard Elden Anderson, age 87, was surrounded by his loving family at St. Luke Medical Center in Sioux City, IA when he passed from this world on May 25, 2011.
Born on October 18, 1923 in rural Storm Lake, Rich was the youngest of Theodore and Josephine Anderson’s seven children. While growing up, he got into mischief with his siblings and worked hard for his father on the farm, which is now owned by his youngest daughter, Lynn.

Rich graduated from Storm Lake High School in 1941. When World War II broke out, and with three brothers in the service, he had to stay Stateside to help his disabled father farm. In1945, he met Ruth Elaine Lathrop of Havelock, IA while she was attending Buena Vista College. They were married on May 31, 1946, and built a small home on the family farm where their first daughter was born. In 1948, they rented a farm near Nemaha, IA where four more daughters were born. In 1959, Rich and Ruth realized their dream of buying their own farm south of Early. Here their last daughter was born. In 1992, they moved to Storm Lake.

Agriculture was Rich’s passion. He was one of the first farmers in Sac County to terrace. After moving to the farm south of Early, he won a State Conservation Award. In the 1980s, he served one term as Sac County Supervisor. After retiring from farming, he worked as a crop insurance adjuster. While living in Storm Lake, he was maintenance manager of Lakeview Manor Apartment.

Rich enjoyed competing in horseshoe tournaments, traveling to new places, visiting friends and relatives, and providing leadership and participating in community organizations. They include the Nemaha Methodist Church, Early United Methodist Church, the Crestland School Board, the Early Lions Club, the Masonic Lodge, the Odd Fellows, Storm Lake Beavers Kiwanas, and the Storm Lake Historical Society.

Rich is survived by his wife, Ruth; his daughters Judy Westergren and her husband Larry, Janet Nicholson and her husband Joe, Lois Thomas, Karen Dunekacke and her husband Tom, Colleen Knapp and her husband Steve, Lynnette Schable and her husband Ray. Grandchildren include Brenda Westergren Deimerly, David Westergren, Sarah Westergren, Andrew Nicholson, Brent Nicholson, Jason Thomas, Megan Thomas, Steve Thomas, Travis Dunekacke, Taylor Dunekacke, Tracy Dunekacke, Curtis Knapp, Jackie Knapp, Anna Knapp, Emily Knapp, Tanya Schable, Jake Schable and seven great-grandchildren. Surviving siblings include Donald Anderson and Harriet Copps, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents; a still-born son; and siblings Robert Anderson, Dorothy Anderson Linegar, Ivan Anderson, Clarence Anderson and Arlo Anderson.

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Passed Away - Leone Loretta Frohardt

Leone Loretta Frohardt

April 15, 1919 - May 23, 2011

Storm Lake, Iowa

Visitation: 5-8:00 p.m. May 26, 2011 at Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Storm Lake, Iowa
Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m. May 27, 2011 at Bethel Baptist Church in Newell, Iowa
Interment: May 27, 2011 at Early Union Cemetery in Early, Iowa

Leone Loretta Frohardt, age 92, of Storm Lake, Iowa entered into eternal rest on Monday, May 23, 2011 while a resident at Methodist Manor Retirement Community in Storm Lake, surrounded by her loving family.
Leone was born on April 15, 1919 at her home in Harris, Iowa, to Nick and Anna (Jansma) Hibma and was the 5th oldest of 10 siblings. She attended Northwestern, Wheaton, and graduated from Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education. She also received her Masters Degree in Education from Mankato State. She taught Grade School in Long Beach, California; Omaha, Nebraska; and Harris, Iowa, before teaching grade school in Sac City.

On March 11, 1951, Leone was united in marriage to Calvin Frohardt in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Together, they were blessed with four children: Fred, Nich, Avis and Clifford. Recently, they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.

Leone had a strong faith in the Lord and was very involved in church over the years. Currently she was a member of the Bethel Baptist Church in Newell. Music was very important to her and she was an accomplished pianist, organist, and singer. Over the years, Calvin and Leone enjoyed singing many duets together at church functions. Leone was an avid reader and very intellectually curious. She enjoyed cooking, canning, and sewing. Leone was inquisitive, adventurous, hard working, family orientated and happy to share an opinion. She and Calvin enjoyed traveling and visiting family and friends prior to her illness. Leone was very proud of her family and treasured all their times together.

