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.

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 6th 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, Lisa Mengler, and Jacob Puck. Absent: Virgil Wayne Latimer and Jackie Puck. City employees present: John Brockmann, Lisa Rickertsen, Linda Rivers, and Tom Schirman.

Audience. Gene Meyer, Brent Puck, Larry Koberg, and Sara Hayden.

Approval of Agenda. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck 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 16, 2015, minutes from March 19, 2015, Lampliter Class C Liquor License renewal and Walcott Unified Fund beer permits for Wescott and Victory Parks. Motion carried.

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 22nd : May 24th and the Iowa Area ISC Qualifier Men's Fastpitch Tournament will be from June 19th : June 21st. Koberg requested fencing for both Wescott and Victory Parks for the tournaments, beginning on May 20th. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to allow the fences to be installed at Wescott and Victory Parks for the tournaments, beginning on May 20th and be removed on June 22nd. Motion carried.

Vision Committee Report. Committee members Larry Koberg and Brent Puck discussed re-establishing the Beautification Awards and sites for welcome signs. The Mayor's Beautification Award was initiated in 1994 by former Mayor Leon Downing and there are two awards listed on the plaque, with the last award in 1997. Mayor Kostichek and Council consensus was to have the Vision Committee bring back ideas. They reported on potential property, both city and county right-of-ways (ROW), to install welcome signs. Signs located in any ROW would have to be located so there are not any visual obstructions. Jacob Puck moved and Koehler seconded to proceed with the next steps (pursuing sign designs/costs and engineering fees) for welcome signs. Motion carried.

Urban Renewal Area. Rickertsen reported all TIF rebate/development agreements must be listed in the Urban Renewal Plan. Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to approve the TIF rebate application for Gene Meyer (Geno's Ice Cream & Subs) and start the required proceedings. Motion carried.

Main Street Streetscape Enhancement Project. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2015-12, Setting Public Hearing on Plans and Specifications and Bid Date for the Main Street Streetscape Enhancement Project. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jacob Puck, and Mengler. Motion carried.

City Owned Lots on N. Main Street. Information was received from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) regarding the two city-owned lots, west side of Main Street just north of Mud Creek, regarding the base flood elevation. Engineering services would have to be obtained in order to submit an application to the IDNR for permission to fill the lots. Council requested additional information prior to pursuing any action.

Municipal Building Project. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to table the topic until all council members are present. Motion carried.

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

RAGBRAI Committee Report. Larry Koberg reported on a public informational meeting on April 8th at 7:00 p.m. at the Walcott Coliseum, a pre-ride by RAGBRAI officials on June 6th, and this year's theme "Ride the Rails". Koehler introduced and moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 478-15, Adding Chapter 126, Entitled RAGBRAI. Seconded by Jacob Puck. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jacob Puck, and Mengler. Motion carried.

Building Department Report. Rivers presented her March inspections report and reported on recent fire and rental inspections, upcoming commercial projects, and the recent purchase of the car wash which should be re-opening soon. She also reported on two properties that were sent nuisance abatement notices and have failed to comply. Following discussion, Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve moving forward with abating the nuisances, not to exceed costs as presented by Rivers. Motion carried.

Public Works Report. Brockmann reported the water leak at Wescott Park has been fixed but he is waiting on the contractor to repair the concrete. Mayor Kostichek questioned the recent seeding from the W. Bryant Street Project. Brockmann stated the material will remain dormant until it rains.

Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to adjourn at 6:51 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 Thursday, March 19, 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. City employees present: John Brockmann, Lisa Rickertsen, and Tom Schirman.

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

Audience: Jill Hernandez and Lon Warnecke.

Municipal Building Project. Brockmann stated the site next to the current City Hall was the past Municipal Building Committee's first choice and there is plenty of room to expand. He feels the Committee's second choice, 101 S. Main Street, is the worst location as it is next to the railroad tracks and the location at 1113 N. Main Street is nice but is located next to anhydrous tanks. Neighbor, Jill Hernandez, stated she is now interested in selling her property adjacent to City Hall. Attorney Schirman reported on the options for the City including negotiating a sale or transfer of property. Koehler stated the only reason for the meeting is because of the recent concerns expressed by Cen-Pe-Co.

Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to go into a closed session under Iowa Code Chapter 21.5 (1) (J) to discuss the sale of particular real estate at 5:54 p.m. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Koehler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, and Latimer. Motion carried. J. Brockmann and audience left the council chambers and the following employees were authorized to remain: L. Rickertsen and T. Schirman. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to close the closed session and resume the special meeting at 6:06 p.m. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, Latimer, and Koehler. Motion carried.

Jill Hernandez returned to the meeting. It was stated a letter needs be sent to Cen-Pe-Co, responding to their written communication regarding building a City Hall at 101 S. Main Street. The following concerns were discussed if City Hall would expand at the current location instead of building at 101 S. Main Street: acquisition costs of adjoining properties, demolition costs, salt shed demolition/relocation, and architect fees expended. These concerns were not previously pursued since the first step to build at the Committee's first choice was to acquire adjoining property and the City couldn't get past that step due to the owner's refusal to sell. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to proceed with having Attorney Schirman contact Cen-Pe-Co regarding adjoining property acquisitions, demolition costs, value of property, and architectural fees expended to date. Motion carried.

Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to adjourn at 6:35 p.m. Motion carried.

All motions were unanimous unless noted.

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 16th day of March, 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: John Brockmann, Lisa Rickertsen, and Tom Schirman.

Audience. Verlyn & Josie Dietz, Jill Hernandez, Renae Christopher, Michael Christopher, John Friede, Kendall Mattson, Donna Housley, Randy Moeller, Jason Holdorf, and Joe Quick.

Approval of Agenda. 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 2, 2015, and the February 2015 financial reports. Motion carried.

Main Street Enhancement Project.
Bridge Railings. Discussion was held on the bridge walkway railings and whether or not to leave the east bridge walkway railing as is or update to the new IDOT (Iowa Department of Transportation) standard railing if the west walkway is added. The cost to update the east side to the IDOT standard railing is approximately $13,000 – $14,000. Discussion was held that the west side walkway is a project alternate and must meet new IDOT standards. Council consensus was that both bridge railings should match. Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to proceed with having both bridge walkway railings meet the new IDOT standards. Motion carried. If the west side bridge walkway is not included in the project, the east side railing will remain as is. Discussion was held regarding the new sidewalks included in the project.
Lighting Options. Information was presented regarding two styles of light options from Alliant Energy and three styles from the project engineer. The options presented from Alliant were for HPS (high pressure sodium) lights since LED lights for decorative poles are not available from them at this time. Their poles do not come with electrical outlets, flag mounts or hanging basket mounts and it was unknown if Alliant would allow the City to add them. It was mentioned that the poles from Alliant Energy were not as attractive and are considerably taller than the options from the engineer. Mengler stated that the visual enhancement to the Main Street corridor was one of the main purposes of the project with inclusion of hanging baskets on the decorative poles. The options presented from the project engineer included LED lights, decorative pole bases, double hooked planter mounts, and flag pole holder mounts. A precast location for an electrical outlet can also be added. The poles from Alliant Energy would be installed by Alliant Energy at no cost and would be maintained by them for a monthly fee. Discussion was held on the installation cost differential, the difference in pole/light options, and the value of paying for the higher priced poles. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to include the Prairie fixture, an option presented by the project engineer, in the plans and specifications. Motion carried.
Contract Amendment. Discussion was held on the contract amendment from Missman for the engineering services for the structural services of the west bridge walkway expansion. The west bridge walkway was added as an alternate to the project after the initial engineering contract was approved. The amendment also included services for temporary construction easement acquisition. The total amendment is at an hourly rate, not to exceed $39,200. Following discussion, Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the contract amendment with Missman. Motion carried.

RAGBRAI Committee Report. Joe Quick reported on two possible themes for this year's RAGBRAI event. Discussion was held on having a similar route as 2011, which includes going around Victory Park, but this year wanting to go on E. Bryant Street, S. Grove Street and then Memorial Road. Concerns were expressed regarding the Post Office access and street conditions. Following further discussion, Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to have the RAGBRAI Committee come up with the best route for the community and businesses. Motion carried.

Spring Clean-up. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to schedule spring clean-up day on Saturday, May 2nd from 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.

Approval of Right-of-Way Application for Iowa Network Services. Jacob Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve the application for Iowa Network Services. Motion carried. This is for a fiber optic conduit in the right-of-way on Blue Grass Road/70th Avenue.

