The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 7^th day of April, 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. Motion carried.

Consent Agenda. Koehler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from March 17, 2014, March 2014 financial reports, Lampliter Class C Liquor License renewal and Walcott Unified Fund beer permits for Wescott and Victory Parks. Motion carried.

Audience. Larry Koberg, Shane Smith, Randy Moeller, Andrea, Harrison, and Marin Schmidt, and Michael and Robbie Greve.

Fastpitch Tournaments. Larry Koberg was present and reported that there will be two fastpitch softball tournaments this summer. The Fastpitch Invitational will be held from May 23^rd : May 25^th and the Iowa Area ISC Qualifier Men's Fastpitch Tournament will be from June 5^th : June 8^th. Koberg requested fencing both Wescott and Victory Parks for the tournaments, beginning on May 21^st. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to allow the fences to be installed at Wescott and Victory Parks on May 21^st and be removed on June 9^th. Motion carried.

2014 Pavement Markings. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve participating with Scott County for pavement markings this year. Motion carried.

Resolution 2014-12, Set Date for Public Hearing W. Bryant Street Improvement Project. Latimer moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2014-12. Roll call ayes: Latimer, Jackie Puck, Mengler, Koehler, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried. The public hearing will be at 6:00 p.m. on April 21^st and bids will be received until 2:00 p.m. on April 30^th.

Resolution 2014-13, Set Date for Public Hearing on Designation of the Expanded Urban Renewal Area and Plan Amendment. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2014-13. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, Latimer, and Mengler. Motion carried. The public hearing will be at 6:00 p.m. on May 5^th.

Resolution 2014-14, Authorizing Payment for the Demolition of Building per Dangerous Building Order. Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to approve Resolution 2014-14. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Latimer, Koehler, Jacob Puck, and Jackie Puck. Motion carried. Payment in the amount of $3,488 will be made to Holst Trucking & Excavating.

Ordinance 470-14, Amending Certain Provisions Pertaining to Parking Prohibited. Discussion was held on the proposed changes to Chapter 69 regarding parking restrictions. Rickertsen discussed the changes as requested by council. Mengler introduced and moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 470-14. Seconded by Koehler. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Koehler, Latimer, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried. The amendment includes a change in the introduction of Chapter 69.06, to define that vehicles include towables/trailers, and adding that front yard parking in residential R-1, R-2, and R-3 zoning areas is prohibited unless parking is on an approved driveway surface. This ordinance is not effective until after three readings are held and publication of ordinance.

Summer Youth Program. Robbie Greve was present to ask the council to consider raising the grade/age limit for the Summer Youth Program. The ages for the program are currently 5 : 12. Following discussion, Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to increase the Summer Youth Program age to 14. Motion carried. Rickertsen will contact Camp Abe Lincoln regarding the program age change.

Police Department Report. Mayor Kostichek reported on complaints regarding the Police Department's schedule. Chief Blake noted that schedules are adjusted as needed.

Public Work's Report. Brockmann reported on his review of the plans and specifications for the W. Bryant Street Improvement project and upcoming concrete work due to watermain breaks.

City Clerk's Report.

• Prairie View Park Native Plantings. Dan Mays' presentation on the plantings at Prairie View Park will be on Tuesday, April 22^nd, at 6:30 p.m. in the Fire Meeting room.
• Building Department Report. Rickertsen distributed the March report from the Building Official.

Mayor's Report. Mayor Kostichek appointed Josh Geigle, Fire Chief, to the Scott County E911 Board.

Questions/Concerns. Randy Moeller questioned the status of the S. Downey Street pavement project. It was discussed that this project is in the Capital Improvements Plan but the only street project currently budgeted is the W. Bryant Street project.

Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to adjourn at 6:35 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 17^th day of March, 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.

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

Consent Agenda. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from March 3, 2014, and the February 2014 financial reports. Motion carried.

Audience. Kent Arp, Eugene Meyer, and Jason Holdorf.

