The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 6th day of July, 2015, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present were: Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: Tim Koehler and Virgil Wayne Latimer. City employees present: Jeff Blake, John Brockmann, Lisa Rickertsen, and Tom Schirman.

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

Audience. Randy Moeller, Kent Arp, Gene Meyer, Janice Dawson, Joe Quick, Kirk Koberg, Deb Mathias, and Jay Brady.

Consent Agenda. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from June 15th, annual cigarette permit renewal for Lamp-Liter, Class A liquor license renewal for Walcott Legion Post #548, beer permit renewals for Pilot Travel Center #043 & #268, and the annual Scott County Humane Society agreement renewal. Motion carried.

Stanley Consultants : Sewer Inflow & Infiltration Study. Deb Mathias and Jay Brady were present to report on the results of the phase 1 sewer inflow and infiltration study. Mathias reported on what was accomplished in phase 1, what the results were and what the next steps are. Phase 1 consisted of flow monitoring and data analysis, manhole locates and inspections, and sanitary sewer map development. Potential next steps include: smoke testing, televising of city sewers, manhole rehabilitation, and additional manhole inspections and mapping. Some estimated costs were also included in the report for future budgeting. Brady stated this is a long term investment and could take up to 10 years to complete. Following a lengthy discussion, Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to table any action until a future council meeting when all council members can be present. Motion carried.

Employee Benefits/Personnel Policy. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to table until the next regular meeting. Motion carried.

W. Bryant Street Improvements Project.
Resolution 2015-26, Accepting Project & Approving Final Payment. A letter from the project engineer recommended the City accept the improvements and release the final payment to the contractor. Brockmann stated he had no further concerns with the project. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2015-26. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Jackie Puck. Nays: None. Motion carried. The Resolution authorized the City Clerk to submit the final payment to N.J. Miller, Inc. for $30,228.95.

Solid Waste and Recycling Contract Renewal.
Resolution Approving Contract. Attorney Schirman reported on liability concerns regarding the proposed contract with Allied Waste d/b/a Republic Services. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to table the Resolution to a future meeting. Motion carried.

South Main Street Damage. Discussion was held on the recent street damage done to a portion of South Main Street, south of Memorial Road, as a result of heavy truck traffic. Brockmann presented quotes for both asphalt overlay and single seal coating but stated some sections could be dug out and rebuilt. Questions arose and discussion was held on imposing restrictions on the street. Attorney Schirman will do further research and bring back to a future meeting.

Public Works Director Position. Mayor Kostichek asked Brockmann what his retirement date will be. Brockmann responded it would be the end of September. Following discussion, Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to advertise for the position with applications due by July 31st. Motion carried.

Police Department Report.
Squad Purchase. Chief Blake presented a memo and project worksheet to replace the 2009 Ford Expedition K-9 unit. His information included costs for different trucks and SUV’s. His recommendation was to purchase the vehicle with the lowest bid, a Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab 4×4 from Stew Hansen Dodge (Urbandale) at a price of $26,180. The information presented included that the vehicle would be left unmarked, have interior lighting and no light bar. Mayor Kostichek suggested the council wait until a future meeting when all council members are present prior to approving the purchase. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the purchase of a Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab 4×4 at a total cost not to exceed $35,180. Motion carried. The additional cost of $9,000 is for W. Reeves and Associates to transfer the equipment from the Expedition and install interior lighting. Chief Blake received an $18,000 grant from the Scott County Regional Commission towards the purchase. The Expedition will either be traded or passed to another city department. Jackie Puck questioned the speed limit by the school. Chief Blake responded he preferred to leave it at 20 MPH instead of increasing it to 25 MPH.

Public Works Department.
Dump Truck Sandblast & Paint. Brockmann reported on the sandblasting and paint job on the 2006 International truck and stated he would like to sandblast and paint another dump truck. Jacob Puck moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve sandblasting and painting a dump truck, not to exceed $4,600. Motion carried.
South Water Tower Painting. Discussion was held on the proposal to repaint the south water tower. Brockmann stated that the tower has not been in operation for five years but it could be utilized if needed. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the repainting of the south water tower as presented. Motion carried. The low bid, from Central Tank Coatings, Inc., is not to exceed $20,000.
Purchase of Pickup Truck. During the January 19th meeting the council approved the purchase of a 2015 Ford F150 from Ron Alpen Ford for $25,064. Brockmann reported they are unable to fulfill the order for that truck and requested to proceed with the next lowest bid, from Kriegers, for a 2015 GMC Sierra Regular Cab for $26,950. Mengler moved and Jackie seconded to approve the purchase of a 2015 GMC Sierra Regular Cab from Kriegers for $26,950. Motion carried.

Attorney’s Report. Attorney Schirman requested direction regarding meeting with Cenpeco. Brockmann stated the owner would like to meet with the entire council. Consensus was to schedule a special meeting with him.