Public Works Report. Brockmann reported on cleaning rocks from yards due to snow removal, issues with the used snow plow truck that was recently purchased and stated he started on the water leak at Wescott Park.

City Clerk's Report. Rickertsen stated a hearing request regarding a nuisance abatement has been received. The hearing was scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on April 6th.

Mayor's Report. Mayor Kostichek stated he was glad to see citizens attending the meeting and voicing their concerns. He thanked Joe Quick for co-chairing the RAGBRAI Committee.

Questions/Concerns. Audience members questioned the proposed police department vehicle purchase. Mayor Kostichek responded that the topic has not yet been brought to the council table for discussion. Jackie Puck related concerns from a resident that their neighbor was feeding stray cats and it was attracting wild life to the neighborhood. Puck questioned if it was against city ordinances or if it could be added to the code book.

Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:04 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 2nd day of March, 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, Josh Geigle, Lisa Rickertsen, and Tom Schirman.

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

Public Hearings. Mayor Kostichek opened the public hearing on the FYE 2016 Budget.
Public Hearing on FYE 2016 Budget. Rickertsen stated the tax levy will remain at $10.12002 per 1,000 tax valuation on regular property. She stated the budget includes $2,336,948 for proposed capital projects. No written or other oral comments were received. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to close the public hearing and open the public hearing on the rezoning at 101 S. Main Street. Motion carried.
Public Hearing on Rezoning at 101 S. Main Street. Rickertsen stated the Zoning Administrator felt it would be beneficial to lighten the zoning on this lot to from M-1 Light Industrial to C-2 Central Business District (commercial) since it is located in the central part of the community and across the street from residential and an assembly building. She also reported that most industrial businesses may not be able to locate on this lot due to buffer requirements from residential. Rickertsen reported that the zoning change was not recommended by the Planning & Zoning Commission. Brett Marshall, attorney representing Central Petroleum Company (adjacent property owner), was present and stated they oppose the rezoning. Council questioned audience member Bernard Brus, who is a member of the Planning & Zoning Commission, why the majority of the Commission members did not agree to rezone the lot. Brus stated they felt it was best to leave it zoned industrial at this time, especially since it's next to the railroad, and it could be rezoned to commercial at a later date. Mengler stated more types of businesses could locate on the lot if it was zoned commercial. Discussion ensued and it was stated that some of the other concerns from the Planning & Zoning Commission were not relevant to the zoning request. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to close the public hearing. Motion carried. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to 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 16, 2015. Motion carried.

Introduction of Audience. Paula Schneckloth, Gene Meyer, Dennis Moran, Bernard Brus, Jason Holdorf, Jill Hernandez, Jim Paulsen, and Brett Marshall.

Alliant Energy. Paula Schneckloth, Alliant Energy representative, introduced herself as the City's new account manager. She stated rebates may be available for current and future projects.

Tree Removal : W. Bryant Street Project. Discussion was held on two trees that were removed at 334 W. Durant Street during the W. Bryant Street project. Mayor Kostichek expressed regret to Jim Paulsen for any misunderstandings.

Resolution 2015-11, Approving the Adoption for the FYE 2016 Budget. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2015-11. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, Latimer, and Koehler. Motion carried.

Ordinance Amending the Official Zoning Map. Mengler stated she feels it's in the best interest of the City to rezone because this lot would be more appropriately used for commercial purposes rather than industrial. Mengler moved to introduce and approve the first reading of Ordinance 477-15. Seconded by Jackie Puck. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, Latimer, and Koehler. Motion carried. This is the first of three readings to rezone the lot at 101 N. Main Street from M-1, Light Industrial, to C-2, Central Business District.

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 Jacob Puck seconded to renew the insurance with EMC Insurance Company. Motion carried.

Fire Department Report.
Light Bar. Chief Geigle presented a project worksheet to replace the light bar on Rescue 6 that is malfunctioning. Latimer moved and Mengler seconded to approve the replacement, at a cost of $2,399 from Alexis Fire and Equipment. Motion carried.
High Pressure Jaws System. Geigle reported they found a used rescue system, for extrication purposes, to place in the new truck, Engine #3. This system would be compatible with the tools on Rescue #6 truck. Funding for the purchase would be from the Fire Department Donation Fund. Jacob Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve the purchase in the amount of $12,500 from Howell Rescue Systems. Motion carried.
Geigle also reported that Engine #3 was selected to be featured in a nation-wide magazine, Fire Engineering, sometime within the next 12 months.