In addition to her husband Calvin, Leone is survived by her four children: Fred (Donna) Frohardt of Auburn, Maine; Nich (Donna) Frohardt of Sac City, Iowa; Avis (Roland) Lussier of Melbourne, Florida; and Cliff (Cathy) Frohardt of Nemaha, Iowa; 14 grandchildren: Penelope (Tom) Austin; Chelley (Jeremiah) Casey; Eric (Lea) Frohardt ; Nicholas Frohardt; Daniel (Rachael) Frohardt ; Robin Frohardt; Ian (Mariah) Lussier; Danielle (Ross) Eldridge; Patrick Lussier; Matthew Lussier; Anna Lussier; Jonathan Lussier; Heidi (Phil) Smith; and Chris Frohardt; four great grandchildren: Luke, Daisy, and Lilly Frohardt; and Callan Casey; two sisters: Hattie Marie (Gene) Frost of Chicago, Illinois and Phyllis Frost of Long Beach, California; one brother, Ervin (Viola) Hibma; sisters-in-law: Bernice Cole; Norma Frohardt; Elvima Hibma; Betty Hibma; Gertude Hibma; extended family and friends.

Leone was preceded in death by her parents; brothers: Pierce (Charlotte); Clarence; Elmer (Goldie); Don; and Ray (Emily); sister, Kathryn (Lawrence) Van Wyk; and brother-in-law: Wally Frost; Ed Cole; and Wesley Frohardt.

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Notice of Death - Paul Bouchard

Paul Bouchard

September 03, 1947 - May 27, 2011
Auburn, Iowa

Paul Bouchard, 63, of Auburn, Iowa, passed away on Friday, May 27, 2011, at Stewart Memorial Hospital in Lake City. There will be no services at this time

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Notice of Death - Anastasia J. Debowsk

Anastasia J. Debowski

July 12, 1980 - May 27, 2011

Wall Lake, IA

Private family graveside services for Anastasia J. Debowski, age 30, of Wall Lake are pending at the Farber & Otteman Funeral Home in Wall Lake. Anastasia died Friday at her home in Wall Lake.

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Passed Away - Janice M. Richardson

Janice M. Richardson

July 14, 1934 - May 24, 2011

Odebolt, IA

Visitation: 4:00 - 7:00 P.M. Thursday, May 26, 2011 at Farber & Otteman Funeral Home, Odebolt, IA
Funeral Service: 10:30 A.M. Friday, May 27, 2011 at United Methodist Church, Odebolt, IA
Interment: May 27, 2011 at Odebolt Cemetery, Odebolt, IA

Janice M. Richardson, age 76, of Odebolt, IA, passed away on Tuesday, May 24, 2011 at Mercy Medical Center in Sioux City, IA. Janice Marie Breon was born on July 14, 1934, to Thomas and Dorothy (Buehler) Breon in Early, IA. She grew up in Odebolt, IA and graduated with the class of 1953.

Janice was united in marriage on June 2, 1953, to Dale L. Richardson. The couple spent the first three years of marriage at Camp Pendleton in California. They then returned to Odebolt until moving to Sac City, IA in 1966. They retired back to Odebolt in 1991. Dale and Janice enjoyed a wonderful marriage for over 55 years. To this union three children were born: Steven, Gayle, and Thomas.

Janice worked as a cook for the Sac City schools for over 20 years. She was very active in the community and was a volunteer for the Odebolt Nursing and Rehab Center, the United Methodist Church, the Odebolt Community Center and Meals on Wheels. She was a member of the United Methodist Church, the American Legion Auxiliary, and the Odebolt Nursing and Rehab Center Auxiliary Board.

Janice enjoyed crocheting, cooking, volunteering, and entertaining family and friends. She cherished the time spent with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Survivors include her children: Steven and wife Mary of Rockwell City, IA; Gayle Davis of Santa Rosa Beach, FL; and Thomas and wife Jody of Honolulu, HI; seven grandchildren: Heidi, Lindsay, Chase, Scott, Trevor, Molly and Ashleigh; two great-grandchildren: Taylor and Emersyn; brother: Duane Breon and wife Mary of Boyer, IA; sister: Cam Neumann and husband Dick of Carroll, IA; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Dean Richardson and wife Lynn of Destin, FL; sister-in-law Jean Richardson of Concord, NC; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband Dale and a sister Pamela in infancy.

