A special meeting of the City Council of the City of Walcott, Iowa was held on Monday, October 10, 2016, with Mayor John Kostichek calling the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.  Council members present were: Tim Koehler, Virgil Wayne Latimer, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck.  Absent:  None. City employee present:  Lisa Rickertsen.

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

Approval to Remove Trees & Fence on City Property at 600 W. Cedar Lane Drive. Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve allowing the Hearts and Hands Foundation to remove the trees and fence on city-property at 600 W. Cedar Lane Drive, as indicated on the map presented by the Foundation.  Motion carried.

Review of Job Applications for Public Works Director and Building Official Positions.  Applications were reviewed and discussed.  Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to proceed with interviewing applicant numbers 3, 5, 6, and 13 for the Public Works Director position.  Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to proceed with interviewing applicant numbers 1, 4, and 5 for the Building Official position.  Motion carried.

Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to adjourn at 5:40 p.m.  Ayes:  All.  Motion carried.  All votes were unanimous.

October 10, 2016 Signed Special Mtg

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 3^rd day of October, 2016, 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 Jackie Puck.   Absent: Jacob Puck.  City employees present:  Jeff Blake, Josh Geigle, Randy Reimers, Lisa Rickertsen, and Tom Schirman.

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

Consent Agenda.  Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda, including the invoices and minutes from September 19, 2016.  Motion carried.

Public Comments.  John Brockmann stated he had concerns with the drainage on Memorial Road.

South Downey Street Improvements Project.  Nate Stevenson, MSA Professional Services, was present to answer questions on the project and to recommend the approval of payment #4.  Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve pay request #4, to All American Concrete, in the amount of $152,439.61, as recommended.  Motion carried.  Stevenson stated the street will be resealed once they are done with the seeding, although he was not sure of the seeding timeline, and that the bid documents did not include new manhole lids.

Concrete Pavement Replacement at Fire Station.  Mayor Kostichek stated he spoke with the former Public Works Director who stated both bidders were presented with the same information. There were still questions on comparisons between the quotes.  Assistant Fire Chief, Joe Hahn, will meet with the two bidders regarding the proposals in order to obtain further clarification.

Manhole Repairs.  It was suggested by the Mayor to delay action so the new Public Works Director can review the manhole inspection reports. The current quotes do not address all of the rehabilitation recommendations as listed in the manhole inspection reports, which were previously provided by Stanley Consultants Inc.  Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to table the repairs until the inspection reports can be reviewed by a new Public Works Director.  Motion carried.

James Street Water Main Project. 

• Resolution 2016-52, Approving Contract & Bonds for the East James Street Water Main Project. Mengler moved and Jackie seconded to approve Resolution 2016-52.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Jackie Puck, Koehler, and Latimer.  Motion carried.
• Construction Observation Services. Koehler had questions on the proposed part-time observation services. Specifically that it states services would be done by a Civil Engineer intern and that the original contract already included weekly visits by the engineer during the construction phase. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to have the Mayor obtain further information on the proposed services.  Motion carried.

North Main Street Mudjacking at Bridge Ends.  A bridge inspection report from 2015 indicated abutment undermining on the south abutment footing.  During the preconstruction meeting of the channel shaping project, it was noted that the project work will fix the current erosion and undermining of the abutment but if the void is not fixed the undermining will return. Two quotes were received and Mike Alberts from Concrete Lifting Services was present to explain the costs and work to be done.  Following discussion, Latimer moved and Jackie Puck seconded to hire Concrete Lifting Services, the apparent low quote, to complete the work as discussed, under both bridge approaches.  Motion carried.

Recreational Trail Lighting Options.  Koehler reviewed a spreadsheet with lighting options and costs.  Discussion ensued and Chief Blake stated he has not had any phone calls or complaints about any issues along the trail area and comments were made they felt the lighting wasn’t needed.  Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to not pursue lighting on the recreational trail.  Motion carried.         

Resolution 2016-53, Approving Public Works Director Job Description.  Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2016-53.  Roll call ayes: Koehler, Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Latimer.  Motion carried.

Level Dirt at Wastewater Treatment Plant Area.  Two quotes were received to level out a dirt pile at the City-owned property on the west end of Cedar Lane Drive.  Questions arose on why the pile of dirt needs to be moved and how it is beneficial to the City.  Attorney Schirman stated the dirt pile may be addressed in the farm lease.  Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to table any action until Schirman has a chance to review the lease.  Motion carried.