Main Street Enhancement Project. Various styles of decorative lighting options were reviewed. A few options were ruled out and costs will be obtained for some of the remaining options. Mengler stated the Walcott Day Committee donated $3,200 towards the hanging baskets for the new light poles.

101 S. Main Street. A special meeting to discuss the lot and project will be scheduled for a future date.

Public Works Report.
WW Grade lll Operator. Brockmann stated the part-time certified operator, Randy Reimers, will be working additional hours at the plant and Scott Brockmann will continue to be at the plant full-time. Brockmann stated it would not reduce the overtime hours since the plant is in operation seven days a week. Brockmann stated coverage is available for the plant if S. Brockmann takes time off.

City Clerk's Report. Rickertsen stated the Iowa Department of Transportation estimates that Walcott will receive an additional $26,895/year from the gas tax increase. These funds are deposited in the Road Use Tax Fund for street repairs, maintenance and pavement improvements projects.

Questions/Concerns. Joe Quick arrived and reported they had a RAGBRAI meeting. Information will be posted on the City's website when more details become available.

Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to adjourn at 6:58 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 16th day of February, 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.

Latimer moved and Jacob Puck 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 February 2, 2015, minutes from February 12, 2015, January 2015 Financial reports, and Resolution 2015-10, Adopting the 2014 Supplement to the Walcott Code of Ordinances. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Latimer, and Mengler. Motion carried.

Introduction of Audience. Michael Hart, Bernard Brus, Jill Hernandez, Gene Meyer, Donna Housley, and Joe & Kelly Quick.

Bond Financing/Northland Securities. Michael Hart discussed the City's current outstanding debt, debt capacity, procedures for using TIF (tax increment financing), and General Obligation Bonds versus TIF Revenue Bonds. Future financing options were discussed for the Main Street Enhancement project and the proposed Municipal Building project. Mayor Kostichek thanked Hart for the presentation.

RAGBRAI Pass-Through Agreement. Rickertsen stated a chairperson is needed for this year's RAGBRAI events. Joe Quick volunteered to co-chair the event. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the RAGBRAI XLIII Pass-Through Town Agreement for July 25th. Motion carried. The agreement states that the City agrees to shut down outdoor activities by 2:30 p.m.

101 S. Main Street Lot. A letter expected from Central Petroleum Company regarding their concerns with the City constructing a municipal building on the city-owned lot (101 S. Main Street), west of Cen-Pe-Co, had not been received yet. City Hall neighbor, Jill Hernandez, was present and stated she doesn't have the same attachment to her house as she had in the past and had plans to put her home for sale.

Full-Time Grade III WW Operator Position. Discussion was held on hiring a full-time certified Grade III Wastewater Operator. Currently the City has a part-time certified operator that is only at the plant on a limited basis. Brockmann stated our certified operator and full-time wastewater employee have been discussing issues and Brockmann will report on options at the next meeting. Council asked that an updated job description be prepared for the next meeting.

Call Service for Code Enforcement. Discussion was held on the information presented by the Building Official/Code Enforcement Officer at the last meeting regarding utilizing a call service for code enforcement violations. Following discussion, Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to not proceed with utilizing a call service as presented. Motion carried.

2015 Summer Youth Program. Rickertsen reported the rate for a six-week summer youth program with Scott County YMCA will remain the same this year. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the 2015 Summer Youth Program with Scott County YMCA, same fees as last year. Motion carried. Fees will be $70 per participant for children residing in city limits or Fire District #6 and the full cost of $196.45 for non-residents.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake reported he will present a proposed weapons policy at the next meeting. Mayor Kostichek stated he had citizen inquiries pertaining to the police dog, Titan. Chief Blake reported he isn't doing much with Titan this time of year and there have not been any large seizures. He stated the policies for prosecuting have changed since he had a police dog in another community several years ago.

