The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Tuesday, the 4^th day of September, 2018, at Walcott City Hall.  Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were: Tim Koehler, Lisa Mengler, and Jacob Puck. Absent:  John Brockmann and Larry Smith.  City staff present:  Scott Bengfort, Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, Tom Schirman, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. No comments.

Consent Agenda.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from August 20, 2018, and Resolution 2018-30, Approval of FYE 2018 Annual Urban Renewal Report.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Puck, and Koehler. Nays:  None.  Motion carried.

Bonnie Jackson/Glen Houghton – Parcel #820655138—5, S. Grove Street.  Bengfort reported on his communication with Glen Houghton regarding a nuisance abatement notice for the building that was placed on Bonnie Jackson’s property (behind the Lampliter) without following the City Code.    Bengfort stated he informed Houghton of the steps necessary to place the building on the property prior to placement but those steps were not taken.  Houghton stated he can’t move the building until winter but he would prefer to leave the building there.  Attorney Schirman stated the building is currently in violation of the City Code and stated they need to follow the necessary steps per the City Code if the intention is to keep the building on the property.  Following more discussion, Mengler moved and Koehler seconded that the nuisance must be abated or the building must be removed from the property by December 1, 2018.  Motion carried.  

Trick-or-Treating – October 31, 2018.  Mengler reported that Walcott Women is proposing Trick-or-Treating on October 31^st.  Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve Trick-or-Treating on October 31^st from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. and the parade from Victory Park to the Walcott American Legion.  Motion carried.  

Otis Street Improvements Project – Payment #1. Following recommendations from the City Engineer and Stagg, Koehler moved and Puck seconded to approve payment #1 for the W. Otis Street Improvements Project to Cornerstone Excavating, Inc.in the amount of $65,927.63. Motion carried.

 Resolution 2018-31, Providing for a Notice of Hearing on Proposed Plans, Specifications, Forms of Contract and Estimate of Cost for the E. James and N. Downey Streets Water Main Improvements Project.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2018-31.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Puck, and Koehler.  Nays:  None.  Motion carried.  The public hearing is set for September 17, 2018, at 6:00 p.m. 

Resolution 2018-32, Providing for a Notice of Hearing on Proposed Plans, Specifications, Forms of Contract and Estimate of Cost for the W. Bryant Street Sanitary Sewer Improvements Project.  Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve Resolution 2018-32.  Roll call ayes:  Puck, Koehler, and Mengler.  Nays:  None.  Motion carried.  The public hearing is set for September 17, 2018, at 6:00 p.m.

Public Works Department Report.  Stagg reported on the notice from River Valley regarding their intention to sell their property at 400 S. Main Street, therefore canceling their rental agreement with the City for equipment storage. Stagg stated there is a roller/packer in the building and the hour meter has not moved since the latest equipment inventory list from January, 2008, and he doesn’t intend to utilize it.  Koehler moved and Puck seconded to allow the roller/packer to go out for sealed bids.  Motion carried.  Stagg also provided an update on additional sewer televising performed on W. Bryant Street, W. Otis Street Improvements Project, and tree removal at Welcome Park due to emerald ash borer damage.

Council Member Comments. Koehler reported on the Local Emergency Planning Committee meeting that he and Mayor Kostichek attended regarding the County’s weather alert process.  Blake stated the weather siren continues every 15 minutes until the warning is over in Scott County.

Mengler moved and Puck seconded to adjourn at 6:35 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

September 4, 2018 Minutes & Claims

September 2018 Chamber Newsletter

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 20^th day of August, 2018, at Walcott City Hall.  Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were: John Brockmann, Tim Koehler, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith. Absent:  None.  City staff present:  Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, Tom Schirman, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. No comments.

Consent Agenda.  Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from August 6, 2018, and the FYE 2018 Annual Financial Report.  Motion carried.