Resolution 2014-11, Approving Site Plan for Eugene Meyer : 123 W. Walcott Road. Attorney Schirman reported on the recommendation from the Planning & Zoning Commission to approve the Site Plan for Eugene Meyer, with the conditions as listed in Resolution 2014-11. Attorney Schirman went through the list of conditions, which include the following:

• Receipt of final information from the IDNR (Iowa Department of Natural Resources) and proof of the applicant's compliance with any steps that must be taken as a result of IDNR preliminary or final information.
• Steps previously taken or which may be taken on the property that does not require a City permit are solely at the applicant's risk and may need to be undone or changed as a result of final requirements and that such undoing or changing is the sole expense of the applicant.
• No building permit(s) will be issued until all Site Plan matters are resolved and note that building permit requirements are independent from Site Plan requirements.
• No earth will be moved onto adjacent property of if moved or to be moved onto adjacent property, submission of a written document agreeing to the same and signed by the owners(s) of the adjacent property.

Eugene Meyer and Kent Arp had no objections and agreed with the conditions. Koehler moved and Latimer seconded to approve Resolution 2014-11. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Latimer, Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck.

Spring Clean-up. Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to schedule spring clean-up day on Saturday, May 3^rdfrom 2:5 p.m. Motion carried. This will be located at the Public Works building for Walcott residents only. No electronic, business, or household hazardous waste. Tires, appliances, and bulky items will be accepted at no charge.

Gazebo & Bench Plaques at Prairie View Park. Latimer moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the Park Board's recommendation to purchase a total of seven plaques for the benches and gazebo at Prairie View Park at a cost not to exceed $975. Motion carried. The low bid was from Trophy Shoppe. Park Board member(s) will install the plaques.

Summer Youth Program. Rickertsen reported the rate for a six-week summer youth program with Scott County YMCA will increase 3% this year. The cost to the City, per participant, will be $197.45. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the 2014 Summer Youth Program. Fees will be $70 per participant for children residing in city limits or Fire District #6 and the full cost of $197.45 for non-residents. The program is for ages 5 : 12 and will run from June 16^th : July 25^th on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

Urban Renewal Area. Discussion was held on adding property to the Consolidated Urban Renewal Area (URA) and updating the Urban Renewal Area Plan. The Main Street right-of-way and East Lincoln Street right-of-way will be added to the URA along with several parcels as discussed. The Plan will be amended to include the Main Street Enhancement project, Iowa 80 Truckstop TIF rebate, and the Municipal Building project. Rickertsen will forward the information as discussed to the bonding attorney.

Public Work's Report. Brockmann reported on the building demolition on the NW corner of Main Street and Lincoln Street, flow meter installation for the inflow and infiltration study, and submission of permit to the IDNR for the James Street water main project.

City Clerk's Report.

• Prairie View Park Native Plantings. Dan Mays' presentation on the plantings at Prairie View Park will be on Tuesday, April 22^nd, at 6:30 p.m. in the Fire Meeting room.
• Housing Rehabilitation Program. Rickertsen presented information on an owner-occupied housing rehabilitation program. Discussion was held on advertising in the Walcott Chamber of Commerce newsletter, seeking interested home owners who meet the income guidelines for the Housing Fund grant through the Iowa Economic Development Authority. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to proceed with advertising for the program. Motion carried. If enough interest is generated, the grant will be applied for and if grant funds are received, they will be available to assist homeowners in the City of Walcott with the rehabilitation of their homes. A sign-up form for the program is available at City Hall.
• Building Department Report. Rickertsen distributed the February report from the Building Official.

Mayor's Report. Mayor Kostichek reported on the Splash Pad Committee and the Citizens' Municipal Building Committee meetings. He invited the Council Park Committee, Jackie Puck and Latimer, to attend the Splash Pad Committee meetings. Discussion was held on the fence installation for the future splash pad area.

Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:00 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 3^rd day of March, 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.

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

Public Hearing. Mayor Kostichek opened the public hearing on the FYE 2015 budget. Rickertsen stated the proposed tax levy will increase to $10.12 per 1,000 tax valuation on regular property. This 12 cent increase is the first levy rate increase in seven years. Rickertsen reported the budget includes $385,000 for a proposed fire truck and $1,660,000 in proposed capital projects. No written or other oral comments were received. Jacob Puck moved and Latimer seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting. Motion carried.

Consent Agenda. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices and minutes from February 17, 2014. Motion carried.

Audience. Jason Holdorf, Janice Dawson, Jay Stanley (Stanley Consultants), Devon Arp, Eugene Meyer, Kent Arp, Larry Koberg, Shane Smith, John Schliekelman, Dan Mays, Randy Prine, and Glenn Houghton.