Questions/Concerns. Randy Moeller questioned the status on the South Downey Street pavement improvements project. Rickertsen stated an engineer has not been hired yet but the project engineering is typically started in the fall in order to meet a spring bid letting. Due to concerns about the construction on North Main Street, Jackie Puck requested the Building Official contact the project contractor and inquire about a possible delay until after the Walcott Day and RAGBRAI events.

Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to adjourn at 8:00 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

July 6, 2015 Signed minutes and claims

July Newsletter

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 15th day of June, 2015, 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, Josh Geigle, Lisa Rickertsen, and Tom Schirman.

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

Audience. Mike Byington, Randy Moeller, Kent Arp, Brent Puck, Brent Arp, and Roger Robb.

Consent Agenda. The cigarette permit renewal for Lampliter and the Class A liquor license renewal for Walcott Legion Post #548 were removed from the consent agenda due to lack of submittal of necessary documents. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from June 1st, May 2015 financial reports, annual cigarette permit renewals for Casey's, Pilot Travel Centers #043 & #268, and Iowa 80 Truckstop, and Class C liquor license renewal for Foley Entertainment d/b/a Walcott Coliseum. Motion carried.

June 8, 2015 Minutes. Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve the minutes from June 8, 2015. Motion carried. Mengler abstained due to absence from meeting.

Walcott Day.
Parade. Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the Walcott Day Parade and closure of appropriate streets on July 18, 2015. Motion carried.
Street Closures. Jacob Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve closing N. Henry Street, between James and Lincoln Streets; E. Otis Street, between Downey and Main Streets; and N. Downey Street, between James and Lincoln Streets on July 18, 2015. Motion carried.
Fireworks : July 17, 2015. Discussion was held on the location of fireworks and access to the area from the property owner. Chief Blake will contact the property owner. Jacob Puck moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the fireworks display application and supporting documents for the Walcott Day fireworks on July 17th. Motion carried.
Fireworks Donation. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the donation of $1,000 to the Walcott Day Committee for the fireworks display. Motion carried.
5K Race & Street Closure Jacob Puck moved and Latimer. seconded to approve the 5K race route as submitted and approve the E. Bryant Street closure (race starting line), between Main & Henry Streets, from 5:00 a.m. : 9:00 a.m. on July 18th. Motion carried.

Blake Selby : Proposal for 1113 N. Main Street. A proposal to utilize 1113 N. Main Street was received from Mr. Selby prior to the meeting, but he was not present. Mr. Selby is proposing that the building be renovated as a fitness center. He plans to invest in renovations and equipment and would offer free gym memberships for all Walcott residents for 10 years. In return, he is requesting that the City gift him the building and property and allow a ten year, 100% tax abatement. Attorney Schirman stated the City cannot legally gift the property, unless it is to another governmental agency. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to deny the request from Selby. Motion carried.

Iowa 80 Fireworks. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the fireworks display application and supporting documents for the Iowa 80 Truckstop/Jamboree fireworks on July 9th & 10th. Motion carried.

Review of Employee Benefits.
Health Insurance. Roger Robb (Group Specialist of GBL) and Brent Arp were present to discuss the City's employee medical insurance benefits and health insurance law changes. A lengthy discussion was held with Robb on health benefits requirements. Following discussion, it was determined that Arp and Robb will do further research and bring different plan designs and options back to a future meeting.
Sick Leave/Payout. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to not payout any sick time after it reaches a total of 960 hours. Following further discussion, Mengler and Jackie Puck rescinded their motion and Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to table the sick time/pay until the next meeting. Motion carried.
Vacation Leave. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to revise the vacation leave policy to five days (40 hours) after one year of service and 10 days (80 hours) after two years of service. Motion carried. The remaining vacation leave policy will remain as is.

Vision Committee Report. Byington reported the committee has selected the name of "Walcott Hearts and Hands Foundation" for the new organization following approval of a 501c.3 status. He also reported on their proposed mission statement. Discussion was held on generating a web-based survey for citizens for a possible fitness center. Discussion was also held on the city-owned building at 1113 N. Main Street and that the City is currently working with a realtor to sell the building. If the building has not sold when the contract with the realtor is done, they will have to look at other options. Council consensus was to allow the committee to proceed with the research on setting up a web-based survey and submit possible survey questions to the council at a future meeting.

Solid Waste and Recycling Contract Renewal. Questions arose on some language in the proposed contract. The contract would renew for a five year period, with 3% annual increases, beginning July 1, 2016. The current rate paid to the contractor would remain the same for the year beginning July 1, 2015. Attorney Schirman will review the contract further. Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to proceed with renewing the contract with Allied Waste d/b/a Republic Services, contingent upon further review by Attorney Schirman. Motion carried. This will be listed on the July 6th agenda.

South Water Tower Painting. Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to table until the next regular meeting. Motion carried.

Roof Repairs at Victory Park. Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to approve the low bid from Brian Ganzer Roofing at $1,810 to replace the north side of the south shelter at Victory Park. Motion carried.

Resolution 2015-23, Approving Contract & Bonds for the Main Street Streetscape Enhancement Project. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2015-23. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Latimer. Nays: Koehler. Motion carried.