Police Department Report.  Chief Blake stated he would like to have an additional officer help with the 5K run on October 22^nd. Council had no problems with the request.

Fire Department Report.  Chief Geigle reported on some mold on the wall around the window and around an outlet on the north wall in the meeting room.  He stated he is working with the Building Official, Linda Rivers, on determining the problem and stated that the inside wall was never sealed during the meeting room renovation.  Rivers has suggested sealing the exterior concrete walls.   Geigle will continue to work with Rivers and bring additional information to a future meeting.

Council Member Comments.  Mengler stated she would like to wait until a new Public Works Director is hired to address concerns from John Brockmann regarding the drainage along Memorial Road. Jackie Puck reported on an email she received from a resident.

Public Comments.  Austin Burt arrived after the public comments section at the beginning of the meeting.  He requested permission for the Hearts and Hands Foundation to cut down some trees on the north side of creek and to remove a fence in the same area on the City-owned property at the west end of Cedar Lane Drive.

Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:05 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes were unanimous, unless noted.

October 3 Signed minutes and claims

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 19^th day of September, 2016, at Walcott City Hall.  Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were:  Virgil Wayne Latimer, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, and Tim Koehler.  Absent: none.  City employees present:  Jeff Blake, Jackie Huston, Randy Reimers, and Tom Schirman.

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

Consent Agenda.  Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve the consent agenda, including the invoices, minutes from September 12^th and 15^th, 2016, and August financial reports.  Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes from September 6, 2016.  Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the minutes from September 6, 2016.  Motion carried with Koehler abstaining due to absence.

Resolution 2016-49, Alley Maintenance.  Options for the policy were discussed.  Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve Resolution 2016-49 with discussed changes.  Motion carried with unanimous roll call vote.

Larry Seiler – Alley Maintenance.  Mr. Seiler was not in attendance.

John & Brenda Swanson.  Ms. Swanson questioned the status of lighting on the Recreational Trail.  The Mayor stated that the Park Board was researching the options.  The Swansons also explained about the culvert under their driveway at the entrance to Walcott Road.  They stated that several years ago Ellsworth Excavating and Mr. Brockmann had taken a larger steel culvert out and replaced it with a PVC pipe with a smaller diameter.  The culvert is plugged up and water is backing up in the ditch.  The Mayor stated that he would speak to the City Engineer about this issue.

Brad Bauer – Storm Sewer Connection.  Mr. Bauer was not in attendance.

Alley behind 200 block of N. Century Street – water issues.  Jackie Puck stated that there is water standing at the north end of this alley even when there has been no rain.  It was noted that there is a storm sewer main with laterals attached in this alley.  The Mayor will discuss this with the City Engineer.

Concrete Pavement Replacement at Fire Station.  Quotes were received from Aero Concrete and Paustian Concrete.  The quotes were not for the same amount of linear feet.  Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to table the quotes until the next meeting to get clarification.  Motion carried.

Manhole and Catch Basin Surrounds Replacement.  Quotes were received from Aero Concrete and Paustian Concrete.  There were questions regarding equal comparisons between quotes.  Latimer moved and Koehler seconded to table the quotes until the next meeting to get clarification.  Motion carried.

Hearts & Hands Foundation.  Austin Burt presented a plan for tree plantings on City-owned property at the west end of Cedar Lane Drive.  This will provide a wind and dust break and visual screening for the Westbrook development area.  The Recreational Trail is planned to continue through this area eventually.  The Foundation’s intention is to encourage residential development.  Huston questioned is these lots could be developed due to the floodplain.  Burt stated that the Foundation would contact IDNR and attempt to get approval for construction in this area.  The Foundation received a $2,500 grant and is requesting the City use the $1,500 that was set aside for tree planting in this area.  Jackie Puck moved and Jake Puck seconded to approve the Phase I plantings with up to $1,500 in City funds being expended.  Motion carried.

Sno-Seekers Swap Meet.  Kevin Toft was present to request the use of Victory Park on November 6, 2016, for their Swap Meet.  This event was held at Victory Park last year and Council Members stated that there were no complaints and the park had been cleaned following the event.  Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the Swap Meet for 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on November 6^th.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2016-50, Job Description for Building/Code Enforcement Official.  Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2016-50.  Motion carried by unanimous roll call vote.