Cen-Pe-Co – Request to Place Flag Pole in City Right-of-Way (ROW).  At the last meeting, Cen-Pe-Co requested to install a heavy duty commercial grade 25’ – 30’ flag pole, which includes a private sign, in the City right-of-way (ROW).  Attorney Schirman reported on various City Code provisions, specifically the Sign Chapter (which includes flags), that states they are not permitted in the City right-of-way (ROW) unless approved by the Council.  Council members stated while they support what Cen-Pe-Co is trying to do they can’t allow the request for this permanent structure and private sign in the ROW.  It was suggested that Cen-Pe-Co look at other alternative locations on their own property.  Smith moved and Mengler seconded to deny the request from Cen-Pe-Co to place a commercial grade flag pole in the City ROW.  Motion carried.

Jason Holdorf – City Engineer Updates.  Holdorf provided an update on the W. Otis Street Improvements Project and proposed E. James Street Watermain Project and gave a design update on the W. Bryant Street Sanitary Sewer Mains Project.

Ron Fick – Property Owner. Ron Fick stated he is the owner of the vacant lot on the corner of James and Century Streets and he felt it would create a burden for him to install public sidewalks on the lot before it is developed. Fick’s property is part of the FYE 2019 Residential Sidewalk Reimbursement Program, approved by Council on June 4, 2018.  His property was identified as a gap situation, located on a main route to school, and sidewalk installation would complete sidewalks in the neighborhood. Following discussion regarding the lot, potential development, and the City’s new home residential tax abatement program, Smith moved and Koehler seconded to temporarily defer the installation of public sidewalks at 302 N. Century and to reassess the property during the annual Sidewalk Program review in May, 2020. Motion carried.

Iowa’s Living Roadways Community Visioning.  Stagg introduced Emily Swihart, Trees Forever, and she explained Iowa’s Living Roadways Community Visioning Program.  If selected, through a competitive application process, the program provides professional planning, landscape architecture consultants, and design assistance for transportation enhancements.  Communities selected must agree in writing to commit at least $2,000 toward implementation of a project proposed through the visioning process.  Part of the application process is commitment and support letters from the City and local organizations and or businesses.  Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve support for the program application and commitment of $2,000 for a future project if selected.  Motion carried.

Quad Cities Convention Bureau Annual Contribution.  Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve payment to the Quad Cities Convention Bureau for the budgeted contribution amount of $1,000.  Motion carried.

Public Works Department Report.  Stagg presented an email from a service manager at Altorfer, regarding the availability of parts and service for the 1967 CAT Motor Grader, as requested at the last meeting.  Brockmann stated the City should keep the Grader and that he didn’t feel the City’s other plows could handle large amounts of snow.  Puck responded that the hour meter on the equipment currently indicates it has only increased 2 hours since an inventory sheet dated February 1, 2010.  Smith moved and Puck seconded to allow the item to go out for bid.  Motion carried with Brockmann opposing.  Stagg also reported the City was awarded $8,000 from the Alliant Energy Branching Out program he applied to for tree plantings at Prairie View Park.

Mayor’s Report. Mayor Kostichek reported that he and Koehler met with the SECC (Scott Emergency Communications Center) Director regarding the City’s concerns with the timing of the weather alert sirens.  They will also be attending a meeting this Friday with the Local Emergency Planning Committee to express the City’s concerns.

Council Member Comments.  Brockmann questioned who inspects sewer repairs on the weekends and Stagg replied that per the permitting process contractors are required to schedule inspections during normal working hours.  Brockmann stated he was aware of work that was completed over the weekend but he refused to name the contractor and location.

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

August 20, 2018

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 6^th day of August, 2018, at Walcott City Hall.  Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were: John Brockmann, Tim Koehler, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith. Absent:  None.  City staff present:  Jeff Blake, Josh Geigle, Lisa Rickertsen, Tom Schirman, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. No comments.

