December 18, 2017 Minutes

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 18th day of December, 2017, 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 staff present:  Scott Bengfort, Adam Hill, Lisa Rickertsen, Tom Schirman, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. George Peddle stated E. Bryant Street was rough and questioned when it would be fixed.  Mayor Kostichek responded it would be looked into.

Public Hearing on the Proposed Designation of the 2017 Walcott Urban Revitalization Area and Plan.  Rickertsen reported the public hearing notice was published in the North Scott Press on December 13, 2017. This is to designate an area as an economic development area which is related to construction of new single-family housing.  No written or oral comments were received.  Latimer moved and Mengler seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting.  Motion carried.

Consent Agenda.  Rickertsen reported on the transfers listed in Resolution 2017-45Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from December 4, 2017, Resolution 2017-45, Transfer of Funds, and the November financial reports.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Jacob Puck, Latimer, Koehler, and Jackie Puck.  Motion carried.

Nuisance Abatement – Parcel #820655138 –5 – S. Grove Street.  Bengfort reported on his meeting with Glen Houghton and on the report he prepared following the meeting.  He also had a detailed map and photos available for viewing.  Attorney Schirman stated Bengfort’s report represents an accurate statement of what needs to be done and noted one addition to the report and that it has been submitted to the property owner’s attorney.  Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded that the report prepared is an appropriate position for the City to take regarding the nuisance abatement.  Motion carried.  An agreement will be drafted between the City and property owner.

Rain-Drop Splash Pad Equipment.  Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve moving forward with purchasing equipment for the splash pad from Rain-Drop at a cost not to exceed $55,000. Motion carried.

Resolution 2017-46, Proposed Plan for the 2017 Walcott Urban Revitalization Area.  Rickertsen stated this plan is for the purpose of providing property tax exemption incentives on the construction of new single-family residential homes in the Westbrook subdivisions.  Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to approve Resolution 2017-46.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Latimer, Jacob Puck, Koehler, and Jackie Puck.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2017-47, Approving Amendments to the Governing Body Rules & Procedures Policy.  Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2017-47.  Roll call ayes:  Jackie Puck, Mengler, Koehler, Latimer, and Jacob Puck.  Motion carried

Ordinance 496-17, Designating an Area of Walcott as the 2017 Walcott Urban Revitalization Area. This designates an area of the City as a revitalization area for economic development of and the promotion of housing and residential development.  Koehler introduced and moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 496-17, seconded by Jacob Puck.  Roll call ayes:  Koehler, Jacob Puck, Mengler, Latimer, and Jackie Puck.  Motion carried.  This is the first of three readings on the Ordinance.

Public Works Department Report.  Stagg presented a project worksheet for the purchase of a dump box for the 2018 Ford F550.  He stated that compared to a regular steel box, the stainless steel box is more durable, corrosion resistant, does not need painted, and has greater longevity.  Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the purchase of a new dump box for the 2018 Ford F550 from Henderson Products at a cost of $12,174.  Motion carried.

City Clerk Report.  Rickertsen stated City Hall will be closed on December 25th & 26th, and January 1st.

Mayor’s Report.  Mayor Kosticheck presented certificates to Latimer and Jackie Puck and thanked them for their years of service on the City Council.

Council Member Comments.  Latimer stated he learned a lot during his term and thanked everyone.  Koehler and Mengler both thanked Latimer & Puck for their service and Mengler welcomed Brockmann and Smith to the City Council.  Jackie Puck stated she was proud to serve with the current council, committees, and staff and thanked the staff for their support and encouraged them to continue to work well together in the future.

Oath of Office.  Mayor Kostichek administered the oath of office to council elect John Brockmann.  The oath of office will be administered to Larry Smith before the next meeting as he was not present.

Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to adjourn at 6:25 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

December 18, 2017 Signed Minutes and Claims

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December 4, 2017 Minutes

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 4th day of December, 2017, 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 staff present:  Scott Bengfort, Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, Tom Schirman, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. There were no public comments from the audience at this time.