Resolution 2016-51, Approving Contract & Bonds for the Main Street Bridge Channel Shaping Project.  Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to approve Resolution 2016-51.  Motion carried with unanimous roll call vote.

Police Department Report.  Chief Blake reported on a recent multijurisdictional operation.

City Clerk Report. Huston questioned if the Council was in favor of having the P&Z Commission research and prepare a proposal to allow front yard fences.  Tracy Nees, a resident, stated that she had to remove a push-in fence from her front yard and would like to reinstall it on the property line to keep people and dogs off her lawn.  Council consensus was to refer this to P&Z to prepare a proposal with limits on height and material for front yard fences.

Attorney Report.  The sign easement for Caseys has been sent to them for their approval.

Mayor Report.  Watersmith Engineering can provide hourly services for construction observation for the upcoming James Street Project.

Council Member Comments.  Jackie Puck encouraged everyone to attend the Family Bingo Night on October 8^th at the Walcott American Legion.  It is a fund-raiser for the Splash Pad Committee.

Audience Comments.  Jill Ellsworth questioned why the Ellsworth Excavating bid that they submitted to the Public Works Director was not considered for the James Street Project.  Attorney Schirman explained that the bidding documents required a sealed bid with bonding documents be submitted to City Hall and that no bid was received from Ellsworth Excavating.  He stated that only appropriately submitted bids are considered.  Joe Hahn reminded everyone about the Fire Department’s Annual Steak Fry on September 24^th.

Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:15 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes were unanimous, unless noted.

Signed minutes and claims

A special meeting of the City Council of the City of Walcott, Iowa was held on Thursday, September 15, 2016, with Mayor John Kostichek calling the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were: Tim Koehler, Virgil Wayne Latimer, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck.  Absent:  None. City employees present were:  Jackie Huston, Randy Reimers, Tony Rupe.

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

Public Works Director Position.  Huston stated that Steve Bowman had tendered his resignation and reviewed the advertisement that had been used when Bowman had been hired.   Discussion revolved around changes to the advertisement and staffing for the department.  Reimers and Rupe both stated that they were willing to continue their employment as Wastewater and Water Superintendents, respectively.  The Council determined that certifications in wastewater and water treatment would not be necessary for the Public Works Director position, however a basic knowledge of those areas, as well as, experience in the other public works operations and supervision would be valuable.  Mengler moved and Jake Puck seconded to approve the advertisement with discussed changes.  Motion carried.

The Public Works Director’s job description was discussed.  Koehler moved and Jake Puck moved to make the discussed changes to the description.  Motion carried.

Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to adjourn at 6:12 p.m.  Ayes:  All.  Motion carried.

All votes were unanimous.

September 15, 2016 Signed Minutes

A special meeting of the City Council of the City of Walcott, Iowa was held on Monday, September 12, 2016, with Mayor John Kostichek calling the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were: Tim Koehler, Virgil Wayne Latimer, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck.  Absent:  None. City employees present were:  Lisa Rickertsen.

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

Building/Code Enforcement Official Position.  Rickertsen explained that the Building Official position is difficult to fill as part-time.  The position duties include: rental housing inspections, commercial fire inspections, all building, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical applications and permit inspections, plan reviews, sidewalk program, and code enforcement including nuisances.   Discussion was held on the possibility of outsourcing permit inspections, however the rental housing and fire inspections and code violations would not be enforced.  The council consensus was that not filling the position was not in the best interest of the community.  Discussion continued regarding possible additional duties for a full-time employee and the job description was reviewed.  Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to advertise for a full-time Building/Code Enforcement Official with changes to the job description as discussed.  Motion carried.

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

September 12, 2016 Special Meeting

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Tuesday, the 6^th day of September, 2016, at Walcott City Hall.  Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were:  Virgil Wayne Latimer, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck.  Absent: Tim Koehler.  City employees present:  Jeff Blake, Josh Geigle, Lisa Rickertsen, and Tom Schirman.

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

Consent Agenda.  Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the consent agenda, including the invoices and minutes from August 15, 2016.  Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes from August 17, 2016.  Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve the minutes from August 17, 2016.  Mengler abstained due to absence from meeting.  Motion carried.