Public Work's Report. Brockmann presented a project worksheet for a used 2006 International Dump Truck with an underbody plow. He stated the new truck will replace the 1992 International dump truck, which will move to the sewer plant and replace the 1983 Ford K7000 dump truck. Discussion was held on options of either advertising for sealed bids or trade-in for the 1983 truck. Following further discussion, Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to proceed with purchasing a 2006 International dump truck with an underbody plow. Motion carried. The cost of the truck and sandblasting and painting is expected to be $42,800. The 1983 Ford K700 dump truck will be advertised for sale. Brockmann stated he is also researching costs of a new dump truck/snow plow, or another used one if available. Brockmann also reported on a recent water main break, snow plowing issues, and hauling of snow piles (due to safety concerns).

City Clerk's Report. Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to request the State Auditor's Office perform the annual examination for FYE 2015. Motion carried. Discussion was held on the building at 1113 N. Main Street and the high heating bill.

Mayor's Report. Mayor Kostichek stated the municipal building project is going to take time as it needs to be something that will last 70 : 80 years and he wants to do it properly and hopes the public is patient through the process.

Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to adjourn at 7:28 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 2nd day of February, 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: John Brockmann, Lisa Rickertsen, Linda Rivers, and Tom Schirman.

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

Consent Agenda. Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from January 19, 2015, and minutes from January 22, 2015. Motion carried.

Introduction of Audience. Dennis & Karen Puck, Carol Snay, Brent Puck, Larry Koberg, Randy Moeller, Lee Muller and Brett Marshall.

Central Petroleum Company. Attorney Brett Marshall was present, representing Central Petroleum Company (Cen-Pe-Co). On behalf of Cen-Pe-Co, he requested the City Council reconsider constructing a municipal building on the city-owned lot (101 S. Main Street), west of Cen-Pe-Co. Marshall cited security and safety issues, additional parking concerns, proximity of other buildings, and delivery issues. Marshall stated that due to the nature of their business they would like to have a buffer zone around their property and have already purchased additional property over the past several years. Mengler stated she appreciates everything Cen-Pe-Co does for the community and will take it under consideration. Following additional discussion, Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to have Attorney Schirman converse with Marshall to obtain further information on reasons why Cen-Pe-Co feels the City should not build at 101 S. Main Street. Motion carried.

Karen Puck : Historical Items. Karen Puck stated she would like to find a place to keep and maintain historical items and memorabilia so that Walcott's history can be preserved. She stated the items represent stories and ideas and having an area for historical items could also be utilized as an educational center. Carol Snay reported on the historical items present during the Sesquicentennial celebration in 2004 and the need to preserve and display items on a permanent basis. Lee Muller agreed with Puck and Snay and spoke in favor of having a place to store and view historical items. Puck has a tremendous amount of items and brought copies of old newspapers and other historical artifacts for council to view. Puck stated she wants her collection of items to belong to the City and asked the Council to consider providing space for a historical area/center, possibly in the proposed municipal building. Mayor Kostichek thanked them for coming and providing the information for future consideration.

Building Department Report.
Rental Housing. Rivers reported the biennial rental housing inspections will start in March. The rental housing inspection program is for all non-owner occupied housing. Rivers questioned if the council wanted to continue to inspect non-owner occupied residences that are occupied by immediate family members (parents or children). Following discussion, Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to leave the ordinance as is. All non-owner occupied housing will continued to be inspected under the rental housing program. Jackie Puck and Jacob Puck abstained due to conflict. Motion carried.
Call Service. Rivers presented information on a call service to use as a courtesy call to remind residents of code enforcement violations, such as snow removal, and suggested it could also be utilized for other departments when needing to notify multiple residents at one time. The service includes a pre-recorded message regarding the code violation/city notification. Discussion ensued regarding snow removal. The council took the information under advisement and it will be discussed at the next meeting.

Public Work's Report. Brockmann reported on the recent snowfall issues. He stated they did one pass through on all streets and will start to widen the streets and haul snow tomorrow.

City Clerk's Report. A special meeting for the FYE 2016 budget was scheduled for Thursday, February 12th at 5:30 p.m. Rickertsen reported she received a phone call from a citizen in support of being a pass through town for RAGBRAI this year. Davenport will be the end point for the 2015 RAGBRAI and Coralville is the last overnight town. Larry Koberg stated it's too good of an opportunity to pass up. Following discussion, council consensus was to advise Joe Taylor, President of the Quad-Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau, that the City is interested in being a pass through town for this year's RAGBRAI.