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Passed Away - Ruth M. Steele

Ruth M. Steele

October 02, 1916 - May 23, 2011

Early, IA

Visitation: 4:00 - 8:30 P.M. with the family present from 6:00 - 8:30 P.M. Wednesday, May 25, 2011 at Farber & Otteman Funeral Home , Sac City, IA
Funeral Service: 10:30 A.M. Thursday, May 26, 2011 at United Methodist Church, Early, IA
Interment: May 26, 2011 at Early Union Cemetery, Early, IA

Ruth M. Steele, age 94, of Early, passed away Monday, May 23, 2011, at Methodist Manor in Storm Lake, Iowa.

Ruth was born on October 2, 1916, on a farm southeast of Early, in Sac County. She was the daughter of Delbert and Jessie Armagost Wolford and was the oldest of their five children. She spent her earlier years in the Fonda and Mallard area before returning to Early at the age of 6. The remainder of her life was spent in Early, where she attended school and graduated from Early Consolidated School in 1936. She was baptized in and a life long member of the Early United Methodist Church and a charter member of the Early United Methodist Women. Through the years, she served on many church committees and held various offices in the United Methodist Women. She was active in local church activities and was a member of the Early Order of Eastern Star and advanced to the position of Worthy Matron. She was also a member of Early Federated Womans Club as a member of Todays Home department.

Ruth was united in marriage to Foster C. Steele on June 19, 1937, at the Methodist Parsonage in Early. Three sons were born to this union: Donald, Dennis and Jerald. All three sons completed their elementary and high school education at the same school as both their parents.

Before her marriage, she worked as a telephone operator for the local telephone company. She spent the following years as a homemaker while her boys were going to school. As the boys grew older, she worked at the local hardware store for 10 years and then as a secretary for the Ray Stevens Insurance Agency for 17 years. After retiring, she enjoyed spending time gardening, working with her flowers, but most especially spending time with her family. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren were the apples of her eye. Ruth remained living independently in her own home until the age of 90, when she became a resident of Methodist Manor in Storm Lake.

Ruth is survived by her three sons: Donald C. (Glenda) Steele of Windsor Heights, Iowa; Dennis R. (Mary Lou) Steele of Early, Iowa; Jerald L. (Susan) Steele of Waukee, Iowa. She is also survived by six grandchildren: Robin (Mark) Denkinger of Johnston, Iowa; Lisa (John) DeMarco of Cumming, Georgia; Chris (Jennifer) Steele of Des Moines, Iowa; Janelle (Andy) Goettsch of Galva, Iowa; Katie (Matt) Ehrp of Early, Iowa; and Lindsay (Chad) Wierson of Grimes, Iowa. She is also survived by twelve great grandchildren: Madison and Drew Denkinger; Angela and Lia DeMarco; Tristen, Austin, Kallie and Drew Goettsch; Tyler and Hannah Ehrp; Caden Wiersen and Tyson Steele and two sisters: Alyce (Richard) Waters of Cedarburg, WI, and Lola Wadsworth of Des Moines, Iowa. Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Foster, in 1981, also her parents, Delbert and Jessie Wolford, a brother, Clarence, in infancy and a brother, Glen.

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Law enforcement says Odebolt woman's trashy yard a misdemeaner

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Wall Lake pool shelter project moving forward with $10,000 blessing from the council

WALL LAKE, IOWA – MAY 23, 2011

On the evening of May 23, 2011 at the Wall Lake city council meeting the city clerk, Chris Rodman reminded the council that for several months they have been working on a project that, if completed, will see the building of a new shelter house at the city pool.

Right now the shelter house committee is relying on a series of grants for funding. If they are unable to get these grants the council was informed that the committee will be approaching the city for money.

According to Rodman ideally they would have a fund drive from June 1, 2011 to June 14, 2011 and attempt to raise $15,000. If successful the committee would use that support to show that the citizens of Wall Lake are behind the project while applying for a Gil Renze grant, challenging them to match those funds.

According to Rodman he spoke with a member of the decision-making body of the Gil Renze foundation who said that last year another organization that challenged them to meet a particular amount was successful in obtaining a grant in that manner, but that it is not a method that is frequently used.

According to Rodman there is already in the neighborhood of $26,000 in the bank for the shelter house. If they can get the $15,000 in community support and $15,000 from the Gil Renze foundation that will leave the committee about $30,000 short of the target amount needed for completing the pool shelter. The bottom line is that they would like the city to back them in an amount up to $40,000. According to preliminary bids and estimates that they’ve received based on the partial plans the committee is considering the final project may cost in the $90,000 range.

