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

August 2016

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 18^th day of July, 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, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck.  Absent: Lisa Mengler.  City employees present:  Jeff Blake, Steve Bowman, Josh Geigle, Lisa Rickertsen, Randy Reimers, and Tom Schirman.

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

Consent Agenda.  Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda, including the invoices, June 216 financial reports, and Scott County Humane Society annual agreement renewal.  Motion carried.

Larry Seiler – 200 W. Flagg Street.  Seiler questioned the status of the alley maintenance behind his building at 200 W. Flagg Street.  Bowman stated the City is in the process of working on an alley maintenance policy and the policy is expected to be on the August 1^st meeting agenda.  Bowman also reported there was not any waste material from the S. Downey Street project to place on the alley, as discussed during the May 16^th meeting.     

Main Street Streetscape Enhancement Project.

• Resolution 2016-30, Approving Change Order #3. This change order, in the amount of $6,600, is for the conduit removal and replacement, as discussed during the June 6^th  Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2016-30.  Roll call ayes:  Koehler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, and Latimer.  Motion carried.
• Resolution 2016-31, Approving Transfer of Funds. This Resolution approves transferring $100,000 from the Local Option Sales Tax Fund to the Main Street Streetscape Enhancement Fund.   Jacob Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve Resolution 2016-31.  Roll call ayes:  Jacob Puck, Latimer, Koehler, and Jackie Puck.  Motion carried.
• Payment #8 to Brandt Construction Co. Based on the recommendation from the project engineer at Missman, Inc., Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve payment #8 to Brand Construction Co. in the amount of $78,583.65.  Motion carried.
• Remaining Sidewalks. Bowman reported that the City Code and SUDAS (Statewide Urban Design and Specifications) do not require three inches of rock sub-base for sidewalks, but he recommended placing 3” of rock under the remaining sidewalks.  For sidewalks, the City Code states the following:

Concrete may be placed directly on compact and well-drained soil. Where soil is not well drained, a three inch sub-base of compact, clean, coarse gravel or sand shall be laid.  The adequacy of the soil drainage is to be determined by the City.

The project specifications called for the sidewalk to be placed on compacted soil.  The cost from the contractor to have a three inch sub-base added to the remaining sidewalks is $5,961.90 (includes labor, equipment, etc.).  Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to proceed with the project per the specifications (no added rock sub-base).  Motion carried.  It was discussed that future changes may need to be made to the City Code.

Quad City Convention Bureau Contribution Request.  Koehler moved and Latimer second to approve the annual $1,000 contribution request, as budgeted, to Quad Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau.  Motion carried.

Enforcement of Chapter 100 – Storm Water Discharges and Drain Connections.  Discussion was held on Chapter 100 which requires property owners to connect extracted water or discharge to a City storm sewer when such storm sewer is available within one hundred feet of the property line.  Following discussion, Latimer moved and Jacob Puck seconded to send letters to the property owners, along the S. Downey Street Improvements project, that they will be required to connect to city storm sewer within 120 days of completion of the project.  Motion carried.  This would include sump pumps that are discharged into the yard and foundation drains.  Public Works Department will be responsible for ensuring enforcement of Chapter 100.

Ordinance 489-16, Amending Chapter 75 regarding All-Terrain Vehicle Regulations.  This ordinance will allow ATVs on most city streets, with restrictions including specific hours of operation and equipment and permit requirements.  Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 489-16.  Roll call ayes:  Koehler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, and Latimer.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2016-32, Establishing Permit Fees Pursuant to Section 75.09 Regarding All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs).  Jacob Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve Resolution 2016-32.  Roll call ayes: Jacob Puck, Latimer, Koehler, and Jackie Puck.  Motion carried.  There will be an annual permit fee of $25.00 to operate each ATV.