Contract Approval for Sanitary Sewer Inflow & Infiltration Study. Attorney Schirman stated the contract has been revised and his concerns have been addressed, therefore he recommended approval of the contract. Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve the contract for a Sanitary Sewer Inflow & Infiltration Study with Stanley Consultants. Motion carried. Contract services shall not exceed $155,000 without prior authorization from the City.

Contract Approval for WET Source Identification Project. Jay Brady reported on the testing results on the Whole Effluent Toxicity (WET) test, which was required by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). Brady reported the proposed contract with Askew Scientific Consulting LLC will help to identify the sources of toxicity. Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve the WET Source Identification Project contract with Askew Scientific Consulting LLC. Motion carried. Contract services shall not exceed $11,400.

Eugene Meyer. Eugene Meyer stated he was very discouraged with the City as there was never any indication that the property he purchased on North Main Street was in a flood plain area. Attorney Schirman responded that flood plain maps are prepared by FEMA and they are not recorded on individual lots by any city. Schirman stated the flood plain maps for Walcott are not very detailed. He also stated the City has done nothing wrong and has followed the Site Plan process where the City Engineer determined that the proposed building may be in the flood plain area during his review. Jason Holdorf stated Meyer's parcel is an unstudied area and the IDNR is in the process of determining elevations of the project area. Jackie Puck and Mayor Kostichek expressed the City's enthusiasm with his project and that the City's proposed Main Street Enhancement project will help provide safe pedestrian access to the proposed development. Kent Arp reported on a similar situation in Davenport and questioned why the City can't recommend approval of the Site Plan, contingent upon receiving elevations by the IDNR. Following further discussion, Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to ask the Planning and Zoning Commission to review and recommend approval of the Site Plan, contingent upon final IDNR elevations/approval, if that is the only issue with the Site Plan. Motion carried. The Planning & Zoning Commission will meet on March 10^th to review the Site Plan.

Liability/Property/Worker's Compensation Insurance Renewal. Rickertsen recommended renewing the IAMU Safety Group Insurance Program with EMC Insurance Company, utilizing local agent Brent Arp. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to renew the insurance with EMC Insurance Company. Motion carried.

Urban Renewal Area. Rickertsen presented the current Consolidated Urban Renewal Area map and most recent plan amendment. Discussion was held on adding the entire Main Street right-of-way to the Urban Renewal Area along with other properties located along Main Street. A larger map which indicates property lot lines was requested prior to any council action. This will be on the next regular meeting agenda.

Ordinance 469-14, Amending Provisions Pertaining to Mobile Home Park Regulations. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the third reading of Ordinance 469-14. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Latimer, and Mengler. Motion carried. This amendment is in regards to building permit fees and inspections for mobile homes.

Resolution 2014-9, Approving the Adoption of the FYE 2015 Budget. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2014-9. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Koehler, and Latimer. Motion carried.

Resolution 2014-10, Approving Contract for Demolition of Building per Dangerous Building Order. Attorney Schirman stated everything is in order with the contract with Holst Trucking and Excavating and Building Official, Linda Rivers, is addressing concerns from the property owner. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2014-10. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Latimer, and Mengler. Motion carried.

City Clerk's Report.

• Computer Purchase. Rickertsen presented a project worksheet to replace the Deputy City Clerk's computer. Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to approve the computer purchase and a ten hour block package from Computer Evolutions at a total cost not to exceed the $1,920. Motion carried.
• Prairie View Park Native Plantings Presentation. Dan Mays was present and stated he would like to give a presentation to the community outlining what native plants they can expect to see at Prairie View Park/Heritage Trail. Council was supportive of the presentation and agreed he could utilize the Fire Department meeting room, based on availability. Once the date is confirmed, an article will be placed in the Chamber newsletter. Questions arose on a spring prairie burn. Brockmann stated it is planned for this spring when conditions are favorable.

• Right-of-Way and Front Yard Parking Restrictions. Rickertsen reported that an ordinance has been prepared for prohibiting parking as discussed at the last meeting but staff is in the process of identifying areas that may need to be exempted. The ordinance will be presented to council at a future meeting.

Rickertsen also reported on the progress of the new redesigned website for the City and stated she would like additional pictures to be added prior to the website going live.