Consent Agenda.  Rickertsen conveyed information regarding the fiscal year 2018 street finance report.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from July 16, 2018, July 2018 financial reports, Casey’s Class C beer permit renewal, Dolgencorp LLC (Dollar General) Class C beer permit and Class B wine permit renewal, and Resolution 2018-28, Approving the Annual 2018 Fiscal Year Street Finance Report.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Puck, Brockmann, Smith, and Koehler.  Motion carried.

Cen-Pe-Co – Request to Place Flag Pole in City Right-of-Way (ROW).  Amber Chenault presented information from Cen-Pe-Co requesting to install a heavy duty commercial grade flag pole, approximately 25’-30’ tall, in the City ROW. The proposed location would be to the north-east of their front door on the north side of the sidewalk, adjacent to E. Lincoln Street.  Chenault stated the flag pole would also include a Cen-Pe-Co sign.  Attorney Schirman stated the City doesn’t typically allow structures and private signs in the ROW and questioned if they could find alternate locations on their property.  Schirman will research the request and provide information by the next meeting.

West Otis Street Improvements Project.

• Agreement for Engineering Services. Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve the engineering services agreement with IMEG at a cost not to exceed $153,300.  Motion carried.
• Resolution 2018–29, Awarding Contract & Approving Contract and Bonds for the West Otis Street Improvements Project. City Engineer, Jason Holdorf, reported that eight bids were received and he recommended the City accept the low bid from Cornerstone Excavating, Inc. in the amount of $921,482.65.  Rickertsen stated the contractor has signed the contract and filed the required bonds.  Smith moved and Koehler seconded to approve Resolution 2018-29.  Roll call ayes:  Smith, Koehler, Mengler, and Puck. Nays:    Motion carried.  Brockmann stated he opposed since there are other streets that need to be replaced before the 1^st block of the project (between Main Street and Parker Street).

Sewer Mains Repairs/Replacements.  Holdorf presented a map and cost opinions for sanitary sewer mains replacements on portions of West Bryant Street and Rowe Lane.  Following a recent televising report from Visu-Sewer, these sections were identified as critical, with sections having pieces of pipes that have collapsed.  Discussion was held on the potential cost savings of saw cutting the concrete street instead of removing and replacing full panels.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to have Holdorf proceed with the design phase part of the project.  Motion carried.  No one answered the question from Smith, asking why the sanitary sewer mains were not checked prior to the W. Bryant Street Paving Project in 2014 (Stagg & Holdorf were not employed or appointed by the City at that time).  Brockmann questioned lining the mains instead of replacing and Holdorf replied that some mains cannot be lined since there are already parts of the mains that are missing.  Following further discussion, Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to have Holdorf check with Visu-Sewer regarding lining options prior to proceeding with the plans and specifications (design phase) as presented.   Motion carried.

Water Projects Costs Opinions. Holdorf presented cost opinions for three sections of watermain improvements on East James and North Downey Streets. Stagg stated these projects were the top ranked water projects by the City Council earlier this year and he recommended proceeding with the top two projects as presented.  Koehler moved and Puck seconded to have Holdorf proceed with the design phase for the top two projects as presented.  Motion carried.

Termination of Farm Lease.  Attorney Schirman stated the existing farm lease with Rodney Dietz needs to be terminated as the initial terms are no longer applicable.  Staff will consider facility needs and options for sludge disposal and a proposal of a revised lease agreement or alternate option will be presented at a future meeting.  Smith moved and Puck seconded to terminate the current farm lease with Rodney Dietz.  Motion carried.

Residential Sidewalk Repair Program.  Rickertsen stated she was approached by a property owner that was sent a letter to install sidewalks (current gap on property) and they stated they are not in a financial position to install them at this time.  Following discussion, Puck moved and Mengler seconded to have the City hire a contractor to install the required sidewalk as discussed and set-up a payment plan with the property owner.  Motion carried.