Fire Department Report.  Chief Geigle presented a project worksheet to purchase twenty-one long-sleeve dress uniform shirts and accessories (name tags, ties, cutouts, patches, and badges) for department members, to be paid from the Fire Department Donation Fund.  Geigle will discuss with the department members to make a change to the department constitution to allow members that retire to keep the dress uniform shirts.  Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve the purchase of dress uniform shirts and accessories, at a cost of $3,102.21, from Panther Uniform, to be paid from the Fire Department Donation Fund.  Motion carried.  Geigle also requested establishing a Fire Department Building Reserve Fund for a future building.  Following discussion, Rickertsen was asked to prepare a Resolution establishing the reserve fund for the next meeting.

Public Works Department Report. Two bids were received for the purchase of an electrical trash basket hoist for the wastewater treatment plant.  Jackie moved and Koehler seconded to approve Bowman’s recommendation to purchase the hoist from Mississippi Valley Pump, Inc. at a cost of $4,700.   Motion carried.  Bowman reviewed the proposed list of streets to sealcoat this summer.  Following discussion, Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the sealcoat project as submitted, at an approximate cost of $36,151 with LL Pelling Co.  Motion carried. Bowman reported on the findings of two commercial customers that were inspected and discovered they both had by-pass valves open.  This allowed water to enter the facility without going through the meter.  These inspections were done because the City meter reading system noted a significant decline in usage at both locations.  Rickertsen stated a letter has been prepared, along with an invoice for additional charges from estimated usage, to the property owners.  Attorney Schirman noted another option would be to pursue criminal charges for theft of services.  Council consensus was to have the Public Works Department lock the bypass vale and send letters for additional charges at this time.  Reimers reported on the progress of the pretreatment agreement draft with Blue Beacon Truckwash and an update on timing of equipment repairs at the wastewater treatment plant.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen reported a letter was received from ISO (Insurance Services Offices, Inc.) stating that the BCEGS Classifications for Walcott will remain the same.  The City recently updated the building codes in order to retain the same classifications. Rickertsen reported sealed bids will be received until 2:00 p.m. on July 29^th for the antenna tower located at 1113 N. Main Street.

Mayor Report.  Mayor Kostichek read a thank you letter from Sue Daley, Walcott Trust & Savings Bank, in regards to the City donation to the Scott County Library System for the Walcott branch expansion.

Mayor Kostichek and Council expressed gratitude for a successful Walcott Day celebration.   

Audience Comments.  Kirk Koberg suggested placing motion activated lights in the park restrooms.

Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to adjourn at 7:13 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

July 18, 2016 Signed Minutes & Claims

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Tuesday, the 5^th day of July, 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 & Virgil Wayne Latimer.  City employees present:  Jeff Blake, Steve Bowman, Jackie Huston, and Tom Schirman.

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

Consent Agenda.  Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda, including the invoices, minutes from June 20, 2016, and annual cigarette permit renewal for Lampliter.  Motion carried.

S.Downey Street Improvements Project Payment. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve payment #1 to All American Concrete, in the amount of $87,275.55 as recommended by the project engineer. Motion carried.

Watersmith Engineering Proposals.  Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve a proposal from Watersmith Engineering, in the amount of $5,700 to provide engineering services for the James Street Watermain Replacement Project.  Motion carried.  Bowman stated that additional watermain replacements in this area will be discussed at a future date.

Radio tower at 1113 N. Main Street. Jackie Puck moved and Jacob Puck seconded to post advertisement for sealed bids for the tower.  Motion carried.

Ordinance 489-16, Amending Chapter 75 regarding All-Terrain Vehicles Regulations.  This ordinance will allow ATVs on most city streets, with restrictions including specific hours of operation and equipment and permit requirements.  Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the 2^nd reading of Ordinance 489-16.  Motion carried with a unanimous roll call vote.

Public Works Department Report. 

Alley Maintenance Policy.  Bowman presented a policy that allows abutting property owners to purchase gravel to be placed on the alleys by city staff.  This is the same as the informal policy the city has been following.  Property owners must also keep bushes and trees from encroaching upon the alleys.  Changes, including the size of the gravel allowed will be made to the policy for the next meeting.

Dehumidifier at Water Plant.  One of the two dehumidifiers at the water plant has become inoperable.  It will be more cost effective to replace it than to repair since it is 19 years old.  Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the low quote from USA Blue Book in the amount of $3,271.81.  Motion carried.