Questions/Concerns. Randy Moeller questioned the status of the South Downey Street paving project. Rickertsen stated it will not be done this fiscal year and the council has not yet discussed projects for the FYE 2016 budget. The project will depend on street finances available and/or borrowing. The Public Works Department was thanked for their snow removal efforts.

Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:34 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 Thursday, January 22, 2015, with Mayor Pro Tem Jacob Puck calling the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. Other council members present were: Tim Koehler, Virgil Wayne Latimer, Lisa Mengler, and Jackie Puck. Absent: None. City employees present were: Jeff Blake, John Brockmann and Lisa Rickertsen. Mayor Kostichek arrived at 5:40 p.m.

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

FYE 2016 Budget. Discussion was held on the proposed budget including a review of the general fund, including general reserve funds, future capital projects and proprietary (water, sewer, and garbage) funds. Discussion was held on hiring a Grade 3 Wastewater Operator. The budget will be discussed again during the regular council meeting on February 2, 2015.

Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:13 p.m. Ayes: All. Motion carried.

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 19th day of January, 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, Josh Geigle, 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 5, 2015, December 2014 financial reports, liquor license renewal for Gramma's Kitchen & The Checkered Flag, and Resolution 2015-5, Transfer of Funds. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Latimer, Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried.

Introduction of Audience. Bernard Brus, Gene Meyer, Brent Puck, Jason Holdorf, and Donna Housley.

Vision Committee Report. Committee member Brent Puck was present on behalf of the Vision Committee to discuss items from their January 14th meeting. Items discussed include the following: revamping the organization board by Casey's, forming a non-profit group, potential welcome sign sites, school liaison, and one member resignation. Council members had no objections to committee member Jason Holdorf being the new liaison between the Walcott School and City. Mengler thanked the committee members for their efforts.

Fire Department Report. The proposed department budget for FYE 2016 was reviewed and discussed. Chief Geigle presented a vehicle schedule and possible replacements within the next ten years. He also stated the new truck will be arriving on Wednesday, January 21st.

W. Bryant Street Project.
Resolution 2015-6, Approval of Change Order #5. Latimer moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2015-6. Roll call ayes: Latimer, Mengler, Koehler, Jacob Puck, and Jackie Puck. Motion carried. This change order totals $818.50 for curb cuts and painting handicap symbols. Mayor Kostichek reported on standing water/drainage concerns next to the new sidewalk on the corner of W. Bryant and Power Street. Brockmann was not aware of any problems but will look at the area.
Resolution 2015-7, Approving Early Release of Retainage. Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve Resolution 2015-7. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Latimer, Mengler, Koehler, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried. The project is substantially complete and remaining items are seeding and fertilizing, amounting to $6,600, which will be completed later this spring. The Resolution approves a payment to N.J. Miller, Inc. in the amount of $24,830.76, as recommended by the Project Engineer, and funds in the amount of $13,200 will be retained until the remaining project items are completed.
Engineering Fees for Early Release of Retainage. Brockmann stated he has questions regarding the invoice received and will talk to the project engineer. Following a brief discussion, Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to table the issue until a response is received from the project engineer regarding the invoice and engineering contract. Motion carried.

Bryant Street, Powers Street, Rowe Lane, and Parker Street Sidewalk Improvements Project.
Resolution 2015-8. Accepting work Covering the Sidewalk Improvements Project. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2015-8. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Koehler, and Latimer. Motion carried. The total cost of the sidewalk improvements project is $27,892.64, of which the sum of $13,946.32 shall be assessed against private property.
Resolution 2015-9, Adopting Final Assessment Schedule for Sidewalk Improvements Project. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2015-9. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Latimer, and Mengler. Motion carried.

Boundary Survey for 101 S. Main Street. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the proposal from J & M Civil Design for the site survey, in the amount of $2,000, to determine accurate property boundaries at 101 S. Main Street. Motion carried

Police Department Report. Chief Blake presented a project worksheet to purchase four body cameras. He reported the department received a grant in the amount of $1,800 from the Iowa 80/CAT Scale Go Iowa Fund Grant Program for the cameras. Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the purchase of four cameras, not to exceed $1,800. Motion carried. Chief Blake reported the remaining No Weapons" signs arrived. Attorney Schirman and Chief Blake will work on a policy for enforcement procedures.