Unfortunately if the city just cut a check for $40,000 that would, in all likelihood, kill their chances of getting a Gil Renze foundation grant. During the brainstorming session that ensued it was suggested that the city could indicate that they’ll match in the Gil Renze grant money up to $15,000. That way the money that the city commits to this project is not automatic and won’t send a message to the Gil Renze foundation that they are merely going to fund it themselves if they the Gil Renze foundation does not give them the grant.

The council was reminded that Westside Bank is willing to loan them the money to get this pool house built. According to Rodman the bank is willing to loan them the money at 2%.

In the end the council voted unanimously to provide $10,000 for the pool shelter house project.

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Sac County criminal court activity between the dates of May 17, 2011 and May 23, 2011

Sac County criminal court activity between the dates of May 17_ 2011 and May 23_ 2011

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Summer electric rates to match winter rates this year in Wall Lake, Iowa

WALL LAKE, IOWA – MAY 23, 2011

Typically the City of Wall Lake has two separate electrical rates; one for the winter and one for the summer. The summer eight is typically higher due to demand, but according to a rate study conducted by Councilor Ray Boeckman the City of Wall Lake would generate $4,700 at the summer eight, an amount that he felt could be absorbed by the city.

The rest of the city council apparently concurred and took no action to raise rates for the summer during the May 23, 2011 city council meeting.

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Wall Lake city clerk follows up on accounting questions generated at May 10, 2011 city council meeting

WALL LAKE, IOWA – MAY 23, 2011

At the May 10, 2011 wall lake city council meeting wall lake city clerk Chris Rodman was asked the number of questions during the clerk’s report that he could not answer. Following is the follow-up Q and A that was conducted at the May 23, 2011 meeting.

1. Why is the savings in the wind/turbine account not at $145,000; did that insurance money get deposited elsewhere?
A. This account is $131,000 in funds transfers have not been done in the computer but this will be fixed.

2. How much is left on the gas bond?
A. $365,000

3. What is the vehicle repair/gas in the natural gas fund?
A. The vehicle repair/gas was $81,000, $80,000 of which will is a gas purchase. This is an accounting error and will be fixed.

4. One are operating supplies so far off budget.
A. “I am not sure ”. The clerk thinks the city needs to budget more for these expenses. He indicated that they probably have to break these expenses down into more detail and that it will probably take a few months to fix.

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East Sac County takes second at district golf at Storm Lake

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City of wall Lake, Iowa to install more security cameras

WALL LAKE, IOWA – MAY 23, 2011

Based on recent complaints of wrongdoing at the city park the city council has expressed the desire to put more cameras in both the city park and at the swimming pool. These cameras which would be run to central DVR which would allow city employees to verify any reports they may receive.

Because of the nature of the system phone lines would have to be run to both locations.

Both mayor Druivenga and the pool manager would like to see two cameras installed at the pool; one to watch the pool area and the second camera to watch the first camera since there is a danger that it could be disabled from behind. Councilor Rob Germann went even further and suggested that the five empty DVR slots could be utilized in combination between the park and the swimming pool.

By consensus the city clerk was directed to get a cost estimate from Cornbelt Telephone.

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Wall Lake city council puts off decision to go 100% radio read on utility meters

WALL LAKE, IOWA – MAY 23, 2011

At a previous city council meeting city clerk Chris Rodman was asked to research and then present to the council the potential cost savings of migrating all gas and water meters to a 100% radio read system. Currently electrical meters are already in the process of being migrated over to the electrical read system.

According to Rodman the cost of each new gas meter would be $55.00 apiece for a total of $13,970. This would represent a minimal saving as the gas meters currently place are new.

For the water meters the cost of migrating those would depend on how many new meters are already in place because the cost of migrating those new meters to radio read would only be $55.00. The cost of migrating older water meters would be $125. According to Rick Hoppe there are 200 new meters and 30 old meters which means that the combined cost of updating all of those meters would be $39,750.

By consensus the council decided to hold off on making a decision and to revisit the issue at a unspecified future date.

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KCIM - Wolleson business entities of Sac County named in Story County Fraud Case

"Glidden, Iowa -- According to a lawsuit filed earlier this month in Story County, West Central Cooperative and Westco Agronomy Company will show a loss of over 7.8 million..."