City Attorney Report. Discussion was held on the letter from City Engineer, Jon White, regarding the W. Bryant Street project. White requested an extension to the end of March to complete the engineering construction documents. Rickertsen stated possible dates for the project plans and specifications public hearing and bid letting if the documents are completed by the end of March. Council consensus was to have Attorney Schirman respond to White's letter.

Mayor's Report. Mayor Kostichek reported on the Splash Pad Committee's first meeting and their excitement on the project. He expressed his thanks to the committee members for volunteering their time towards the project. He also thanked the audience for attending the meeting and the Public Works Department for their snow removal efforts, especially on so many weekends this year.

Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:15 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 17^th day of February, 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, Jackie Huston, Linda Rivers, and Tom Schirman.

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

Consent Agenda. Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from 2/3/14, January 2014 Financial Reports, Resolution 2014-6, Approving Wage increase for Building Official, and Resolution 2014-7, Adopting the 2013 Supplement to the Walcott Code of Ordinances. Motion carried with unanimous roll call vote.

Audience. Joe & Jessie Latsch and Joe Hahn.

Contract approval for Sanitary Sewer Inflow & Infiltration Study. Brockmann recommended waiting to approve the contract due to the concerns Attorney Schirman has with the contract. Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to table the contract until the next meeting. Motion carried.

Iowa U.S. Route 6 Renewal. Following discussion on the renewal, Koehler moved and Jake Puck seconded to approve the 2 year renewal for $150.00. Motion carried.

Ordinance 469-14, Amending Chapter 125, Pertaining to Mobile Home Park Regulations. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 469-14. Motion carried with a unanimous roll call vote.

Splash Pad Advisory Committee. Mayor Kostichek requested approval to appoint the following committee members: Bridget Geigle, Danielle Blake, Lisa Holdorf, Leah Patton, Jackie Geigle, Heidi Wulf, and Amy Leuenhagen. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the appointments. Motion carried.

Potential Parking Code Changes. The following parking restrictions were discussed for possible code changes-

√ò Right-of-way parking. Parking is currently prohibited on the street ROW that lies between the curb and the property line that is not covered by driveway. The recommendation would be to change it to curbline for areas that do not have a actual curb. Some areas may need to be exempted. Council consensus was to make the change.

√ò Front yard parking. This change would be to prohibit parking in front yards except on driveways. Corner lots have two front yards. Council consensus was to make this change.

√ò Side & rear yard parking. Possible restrictions could include: limiting the number of motor vehicles and/or towables to 2 or 3 in the rear yard or allowing a certain percentage of the rear yard to be hard-surfaced for parking. Due to the complicated nature of this issue and a lack of Council consensus, this topic will be put on a future agenda for discussion.

√ò Motor vehicles on jacks. The Council consensus was to limit vehicles being allowed outside on jacks. Approved jack stands versus other more dangerous materials was discussed. Length of time allowed for jack stand use was reviewed. Schirman and Rivers will return to a future meeting with recommendations.

Planning & Zoning Commission Concerns. Huston presented the following issues that were discussed at the P&Z meeting and are being brought to the Council for direction-

√ò Accessory buildings on larger lots. Current code allows lots that are larger than 20,000 sq. ft. to construct a second accessory building up to 3,000 sq. ft. Huston questioned if the accessory building would be considered too large if the house was only 800-900 sq. ft. P&Z did not have a recommendation to lower the square footage, so Koehler recommended leaving it as is and the rest of the Council did not disagree.

√ò Special Uses Permitted. Attorney Schirman recommended allowing residential use in conjunction with commercial use in C-1 and C-2 zoning. P&Z also would recommend this change. Council consensus was to proceed with the change.

√ò Car Ports. P&Z is recommending language that would consider approved car ports as part of the allowed square footage of an attached or detached garage and that the car port must be attached to the garage or primary structure. Council consensus was to add the language.

√ò Snow fences. P&Z had a request to allow snow fences to be placed in front yards as that is where they are likely needed. Currently, snow fences are not allowed in front yards. Following discussion, the Council determined that front yard snow fences could allow snow to drift on neighboring properties and did not consider them appropriate for front yards.