Public Work's Report. Brockmann presented three bids for a new pick-up truck. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the purchase of a 2015 Ford F150 from Ron Alpen Ford for $25,064. Motion carried. Brockmann stated he will also have the bed liner sprayed which will be an additional cost. Brockmann reported on the water line breaks inside the city-owned building at 1113 N. Main Street. He stated he felt the heating failure in the building was due to dead batteries in the thermostat. Brockmann also reported on blockage with sewer lines at the end of W. Lincoln Street and stated a tree causing the problem will be removed. Brockmann presented proposals for engineering services for conceptual plans for a new splash pad park area and improvements along W. Otis Street. Proposals ranged from $12,900 to $62,955. Latimer moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the Park Board's recommendation on hiring J & M Civil Design in the amount of $12,900. Motion carried.

City Clerk's Report. Rickertsen presented the Building Department's report and stated 191 permits were issued in 2014.

Mayor's Report. Mayor Kostichek read a letter from Dr. Bartelt Brouer, Mayor of Sister City, Bredenbek, Germany. Several mugs, from their 750 year celebration, were sent from Bredenbek.

Questions/Concerns. Questions arose on the car wash on Main Street. It is temporarily closed and the property is for sale. Mengler reported she spoke with the Walcott Day Committee regarding the holiday lights and reported they are always looking for more volunteers and would accept donations towards the lights. She stated they are looking at purchasing new lights and also garland and wreaths for the new decorative poles to be located on N. Main Street.

Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to adjourn at 7:10 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 5th day of January, 2015, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present were: Virgil Wayne Latimer, Tim Koehler, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: none. City employees present: Jeff Blake, Josh Geigle, Jackie Huston, and John Brockmann.

Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the agenda with the deletion of "Purchase of Vehicle" under the Public Works report. Motion carried.

Consent Agenda. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, Resolution 2015-1 Authorizing Certain Payments Before a Council Meeting, Resolution 2015-2 Designation of Official Newspaper, Resolution 2015-3 Designation of Financial Institutions as Depositories, and Resolution 2015-4 Establishing the Standard Mileage Rate Reimbursement. Motion carried with unanimous roll call vote.

Introduction of Audience. None

Minutes from 12/15/14. Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the minutes from 12/15/14. Motion carried with Koehler abstaining due to absence.

EMC Insurance Recommendation. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the recommendation from EMC Insurance regarding requirements for installation of equipment on water towers. Motion carried.

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

Rezoning for 101 S. Main Street. Huston informed the Council that this city-owned property would need to be rezoned if a municipal building is to be constructed on it. She recommended rezoning to C-2, which would be appropriate zoning for the building and be contiguous to property on the north side of Lincoln that is zoned C-2. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to start the rezoning process from M-1 to C-2. Motion carried.

Fire Department Report. Fire Chief, Josh Geigle, reviewed the Project Worksheet that had been submitted to the Council for a new computer and software. The lowest of three bids was from Dell for $1,488 and the Chief recommended that bid. Latimer moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the bid from Dell. Motion carried.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake reported that he had declared a snow emergency that required vehicles to be parked on alternating sides of the streets from 6 p.m. to 6 p.m. each day. The Police Department will be contacting vehicle owners to move illegally parked vehicles. He also stated that the proposal to purchase body cameras will be ready for the next agenda.

Public Works' Report. Brockmann had nothing to report.

City Clerk's Report. Dates and times for budget meetings were chosen: January 22nd and February 5th, both at 5:30 p.m.

Mayor's Report. Mayor Kostichek read and discussed a letter from a citizen regarding the condition of the boulevard in front of the church. Following discussion, it was determined that nothing can be done at this time, however seeding would follow in the spring.

Questions/Concerns. Koehler questioned the following items:
If the "No Weapons" signs had been received : Chief Blake stated they had not.
A Walcott sign being placed at the north end of Main Street with discussion.
Status of mobile home that was supposedly exceeding the ordinance regarding number of dogs allowed : Chief Blake stated that the owner claims only three dogs are left.
Christmas lights that have bulbs burned out. He wondered if the city should assist in maintenance. Mengler stated that Walcott Day purchases and maintains the lights and she would discuss this with the committee.

Jacob Puck moved and Jackie Puck seconded to adjourn at 6:27 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.