Fire Department Report.  Discussion was held with Chief Geigle regarding concerns of the late timing of the weather alert sirens.  Geigle stated the sirens are activated by the SECC (Scott Emergency Communications Center) and he has spoken to the SECC Director regarding the City’s concerns.  He also reported he is researching options to see if Muscatine County can activate the weather alert sirens.  Following further discussion, consensus was to contact other communities to inquire if they are having similar issues and to draft a letter to SECC noting the City’s concerns.

Police Department Report.  Chief Blake reported that a few officers will be working during the Iowa Hawkeyes football games but it will not affect the coverage in Walcott.

Public Works Department Report. 

• Equipment Disposal – Motor Grader. Stagg stated there is no intent or need for his department to keep the 1967 CAT Motor Grader and he recommended disposing of it through the standard sealed bid process.  Following a lengthy discussion, Mengler stated she would like something in writing from Altorfer regarding the availability of parts needed to repair the machine prior to making a decision.  Stagg will obtain the information as requested.
• Snow Plow for 2018 Ford F550. Stagg presented a project worksheet for the purchase of a snow plow from Henderson for the 2018 F550 at a cost of $9,615.  Following discussion, Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve the purchase of a snow plow for the 2018 F550 from Henderson.  Brockmann opposed as he felt the City doesn’t need another snow plow.  Motion carried.

 City Clerk Report.   Rickertsen reported on the donation and memorial program for benches and tables for the new splash pad.  Brochures are available at City Hall and on the City’s website.  Karla Burt was present on behalf of the Hearts and Hands Foundation and stated they are open to suggestions for new projects and reported that the Foundation is hosting a corn boil and movie at Victory Park on August 25^th.

Smith moved and Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:30 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

August 2018 Chamber Newsletter

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 16^th day of July, 2018, at Walcott City Hall.  Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were: John Brockmann, Tim Koehler, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith. Absent:  None.  City staff present:  Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, Tom Schirman, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. No comments.

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 July 3, 2018, 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) in connection with the construction of a new warehouse and distribution facility.  The only written comment received was from the Scott County Supervisors.  Their letter stated that they support the use of TIF when it is used as an economic development incentive for businesses adding or retaining primary jobs and that strengthen the local and regional economy.  This project helps retain jobs in the Quad Cities.  There were no oral comments.  Koehler moved and Smith seconded to close the public hearing and open the public hearing on the proposed development agreement with Atlantic Bottling Company. Motion carried.

 Public Hearing on the Proposed Development Agreement with Atlantic Bottling Company.  Rickertsen reported the public hearing notice was published in the North Scott Press on July 11, 2018.  The development agreement between the City and Atlantic Bottling Company is in regards to the construction and operation of a new warehouse and distribution facility.  The City would provide annual appropriation TIF rebate payments in a total amount not to exceed $460,000 over a five-year period.  Atlantic Bottling Company would be responsible for reimbursing the City for legal fees in connection with the development agreement.  No written or oral comments were received. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting.  Motion carried.

Consent Agenda.  Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from July 2, 2018, June 2018 financial reports, and the FYE 2018 Investment Report.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2018-24, Approving Final Plat for Exit 284 First Addition.  Rickertsen reported the Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of the Final Plat on June 11, 2018.  Comments were also received from the City Engineer on the Final Plat and Site Plan. The proposed Resolution includes approval of a drainage easement and Attorney Schirman stated the Final Plat needs to be signed by the affected utility companies and a Treasurer’s Certificate is needed, although due to the timing it cannot be obtained until after tax bills are mailed in August.  Puck moved and Smith seconded to approve Resolution 2018-24.  Roll call ayes:  Puck, Smith, Mengler, Koehler, and Brockmann.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2018-25, Approving Site Plan for Iowa 80 Warehouse/Distribution Facility.Rickertsen stated the Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of the Site Plan on June 11, 2018, although minor revisions were made to it after that date, which included an 8” fire water line as recommended by the Fire Chief.  Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve Resolution 2018-25.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Smith, Koehler, Brockmann, and Puck.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2018-26, Approving Urban Renewal Plan Amendment for the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area.  Koehler moved and Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2018-26.  Roll call ayes:  Koehler, Puck, Brockmann, Mengler, and Smith.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2018-27, Approving Development Agreement with Atlantic Bottling Company, Authorizing Annual Appropriation Tax Increment Payments and Pledging Certain Tax Increment Revenue to the Payment of the Agreement.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2018-27.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Puck, Brockmann, Koehler, and Smith.  Motion carried.

