Truck parking, weight limit language approved

As a follow-up to last month's discussion regarding ordinances regulating weight limits and truck parking, the Royal City Council on Dec. 8 agreed to language changes that address those issues.

The council in November tabled approval of the first reading of Royal's revised code of ordinances after hearing public input regarding regulations that would limit load weights and truck parking in the restricted residential area. One suggestion was to have the city issue permits that would allow semi tractor-trailers to operate on city streets.

According to City Clerk Barb Fletcher, the city attorney would have to research the legality of issuing permits, and also recommended that a specific weight limit be included in the code rather than simply posting it on street signage.

"I think it's a terrible idea," said Council Member Matt Goyette in reference to issuing permits.

"I agree with that," responded Mayor Josh Toft.

Council members agreed semis should not be allowed to park on city streets in the restricted residential area, but would allow them to be parked on private residential driveways provided they are in compliance with the posted load limit.

The load limit agreed upon is nine tons.

Language reflecting the changes will be prepared for the January meeting. The council hopes to restart the process of approving the revised code of ordinances next month.

• Lawn mower costs are rising

Additional investigation into prices and availability of mowers confirmed that the original spending limit is not adequate. The council in July set a maximum of $10,500 to purchase a mower, but current prices are $11,750 and over.

"Either way, $10,500 won't buy a mower," said Maintenance Superintendent Sherman Nielsen. "It's going to take 12 to 13 thousand to buy a mower."

One option is a Grasshopper model with a 60-inch deck. Nielsen said the cost is $11,756 and the vendor is confident one will be available.

Council members agreed the spending limit should be changed to not exceed $13,000.

• Grant application updates

A grant application will be submitted to the Clay County Community Foundation by the Royal-Clay-Lincoln Fire Agency, with the City of Royal as the fiscal sponsor. The amount to be requested is $10,000. If approved, funds will be used to purchase a warning siren. The estimated cost of a siren is $21,000. Other funding sources will also be investigated.

Fletcher reported additional information regarding the application for a generator at the lift station was forwarded to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The council initially discussed the purchase of a transfer pump and generator in January of 2019. They later approved submitting an application and authorized a funding match of up to $5,625.

• Year-end matters

Looking forward to 2022, new council members Sara Ricke and Mitch Fahnlander and Mayor Toft took their oaths of office. Council Members Jim Virelli and Matt Goyette will be the city's representative and alternate to the Northwest Iowa Solid Waste Agency.

Royal will allocate $400 for Upper Des Moines Opportunity in the 2022-23 budget. According to discussion, UDMO has assisted over 50 adults and 20 children in the community. Most of that assistance is related to housing, food programs and weatherization, with an estimated value of nearly $50,000.

The Royal city office will be closed on Fridays, Dec. 24 and Dec. 31 for the Christmas and New Year's holidays.