Resolution 2015-24, Transfer of Funds. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2015-24 as discussed. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Koehler, and Latimer. Motion carried.

Resolution 2015-25, Setting Wages for Fiscal Year Beginning July 1, 2015. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2015-25. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Mengler, Latimer, and Jacob Puck. Nays: Koehler. Motion carried.

Fire Department Report. Chief Geigle presented a project worksheet for the set-up costs associated with programming the outdoor warning sirens so they can be set off by the SECC (Scott Emergency Communication Center). Geigle stated the sirens would be activated for tornado warnings, high winds, or golf ball sized hail. Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to approve the expense of $580 for Racom to program and set-up the siren for SECC to activate them. Motion carried. Geigle will check with Racom on a time frame so notification of the change can be made to the public (flyers, newsletter, and water bills).

Police Department Report. Chief Blake's project worksheet is to replace one squad car laptop. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the purchase of a new Panasonic Toughbook laptop from CDW Government at a cost of $3,842.16. Motion carried.

Attorney's Report. Attorney Schirman will contact Cenpeco's attorney regarding the status on a meeting with the owner.

Questions/Concerns. Mengler questioned the phone box at Welcome Park. Century Link will be contacted regarding get it fixed/replaced.

Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to adjourn at 8:20 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

June Newsletter

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 1st day of June, 2015, 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.

Approval of Agenda. Latimer moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the agenda. Motion carried.

Audience. Joe & Kelly Quick, Gene Meyer, Janice Dawson, and Kent Arp.

Consent Agenda. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from May 18th, and minutes from May 27th. Motion carried.

RAGBRAI Update. Joe and Kelly Quick gave an update on the RAGBRAI pre-ride on June 6th. They questioned if the condition of E. Bryant Street could be improved. Brockmann will be doing minor repairs and clean-up to the street this week.

FYE 2016 Sidewalk Reimbursement Program. Rivers presented a list and pictures of properties requiring sidewalk repairs. The list includes twenty-three residential, owner-occupied properties which are eligible for the Residential Sidewalk Repair Program (RSRP). Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the list as presented. Motion carried. Property owners that qualify for the RSRP will receive a reimbursement of 50% of sidewalk repair costs.

Main Street Streetscape Enhancement Project. Rickertsen stated the contract and bonds had not been received yet so the resolution to approve the documents will be placed on a future agenda.
Resolution Establishing Project Fund & Authorizing Transfer of Funds. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2015-21. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Jackie Puck. Nays: Koehler and Latimer. Koehler stated since he didn't vote for the project he has to vote no.
Construction Observation. Rickertsen stated the project engineer recommended a full-time inspector to oversee the construction of sidewalks, driveways, lighting, and pedestrian bridge. Discussion was held on the proposal received from Missman, Inc. for the construction observation services. Since Rivers is a certified electrical inspector and would be inspecting the electrical and sidewalks anyway, discussion was held that she could do the construction observation/inspections and to contact the engineer with other items, such as the pedestrian bridge span extension. Rivers reported she viewed the plans and requested the electrical panel be moved so that it is behind a pole adjacent to city-owned property instead of locating it in front of an existing business. Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to have Rivers do the daily construction observation/inspections and to contact the engineer with items as needed. Motion carried.

Public Works Director Position.
Resolution 2015-22, Approving Public Works Director Job Description. Changes to the Public Works Director job description were made as discussed during the special meeting on May 27th. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2015-22. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jacob Puck, Latimer, Mengler, and Jackie Puck. Motion carried.
Review of Benefits. Koehler asked Brockmann for an approximate retirement date to facilitate hiring a replacement. Brockmann responded his estimated date would be mid-September. Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to table the review of benefits. Motion carried. Review of benefits for new hires will be discussed at a future special city council meeting.

2015 Pavement Markings. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve participating in the Pavement Marking Program with Scott County. Motion carried.

Ordinance 479-15, Amending Chapter 99 Regarding Sewer Rates. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the third reading of Ordinance 479-15. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, Latimer, and Mengler. Motion carried. The rate will increase by $.50 per 1,000 gallons, beginning with the July 1, 2015 billing.

Ordinance 480-15, Amending Chapter 92 Regarding Water Rates. Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the third reading of Ordinance 480-15. Roll call ayes: Jacob Puck, Mengler, Latimer, Koehler, and Jackie Puck. Motion carried. The rate will increase by $.50 per 1,000 gallons, beginning with the July 1, 2015 billing.

FYE 2016 Wages. Koehler stated when determining wage increases he believes all benefit cost increases should be taken into consideration. Following discussion, the Policy & Administration Committee, Mengler & Jacob Puck, moved and seconded to approve a 1.5% hourly wage increase for employees for FYE 2016. Ayes: Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Jackie Puck. Nays: Koehler and Latimer. Motion carried. A resolution will be prepared for the June 15th meeting.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake reported on the $18,000 grant received from Scott County Regional Authority towards a new squad and $4,000 grant from the Governor's Traffic Safety Bureau for officer overtime pay towards traffic safety.