Scott County Library System Pledge for New Library Project.  Rickertsen stated the City Council pledged $50,000 towards the new library project on June, 2016 and $20,000 has been paid.  Smith moved and Koehler seconded to approve the balance of $30,000 to the Scott County Library System for the new library project.  Motion carried.

Public Works Department Report.  Stagg reported he received an inspection report on the south water tower.  The company performing the inspection stated the tower should have been sandblasted in 2015 before it was painted due to the existing number of paint layers on the tower.  Stagg will obtain bids for rehabilitation of the tower and will weigh the costs against the benefits and present to council at a later date.  Stagg reported on the sanitary sewer mains cleaning and televising report that he recently received from Visu-Sewer.  The report also included a video of the mains and Stagg presented video clips of sections of the deteriorated main on W. Bryant Street.  He stated the integrity of the pipes are severely compromised and he will be working with the City Engineer on plans and specifications for replacement.  Mengler questioned if replacing the main would require tearing up the concrete street that was poured in 2014, Stagg responded that it would.  Following questions about hydrant flushing and manholes, Stagg responded that the hydrant flushing has been completed for approximately half of the town and the manholes on Lincoln Street will be temporary filled in before the weekend.

City Clerk Report.  Rickertsen reported on the proposed future land use map for the comprehensive plan update.  Council consensus was to agree with the changes to the proposed map as presented by the Zoning Administrator.

Puck moved and Smith seconded to adjourn at 6:40 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

Signed Minutes and Claims July 16, 2018

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 2^nd day of July, 2018, at Walcott City Hall.  Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were: John Brockmann, Tim Koehler, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith. Absent:  None.  City staff present:  Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, Tom Schirman, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Two residents were in attendance but there were no comments at this time.

Consent Agenda.  Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from June 18, 2018, May 2018 financial reports, Scott County Humane Society Agreement renewal, and Class C Beer Permit renewals for Pilot Travel Center #043 and #268.  Motion carried.

Walcott Day. 

• Koehler moved and Puck seconded to approve the Walcott Day Parade and closure of appropriate streets on July 21, 2018.  Motion carried.
• Approval of Fireworks Permit – Walcott Day Display at Prairie View Park. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the fireworks permit on July 20^th, with a rain date of July 21^st for the Walcott Day display at Prairie View Park.  Motion carried.
• Street Closures. Smith moved and Koehler seconded to approve closing N. Henry Street, between James and Lincoln Streets; E. Otis Street, between Main and Downey Streets; N. Downey Street, between James and Otis Streets; and E. James Street, between Henry and Downey Streets on July 21, 2018.  Motion carried.
• Fireworks Donation. Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve the donation of $1,000 to the Walcott Day Committee for the fireworks display. Motion carried.
• 5K Race & Street Closure. Koehler moved and Puck seconded to approve the 5K race route on July 21^st, as presented. Motion carried.  The race starting and ending point will be on W. James Street by Victory Park.
• Police Department Part-Time Wages. Due to the pay differences between officers paid by the City and those paid by the Walcott Day Committee, Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve a special wage of $23.99/hour for part-time officers working for the City during Walcott Day events.  Motion carried.

Main Street Right-of-Way Mowing.  Discussion was held on the request from Brockmann to have the City staff mow the area between the sidewalk and street along Main Street from the bridge to Walcott Road due to inconsistent grass height.  The City Code requires the abutting property owners to maintain that area.  Mengler moved and Smith seconded to not have City staff mow the right-of-way on Main Street. Motion carried with Brockmann opposing.  Koehler suggested contacting the abutting property owners and making them aware of the concerns.  Mayor Kostichek stated he would approach the property owners.