Public Hearing on Proposed Amendment of the Urban Renewal Plan for the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area.  Rickertsen reported the public hearing notice was published in the North Scott Press on November 22, 2017, and that the plan amendment authorizes the undertaking of a new urban renewal project in the Urban Renewal area consisting of providing tax increment financing (TIF) support to Iowa 80 Truckstop, Inc. in connection with the expansion and renovations of the existing truck stop facilities. The only written comment was from the Scott County Supervisors.  Their letter stated that while they support the use of TIF when it is used as an economic development incentive for businesses that strengthen the local and regional economy and this project appears to do that, they oppose the use of TIF for businesses that compete with other local businesses in the retail or service sectors.  Mengler stated she was disappointed with the letter, especially following their comments during the City Council meeting they attended in October.  Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to close the public hearing and open the public hearing on the proposed development agreement with Iowa 80 Truckstop, Inc.  Motion carried.

Public Hearing on the Proposed Development Agreement with Iowa 80 Truckstop, Inc.  Rickertsen reported the public hearing notice was published in the North Scott Press on November 22, 2017, and no written comments were received. The development agreement between the City and Iowa 80 Truckstop, Inc. is in regards to the expansion and renovation of the existing truck stop facilities.  The City would provide annual appropriation TIF rebate payments in a total amount not to exceed $500,000 over a five-year period.  Iowa 80 Truckstop, Inc. would be responsible for reimbursing the City for legal fees in connection with the development agreement.  Jacob Puck moved and Latimer seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting.  Motion carried.      

Consent Agenda.  Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from November 20, 2017, and minutes from special meeting on November 20, 2017.  Jackie Puck abstained due to absence from meetings.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2017-42, Approving Urban Renewal Plan Amendment for the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area.    Koehler stated he was advised by counsel to abstain from items relating to Iowa 80 Truckstop, Inc. due to a conflict of interest with his company currently working there.  Jacob Puck moved and Latimer seconded to approve Resolution 2017-42.  Roll call ayes:  Jacob Puck, Latimer, Mengler, and Jackie Puck.  Koehler abstained due to conflict of interest.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2017-43, Approving Development Agreement with Iowa 80 Truckstop, Inc. Authorizing Annual Appropriation Tax Increment Payments and Pledging Certain Tax Increment Revenue to the Payment of the Agreement.  Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2017-43.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Jackie Puck, Latimer, and Jacob Puck.  Koehler abstained due to conflict of interest.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2017-44, Declaring Necessity and Providing for Notice of Hearing on the Proposed Urban Revitalization Plan.  Rickertsen stated this is to designate an area as an economic development area which is related to new single family housing and residential development.  The public hearing is scheduled for December 18th at 6:00 p.m.  Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2017-44.  Roll call ayes:  Jacob Puck, Mengler, Koehler, Jackie Puck, and Latimer.  Motion carried.

Local Union 150 – Signs/Use of Public Right-of-Way.  Bengfort reported that large signs were staked in the City right-of-way (ROW) along Plainview Road.  He informed the individuals with the signs that they are not to be placed in City ROW unless approved by Council. Attorney Schirman stated that federal law supercedes local ordinances when union labor disputes are involved and allows unions to use a City ROW for a peaceful protest.  Concerns were expressed regarding hours, underground utilities, sign language, safety, and visibility.  Shannon Vickers, Local 150 Union representative, stated they have stands for the signs and can weigh down the large inflatable and they are always attended to and are taken down each day after working hours. He also stated he would like to thank Iowa 80 Truckstop, Inc. for utilizing local contractors but this protest is a labor dispute with Ryan & Associates, Inc.  Following further discussion, Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to grant approval to Local 150, per counsel recommendation, based on federal law allowing use of ROW for union labor disputes.  Koehler abstained due to conflict of interest.  Motion carried.

Building Department Report.  Bengfort reported on his meeting regarding the nuisance abatement on the Jackson property.  He questioned if the owner would be allowed to only fence 2 or 3 sides of the property.  Council stated they felt there are safety issues on the property and if they remain the entire property should be fenced.

Fire Department Report.

  • Scott Air Pack Bottles. Chief Geigle presented a project worksheet to replace tanks that are over 15 years old and can no longer be hydro tested.  Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the purchase of new Scott air pack bottles as submitted, from Feld Fire at a cost of $9,450 plus freight.  Motion carried.
  • Appointment of Fire Chief. Geigle stated the Fire Department held officer elections for 2018 and he was re-elected as Chief.  Koehler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the appointment of Josh Geigle as Fire Chief, term ending 12/31/2018.  Motion carried.  Koehler thanked Geigle for serving as the Chief.