The recommended code changes will be prepared for a P&Z meeting.
Building Department : Resolution Awarding Contract for Demolition of Building. Rivers reported that the bids had been opened and some had been very reasonable. Tom has approved the contract and lawful disposal of the material is included. Following discussion, Koehler moved and Jake Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2014-8, awarding the contract for demolition to Holst Trucking in the amount of $3,488.00. Motion carried with unanimous roll call vote.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake gave the January 2014 call reports to the Council. He also reported on staffing in his department and that the damaged squad is still not repaired.

Public Works Department Report. Brockmann reported on winter related difficulties including another water main break and snow removal. He is still attempting to get an asbestos removal estimate for the recently purchased building on Main Street. Delays on the Bryant Street project were discussed. Council requested that Schirman contact the City Engineer to attempt to get the engineering on the project completed.

Mayor's Report. Mayor Kostichek reported that the Municipal Building Committee had been meeting and was making progress. The next meeting is February 18^th.

Jackie Puck moved and Koehler 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 3^rd day of February, 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.

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

Consent Agenda. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from January 20, 2014, minutes from January 27, 2014, and the liquor license renewal for Gramma's Kitchen and The Checkered Flag. Motion carried.

Audience. None.

Iowa U.S. Route 6 Renewal. Discussion was held on the U.S. Route 6 Tourist Association renewal. Council requested further information on the organization and their activities. Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to table the renewal until further information is obtained. Motion carried.

Ordinance 469-14, Amending Chapter 125, Pertaining to Mobile Home Park Regulations. Jackie Puck introduced and moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 469-14. Seconded by Latimer. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Latimer, Mengler, Koehler, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried.

FYE 2015 Budget. Discussion was held on the proposed budget for FYE 2015 (July 1, 2014 : June 30, 2015). Rickertsen recommended increasing the tax levy rate from $10.00 to $10.12 due to the declining general fund balance and to allow for continued transfers to reserve funds for future equipment, vehicles, and projects. Projected vehicles/equipment purchases for FYE 2015 totals $585,000 and includes a new fire truck, snow plow, and pickup truck. Capital projects budgeted for FYE 2015 total $1,660,000. Rickertsen presented information on the rollback and changes to Iowa's property tax system. She explained that if the assessed values remain the same, residential property owners will see an increase in taxes, even without a levy rate increase, due to the rollback figures for FYE 2015, and commercial and industrial property owners will see a decrease. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to increase the tax levy rate to $10.12 for FYE 2015. Motion carried. This is the first levy rate increase since FYE 2008. A $.12 levy increase on a residential property with an assessed valuation of $100,000 would cost the homeowner approximately $6.50 for the entire year. Proprietary Funds (sewer, water, and garbage) were discussed and Rickertsen recommended increasing the sewer rate $.20 – $.25 per 1,000 gallons. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to increase the sewer rate $.25 per 1,000 gallons effective with the July 1, 2014 bills. Motion carried. Minimum bills (1,400 gallons and less) will increase $.35/month and an average bill of 5,000 gallons will increase $1.25/month. The public hearing for the FYE 2015 budget will be March 3, 2014 at 6:00 p.m.

Police Department Report. Discussion was held on the snow emergency procedures and the difficulty in plowing streets with cars parked on them. During a snow emergency, all vehicles and equipment shall be parked on the odd-numbered side of the street for odd-numbered calendar dates and on the even numbered side of the street for even-numbered dates. Even though an emergency is not declared it would be beneficial for residents to adhere to the policy during any snow fall. Chief Blake gave an update on the K9 squad.

City Clerk's Report. Rickertsen reported she was contacted in regards to selling the property at 1113 N. Main Street for commercial purposes. Council encouraged staff to pursue the inquiry. She also reported that due to recent changes to the Urban Renewal (TIF) laws, plan amendments are now required for all projects and rebates. She recommended council attend a meeting in Durant with Attorney John Danos to discuss the TIF regulations and changes on Wednesday February 26^th. Rickertsen will contact Danos to schedule a private meeting with him regarding potential projects and rebates. Rickertsen also reported that five bids were received for the dangerous building (barn) demolition project. The topic will be on the next regular agenda. Attorney Schirman will research if staff costs can be included with the cost assessed to the property owner.