Audience Comments.  Kirk Koberg questioned the cost of installing an electric gate and key card system for the compost area.

Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to adjourn at 6:22 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

July 5, 2016 Signed Minutes & Claims

July 2016 Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

June, 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, Lisa Rickertsen, Linda Rivers, and Tom Schirman.

Approval of Agenda. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck 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 June 6, 2016, May 2016 financial reports, annual cigarette permit renewals for Casey’s, Pilot Travel Centers #043 and #268, and Iowa 80 Truckstop, and Class A liquor license renewal for Walcott Legion Post #548.  Motion carried.

Larry Koberg – Approval to Allow Temporary Fencing at Parks.  Larry Koberg requested to leave the temporary fencing up at Wescott Park for the tournament on July 22^nd – 24^th.  Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to allow the temporary fences to remain up at Wescott Park until after the July 24^th tournament.  Motion carried.

Downey Street Improvements Project Update. Project Engineer, Dennis Keitel, presented a project update and he will be preparing a change order for a future meeting for the two items as he discussed.

 Walcott Day. 

• Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the Walcott Day Parade and closure of appropriate streets on July 16, 2016.  Motion carried.
• Street Closures. Jacob Puck moved and Jackie Puck 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 16, 2016.  Motion carried.
• Fireworks Donation. Latimer 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 and the closure of E. Bryant Street (race starting line), between Main & Henry Streets (5:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.) on July 16^th. Motion carried.

 Building Department Report.  

• Ordinance 483-16, Amending Chapter 160 Pertaining to Building Codes. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the third (final) reading of Ordinance 483-16, Amending Chapter 160 Pertaining to Building Codes.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Jackie Puck, Koehler, Latimer, and Jacob Puck.  Motion carried.     
•  Temporary Inspector Services. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to hire Michael Anderson as the Temporary Inspector at a rate of $25.00/hour.  Motion carried. He will cover inspections during Rivers’ temporary absence starting later this month.

Alley Maintenance Policy.  Discussion was held on maintenance of alleys, including snow removal concerns and maintenance responsibilities. Bowman was asked to review the policy obtained from Iowa City and to come back with written suggestions for the next meeting.

Ordinance 487-16, Amending Chapter 92 Regarding Sewer Rates. This ordinance increases sewer rates by $1.00 per 1,000 gallons from $4.65 to $5.65, beginning with the July 1^st bills.  Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the third (final) reading of Ordinance 487-16.  Roll call ayes:  Koehler, Jacob Puck, Latimer, Mengler, and Jackie Puck.  Motion carried.

Ordinance 488-16, Amending Chapter 92 Regarding Water Rates.  This ordinance increases water rates by $.50 per 1,000 gallons from $4.25 to $4.75, beginning with the July 1^st bills.  Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the third (final) reading of Ordinance 488-16.  Roll call ayes:  Jackie Puck, Mengler, Jacob Puck, Koehler, and Latimer.  Motion carried.

Ordinance 489-16, Amending Chapter 75 Regarding ATV Regulations.  Jackie Puck introduced and moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 489-16.  Seconded by Mengler.  Roll call ayes:  Jackie Puck, Mengler, Jacob Puck, Koehler, and Latimer.  Motion carried.  This ordinance will allow ATV’s on most city streets, with restrictions including specific hours of operation and equipment and permit requirements.

Resolution 2016-29, Authorizing the Transfer of Funds.  Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to approve Resolution 2016-29.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Koehler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, and Latimer.  Motion carried.

Police Department Report.  Chief Blake reported the Police Department was awarded a grant in the amount of $1,250 from the Iowa 80/CAT Scale Go Iowa Endowment towards replacing a defibrillator.  It was also reported that solicitors were recently in town without a permit.  Residents are reminded that most solicitors are required to have permits from the City.

