March 16, 2016 Special Meeting

City of Walcott March 16, 2016

A special meeting of the City Council of the City of Walcott, Iowa was held on Wednesday, March 16, 2016, 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:  Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, and Josh Geigle.

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

Downey Street Sidewalk Assessment Project. Letters were sent to seven property owners on S. Downey Street regarding a proposed sidewalk assessment project, in conjunction with the S. Downey Street Reconstruction Project. Three affected property owners were in attendance, along with Project Engineer, Eric Schallert, MSA Professional Services.  Questions arose on one property that does not currently have sidewalks on their entire lot.  Council consensus was to add the property owner to the sidewalk assessment project (approximately 10’).  Following review of the assessment project, it was concluded that Rickertsen will send the necessary paperwork to all affected property owners.

Proposed Municipal Building.  David Nichols, Downing Architects, presented and reviewed the proposed municipal building preliminary design plans.  This building would house City Hall staff, Council Chambers, Police Department, and a small community room which can be opened up for additional Council Chamber seating. Discussion was held on the larger garage doors to accommodate the squad vehicles.  Chief Geigle stated the Fire Department needs additional space for their equipment, records, and office.  Discussion was held on space that would become available if a new municipal building is built. Mengler stated the City needs to think about the community’s history and the request from Karen Puck for space to house historical items. Nichols reviewed the proposed changes to the architect agreement between the City and Downing Architects.  The revised agreement includes changes to dates and compensation for services, which were modified based on the increase to the building size (from 8,100 SF to 9,360 SF).  Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to approve the revised contract, pay a lump sum of $23,320 for the Schematic and Design Phase, and fix the other two phases at a percentage of construction bid costs, as discussed. Motion carried.  The updated estimated project budget is $1,500,000 – $1,700,000.  Karla Burt was present and stated she felt the proposed building will be a wonderful asset to the community.

Jacob Puck moved and Koehler seconded to adjourn at 7:58 p.m.  Ayes:  All.  Motion carried.

March 16, 2016 – Special Meeting

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