Appointment of City Engineer.  Rickertsen stated the City Engineer works closely with the Zoning Administrator and is defined in the City Code to review site plans and plats and provides floodplain and other technical questions as they arise. Rickertsen had provided council with additional information regarding hourly rates and stated that the Zoning Administrator has recommended Jason Holdorf from Missman, Inc., to be appointed City Engineer.  Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve Jason Holdorf be appointed the City Engineer.  Motion carried.

Larry Seiler – Alley Maintenance.  Seiler stated he was following up from previous meetings regarding alley maintenance by his property at 200 W. Flagg Street.  Jackie Puck stated she would like the City Attorney to come up with an ordinance to not allow vehicles weighing more than 10,000 pounds on alleys.  Seiler stated he would need a limit greater than 10,000 pounds.  Resident John Brockmann stated there is no way for the City to weigh vehicles.  Mengler stated a weight limit would be hard to enforce but stated if the property owner wants to place rock down in alleys it would be their responsibility to pay for it, which has been the past policy.  Seiler questioned the brush that is still infringing in the alley area. This has been trimmed back already and both Mengler and Jacob Puck stated large vehicles can get through the area with no problems.  Seiler stated it should be trimmed back further and Mengler stated she would have Bowman look at the area again.

Hearts & Hands Foundation – Tree Windbreak at Wastewater Plant Property.  Brent Puck reported that the Hearts & Hands Foundation was awarded a $2,500 grant from Alliant Energy.  The funds will be used to plant trees, with volunteer labor, along the east side of the compost area/wastewater treatment plant property.  Jody Siebel stated the proposed planting area is utilized during winter months to dispose of excess snow.  Discussion ensued and concerns arose on the maintenance responsibility and that the proposed area is currently being leased.  The committee was asked to talk to the Public Works Department about the concerns mentioned.

Dawson Property – 301 E. Lincoln Street. Brian Dawson was present to follow up with a nuisance abatement notice that was received earlier in the year. He distributed photos and reported that a semi-trailer and car parts have been removed from the property and they have been repositioning trailers since he last met with council on February 15^th.   Jackie Puck stated the property looks nice and Mayor Kostichek thanked them for following up.  Mengler asked for another follow-up at the end of March.

Main Street Streetscape Enhancement Project – Approval of Payment #9.  Rickertsen reported the quantities submitted were reviewed by Bowman and the project engineer, who recommended payment.  Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve payment #9 to Brandt Construction in the amount of $42,180.50.  Motion carried.

Main Street Channel Shaping Project.

• Resolution 2016-44, Approving Temporary Easements. The easements are with Walcott Clinic Properties and Burt Enterprises for dirt disposal, as requested by the property owners, from the project area.  Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2016-44.  Roll call ayes:  Jackie Puck, Mengler, Latimer, and Jacob Puck.  Motion carried.
• Resolution 2016-45, Awarding Contract for the Main Street Channel Shaping Project. Two bids were received and the project engineer recommended awarding the contract to the low bidder, Brandt Construction.  Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve Resolution 2016-45.  Roll call ayes:  Jackie Puck, Latimer, Jacob Puck, and Mengler.  Motion carried.  The project is awarded to Brandt Construction in the amount of $34,180.

Resolution 2016-46, Awarding Contract for the East James Street Water Main Project.   Three bids were received and the project engineer recommended awarding the contract to the low bidder, SulzCo LLC.  Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to approve Resolution 2016-46.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Latimer, Jacob Puck, and Jackie Puck.  Motion carried.   The project is awarded to SulzCo LLC in the amount of $72,166.

South Downey Street Improvements Project. 

• Approval of Payment #3. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve payment #3, as recommended by the project engineer, to All American Concrete, Inc., in the amount of $82,456.68.  Motion carried.
• Resolution 2016-47, Approving Change Order #1. Rickertsen stated the change order is for adding 3” of subbase rock under the sidewalk areas, as recommended by the Public Works Director.  Following discussion, Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2016-47.  Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, and Latimer.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2016-48, Establishing Criteria and Approving Application Regarding the Use of Economic Development Incentives.  Rickertsen reviewed the criteria and program application regarding the use of tax increment financing (TIF) property tax rebates in the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area.  Jacob Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve Resolution 2016-48.  Roll call ayes:  Jacob Puck, Latimer, Mengler, and Jackie Puck.  Motion carried.   The developer requesting assistance must complete an application prior to the start of any project construction.

