February 5, 2021 Special Meeting

The Lakota City Council held a special meeting February 5^th, 2021, at the City Hall. Mayor Hooey called the meeting to order at 8:07 a.m. All Council Members were present, except Member D. Mattern who was absent.  Audience Members were Matt Herda and Angela Herda.  Attorney Tenneson and Auditor Vasichek were in attendance.

Mayor Hooey stated with the recent power outage he feels the city council has let the community and residents down by not having the proper employees to assist with the outage. 

Mayor Hooey stated Supt. Herda has also not been able to pass and obtain the ND water certificate as required for the position he holds. 

Mayor Hooey stated he would like to release Matt Herda from his position at the city and allow him to apply for unemployment. 

Member Hess made a motion to approve Mayor Hooey’s removal of Matt Herda as City Superintendent, seconded by Member Vasichek.  On a roll call vote, all members voting in favor, except for Member Fahey who abstained.  Motion carried.

Mayor Hooey stated the city would provide Mr. Herda with a good reference about his work ethic if requested. 

Mr. Herda questioned the council if they would entertain a 3–6-month severance package for him as that will allow him time to find employment elsewhere.

Attorney Tenneson stated the topic of severance package is not on the agenda and therefore cannot be discussed at this time.  Mayor Hooey stated this will be discussed among the council at the next meeting.

Mr. and Mrs. Herda left the meeting at 8:12am.

Mayor Hooey stated he would like to advertise for the Supt. position and ask for the person to be a Journeyman Lineman or electrical experience. 

Member Vasichek made a motion to advertise for the City Superintendent position with an emphasis on electrical experience, seconded by Member Hess.  On a roll call vote, all members voting in favor.  Motion carried.

Mayor Hooey reminded the council that Josh Ulland is still an on-call employee if the city is needing someone in the meantime.

Member R. Member made a motion to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Member Vasichek.  Motion carried.

Meeting adjourned at 8:18am.

 

            APPROVED BY:                                             SUBMITTED BY:

           

 

Brad Hooey, Mayor                                          Amie Vasichek, Auditor