Public Works Report.
Purchase of Tractor. Brockmann presented a project worksheet for the purchase of a new John Deere utility tractor with a 59" two-stage snow blower and a 72" mower deck. Concerns regarding the value of the purchase and adding to the city fleet were expressed from Mayor Kostichek and council. Brockmann stated the current tractor is not capable of handling the amount of snow that will be on the new sidewalks on the city-owned lots on N. Main Street and it has an enclosed cab. He also stated the current tractor would not have much of a trade value and could be kept as a back-up. Following further discussion, Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve the quote from River Valley Turf, not to exceed $36,995.54, for a new John Deere tractor, snow blower and mower deck. Motion carried.
Additional PT Grade 3 Wastewater (WW) Operator. Brockmann stated he hired an additional part-time Grade 3 WW Operator to assist at the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). This individual will be assisting with the lab certification and staff coverage at the plant. Koehler questioned if this would help with eliminating some over-time at the plant and Brockmann responded that it would not. Following discussion, Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to approve the hiring of Anthony Rupe as a part-time Grade 3 WW Operator, at the current part-time certified operator rate of $35.53/hour, to assist with lab set-up and staff coverage for time-off. Motion carried. Once the lab is certified it will eliminate paying for some monthly testing fees to an outside facility.

City Clerk's Report. Rickertsen stated the Walcott Chamber of Commerce questioned if they could place their welcome banner on the city-owned lot at 1113 N. Main during Walcott Day and RAGBRAI events. Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the request from the Chamber of Commerce as presented. Motion carried. Rickertsen also reported the Zoning Board of Adjustment will be meeting on June 10th at 6:00 p.m. regarding a fence and driveway variance request from the property owner at 200 W. Flagg Street.

Questions/Concerns. Mengler questioned the project at Victory Park. Brockmann stated there is poor drainage between the north shelter and swings. He will be installing tile and sidewalks from the shelter to the playground area.

Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 7:33 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

A special meeting of the City Council of the City of Walcott, Iowa was held on Wednesday, May 27, 2015, with Mayor John Kostichek calling the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Council members present were: Tim Koehler, Virgil Wayne Latimer, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: None. Others present: Lisa Rickertsen, Jody Siebel, and Dennis Siebel.

Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the agenda. Motion carried.

Public Works Director Position. During the May 18, 2015, City Council meeting, Public Works Director, John Brockmann, announced his resignation and suggested the City Council look for a replacement. Rickertsen reported Brockmann was unable to attend the meeting, but requested Rickertsen relay to the Mayor and City Council that he intends to use up his vacation time, followed by a two week notice period. Rickertsen reported that upon resignation or retirement, employees do receive pay for any unused accrued vacation. Discussion was held on the following:
Changes to the current Public Works Director job description.
What level of Iowa water and wastewater certifications the City will require for the position.
Benefits for new employees.
Hosting a retirement open house to recognize Brockmann's many years of service to the City of Walcott.
Council Members stated their goal is to have a smooth transition and requested a written timeline from Brockmann for his retirement.

Questions/Concerns. The following items were discussed: scheduling a meeting with the owner of CenPeCo with Brockmann assisting with scheduling and proposed changes to the personnel policy particularly regarding benefits for new employees and grandfathering current employees.

Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to adjourn at 6:44 p.m. Motion carried.

All motions were unanimous.

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 18th day of May, 2015, 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.

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

Audience. Several audience members were in attendance.

Public Hearings. Mayor Kostichek opened the public hearing on the proposed Urban Renewal Plan Amendment for the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area. The proposed plan amendment is to undertake a new urban renewal project regarding the development agreement with Eugene Meyer. Rickertsen stated the notice was published according to law and a consultation meeting was held on April 30th but no one attended the meeting. The City was required to send a copy of the urban renewal plan amendment and an invitation to attend a consultation meeting to discuss the urban renewal plan amendment to Scott County and the Davenport Community School District. Rickertsen stated a letter was received from the Scott County Supervisors. The letter states the Board supports the use of Tax Increment Financing when it is used to remove blight and revitalize our Main Street. No other written or oral comments were received. Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to close the public hearing and open the hearing on the Development Agreement with Eugene Meyer. Motion carried. Rickertsen stated the notice was published as required and no written comments have been filed. The agreement is in connection with the development of Geno’s Ice Cream & Subs and it pledges annual appropriation tax increment payments to the developer in an amount not to exceed $17,000. No oral comments were received. Jacob Puck moved and Latimer seconded to close the public hearing and open the public hearing on the Budget Amendment for FYE 2015. Motion carried. Rickertsen stated the expenditure increases are due to the splash pad/Otis Street engineering, Wescott Park water line repairs, architect fees, and the sewer inflow and infiltration study. No written or oral comments were received. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting. Motion carried.

Consent Agenda. Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices and April financial reports. Motion carried.