Public Works Department Report.  Bowman presented costs for an electrical trash basket hoist.  He was asked to obtain a second quote and bring back to a future meeting.  Discussion was held on the E. James Street Watermain Project.  Since the City will not be utilizing city staff to perform the work, they must follow the process set out by the Iowa Code Chapter 26, based on the estimated cost of the project.  Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to have Bowman contact the engineer (Watersmith Engineering) that prepared the initial plans to develop the remaining project documents as needed.  Motion carried.  Bowman reported on weeds at the parks and questioned utilizing a resident to spray.  Following liability concerns, Bowman was asked to contract a company for services.

City Clerk Report.  Rickertsen read the thank you letter from the Scott County Library System for the City’s pledge of $50,000 towards the new Walcott Branch Library project.

City Attorney Report.  Schirman reported on working on easements for the proposed city signs.  It was discussed that the Hearts and Hands Foundation needs to attend a future meeting to obtain final approval from the City for signs they want to place on city right-of-ways and/or easements.

Audience Comments.  Janice Dawson inquired if the City could contact the railroad to remove the overgrown brush and debris in the creek along the railroad behind her property.  Bowman will contact the Iowa Interstate Railroad. John Brockmann commented on the following:  drainage around the building at 1113 N. Main Street and the S. Downey Street Improvements Project.

Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to adjourn at 6:47 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

June 20, 2016 Signed Minutes and Claims

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 6^th day of June, 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, Lisa Rickertsen, Randy Riemers, Linda Rivers, and Tom Schirman.       

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

Consent Agenda.  Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the consent agenda, which includes the invoices, minutes from May 16, 2016, and Resolution 2016-24, Establishing Municipal Building Project Fund and Authorizing the Transfer of Funds in the amount of $22,258.68 from the Municipal Building Reserve Fund to the Municipal Building Project Fund.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Latimer, Jacob Puck, Koehler, and Jackie Puck.   Motion carried.

Scott County Library Funding Request.   A written request was previously received from the Scott County Library System for the City to consider a commitment of $75,000, paid over a period of up to five years, towards the new library project. Sue Daley, Walcott Trust & Savings Bank, was present on behalf of the Library Fundraising Committee. Council members discussed they feel it is a quality of life project for the community as it benefits all residents.  Three members reported on what they felt was a fair contribution amount, ranging from $20,000 – $50,000.  Concerns were addressed regarding setting precedence for other projects as well as funding for future planned city projects.  Following further discussion, Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve a commitment of $50,000, paid over a period of five years, contingent that the City has a right to withdraw funding if the project does not move forward and that this commitment does not set precedence for other projects.  Ayes:  Koehler, Jacob Puck, and Latimer.  Nays:  Jackie Puck.  Mengler abstained due to her employer being on the fundraising committee.  Motion carried.

Hearts & Hands Foundation – Easements for New Community Signs.  Foundation members Austin Burt and Mike Byington reported on their progress towards new community signs. Discussion was held on obtaining permanent easements from Casey’s and Gene Meyer for sign use.  Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to allow Attorney Schirman to work on the necessary easements needed for the signs.  Motion carried.  Further discussion was held on the proposed sign locations at the North Main Street entrance.  Burt stated they have made some design modifications on the signs so there will not be any traffic view obstructions.

Watertower Park Lease Renewal.  Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the three year Watertower Park lease renewal with Loretta Siebke. Motion carried.  The lease will expire on May 31, 2019 and the City will pay an annual lease amount of $500.

Main Street Streetscape Enhancement Project. 

• Resolution 2016-25, Approving Change Order #2. This change order is for the sidewalk regrading, as discussed last winter, from B&D’s north driveway to the north end of the project, and for an additional ADA detectable warning.  Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2016-25.  Roll call ayes:  Koehler, Jacob Puck, Latimer, Mengler, and Jackie Puck. Motion carried.
• Conduit Removal/Re-Install – West Side of Bridge. A unit price of $6,600 was received from the contractor to remove and replace the light feed running across the side of the bridge on the west side.  Due to the uncertainty of obtaining a permit from the IDNR for the sidewalk along the bridge, the rest of the project was completed and now the electrical conduit is in the way for mounting the equipment needed to complete the bridge component. The project engineer reviewed the costs and felt it was appropriate.  Following further discussion, Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the unit price of $6,600 from Brandt Construction for the conduit removal and replacement, per their letter dated June 3, 2016.  Motion carried.
• Mud Creek Channel Shaping/Cleanout Per IDNR Flood Plain Development Permit. Missman, Inc. provided budget estimates for the engineering and construction of the required dredging of Mud Creek at the Main Street bridge.  Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to have the engineer proceed with the project plans and specifications.  Motion carried.    
  

