JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The Jamestown Finance & Legal Committee approved some CARES Act funds received to show appreciation to their city employees for their work during the pandemic.

Councilman Dave Steele reported that the city had received some CARES Act funds and says with the budget situation as it was, they were concerned with potential cuts to staff.

Steele added that employees have been through a lot working in the pandemic and stated he would like to see some of that funding go into a pay increase.

Steele stated the total amount would be $132,026.11 in recognition and appreciation for employees dedication to providing municipal services. The motion was unanimously approved.

In the Jamestown Civic Center & Promotion Committee, Civic Center Director Pam Fosse brought forth a proposal to increase rates to help cover expenses.

Some increases include events not charging admission being increased from $1000 to $1500, Exchequer Room rentals from $400 to $600, and more.

Fosse estimated that the last time rental rates had been adjusted was 2012 or before.

Councilmember Dave Steele stated that they might want to look and readjust rates as needed more often. Mayor Dwaine Heinrich stated he believed some of the rate increases were “steep.”

Fosse added that most events were grandfathered in, meaning they would pay the original rate they signed in their original contracts with the Civic Center.

Fosse said bottom line, it’s about covering costs, labor, and utilities. The committee unanimously approved the proposed adjustments.

The new rates would be expected to be implemented on January 1st, 2021.