Minutes from May 4, 2015. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the minutes from May 4, 2015. Jackie Puck abstained due to absence from meeting. Motion carried.

Rita Stender : Rowe Street Right-of-Way. Rita Stender reported she has maintained the S. Rowe Street right-of-way (ROW), adjacent to her property, for several years and requested the city deed her 40′ (half of the ROW). Stender stated she would not place buildings or temporary structures on the property. Jackie Puck stated to have Stender pay $1.00 for the ROW and all attorney costs incurred with the transfer, as done with a similar situation in the past. Brockmann stated city utilities (sanitary and storm sewer) are in the S. Rowe Street ROW and the City needs 20′ on both sides of the sanitary sewer for access. Discussion was held on having Stender obtain a survey to locate her property lines first. Council had no objections on transferring a portion of the ROW to Stender. Attorney Schirman stated following a survey, a written offer with any restrictions and a public hearing is needed before final council approval.

Blake Selby : Quad Cities Fitness. Blake Selby presented information to the council and stated he would like to offer a free fitness class every Saturday throughout the summer at 1:00 p.m. at Watertower Park, starting May 30th. He stated his gym is located in Bettendorf but has been seeking a second location and is offering the free classes to test the market, to make sure there is enough interest for a fitness center where people can exercise using a Science Based Six Pack program. He requested approval for the event to be sponsored by the City and discussed the liability waivers he presented. Attorney Schirman questioned the council if the City wants to co-sponsor an event for a private enterprise. During discussion, council members stated the free classes at the park are a great idea and they support him having the classes but can’t co-sponsor/allow use of the city logo on the advertisements and forms. Mengler commended Selby for offering the classes and supports him but moved to not allow him to utilize the City’s name and logo on all advertisement and forms. Seconded by Koehler. Motion carried. Attorney Schirman offered to speak to his attorney regarding the waiver and release of liability.

Vision Committee Report : 501C.3. Committee Chair Larry Koberg reported on the minutes from the last Vision Committee meeting. The Committee intends to pursue a 501C.3 tax exemption status to allow for private funds to be received and recognized as a tax deduction. When that process is completed, the committee would hope to dissolve from the City as they would be their own entity. Council members had no objections. Jacob Puck moved and Latimer seconded to have the Committee proceed with creating a 501C.3 status. Motion carried. Mayor Kostichek questioned the status on the beautification awards. Committee members Josie Dietz and Karla Burt are preparing recommendations on properties for the beautification awards and it will be reviewed further with the Vision Committee prior to being presented to the council.

Main Street Streetscape Enhancement Project. Mengler moved to approve Resolution 2015-17, Awarding Contract for the Main Street Streetscape Enhancement to Brandt Construction. Some audience members questioned the benefits of the project, project costs versus value, necessity of decorative lighting, costs and maintenance of hanging flower baskets, and the use of tax increment financing (TIF). Other comments were made regarding the benefits of the project including safety of sidewalks on both sides of Main Street, extension of Mediacom service to businesses, and the visual enhancement of N. Main Street. Mengler stated she supports the project and the intention to visually enhance N. Main Street. Koehler reported on his concerns with the project being over budget and stated the electrical items (decorative lighting) could be pulled from the project and installed sometime in the future. This deletion would bring the project costs under the budgeted amount. Jackie Puck expressed her frustration with the lack of audience input during the planning stages and her disappointment in expending funds to begin projects and not complete them. Puck also stated this project originated from the Vision Community (Which Way Walcott) meeting held at the Walcott Coliseum in 2012. She questioned Rickertsen on how the project is being funded. Rickertsen responded $600,000 was being paid by TIF funds and the remaining costs by Local Option Sales Tax Fund. It was noted that the sidewalk maintenance would be the responsibility of the abutting property owner, per state and local codes. Mengler reiterated her motion to approve Resolution 2015-17, Awarding Contract for the Main Street Streetscape Enhancement Project, to Brandt Construction in the amount of $680,516.10. Seconded by Jackie Puck. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Nays: Latimer and Koehler. Motion carried.

Resolution 2015-18, Approving Urban Renewal Plan Amendment for the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2015-18. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Latimer, and Koehler. Motion carried.

Resolution 2015-19, Approving Development Agreement with Eugene Meyer, Authorizing Annual Appropriation Tax Increments Payments and Pledging Certain Tax Increment Revenues to the Payment of the Agreement. Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve Resolution 2015-19. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Latimer, Mengler, Koehler, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried.

Resolution 2015-20, Approving Budget Amendment for FYE 2015. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2015-20. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, Koehler, and Latimer. Motion carried.

Ordinance 479-15, Amending Chapter 99 Regarding Sewer Rates. Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 479-15. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Koehler, Latimer, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried. The rate will increase by $.50 per 1,000 gallons, beginning with the July 1, 2015 billing.

Ordinance 480-15, Amending Chapter 92 Regarding Water Rates. Koehler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 480-15. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Latimer, Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried. The rate will increase by $.50 per 1,000 gallons, beginning with the July 1, 2015 billing.