Police Department Report.  Chief Blake reported on a complaint received about a vehicle/trailer parked in a driveway that overhangs across the public sidewalk.  Attorney Schirman stated that state and local law clearly states you are not allowed to park over public sidewalks.  Chief Blake stated he will ask the property owner to move the vehicle and trailer.

Public Works Department Report.  Stagg presented a project worksheet for the purchase of a 2018 Ford F550.  He stated this would replace one of the four dump trucks and it will be easier to maneuver during snow removal and can be utilized throughout the year, especially for leaf/brush collection.  Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the purchase of a new Ford F550 as submitted from Ron Alpen Ford at a cost of $43,645.  Motion carried.  John Brockmann questioned if the price includes a box and plow. Stagg stated it did not include either.  He is waiting for a second bid on a box and since the truck won’t arrive until next spring he would proceed with purchase of a snow plow in the next fiscal year.  Koehler suggested that the total cost of vehicle and equipment should be presented at one time.

City Clerk Report.  Rickertsen reported on a letter from Mediacom regarding their rate increases effective January 1, 2018.  She also reported on the proposed updates to the Governing Body Rules and Procedures Policy.  The policy will be presented at the next meeting for final approval.

Mayor’s Report.  Mayor Kosticheck appointed Kelly Quick to fill the vacancy on the Park Board with a term ending 12/31/2021.  Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the Mayor’s appointment of Kelly Quick to the Park Board.  Motion carried.

Council Member Comments.  Mengler congratulated Chief Geigle and expressed her thanks to all of the fire department members.  Jackie Puck questioned Chief Blake about covering day time shifts during absences.

Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:02 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

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November 20, 2017 Minutes

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 20th day of November, 2017, 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, and Jacob Puck. Absent:  Jackie Puck.  City staff present:  Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, Tom Schirman, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. There were no public comments from the audience at this time.

Consent Agenda.  Rickertsen reported on the details of Resolution 2017-41.  Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from November 6, 2017, October 2017 financial reports, Resolution 2017-41 – Establishing Splash Pad Project Fund & Authorizing Transfer of Funds, and the 2017-2018 Winter Maintenance Proposal with Scott County.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Jacob Puck, Latimer, and Koehler.  Motion carried.

Hazard Mitigation Plan Update.  Rickertsen reported on a possible update to Walcott’s hazard priorities and mitigation actions listed in the Scott County Hazard Mitigation Plan.  Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to approve adding to investigate the feasibility of developing a regional storm water detention area south of the Interstate 80 interchange area to the plan.  Motion carried.

Public Works Department Report.   

  • Utility GIS Mapping. Stagg reported on the need to develop a comprehensive GIS mapping program for use in maintaining and managing the City’s utility infrastructure. This was discussed during budget preparations and is included in the current budget.  John Brockmann questioned if all employees would have access to the maps.  Stagg stated this will be a web based interactive map program and the company will provide printed maps to be utilized by the entire department.  Following further discussion, Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to proceed with purchasing the GIS mapping for water and sewer utilities from Midland GIS Solutions.  Motion carried.  The cost is $20,610 plus an annual web GIS hosting fee of $1,800.
  • Dump Trailer Purchase. Stagg stated the current practice of cycling old dump trucks to the wastewater plant for sludge handling is very costly.  A dump trailer will provide the same service at lower costs and easier mode of operation.  Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the purchase of a dump trailer as presented.  Motion carried.  The trailer price is $7,500.

Stagg reported on updated costs for the asbestos and demolition removal of the city-owned property adjacent to City Hall.  Discussion was held on placing salvageable items out for bid.  The Fire Department will be utilizing the house for training purposes and demolition is not expected until next spring.

Hearts & Hands Foundation. 

  • Electronic Community Sign. Austin Burt presented a letter and project budget for the proposed electronic community organization sign.  He reported on the fundraising progress and requested $2,000 from the City’s Community Beautification/Vision Fund towards the project.  Koehler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the request from Hearts & Hands Foundation of $2,000 towards the electronic sign.  Motion carried.
  • Future Budget Requests. Austin Burt requested the City Council consider future budgeting to the Community Beautification/Vision Fund for future projects.

City Clerk Report.  Rickertsen reported on a voluntary, employee paid vision insurance program available through Wellmark. Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to allow employees to participate in the vision insurance program with all costs paid by the employee through payroll.  Motion carried. Rickertsen stated the State Auditor’s Office released the FYE 2017 Examination report and no exceptions were noted in the report.

Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to adjourn at 6:30 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

Signed minutes & claims

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November 20, 2017 Special Meeting Minutes

A special meeting of the City Council of the City of Walcott, Iowa was held on Monday, November 20, 2017, 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, and Jacob Puck. Absent: Jackie Puck. City employees present were: Scott Bengfort, Lisa Rickertsen, and Tom Schirman.

Nuisance Abatement Hearing – Parcel 820655138–5.  Bengfort stated he sent a nuisance abatement notice to the property owner of parcel 820655138-55, S. Grove Street (behind the Lampliter).  The abatement notice listed weeds and overgrowth of vegetation, scrap ferrous materials, dismantled vehicles/machinery, and junk vehicles.  A letter was subsequently received from Ron May, attorney for the property owner (Bonnie Jackson), requesting a hearing with the City Council on the abatement notice.

Attorney May was present and stated the property owner would like to request an extension to May 1, 2018, to get the property cleaned up. Discussion ensued regarding drafting an agreement between the property owner and the City regarding the nuisance items and extended deadline.  May stated he appreciated the City’s cooperation to result in the least amount of expense to the property owner. Attorney Schirman stated an extension could be appropriate but the City would need to see a good faith effort during the extension.  Glen Houghton utilizes the property for open storage for his masonry business and he disagreed with some of the items that were being classified as a nuisance.

Following further discussion, Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to have Bengfort meet with the property owner or designee (Glen Houghton) to define and photograph what needs to be removed (according to the nuisance ordinances) and have the attorneys prepare and review an agreement with an abatement extension to May 1, 2018, to be presented at the December 18th council meeting.  Motion carried.

Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to adjourn at 5:32 p.m.  Ayes:  All.  Motion carried.

November 20, 2017 Special Meeting

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November 6, 2017 Minutes

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 6th day of November, 2017, 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 staff present:  Brian Mayberry, Lisa Rickertsen, Tom Schirman, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. There were no public comments from the audience.

Consent Agenda.  Rickertsen reported on the details of the consent agenda resolutions.  Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from October 16, 2017, Resolution 2017-36 – Authorizing Transfer of Funds, Resolution 2017-37 – Obligating Tax Increment Financing Funds from the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area for FYE 2019, and Resolution 2017-38 – Approval of FYE 2017 Annual Urban Renewal Report.  Roll call ayes:  Jacob Puck, Mengler, Jackie Puck, Tim Koehler, and Latimer.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2017-39, Setting Date for Public Hearing on Urban Renewal Plan Amendment.  Rickertsen stated this resolution sets a public hearing date for an amendment to the Urban Renewal Plan which authorizes the undertaking of a new urban renewal project consisting of providing tax increment financing (TIF) support of Iowa 80 Truckstop, Inc. in connection with the expansion and renovation of existing truckstop facilities.  Koehler moved and Latimer seconded to approve Resolution 2017-39.  Roll call ayes:  Koehler, Latimer, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, and Mengler.  Motion carried.  The hearing will be on December 4th at 6:00 p.m.

Resolution 2017-40, Setting Date of Meeting at Which it is Proposed to Approve a Development Agreement with Iowa 80 Truckstop, Inc., Including Annual Appropriation Tax Increment Financing.  Rickertsen stated this Resolution sets a public hearing date for a proposed development agreement with Iowa 80 Truckstop, Inc. in connection with the expansion and renovation of existing truckstop facilities.  Council consensus was to have the City’s legal fees related to the urban renewal plan amendment and development agreement be reimbursed by the company.  Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2017-40.  Roll call ayes:  Jackie Puck, Mengler, Koehler, Latimer, and Jacob Puck.  Motion carried.  The hearing will be on December 4th at 6:00 p.m., following the hearing on the urban renewal plan amendment.

Main Street Hanging Flower Baskets.   Council discussed the color options for the hanging baskets.  Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve purchasing the red and white mix flowers from Blooming Ideas, at a total cost of $1,498. Motion carried.

Disposal of 2006 Crown Victoria.   Two bids were received for the 2006 Crown Victoria.  Jacob Puck moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve selling the 2006 Crown Victoria to the high bidder, James Stout, for $1,510.  Motion carried.

Public Works Report.   Stagg reported on the completion of the water tower painting.

City Clerk Report.