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Lake View Planning and Zoning recommends denial of request to re-zone portion of South Lake Street

LAKE VIEW, IOWA – MAY 17, 2011

According Lake View City Administrator Scott Peterson the city of received a request to change the zoning on lot 1B from R2 to R3 which would then allow for building a triplex apartment building. The lot is located at 112 South Lake Street, and the request come from Andy and Mitzi Meredith.

Andy Meredith, who was in attendance, spoke at length about what his plans for the property. According to Meredith. What he proposes is a one story L-shaped triplex. Each unit will include a double garage with paved access to the street. Meredith indicated that he chose that particular lot because he recognized the need for more of that kind of housing in that area. Said Meredith, “everybody is familiar with what happened on Blossom Street and also on First Street when some properties [which were] old and past their usefulness were replaced by duplexes.”

Meredith made the point that this lot is considerably bigger, and that the L-shaped structure will fit into the footprint of the lot while meeting all setback requirements. Meredith shared his opinion that the structure would be in line with the new construction that’s been going on in the community, it would be a “super plus” in valuation, and would not be a detriment to the neighborhood.

The room full of future neighbors disagreed with Mr. Meredith’s notions.

The first thing those gathered wanted to know is if the structure would raise taxes on the property surrounding it. According to the city administrator that structure should have no effect on anybody’s individual property values.

Next they asked if the structure would be in line with all of the other structures in the neighborhood.
According to Meredith, the other structures in the neighborhood are all not exactly in line but it would be in line with the houses that is considered the point of reference for setbacks in that neighborhood.

Many citizens in attendance voiced the opinion and offered examples supporting their argument that the multifamily dwelling would lead to congestion on an already narrow street. Council person Schrader made the argument that these types of homes have not led to congestion in the neighborhood in which he lives on Blossom Street, but nobody else seemed to agree.

As the hearing wore on the following letter from a group of citizens protesting the rezoning was read aloud:

“City of Lake View Planning and Zoning Board, Lake View Mayor and City Council,
As neighboring property owners to this property located at 112 South Lake Street, we would like to formally object to the re-zoning of the above listed from R2 to R3 residential.

Although we are not opposed to building a duplex in this area we are opposed to rezoning the area to allow a triplex, fourplex, or any additional multi unit dwelling. We want to keep both the integrity of the residential neighborhood and feel that if the rezoning were to occur it could open up the area for other structures and such as condominiums resulting in more people and therefore more congestion and parking problems in this area.

In the near past the City of Lake View conducted in a complete and thorough inspection of the current zoning regulations that resulted in new zoning regulations to foster orderly development and to protect the property owners of Lake View from overcrowding of the land, to conserve the value of the buildings, and to encourage of the most opportunistic use the land throughout the city.

Re-zoning this area from R2 to R3 would not be in keeping with the city’s overall comprehensive plan for the City of Lake View.

In conclusion we ask that the zoning board deny the proposed zoning request.”

31 people signed that letter, and the citizen who read the letter allowed indicated that 27 of the people who signed the letter were not in attendance at the May 17, 2011 Lake View P&Z meeting. *

The other main concern of those gathered in opposition to this rezoning was that this action if approved may set a precedent which may see more of the same kind of structure crowding into Lake View’s streets in the future.

It was reiterated several times that there is no opposition to allowing the Merediths to build a duplex at that location, inspire the fact that, as a city administrator pointed out, that lot is big enough to divide it in half and still have enough room to build two duplexes on that site, (in terms of meeting the minimum lot size.)

The last major concern that citizens voice before the issue is went to a vote was concerning snow removal. According to one gentleman, there is already at this time no place to go with the snow. It was said that it is already piled so high that is “unbelievable”.

After closing hearing but before going to the vote, members of the board expressed that it is hard making this kind of vote because they want to encourage progress if they also want to represent the property rights of the people that already live in the area. In the words of one board member, “somebody’s not going to be happy.”

On motion the Lake View Planning and Zoning Commission voted to recommend to the City Council that the request for re-zoning be denied.

Due to the fact that more than 20% of the adjacent landowners have voiced their objections in writing, should this issue be pursued with the council they will have to have a 4/5 vote to rezone that lot.

* By my count there were 26 people present who were not members of the government or media. The claim is that there were four in the room who had already signed leaving 22 people that still had the potential to sign the letter.

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