Trick-or-Treating.  Jacob Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve Trick-or-Treating on October 30^th from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. and the parade from Victory Park to the Walcott American Legion.  Motion carried.

Fire Department Report.   Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the payment to Kalmes Catering in the amount of $8,500 for 1,000 steaks and approve closing a portion of E. Bryant Street, between Main Street and Henry Street, on September 24^th for the annual Fire Department Steak Fry.  Motion carried.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen reported on the annual financial report, ending June 30, 2016.  Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the FYE 2016 Annual Financial Report.  Motion carried.

Audience Comments.  John Brockmann expressed concerns about culverts that need to be cleaned out and a water main valve that he said was covered up and not properly fixed.

Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to adjourn at 6:50 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

September 6, 2016 Signed Minutes & Claims

A special meeting of the City Council of the City of Walcott, Iowa was held on Wednesday, August 17, 2016, with Mayor John Kostichek calling the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.  Council members present were: Tim Koehler, Virgil Wayne Latimer, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck.  Absent:  Lisa Mengler. City employees present were:  Lisa Rickertsen and Tom Schirman.

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

Public Hearing on Purchase Offer.  Mayor Kostichek opened the public hearing on the purchase offer from Osage Equities, Inc. for the property located at 1113 N. Main Street.  Attorney Schirman reported on the details of the purchase offer from Osage Equities, Inc., which includes a waiting period up to 180 days before closing on the property, subject to the buyer’s due diligence.  Mayor Kostichek stated that the building has been empty for ten years and selling it will place the property back on the tax rolls. He also stated it would fulfill an item on the business wish list from the 2012 Downtown Assessment report.  The three citizens present voiced their support as they felt the project would benefit the community.  Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to close the public hearing and resume the special meeting.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2016-43, Approving Purchase Offer from Osage Equities, Inc.  Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve Resolution 2016-43.  Roll call ayes:  Jackie Puck, Latimer, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, and Koehler.  Motion carried.

Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to adjourn at 5:57 p.m.  Ayes:  All.  Motion carried.

August 17, 2016 – Special Meeting

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 15^th day of August, 2016, 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, Steve Bowman, Josh Geigle, Lisa Rickertsen, and Tom Schirman.

 Approval of Agenda. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the agenda with the correction that the fire truck purchase is for unit #2, not unit #3 as listed on the agenda.  Motion carried.

Public Hearing on Plans, Specifications, Form of Contract & Cost Estimate on the Main Street Bridge Channel Shaping Project.  Mayor Kostichek opened the hearing.  Rickertsen stated the project includes earth and channel excavation, located underneath, and on both sides of the Main Street bridge. The cost estimate is $33,300 and no written or oral comments were received.  Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to close the public hearing and open the Public Hearing on Plans, Specifications, Form of Contract & Cost Estimate on the E. James Street Water Main Project.  Motion carried.  Rickertsen stated this was for construction of 560’ of 8” water main along James Street and Downey Street.  No written comments were received and the cost estimate is $82,232.  John Brockmann questioned why the City staff is not installing the water main.  Based on the estimated cost of the project the City is following the process set out by the Iowa Code. Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting.  Motion carried.

Consent Agenda.  Rickertsen reported on the details of the resolutions listed in the consent agenda.  Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda, including the invoices, beer permit renewal for Casey’s General Store  #1922, July financial reports, FYE 2016 Investment report, Resolution 2016-37, Establishing New Project Fund and Authorizing the Transfer of Funds, Resolution 2016-38, Authorizing the Transfer of Funds, and Resolution 2016-39, Approving the Annual 2016 Fiscal Year Street Finance Report.  Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jacob Puck, Latimer, Koehler, and Jackie Puck.  Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes from July 18, 2016.   Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve the minutes from July 18, 2016.  Mengler abstained due to absence from meeting.  Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes from August 1, 2016.  Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the minutes from August 1, 2016.  Koehler and Latimer abstained due to absence from meeting.  Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes from August 8, 2016.  Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve the minutes from August 8, 2016.  Mengler and Jacob Puck abstained due to absence from meeting.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2016-40, Approving Plans, Specifications, Form of Contract and Cost Estimate for the Main Street Bridge Channel Shaping Project.  Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2016-40.  Roll call ayes:  Koehler, Mengler, Jackie Puck, Latimer, and Jacob Puck.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2016-41, Approving Plans, Specifications, Form of Contract and Cost Estimate for the E. James Street Water Main Project.  Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to approve Resolution 2016-41.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Koehler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, and Latimer.  Motion carried.