  • Urban Revitalization Plan – Westbrook Additions. Rickertsen reported on the estimated legal fees in connection with pursuing an urban revitalization plan for the nine vacant lots in the Westbrook additions.  This plan would provide some property tax exemptions for construction of single family homes on the vacant lots.  Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to proceed with the urban revitalization plan for the vacant lots in the Westbrook Additions.  Motion carried.
  • 2018 Employee Health & Dental Insurance Benefits. Rickertsen stated the health increase was still within the fiscal year budget.  The insurance increase for 2018 includes an increase for changes to the children’s age rating plan and the health insurer tax, which both apply to all Affordable Care Act plans.  Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the 2018 employee health and dental insurance benefits renewal with Wellmark.  Motion carried.
  • Comprehensive Plan Update Community Meeting. Rickertsen reminded council of the community meeting at the Walcott American Legion on November 13th at 6:30 p.m. to gather input for the comprehensive plan update.
  • FYE 2019 Budget & Financial Information. Rickertsen reported the fiscal year 2019 (July 1, 2018- June 30, 2019) worksheets have been submitted to the departments. She stated that although the consolidated levy rate (all taxing bodies) has increased over the years, the city’s current levy rate of $10.08258 is down from last year’s and from her first budget year involvement in fiscal year 2001, which was at $10.50225. She reported that the City is not collecting any TIF funds this year and all TIF debt bonds/loans have been paid.  She stated there are some financial charts available at City Hall and on the website regarding the breakdown of the consolidated levy rate and City’s general fund.

Mayor Report.  Mayor Kostichek thanked the volunteers that worked on the entrance signs over the weekend.

Council Member Comments.  Koehler questioned the status of the city hall renovation scope and costs and the bids for costs related to demolition of the adjoining property.

Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 6:25 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

November 6, 2017 Signed Minutes & Claims

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October 16, 2017 Minutes

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 16th day of October, 2017, 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 staff present:  Adam Hill, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. John Brockmann questioned if the City was willing to sell him some used concrete pipe.  Stagg stated the broken concrete pipe sections were disposed of.

Consent Agenda.  Jacob Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from October 2, 2017, and the September financial reports.  Motion carried.

Scott County Board of Supervisors.    Scott County Supervisors, Carol Earnhardt, Tony Knobbe, Ken Beck, Diane Holst, and Brinson Kinzer, and County Administrator, Mahesh Sharma, were present.  Earnhardt reported on recent projects and presented their secondary roads five year plan.  Mayor Kostichek reported on the City’s recent projects and Mengler expressed concerns with a recent Resolution the County approved regarding their review of community TIF (tax increment financing) proposals and their opposition to use of TIF incentives that provides retail or service jobs. Discussion ensued regarding the need for retail and service jobs for smaller communities which can be vital to their economy.  Walcott only receives approximately 40% of the local option sales tax generated in Walcott so additional retail and service jobs are benefiting the entire county through increased sales tax.  Earnhardt expressed that the Resolution is their baseline policy statement and that all projects are reviewed individually.

Hearts and Hands Foundation – Landscaping Entrance Signs Update.  Austin Burt reported on the entrance signs and presented landscaping options to the City Council.   Concerns were expressed on the desire to utilize low maintenance plants and some type of landscaping to prevent traffic going through the area on the east side of the intersection.  Following discussion, Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to allow the Hearts and Hands Foundation to proceed with landscaping with river rock and low maintenance plants.  Motion carried.

Scott County Sno-Seekers Swap Meet.  Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the request from Scott County Sno-Seekers to close a portion of Downey Street, between James and Otis Street, and Otis Street, between Downey and Henry Streets, on November 5th between 7:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. for the annual Sno-Seekers annual swap meet at Victory Park.  Motion carried.

Sinksen Strong Benefit. Koehler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the request from Walcott Women, to close a portion of E. Bryant Street, between Main and Henry Streets from Noon – 9:00 p.m. on November 10th for the Sinksen Strong Benefit.  Motion carried.  Mengler abstained due to conflict of interest (Walcott Women member).  Mengler stated they would like to utilize the city-owned lot north of the tracks (former lumberyard lot) for parking during the benefit, pending lot conditions.  Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to allow parking on the city-owned lot, weather permitting, during the benefit.  Motion carried.  Mengler abstained due to conflict of interest.