Questions/Concerns. Mengler questioned the status of the Meier property/project. It was reported that the Iowa Department of Natural Resources is in the process of determining elevations for the property. Rickertsen stated that the Floodplain maps are prepared by FEMA and are available to the public online. The City Engineer determined part of the lot may be in the floodplain area during his Site Plan review. During discussion, it was noted that the City is enthused about the proposed project and the City's proposed Main Street Enhancement project will help provide safe pedestrian access to the north Main Street area. Brockmann reported he is waiting for response for asbestos abatement for the property at the NW corner of Main and Lincoln Streets that the City recently purchased.

Jake Puck moved and Latimer seconded to adjourn at 7:25 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 20^th day of January, 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 Jackie Puck seconded to approve the agenda. Motion carried.

Consent Agenda. Koehler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from January 16, 2014, and the December 2013 financial reports. Motion carried.

Audience. Engineers Jay Brady and Jason Holdorf.

January 8, 2014 Minutes. Latimer moved and Koehler seconded to approve the minutes from January 8, 2014. Jacob Puck and Mengler abstained due to absence. Motion carried.

Main Street Enhancement Project. Jason Holdorf, Missman Inc., presented and discussed the agreement for services for the Main Street Enhancement (streetscape) project. This gateway development project would include sidewalks and decorative lighting for the area on Main Street from the bridge north. Main Street enhancement/decorative lighting is one of the top priorities from the Vision Committee & City Council following the Main Street Assessment Report in 2012. Rickertsen stated that this project could be funded with TIF funds. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the agreement with Missman Inc. as presented. Motion carried.

Sanitary Sewer Inflow and Infiltration Study. Jay Brady, Stanley Consultants, was present to discuss the proposed sanitary sewer inflow and infiltration study. The first phase of the work consists of flow metering, system mapping and manhole inspection work. Following discussion, Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to proceed with Phase I of the study at an approximate cost of $155,000. Motion carried. Actual costs may be less, especially depending on the length of time needed for flow metering.

No Parking Area by School. Discussion was held that since a crosswalk was approved by council last fall there should not be any parking within ten feet of the crosswalk.

Building Department Report. Building Official, Linda Rivers, presented her report including a recap of the permits she issued in 2013, an update of open permits/projects, and rental housing property/ownership updates. She also reported on the following:

• Dangerous Building Update. Rivers reported she spoke further with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and resubmitted the bid documents for demolition of the barn to ten contractors. Sealed bids are due January 31^st by 2:00 p.m. at which time they will be opened.
• Junk & Junk Vehicles. Rivers presented changes to Chapter 51, Junk and Junk Vehicles, which council concurred. Rickertsen will prepare an ordinance for the proposed changes for the next regular meeting.
• Parking on Private Property. A lengthy discussion was held on parking on private property in residential areas. Discussion included whether or not parking of vehicles and towables/trailers should be allowed to park on grass on private properties or restricted to a certain number allowed per property. No action was taken but this topic will be discussed again during the February 17^th meeting.
• Mobile Home Ordinance Update. Rivers reported Chapter 145, Mobile Home Park Regulations, needs to be updated due to state law changes regarding licensing/requirements for plumbing and electrical work. The proposed changes will be prepared in ordinance form for the next regular meeting.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake requested approval for Officer Mayberry to attend a two week training in Des Moines this spring. The cost includes travel and meal reimbursement and $300 for lodging. Chief Blake stated he expects the training fee of $175 to be paid by the local LEIN (Law Enforcement Intelligence Network) office. Since there is still funding remaining in the Police Department budget for training and related expenses, Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve the training. Motion carried.

City Clerk's Report. A budget meeting was scheduled for January 27^th at 5:30 p.m.

New Business/Concerns. Koehler expressed his concern regarding a succession plan at such time when John Brockmann chooses to retire.

Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:42 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 Wednesday, the 8^th day of January, 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, and Jackie Puck. Absent: Lisa Mengler and Jacob Puck. City employees present: John Brockmann, Lisa Rickertsen, and Tom Schirman.

Koehler moved and Puck seconded to approve the agenda. Motion carried.

Consent Agenda. Koehler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from December 16, 2013, Resolution 2014-1 Authorizing Certain Payments Before a Council Meeting, Resolution 2014-2 Designation of Official Newspaper, Resolution 2014-3 Designation of Financial Institutions as Depositories, Resolution 2014-4 Establishing the Standard Mileage Rate Reimbursement, and Resolution 2014-5 Establishing Policy Regarding the use of Economic Development Incentives (TIF Rebate Program). Roll call ayes: Koehler, Latimer, and Puck. Nays: None. Motion carried.