Building Department Report.  

• Ordinance 483-16, Amending Chapter 160 Pertaining to Building Codes. Rickertsen reported the changes were made to Ordinance 483-16, as approved during the last meeting.  The provisions of the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) will only apply to residential rental and nonresidential properties.  Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 483-16, Amending Chapter 160 Pertaining to Building Codes.  Motion carried.  This is the second of three readings of the Ordinance.   
• Temporary Inspector Services. Rickertsen stated she and Rivers are working on obtaining services from either an individual or assistance from another community, to cover inspections while Rivers will be absence starting later this month.

 Stanley Consultants Services Agreement.  Wastewater Operator, Randy Reimers, reported on the proposal for services from Stanley Consultants.  He stated an engineer is needed to prepare the pretreatment agreement with Blue Beacon Truckwash, as required by the IDNR.  The proposal is broke down into the following three components:  Pretreatment Agreement Development – $7,195; Local Limits Study – $9,530; and Sewer Charges Ordinance Review – $2,940.  Following discussion, Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the services with Stanley Consultants for the pretreatment agreement development and local limits study.  Motion carried.           

Sewer Plant Repairs from Lightning Damage.  Reimers reported on the equipment damage at the wastewater treatment plant from lightning damage on April 21^st.  Discussion was held on the two proposals received to replace the equipment and insurance reimbursement, although the exact reimbursement amount is unknown at this time.  Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to proceed with the quote from Aero-Mod, Inc. at a cost of $43,770, as recommended by Reimers.  Motion carried.

South Main Street Culvert.  During two recent Planning & Zoning Commission meetings, it was noted by commission members that the culvert under South Main Street is partially silted in and has a hole that allows some water to drain under the street instead of being carried to the west.  Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to have Bowman obtain prices to make the necessary repairs.  Motion carried. This will be placed on a future agenda.

Approval of Fireworks Permit – July 15^th Walcott Day Display at Prairie View Park.  Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the fireworks display permit for the Walcott Day display on July 15^th.  Mengler abstained due to conflict of interest as she is the Walcott Day Committee chairperson.  Motion carried.      

Approval of Fireworks Permit – July 14^th & 15^th Truckers Jamboree Display at Iowa 80 Truckstop.  Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the fireworks permit for the Truckers Jamboree display on July 14^th and 15^th at the Iowa 80 Truckstop.  Motion carried.

Alley Maintenance Policy.  Information is still being researched and will be placed on the next council agenda.          

Ordinance 484-16, Adding Chapter 74 Pertaining to Golf Carts on City Streets.  Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to approve the third reading of Ordinance 484-16, Adding Chapter 74 Pertaining to Golf Carts.  Roll call ayes:  Koehler, Mengler, Jacob Puck, Latimer, and Jackie Puck.  Motion carried.  This ordinance will allow golf carts on most city streets, with several restrictions which include that all golf carts must be equipped with headlights and tail lights.  Annual permits for each golf cart must be obtained from the Police Chief.

Ordinance 485-16, Adding Chapter 75 Pertaining to UTV’s on City Streets.  Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve the third reading of Ordinance 485-16, Adding Chapter 75 Pertaining to UTV’s.  Roll call ayes:  Jackie Puck, Latimer, Jackie Puck, Koehler, and Mengler.  Motion carried.  This ordinance will allow UTVs on most city streets, with several restrictions which include that all UTV’s be equipped with a muffler, headlights, and tail lights.  Annual permits for each UTV must be obtained from the Police Chief.