Request for Lights at Recreational Trail.  John & Brenda Swanson requested lights be placed on the north side of the recreational trail between the mobile home park and the west bridge.  They reported it is very dark in that area and they have had trespassing and damage to their property.  In an effort to curb the problems, they have installed: an electric fence, lights on their building, cameras, and “No Trespassing” signs.  They presented information with wired and solar lighting options. Chief Blake expressed concerns that installing lights may give juveniles another place to congregate.  He stated officers have been patrolling the area on patrol bikes.  Following discussion, Swansons were told to contact the Police Department when any trespassing or disturbances are happening and Bowman was asked to obtain installation pricing on both options as presented.

Hearts and Hands Foundation.  Hearts and Hands Foundation representatives, Austin Burt, Jason Holdorf, and Kirk Koberg, presented an update on the proposed entrance signs to be located on North Main Street.  Burt stated the signs will be 4’ high with a curved wall and they are estimating the total cost to be $50,000.  They also reported on a fundraiser they are hosting at Victory Park on Saturday, August 27^th beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Economic Development Incentives.  Rickertsen reported that the former TIF (Tax Increment Financing) rebate policy expired in December, 2015 and that the laws have changed and now require all TIF rebate development agreements be included in the City’s Urban Renewal Plan.  A proposed TIF program criteria and application were reviewed.  Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to proceed with the program and application as discussed.  Motion carried.                   

Zoning Board of Adjustment Appointment.  Jacob Puck moved and Latimer seconded to appoint Everett Bieri to the Zoning Board of Adjustment with a term ending December 31, 2018.  Motion carried.

City Engineer Appointment.  Rickertsen stated the City Engineer position became vacant and Jackie Huston, Zoning Administrator, has recommended Jason Holdorf be appointed as the City Engineer.  Questions arose on the position and Rickertsen stated the City Engineer is defined in the code to review site plans and plats and provides floodplain assistance.  Koehler requested rate information prior to approving the appointment.  The appointment will be placed on the next regular meeting agenda.

Fire Department Report.

• Resolution 2016-42, Approving Fire Department Uniform Policy. Chief Geigle reported on the details of the Uniform Policy, as stated in the Resolution.  Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2016-42.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Jackie Puck, Koehler, Latimer, and Jacob Puck.  Motion carried.
• Approval to Purchase New Gear. Jacob Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve the purchase of one full set of turnout gear from Alex Air Apparatus at a cost of $2,015.  Motion carried.  The purchase will be funded from a $1,000 grant from Iowa 80/Cat Scale Go Iowa Fund and $1,015 from the department donation fund.
• Approval to Purchase New Truck – Replace Unit #2. Chief Geigle presented the council with a project worksheet to replace unit #2.  A memo had also been presented, listing reasons why the department only received one bid.  Geigle reported that Alexis Fire Equipment has built every pumper and tanker that the department currently has and they are the closest fire apparatus manufacturer.  Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to purchase a new brush truck (mini pumper) from Alexis Fire Equipment at a cost not to exceed $163,000.  Motion carried.

Police Department Report.  Chief Blake presented a project worksheet to replace the radar in the Crown Victoria.  Latimer moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the purchase of a radar unit, not to exceed $2,866.  Motion carried.  Blake also reported his department will be participating in two multijurisdictional Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau events on August 19^th and September 2^nd.

Public Works Department Report.  Bowman stated he requested a price to add subbase rock under the sidewalk areas on the S. Downey Street Improvements Project.  A project change order will be placed on the September 5^th agenda for the rock, at a cost of $3,100. Discussion was held on the proposed alley maintenance policy.  Concerns were expressed regarding speed limit, weight limit, and maintenance responsibility.  Attorney Schirman stated you can impose weight limits, with exemptions for utility vehicles, and alleys can also be barricaded when necessary.  Discussion was held on integrating the policy proposed by Bowman and comments provided by Schirman into a policy.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen reported on a proposed change to manufactured housing.  Council consensus was to proceed with the ordinance change.

Mayor Report.  Mayor Kostichek read a letter from Vision 2020 (Drexel University College of Medicine), which presented the City of Walcott a Certificate of Equality for advancing gender equality though leadership among women and men on all boards and commissions in Walcott.