City Property at 116 W. Lincoln Street. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to have staff obtain asbestos and demolition costs, following utilization of the house for fire department training.  Motion carried.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen reported on the upcoming community meeting at the Walcott American Legion on November 13th at 6:30 p.m. to gather input for the comprehensive plan update.  Rickertsen questioned if council wished to pursue providing property tax exemptions for construction of single family homes on the vacant lots in the Westbrook additions.  Council consensus was to move forward with pursuing the incentive program to help spur development within the Westbrook additions and other potential areas.

Council Member Comments.  Mengler thanked Rickertsen for her research on new residential housing incentives and questioned Sergeant Hill about vehicle burglaries within the county.  Residents are reminded to lock their vehicle doors.  Jackie Puck asked Stagg about repainting the curb by the bank.

Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to adjourn at 7:02 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

October 16, 2017

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October 2, 2017 Minutes

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 2nd day of October, 2017, 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 staff present:  Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, Tom Schirman, and Paul Stagg.

Approval of Agenda. 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 September 18, 2017, Resolution 2017-34, Approving Building Official Wage Increase per Policy for Commercial Building Inspector Certification, and the following TIF rebate payments per agreements: JDW Holdings – Midfield Pattern Project $1,313.59; Iowa 80 Truckstop – 60×240 Building Project $1,310.19; and Sterling Partners – Multi-Use Building Project $6,924.78.  Roll call ayes:  Jackie Puck, Koehler, Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Latimer.  Motion carried.

Iowa 80 Truckstop – Storm Sewer.  Dave Meier, Iowa 80 Truckstop, requested permission to install storm sewer on a portion of Sterling Drive and Plainview Road in the right-of-way (ROW).  Jason Holdorf, City Engineer, had submitted a letter of approval for the storm sewer improvements but noted an easement plat should be submitted upon completion of construction.  Per the recommendations from Holdorf and Stagg, Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to approve the storm sewer improvements as submitted.  Motion carried.

Night Owl Wireless, LLC . 

  • Request for Right-of-Way license. Andy Willey, Night Owl Wireless, was present to discuss the proposed ROW license agreement for Night Owl Wireless, LLC to install a fiber optic cable and wireless equipment in city ROW. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2017-35, Approving Right-of-Way License with Night Owl Wireless, LLC.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Jackie Puck, Koehler, Latimer, and Jacob Puck.  Motion carried.
  • Fiber Optic Right-of-Way Application. Rickertsen noted that the placement of a new utility pole, as indicated on the map, was in county limits therefore a permit would also be required from Scott County.  Jacob Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve the application as submitted from Night Owl Wireless, LLC, to install fiber optic lines within city limits along a portion of Main Street and Walcott Road.  Motion carried.

Hearts and Hands Foundation – Landscaping Entrance Signs Update.  This was moved to the October 16th agenda.

Carol Snay – Creek Cleaning Update. Carol Snay stated she had not yet received any response since her last council meeting visit on August 21st when she expressed concerns regarding the condition of the creek behind her residence. She stated when the creek recedes after flooding it leaves debris in her yard.  Stagg stated the creek behind her residence is a platted city ROW and when time permits his department will remove any brush impeding the flow.  Residents Janice Dawson and John Brockmann both commented on the creek running along the railroad tracks (behind Dawson’s building on E. Lincoln Street) and the unimproved section of Downey Street (between tracks and E. Lincoln Street).  Mayor Kostichek scheduled a meeting with Stagg and Brockmann to look at the portion of the creek located in city ROW, between the buildings owned by Brockmann and Dawson.

Public Works Department Report.  Stagg presented a project worksheet to trade-in the John Deere 4300 mower and purchase a John Deere zero turn mower at a cost not to exceed $10,500.   Following discussion, Mengler moved and Latimer seconded to approve the purchase of a John Deere lawn mower as requested.  Motion carried.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen reported on the upcoming Scott County Sno Sneekers Swap Meet at Victory Park on Sunday, November 5th.  The temporary street closures for the event will be on the next agenda for council approval.

Mayor’s Report.  Mayor Kostichek thanked the Fire Department members for a successful steak fry event and for the support from the community.

Council Member Comments.  Koehler requested the house adjacent to City Hall be placed on the next agenda.  Mengler questioned the tree in the ditch near the school. Stagg stated the ditch had water in it and he intends to speak to the adjoining property owner once the crops are out for easier access to remove the tree.  Mengler stated, on behalf of the Walcott Legion, they were impressed with the work done by the Fire Department volunteers at their steak fry.

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

Signed minutes and claims

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