Ordinance 486-16, Amending Prohibited Activities at Prairie View Park. Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the third reading of Ordinance 486-16, Amending Chapter 47, Amending Prohibited Activities at Prairie View Park.  This ordinance will allow fishing (not ice fishing) at the park by persons age 16 and older holding a valid Iowa fishing license or persons under age 16 accompanied by a person age 16 or older holding a valid Iowa fishing license. Roll call ayes:  Jacob Puck, Mengler, Koehler, Jackie Puck, and Latimer.  Motion carried.  Discussion was held on posting signs at the pond with the age requirement and caution that there is a deep pond drop off.

Ordinance 487-16, Amending Chapter 92 Regarding Sewer Rates. This ordinance increases sewer rates by $1 per 1,000 gallons from $4.65 to $5.65.  Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 487-16.  Roll call ayes:  Koehler, Jacob Puck, Latimer, Mengler, and Jackie Puck.  Motion carried.  This ordinance increases sewer rates by $1 per 1,000 gallons from $4.65 to $5.65.  This is the second of three readings of the ordinance.

Ordinance 488-16, Amending Chapter 92 Regarding Water Rates.  Jacob Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 488-16.  Roll call ayes:  Jacob Puck, Latimer, Jackie Puck, Koehler, and Mengler.  Motion carried.  This ordinance increases water rates by $.50 per 1,000 gallons from $4.25 to $4.75.  This is the second of three readings of the ordinance.

Ordinance Amending Chapter 75 Regarding ATV Regulations.  Discussion was held on the proposed changes to Chapter 75, (All-Terrain Vehicles and Snowmobiles), which include allowing ATV’s with specific hours of operation and permit requirements.  Mengler moved to proceed with amending Chapter 75, to allow ATV’s in city limits.  Following further discussion with Attorney Schirman and Chief Blake, Mengler resinded her motion.  Attorney Schirman and Chief Blake will revise the proposed Ordinance for the next meeting.

Resolution 2016-26, Setting Wages for Fiscal Year Beginning July 1, 2016.  Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2016-26 (2% wage increases).  Roll call ayes:  Koehler, Mengler, Jackie Puck, Latimer, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried.        

Resolution 2016-27, Establishing Permit Fees to Operate Golf Carts and UTV’s.  Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve Resolution 2016-27.  Roll call ayes:  Jackie Puck, Latimer, Jacob Puck, Koehler, and Mengler.  Motion carried.  There will be an annual permit fee of $25.00 to operate each UTV and golf cart.

Resolution 2016-28, Authorizing Internal Advance of Funds for Municipal Building Project.  Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2016-28.  Roll call ayes:  Koehler, Jacob Puck, Latimer, Mengler, and Jackie Puck.  Motion carried.  This authorizes an advance up to $60,000 be repaid from future incremental property tax revenues from the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area.

Police Department Report.  Chief Blake requested a pay increase for part-time officers that work for the City on Walcott Day.  He reported on the pay differences between officers paid by the City and those paid by Walcott Day Committee.  Following discussion, Jackie Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve a special event wage of $24.46/hour for part-time police officers working for the City on Walcott Day.  Motion carried.

Public Works Department Report.  Bowman presented costs for annual maintenance agreements on generators and sewer pumps.  Latimer moved and Koehler seconded to approve the generator maintenance agreement with Altorfer, Inc at a cost of $4,968 for six generators and the sewer pump maintenance agreement with Mississippi Valley Pump, Inc. for $350.  Motion carried.          

Audience Comments.  Gene Meyer commented on the choice of fire truck taken to the Blue Grass parade.  Verlyn Dietz questioned the conduit sticking up in a few areas along North Main Street.  This belongs to Mediacom and they have been contacted to finish.  Andy Brus commented on excess gravel on street. Bowman stated he will get the street swept up.  John Brockmann commented on the following:  electrical conduit and traffic control/signs on North Main Street Project, city grass cutting schedule, tall grass/weeds on private properties, and flower beds at the Veteran’s Memorial at Welcome Park.

Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:55 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

June 6, 2016 Signed Minutes & Claims