Municipal Building Project. Brockmann presented cost estimates as requested regarding adjoining City Hall properties. He stated there would be enough room for a one-way exit between the salt shed and creek so the salt shed will be able to remain. Following discussion with the adjoining property owner, it was stated the council was obtaining facts before meeting with the owner of CenPeCo.

FYE 2016 Wages. Policy & Administration Committee Members, Mengler & Jacob Puck, moved and seconded to table the FYE 2016 wages until the next meeting. Motion carried.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake reported on recent car burglaries in surrounding areas.

Public Works Report. Brockmann requested extra police patrol at the compost area. He stated that two neighboring communities have closed their compost areas and Walcott’s compost area is only available for Walcott residents. He presented information from the engineer on the preliminary cost estimates for W. Otis Street reconstruction, in connection with a future splash pad area. He also reported on cost estimates for refurbishing the north water tower and presented project worksheets on two tree removals. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the low bid on each tree removal as presented. Motion carried. Brockmann stated he is announcing his resignation. He suggested the City look for a replacement and stated he will remain on staff until a replacement is found. In regards to the Main Street Streetscape Enhancement Project, he stated the City will need to hire an engineer for construction observation as he can’t be fair to the contractor since he doesn’t believe in the project.

Attorney’s Report. Discussion was held on the oil and grease violation that resulted in a sewer surcharge to Blue Beacon Truckwash, which they want to appeal. Attorney Schirman stated he will work with Brockmann to gather more information.

Mayor’s Report. Mayor Kostichek stated he was glad to see so many citizens at the meeting and thanked them for their input.

Questions/Concerns. The Public Works Department was thanked for the work done at the parks, getting ready for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend tournament.

Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to adjourn at 7:55 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 4th day of May, 2015, 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, and Jacob Puck. Absent: Jackie Puck. City employees present: John Brockmann, Josh Geigle, Adam Hill, Lisa Rickertsen, and Tom Schirman.

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

Audience. Larry Koberg, Gene Meyer, Lon Warnecke, Nick Bert, Jason McKenzie, Bernard Brus, Chaz Schrupp, and Joe Hahn.

Consent Agenda. Koehler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from April 20, 2015, and Resolution 2015-16, Transfer of Funds. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Latimer, Mengler, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried.

Mel Foster Realtor Contract. Realtor Nick Bert stated he would like to continue to market the city owned property at 1113 N. Main Street. Bert expressed concerns from an interested party regarding the constant water running into the sump pump pit. Brockmann stated most homes have sump pumps in their basements due to the high water table in Walcott. Brockmann was asked to obtain a written opinion from a licensed plumber regarding the sump pump pit. Discussion was held on several items including reducing the price, building demolition, and keeping the lot for a future city building. Following further discussion, Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to reduce the sale price of the building at 1113 N. Main Street by $10,000 and extend the contract with Mel Foster Commercial Real Estate Services for another six months. Motion carried.

Main Street Streetscape Enhancement Project. Jason McKenzie reported on the bids received for the Main Street project. Discussion ensued regarding the base bid, three alternates, and bid tabulation items. The low base bid was $550,683.50 and the three alternates totaled $129,832.60, bringing the total bid to $680,516.10. Discussion was held on the total project costs including engineering services and project financing. Brockmann stated he had received comments from citizens regarding the project and Hahn questioned expending funds for this type of project. Mengler stated they have been working on this project for over a year with plenty of opportunities for citizens to comment on the project and is disappointed to hear complaints being voiced following the bid opening. Mayor Kostichek stated he has not received negative feedback about the project. The project costs would mainly be funded by Tax Increment Financing funds, as approved in the Urban Renewal Plan amendment in May, 2014, and remaining costs would be paid from Local Option Sales Tax Fund. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2015-17, Awarding Contract for the Main Street Streetscape Enhancement to Brandt Construction in the amount of $680,516.10. Roll call ayes: Mengler and Jacob Puck. Nays: Latimer and Koehler. Motion died due to lack of majority. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to place the item on the May 18th agenda. Motion carried. Rickertsen reported on the request from Central Scott Telephone Company of placing a duct into an open trench during construction, allowing them access into the city for a future fiber path. McKenzie stated the trench would get full and he was asked to contact them for further information.

Vision Committee Report : Welcome Signs. Committee Chair Larry Koberg stated the Vision Committee will continue to obtain more information on welcome signs and costs and asked the City Council to continue budgeting funds towards the signs.

Fire Department Report.
New Member. Chief Geigle introduced Chaz Schrupp and stated he has been approved for membership by the Fire Department. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Chaz Schrupp as a member of the Walcott Volunteer Fire Department. Motion carried.
Outdoor Weather Siren. Chief Geigle stated that Fire Department members currently activate the sirens for severe weather and there have been concerns brought up at their department meeting that it should be done by Scott County. He stated that county protocol has changed, since this was last discussed with City Council in 2013, and they can set the sirens off for specific sections of the county. The sirens would be activated for weather warnings, winds in excess of 70 MPH and golf ball size hail. Following discussion, Chief Geigle was asked to look into the set-up costs and bring back to the next meeting.

