A special meeting of the City Council of the City of Walcott, Iowa was held on Monday, June 23, 2014, with Mayor John Kostichek calling the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present were: Tim Koehler, Virgil Wayne Latimer, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: None. City employees present were: John Brockmann, Josh Geigle, Lisa Rickertsen, and Tom Schirman. Audience: Larry Koberg, Karen Puck, and Building Committee members: Bernard Brus, Jeanne Brus, Jason Holdorf, and Brent Puck.

Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve the agenda. Motion carried.

Building Committee Recommendation. During the June 2^nd council meeting the committee presented information, including four sites, for a potential new municipal building. Their recommendation is to construct a municipal building adjacent to the current City Hall, which would require purchase of two additional parcels. The majority of Council Members expressed their concerns about purchasing additional property and would prefer to construct a new municipal building on the city-owned property at the SE corner of Main and Lincoln Streets. All council members agreed to eliminate sites 3 & 4, as listed on the committee's report, for a potential new municipal building. Following discussion, Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to proceed with selling the city-owned lots (identified as sites 3 & 4) located on Main Street, north of the bridge. Motion carried. Further discussion ensued and committee members explained their rationale for their recommendation to construct a new municipal building adjacent to the current City Hall. Discussion was held on exploring costs for both potential sites. Council directed Attorney Schirman and Rickertsen to proceed in contacting property owners adjacent to City Hall and realtors regarding the city-owned lots north of the Main Street bridge. This topic will be placed on the July 7^th agenda.

Vision Committee Status. Mayor Kostichek reported the last Vision Committee meeting was held in conjunction with the City Council on April 10, 2013. Following discussion, Larry Koberg agreed to act as chairperson and pursue revitalization of the committee.

City Attorney Report. Attorney Schirman reported on the status of the proposed storm sewer pipeline crossing under the railroad. Schirman stated the appropriate applications have been filed, both with Iowa Interstate Railroad and Hawkeye Land Company. He questioned if the project was time sensitive as it could take up to 35 days for a response from Hawkeye Land Company or he could proceed with negotiations now. Brockmann recommended waiting since the remaining portions of the project can proceed as planned.

Karen Puck stated she is in the process of establishing a historical society. She reported on her collection of historical items and the need for storage/display.

Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:25 p.m. Ayes: All. Motion carried.

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 16th day of June, 2014, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present were: Tim Koehler, Virgil Wayne Latimer, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: None. City employees present: Jeff Blake, John Brockmann, Lisa Rickertsen, and Tom Schirman.

Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the agenda with the deletions of item 7, Bob Fox : W. Bryant Street Project tree removal, and item 15, Wastewater 3 Operator position. Motion carried. Fox called and reported he was unable to attend and item 15 will be placed on a future agenda.

Consent Agenda. Koehler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from June 2, 2014, May 2014 financial reports, and cigarette permit renewals for Lampliter, Casey's, Weisrock, Inc., Pilot Travel Centers #043 & #268, and Iowa 80 Truckstop, and the May 2013 financial reports. Motion carried.

Audience. Tom and Kayla Sweeney, Christina McDonough, Brent Arp, Donna Housley, William Belz, and Kevin Flack.

Christina McDonough, Scott County Health Department. McDonough was present and discussed the Iowa Community Transformation C.H.A.N.G.E. Tool Assessment Summarization for Walcott. She reviewed the policy and environmental recommendations for the following modules: physical activity, nutrition, tobacco use, chronic disease management, and leadership. She reported the Iowa Community Transformation program would provide paint for mile markers at the recreational trail and pay for handicap mats at the new crossing by the school. Council had no questions and Mayor Kostichek thanked McDonough for attending.