Audience. Fire Department members: Lon Warnecke, Korry Kraft, Jim Kirkley, Rusty Holzworth, and Chief Josh Geigle.

Korry Kraft : Water Main Break. Korry Kraft expressed his appreciation to Brockmann for promptly responding to an early morning water main break behind his house on January 7^th. He also expressed concerns regarding the frequency of water main breaks behind his house and requested barricades for his sidewalks due to several inches of ice that formed due to the break. Brockmann stated he will place barricades and salt the sidewalk and stated the water main replacement is on schedule for this year. Mayor Kostichek stated this project would be a top priority. Kraft stated he had a lot of water in his basement and will have someone check his foundation to see if there are any problems.

Durant Ambulance Donation. Koehler moved and Puck seconded to approve the annual donation to Durant Ambulance in the amount of $1,000. Motion carried.

Sanitary Sewer Inflow and Infiltration Study. Brockman presented information from Jay Brady, Stanley Consultants, regarding the need and overview of an inflow and infiltration study. Brockmann stated the first step would be to install flow meters. Further discussion will be held at a future meeting with Brady present.

S. Downey Street Water Main Project.

• Payment #3. Koehler moved and Puck seconded to approve payment #3 to Ellsworth Excavating, Inc. in the amount of $7,544.74, as recommended by the project engineer. Motion carried.
• Early Release of Retainage. Ellsworth Excavating requested the release of retained funds for the project since a substantial portion of the project is complete. Attorney Schirman stated the Iowa Code requires a process to be followed and additional documentation is required prior to any council action.

Fire Department Report. Chief Geigle presented an overview of the 2015 Freightliner Pumper the department is recommending to purchase. Three bids were received ranging from $358,383 – $387,980. He stated the cost does not include additional equipment, such as valves and fittings, which is needed and will be compatible with existing department vehicles. Questions arose on the truck that is being replaced. Geigle stated the intent would be to dispose of the vehicle. He will try to obtain a value on the vehicle from a truck representative. Following further questions and discussion, Latimer moved and Puck seconded to approve the truck purchase from Alexis Fire at a cost of $358,383, with a total purchase price, including additional equipment, not to exceed $385,000. Motion carried. Grants from Scott County Regional Authority ($50,000) and Alliant Energy ($2,500) and a donation of $250 from MidAmerican Energy were received towards the truck purchase. Geigle also presented the proposed resolution to dispatching issues with Durant Ambulance. Chief Geigle and the Fire Department Truck Committee were thanked for their efforts regarding the purchase of the new fire truck.

Privacy Fence : City Lots East of Tennis Courts. Brockmann presented quotes on different types of fencing, as requested by Council. Discussion was held on the durability, maintenance, and future replacement costs. Following further discussion, Koehler moved and Puck seconded to proceed with the quote from S&V Fencing for a 5' privacy chain link fence with plastic slats. Motion carried. The adjacent homeowner will be asked about the color preference.

Public Work's Report. Brockmann presented his report including the recent water main breaks and vehicle break downs. Mayor Kostichek thanked the Public Works employees for the clearing of streets during recent snow accumulations and blowing. It was stated that a lot of vehicles remain on the streets during snow falls which impede the snow plows and are not parking on the side with even addresses on even numbered calendar days and on the side with odd numbered addresses on odd numbered calendar days.

City Clerk's Report. Rickertsen presented her report including the following:

• Puck moved and Latimer seconded to request the State Auditor's Office perform the annual examination for FYE 2014. Motion carried.
• A special council meeting workshop will be held on January 16^th at 5:00 p.m. at City Hall to review and discuss the budget.
• Distributed the building department report for the month of December.
• No bids were received for the demolition of the barn at 780 E. James Street. Building Official, Linda Rivers, suggested removing the asbestos abatement from the bidding documents and having the City proceed with any required asbestos testing. Puck moved and Latimer seconded to proceed with any required asbestos testing on the barn. Motion carried.

Mayor's Report. Mayor Kostichek reported the Citizens Building Committee had their first meeting and will meet again on January 21^st.

Puck moved and Latimer seconded to adjourn at 7:22 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.