Approval of 2nd Half TIF Rebate Payments. Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the TIF rebate payments in the amount of $34,260.97 to the following: Iowa 80 Truckstop Inc. ($1,249.47), Ossian Walcott Investments LC ($7,261.71), JDW Holdings LLC ($4,196.55), T&C Storage ($359.60), Sterling Partners ($14,814.67) and Petersen Health Systems Inc. ($6,378.97). Motion carried.

Water & Sewer Rates. Rickertsen presented spreadsheets on estimated water and sewer expenditures for FYE 2016. Rate increases are needed due to operational costs and sanitary sewer studies. It was noted that in comparison with surrounding communities, even with the increased rates, Walcott's minimum and average monthly water and sewer bills still appear to be the lowest.
Ordinance 479-15, Amending Chapter 99 Regarding Sewer Rates. Mengler introduced and moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 479-15. Seconded by Koehler. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Koehler, Latimer, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried. The new rate will be $4.25 per 1,000 gallons of water used per month with a monthly minimum usage amount based on 1,400 gallons, an increase of $.50/1,000 gallons, beginning with the July 1, 2015 billing.
Ordinance 480-15, Amending Chapter 92 Regarding Water Rates. Jacob Puck introduced and moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 480-15. Seconded by Latimer. Roll call ayes: Jacob Puck, Latimer, Mengler, and Koehler. Motion carried. The new rate will be $4.65 per 1,000 gallons of water used per month with a monthly minimum usage amount based on 1,400 gallons, an increase of $.50/1,000 gallons, beginning with the July 1, 2015 billing.

RAGBRAI Committee Report. Volunteer forms can be printed from the City's website and are available at City Hall and Walcott Trust & Savings Bank.

Public Works Report. Brockmann presented his report including the following:
Park Volunteers. He expressed thanks to Brian Mengler, Larry Koberg, Karla Burt, and Sara Dietz for their recent volunteer labor at the parks.
W. Bryant Street Project. He stated that Alliant Energy adjusted the street light at the corner of Bryant & Parker Streets. He also stated he was disappointed in the project seeding and would be doing a final walkthrough.
James Street Water Main. He reported he would not be proceeding with the replacement of the water main until after the July events as it would not be done prior to mid-July if started now.
New Truck. Kostichek questioned the status of the new pickup truck and Brockmann replied it has been ordered but has not been delivered yet.
Clean-up Day. Brockmann reported on issues with the recent city clean-up day including illegal disposal of electronic items. Electronic items can be disposed of for free at the Electronic Demanufacturing Facility in Davenport for all Scott County residents.

Questions/Concerns. Koehler questioned the progress of obtaining demolition costs for the properties adjacent to City Hall. Brockmann stated he is working on them and stated he felt the salt shed does not need to be demolished. Brockmann also reported on a meeting he had with the owner of CenPeCo. Jacob Puck questioned if the guard rail for the culverts by CenPeCo needs to be replaced. Brockmann stated he will look into it.

Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to adjourn at 7:41 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

MAY 2015 Chamber Newsletter

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 20th day of April, 2015, 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, Lisa Rickertsen, and Tom Schirman.

Approval of Agenda. Mayor Kostichek stated the architect for welcome signs under the Vision Committee Report has been removed from the agenda due to absence of committee member. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the agenda with deletion as stated. Motion carried.

Audience. Gene Meyer, Kent Arp, Paul Baele, Karen Puck, Jill Hernandez, and Sarah Hayden.

Public Hearing : Main Street Streetscape Enhancement Project Plans and Specifications. Mayor Kostichek opened the public hearing and Rickertsen stated no written comments were received. Discussion was held on designating the west bridge walkway (structural bridge items) as an alternate bid item, adding a third driveway at the B & D property, and including decorative light pole brackets and electrical outlet location details. Engineer Paul Baele, Missman, Inc., will amend the plans and specifications to include the changes as discussed. Brockmann questioned why the decorative lights are not being extended to Welcome Park during this project. It was stated that this phase of the project stops at Vernon Street however extending to Welcome Park could be the next phase. Discussion ensued regarding project costs and location and separation distance of decorative lights. Following discussion, Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting at 6:31 p.m. Motion carried.

Consent Agenda. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices and March financial reports. Motion carried.

Minutes : April 6, 2015. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the minutes from April 6, 2015. Jackie Puck and Latimer abstained due to absence from meeting. Motion carried.

Vision Committee Members. During the last Vision Committee meeting, the committee requested approval for two new members. Jacob Puck and Koehler moved to approve Brent Arp and Austin Burt as new Vision Committee members. Motion carried.

Main Street Streetscape Enhancement Project. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2015-13, Approving Plans and Specifications/Contract Documents for Main Street Streetscape Enhancement Project. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, Latimer, and Koehler. Motion carried.