William Belz : Request Permission to Allow Pit Bull at Residence. Prior to the meeting, William Belz provided additional information to the Council regarding his request to either completely reverse the current pit bull ban or to change the Dangerous Animals Ordinance to allow pit bulls with restrictions. Staff also provided information regarding pit bull attacks and fatality statistics. A list of pit bull attack fatalities in 2013 was also provided, which included a child in Iowa. Mengler stated she appreciated his research and his personal interest in keeping his dog however, she can't ignore pit bull's genetic history and their tendency to attack. She stated that protecting the citizens of Walcott should take precedence over animal ownership rights. Donna Housley spoke in favor of keeping the current breed-specific legislation. Jackie Puck stated she had received phone calls from residents that do not want to change the current pit bull ban ordinance. Mayor Kostichek stated he would not be in favor of repealing the ban due to safety concerns of residents and visitors. Kevin Flack, who was previously forced to remove his pit bull from Walcott, questioned if pit bulls could be allowed with restrictions. City Insurance Agent, Brent Arp, reported the three major companies he writes insurance policies for prohibit insuring homeowners that own pit bulls. The companies have a list of ineligible risks which include a list of breeds that are not insurable. Arp stated he not only would support keeping the ban but would consider expanding the ban to include other breeds. Koehler recommended establishing a committee, including local veterinarians and City insurance agent, to review the Dangerous Animals Ordinance. Mayor Kostichek stated he will contact individuals and bring a proposed committee list to the next regular meeting. The current ban still stands and pit bulls are not allowed in Walcott.

Spruce Tree Donation at Prairie View Park. Brent Arp stated he would like to donate a Northern Spruce to be planted near the gazebo at Prairie View Park. The Park Board recommended approval of the donation during their May 7^th meeting. It was discussed that the Prairie View Park Landscaping Plan does not include a tree in the specific area as requested. Arp stated he needs it near the gazebo as he intends to put lights on the tree during the winter, therefore needing access to electricity which is available at the gazebo. Mengler moved to have Brockmann and Arp look at the area and following mutual agreement of tree placement, bring back to the Council for approval. Following further discussion, Mengler rescinded her motion and Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the Northern Spruce donation, contingent upon Brockmann and Arp meeting and agreeing on tree placement. Motion carried. Mayor Kostichek thanked Arp for his donation.

Fire Department Report. Chief Geigle presented a project worksheet to replace hose that didn't pass hose testing. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to purchase the hose from Sandry Fire at a cost of $1,776. Motion carried. Geigle stated they would cut down the old hose and use it for training purposes.

Sidewalk Repair Program. Discussion was held on a sidewalk on N. Henry Street. Brockmann stated this sidewalk has been tilted for many years, mainly caused by semi and heavy equipment traffic from the property to the west. Brockmann will meet with Paustian Concrete to determine possible solutions and costs and bring information to the next meeting.

Ordinance 473-14, Amending the Official Zoning Map. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 474-14. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Latimer, and Mengler. Motion carried. This ordinance amends the zoning on a portion of property located at 440 E. Memorial Road from R-1, Single Family Dwelling District, to SA, Suburban Agricultural District.

Ordinance 474-14, Amending Chapter 167, Pertaining to Accessory Buildings. Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 474-14. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Latimer, Mengler, Koehler, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried. This ordinance clarifies the following:

• All garages must be accessed by a paved driveway (R-1 & R-2 Zoning Districts)
• Car ports shall be considered as a private garage and shall be attached to the primary structure or a detached garage and included in the total square footage. (R-1 & R-2 Zoning Districts)
• Larger accessory buildings allowed on 20,000 square feet lots can be utilized as garages.

Resolution 2014-23, Authorizing Internal Advance of Funds for Main Street Enhancement Project. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2014-23. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Latimer, Mengler, Koehler, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried.

Resolution 2014-24, Transfer of Funds. Rickertsen reported on the proposed year-end transfers. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2014-24. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, Latimer, and Koehler. Motion carried.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake presented the May call reports and reported on the status of part-time officers.

Public Work's Report. Brockmann reported the W. Bryant Street project included removal of a few power poles but the electrical company, Alliant Energy, decided instead to rebuild the entire line in the area. This caused additional tree trimming and removal of trees located both on city right-of-way and private property. Attorney Schirman updated the City Council on the status of obtaining permission from Hawkeye Land Company, owner of the railroad right-of-way, for a pipeline crossing.

City Clerk's Report. Rickertsen distributed the May Building Department report from the Building Official.

Mayor's Report. He thanked the citizens in attendance and also thanked the volunteers and Public Works Department employees on the clean-up and plantings at Welcome Park.

Questions/Concerns. Donna Housley stated there has been broken glass on the recreational trail. Chief Blake stated he would review the cameras from the trail area.

Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:32 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 2nd day of June, 2014, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present were: Tim Koehler, Virgil Wayne Latimer, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: None. City employees present: Jeff Blake, John Brockmann, Lisa Rickertsen, Linda Rivers, and Tom Schirman.

Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the agenda. Motion carried.

Public Hearings. Mayor Kostichek opened the public hearing on the rezoning of a portion of 440 E. Memorial Road from R-1, Single Family Dwelling District to SA, Suburban Agricultural District, as requested by owners, Tom and Kayla Sweeney. Rickertsen stated the zoning change was recommended for approval by the Planning and Zoning Commission on May 12^th and it would allow them to build an outbuilding without restrictions required in R-1 zoning. The building would not have a paved floor or driveway and would be for storage of vehicles that currently are parked outside. No written or other oral comments were received. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to close the public hearing and open the public hearing on Code Changes to Chapter 167.22 regarding accessory buildings/garages. Rickertsen stated this was also recommended for approval by the Planning & Zoning Commission on May 12^th and stated that it was for code clarifications. No written or other oral comments were received. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting. Motion carried.

Consent Agenda. Jacob Puck moved Koehler seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices and minutes from May 19, 2014. Motion carried.

Audience. Tom and Kayla Sweeney, Diane McKinley, Bernard Brus, Kris Burt, Linda Smith, Jason Holdorf, Joe Hahn, Jeanne Brus, Marty Wegener, and William Belz.

Ordinance 473-14, Amending the Official Zoning Map. Koehler introduced and moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 474-14. Seconded by Jackie Puck. Roll call ayes: Tim Koehler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, Latimer, and Mengler. Motion carried. This ordinance amends the zoning on a portion of property located at 440 E. Memorial Road from R-1, Single Family Dwelling District, to SA, Suburban Agricultural District.

Fireworks Approval : Truckers Jamboree. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the fireworks displays application and supporting documents for the Walcott Trucker's Jamboree fireworks on July 10^th and 11^th. Motion carried.

5-Day Class C Liquor License for Walcott Unified Fund. Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve the 5-Day Class C Liquor License for Walcott Unified Fund at Victory Park starting July 18, 2014. Motion carried.

Walcott Day : July 19, 2014.

• Parade. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck moved to approve the Walcott Day Parade and closure of appropriate streets on July 19, 2014. Motion carried.
• 5K Race & Street Closure. Rickertsen stated a change in the route is needed due to closures for street improvements. This topic was tabled until a new route is established and presented.
• Street Closures. Jacob Puck moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve closing N. Henry Street, between James and Lincoln Streets; E. Otis Street, between Henry and Downey Streets; and N. Downey Street, between James and Lincoln Streets on July 19, 2014. Motion carried.
• Fireworks : July 18, 2014. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the fireworks display application and supporting documents for the Walcott Day fireworks on July 18^th. Motion carried.

Building Committee Recommendations. Committee members Jason Holdorf and Kris Burt reported on the recommendations from the Building Committee. They reported the committee looked at available properties, toured existing city departments, interviewed each department head to identify current limitations and anticipated long term needs, and developed a matrix to document the pros and cons of each site considered. Their recommendation is to expand City Hall at the current location which would require purchase of two additional properties that are currently not owned by the City. The acquisition of these two properties would provide a lot large enough to place a 6,400 square foot building and provide ample off-street parking. The committee also encourages the City Council to either sell or further develop the properties that will not be utilized for a new City Hall. Mayor Kostichek stated the committee has completed their task and thanked the members for their work. The committee members are as follows: Mayor Kostichek, Jason Holdorf, Jeanne Brus, Bernard Brus, Linda Smith, Kris Burt, Brent Puck, and Melvin D Brus (Fire Department representative). John Brockmann and Jackie Puck were thanked for their attendance at the meetings and for providing historical information and documentation.

S. Downey Street Water Main Project. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve payment #4 to Ellsworth Excavating, as recommended by the project engineer, in the amount of $684.46. Motion carried. Mengler questioned the status of the street restoration. Brockmann stated the street restoration (seal coating) and seeding are not done yet and are part of the contract that needs to be completed by the contractor.