Audience Comments.  John Brockmann expressed concerns about the length of grass on the N. Main Street right-of-way and the handling of certain public works matters.  Janice Dawson questioned if the railroad had been contacted regarding the brush behind her property. Bowman stated he had left them a message and will contact them again.

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

Signed Minutes and Claims August 15, 2016

A special meeting of the City Council of the City of Walcott, Iowa was held on Monday, August 8, 2016, with Mayor John Kostichek calling the meeting to order at 11:30 a.m.  Council members present were: Tim Koehler, Virgil Wayne Latimer, and Jackie Puck.  Absent:  Lisa Mengler and Jacob Puck. City employees present were:  Steve Bowman and Lisa Rickertsen.

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

Resolution 2016-36, Setting Public Hearing Date and Time on Purchase Offer from Osage Equities, Inc.  The purchase offer from Osage Equities, Inc. is for the property located at 1113 N. Main Street.  Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve Resolution 2016-36.  Roll call ayes:  Latimer, Jackie Puck, and Koehler.  Motion carried. The public hearing is scheduled for August 17, 2016 at 5:30 p.m.

Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to adjourn at 11:35 a.m.  Ayes:  All.  Motion carried.

August 8, 2016 Signed Minutes

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 1^st day of August, 2016, 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:  Steve Bowman, Lisa Rickertsen, and Tom Schirman.

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

Consent Agenda.  Jackie Puck moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda, including the invoices, and beer permit renewals for Pilot Travel Centers #043 & #268.  Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes from July 5, 2016.   Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the minutes from July 5, 2016.  Motion carried.

Approval of Sale of Antenna Tower.  Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the sale of the antenna tower to Tim Hamann, in the amount of $110.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2016-33, Establishing Reserve Fund for the Fire Department Future Building Needs.  Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2016-33.  Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Jackie Puck.  Motion carried.

Main Street Bridge Channel Shaping Project. 

Resolution 2016-34, Setting Public Hearing Date on Plans, Specifications, Form of Contract and Cost Estimate.  Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2016-34.  Roll call ayes:  Jacob Puck, Mengler, and Jackie Puck.  Motion carried.  The public hearing is set for August 15^th at 6:00 p.m.  Bids will be accepted until 2:00 p.m. on September 1^st.

James Street Watermain Project.

Resolution 2016-35, Setting Public Hearing Date on Plans, Specifications, Form of Contract and Cost Estimate.  Jackie Puck moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2016-35.  Roll call ayes:  Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, and Mengler.  Motion carried.  The public hearing is scheduled for August 15^th at 6:00 p.m.  Bids will be accepted until 1:30 p.m. on September 1^st.

South Downey Street Project.

Approval of Payment #2 to All American Concrete for $35,113.90.  Moved by Mengler and seconded by Jacob Puck to approve payment #2 to All American Concrete for $35,113.90.   Motion carried.

Larry Seiler – 200 W. Flagg Street – Alley Maintenance.  Seiler questioned the status of the alley maintenance behind his building at 200 W. Flagg Street.  Discussion was held that alleys are not built to withstand frequent large vehicle traffic.  As stated at the last meeting, the City is in the process of working on an alley maintenance policy.  Following further discussion, Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to table the alley maintenance discussion to the next meeting, following more information from Bowman.  Motion carried.

Building/Code Enforcement Official Position.  Rickertsen stated Linda Rivers has submitted a letter of resignation but she is willing to continue in the position during the hiring process and assist with training and inspections as needed.  Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to advertise for a part-time Building/Code Enforcement Official.  Motion carried.

Public Works Department Report. Bowman presented a project worksheet for tree removal at 106 W. Lincoln Street and gave an update on the South Downey Street project.  Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to accept the bid from Turkle Tree Service for $930 to remove the tree and stump.  Motion carried.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen reported the City Engineer position has become vacant.  The Zoning Administrator will submit a recommendation on appointing a new City Engineer at the next regular meeting.

Mayor Report.  Mayor Kostichek read a letter from Iowa Department of Transportation regarding a resurfacing project on Interstate 80 next year.

Audience Comments.  John Brockmann reported on concerns he had with the South Downey Street project.

Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to adjourn at 6:45 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

August 1, 2016 Minutes & Claims