Resolution Setting Date for Public Hearing on Urban Renewal Plan Amendment. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2015-15, Setting Date for Public Hearing on Urban Renewal Plan Amendment. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Koehler, and Latimer. Motion carried. The hearing will be on May 18th at 6:00 p.m.

Resolution Setting Date for Public Hearing on Development Agreement with Eugene Meyer. Jacob Puck moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2015-14, Setting Date for Public Hearing on Development Agreement with Eugene Meyer (Geno's Ice Cream and Subs). Roll call ayes: Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Mengler, Latimer, and Koehler. The hearing will be on May 18th at 6:00 p.m.

Municipal Building Project. Jill Hernandez, neighboring property owner, questioned the status of the municipal building project. She stated she had been contacted by a representative of Central Petroleum Company (Cen-Pe-Co) regarding the purchase of her property to be gifted to the City. In response, discussion included the possibility of selling the lot at 101 S. Main Street or retaining ownership while providing an easement and possible use restrictions and advantages/disadvantages and costs of constructing a new municipal building on the property adjacent to the current City Hall. Koehler advised Hernandez the City Council needs more information before determining what direction they want to take and Cen-Pe-Co is waiting for that determination prior to any action. The City Clerk was directed to continue working with the architect regarding plans for a municipal building at 101 S. Main Street. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to have Brockmann obtain demolition costs, estimates for salt shed relocation, and contacting the property owner of 116 N. Main Street for possible purchase. Motion carried.

City Owned Lots on N. Main Street. Additional information was provided regarding the two city-owned lots, west side of Main Street just north of Mud Creek. Zoning Administrator, Jackie Huston, provided floodway and floodplain maps and documents from the IDNR and described the legal process to fill in floodplain. Brockmann stated the City Engineer already has topography information on the lots therefore it wouldn't cost as much as the previous estimate provided to submit an application to the IDNR for permission to fill the lots. Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to have Brockmann obtain engineering quotes from the City Engineer and a second engineer for services as discussed. Motion carried.

Realtor Contract Amendment. Mel Foster Commercial Realtor, Nick Bert, submitted a request to extend the listing contract for 1113 N. Main Street for another six months. Concerns were expressed regarding the lack of communication from the realtor. Jackie Puck moved to proceed with obtaining a new realtor. Following further discussion, Jackie Puck rescinded her motion and Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to extend the contract with Mel Foster Commercial Real Estate Services to May 20, 2015, and request the realtor attend the next council meeting. Motion carried.

Ordinance 477-15, Amending the Official Zoning Map. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the third reading of Ordinance 477-15. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Latimer, and Koehler. Motion carried. This is the final reading to rezone the lot at 101 S. Main Street from M-1, Light Industrial, to C-2, Central Business District.

Ordinance 478-15, Adding Chapter 126 Entitled RAGBRAI. Jacob Puck moved and Jackie Puck seconded to waive the second reading of Ordinance 478-15, Adding Chapter 126, Entitled RAGBRAI. Roll call ayes: Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Koehler, Latimer, and Mengler. Motion carried. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the third reading of Ordinance 478-15, Adding Chapter 126, Entitled RAGBRAI. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, Koehler, and Latimer. Motion carried.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake presented his report including recent graffiti vandalism to the slides at Victory Park.

Public Works Report. Brockmann presented a project worksheet to replace the computer at the wastewater treatment plant WWTP. He stated this will cut down on paper work and will help in getting the lab certified. Koehler moved and Latimer seconded to purchase a new computer for the WWTP from Tiger Direct at a cost of $659.97. Motion carried. Brockmann also reported he was contacted by the RAGBRAI Committee to try and improve the condition of E. Bryant Street because it is on the proposed RAGBRAI route. Discussion was held on the request and also on the condition of properties along E. Bryant Street. Brockmann will obtain cost estimates for street repairs on E. Bryant Street. Brockmann mentioned that for some of his employees the cut in prescription benefits last fall was more than the wage increase last year. Mayor Kostichek stated he and a neighbor mow the unimproved street right-of-way west of his house and questioned if Public Works could smooth out the ruts on that property which resulted from the W. Bryant Street project.

City Clerk's Report. Jacob Puck moved and Jackie Puck seconded to set the public hearing date for the FYE 2015 budget amendment for May 18th at 6:00 p.m. Motion carried.

Attorney's Report. Attorney Schirman discussed various options of the 101 S. Main Street lot and questioned what response should be given to Cen-Pe-Co. The Council stated they are obtaining additional information prior to making a determination.

Mayor's Report. Mayor Kostichek reported he was contacted by the Blue Grass Mayor to determine interest in forming a separate school district incorporating Walcott, Blue Grass, and Buffalo. This would provide K-12 education for the three communities. It was stated that many citizens had requested this over the years. Attorney Schirman questioned if the research had been done to determine the process necessary to establish a school district. Mayor Kostichek expressed his thanks and appreciation to Brian Mengler, Park Board Chairperson, for the many volunteer labor hours he has put in at the parks recently.

Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to adjourn at 7:47 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.