Ordinance 472-14, Providing for the Division of Taxes Levied on Taxable Property in the 2014 Addition to the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area, Pursuant to Section 403.19 of the Code of Iowa. Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 472-14. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Latimer, Koehler, Jacob Puck, and Jackie Puck. Motion carried.

Ordinance 474-14, Amending Chapter 167, Pertaining to Accessory Buildings. Koehler introduced and moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 474-14. Seconded by Jacob Puck. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Latimer, and Mengler. Motion carried. This ordinance clarifies the following:

• All garages must be accessed by a paved driveway (R-1 & R-2 Zoning Districts)
• Car ports shall be considered as a private garage and shall be attached to the primary structure or a detached garage and included in the total square footage. (R-1 & R-2 Zoning Districts)
• Larger accessory buildings allowed on 20,000 square feet lots can be utilized as garages.

Resolution 2014-21, Setting Employee Wages for FYE 2015. Rickertsen stated that at the last meeting the Policy and Administration Committee, Jacob Puck and Mengler, recommended wage increases of 1.5% for employees for FYE 2015. Resolution 2014-21 reflects that recommendation. Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve Resolution 2014-21. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Latimer, Mengler, Koehler, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried.

Resolution 2014-22, Approving an Amendment to the Personnel Policy Handbook. Rickertsen stated the Policy and Administration Committee also recommended twenty hours of paid time off for Building Official, Linda Rivers, starting July 1, 2014. Koehler questioned why full-time staff receive only sixteen hours of personal leave and the Building Official would receive twenty hours. Rickertsen stated the Building Official is not eligible for other leave, such as vacation and sick leave, and the personal leave section seemed appropriate for the allotted twenty hours of paid time off for Rivers. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2014-22, with a clarification that the Building Official is not eligible for other paid leave such as vacation or sick leave. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, Latimer, and Mengler. Motion carried.

1113 N Main Street. Rickertsen stated Mr. Brammeier called and is no longer interested in leasing the building. Another prospective tenant and a potential buyer both toured the building but no further communication has been received. Further discussion ensued regarding scheduling a special meeting to discuss the Building Committee's recommendation. Questions arose and Attorney Schirman stated the City always has the option of proceeding with the eminent domain process for property, if needed. A special meeting will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, June 23^rd to discuss the Building Committee's recommendations.

Building Department Report. Rivers presented a list and pictures of properties requiring sidewalk repairs. Discussion was held on the list, which includes thirty-nine residential properties, and the Residential Sidewalk Repair Program (RSRP). The RSRP was started in 2010 to assist property owners in defraying the costs of repairing residential sidewalks. The program allows reimbursement of 50% of the paid invoice for approved applicants. Discussion was held on a property on N. Henry Street where almost the entire sidewalk slopes. Rivers will obtain further cost estimates for that property. Following discussion, council consensus was to have Rivers proceed with the sidewalk notification letters and RSRP as presented and discussed.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake presented information on a 3-day drug interdiction course in Des Moines he would like to attend in August. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the training at a cost not to exceed $1,070. Motion carried. Rickertsen stated the training workshop fee of $590 will be paid this fiscal year and the remaining costs (travel, lodging, and food) will be paid at the time of training later this summer.

Public Work's Report. Brockmann reported on the sidewalk project by the school, disposal of green picnic tables due to safety issues, arrival of new mower, and the recent street repairs due to water main breaks this past winter.

Mayor's Report. Mayor Kostichek stated he was glad to see citizens attend the meeting. Mayor Kostichek acknowledged William Belz and stated he needs to request to be listed on the agenda if he wants to further discuss his request to allow his pit bull to reside at his residence. Belz stated he had additional information for the council and requested to be placed on the June 16^th meeting agenda.

Questions/Concerns. Holdorf questioned if the I-Jobs sign at Prairie View Park can be removed. Rickertsen will check into grant details to see if it can be removed. Jackie Puck questioned the amount of hours the Building Official routinely works. Rickertsen stated the Wage Resolutions that have been approved by the Council the past two years authorizes the Building Official to work up to twenty-nine hours per week. She stated the Building Offiicial's regular working hours are 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday : Friday, which amounts to twenty-five hours per week. Discussion was held on the status of the Vision Committee. This will be placed on the special meeting agenda on June 23^rd.

Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to adjourn at 7:38 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

June Newsletter