 Splash Pad Project.  The project engineer and Stagg both recommended approval of pay request #1.  Koehler moved and Puck seconded to approve pay request #1 to Centennial Contractors of the Quad Cities, Inc. for $91,365.77.  Motion carried.

 Resolution 2018-23, Setting Date for Public Hearing on Development Agreement with Atlantic Bottling Company.  The agreement is for providing tax increment financing support to Atlantic Bottling Company in connection with the construction and operation of a new warehouse and distribution facility.  Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2018-23.  Roll call ayes:  Puck, Mengler, Smith, Koehler, and Brockmann.  Motion carried.  The public hearing is scheduled for July 16, 2018, at 6:00 p.m.

 Public Works Department Report.  Stagg expressed his thanks and appreciation to the volunteers that performed landscaping maintenance at Prairie View Park this past weekend.

 Following council comments, Smith moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 6:28 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

July 2018 Chamber Newsletter

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 18^th day of June, 2018, at Walcott City Hall.  Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were: John Brockmann, Tim Koehler, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith. Absent:  None.  City staff present:  Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, Tom Schirman, and Paul Stagg.

Approval of Agenda. Koehler moved and Puck seconded to approve the agenda with the deletions of items 10 and 11, the Final Plat for Exit 284 First Addition and the Site Plan for the warehouse and distribution facility.  Motion carried. The detention plan on the Final Plat is being revised so both items will be resubmitted at a future meeting.

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. One resident was in attendance but there were no comments at this time.

Public Hearing.  Mayor Kostichek opened the public hearing on the plans & specifications, form of contract, and cost estimate on the W. Otis Street Improvements Project.  No written comments were received.  Project Engineers, Jason Holdorf and Paul Baele, presented the project manual and reported on some of the details of the project including angle or perpendicular parking on the south side of W. Otis Street, adjacent to City owned property, between Parker Street and Rowe Lane.  Chief Blake stated he prefers angle parking and council concurred.  The engineer’s estimate and budgeted amount were discussed.  Koehler moved and Puck seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting.  Motion carried.

Consent Agenda.  Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from June 4, 2018, and Class A Liquor License including Outdoor Service and Sunday Sales for the Walcott Legion Post #548, Resolution 2018-20 Approving Transfer of Funds, and annual cigarette permit renewals for Casey’s, Dolgencorp, Iowa 80 Truckstop, and Pilot Travel Centers #043 and #268.  Roll call ayes: Mengler, Smith, Koehler, Brockmann, and Puck.  Motion carried.

Sidewalks – W. Otis Street Improvements Project. Holdorf stated that the City Code, 136.08 (6), states residential sidewalks shall be located six feet from the curb line, unless the Council establishes a different distance due to special circumstances.  The proposed project plans indicate keeping the sidewalk along the curb on the north side of W. Otis Street, between Main and Parker Streets, which would preserve the trees and a commercial off-street parking space, and a four feet distance from the curb for the property on the NE corner of W. Otis Street and Rowe Lane.   A lengthy discussion ensued including the proximity of buildings/residences to property lines, large trees in right-of-way, and the possibility of moving one block of the street, between Main & Parker Streets, three feet to the south.  Following a lengthy discussion, Mengler moved and Puck seconded to keep the project plans as proposed, noting time line and potential project cost increases.  Ayes:  Mengler and Puck.  Nays:  Smith, Koehler, and Brockmann.  Motion defeated.  Following further discussion, Koehler moved to locate the sidewalks three feet from the curb on the three lots on the north side of W. Otis Street, as discussed.  Ayes:  Koehler and Smith.  Nays:  Brockmann, Mengler, and Puck.  Motion defeated.  Brockmann again suggested moving one block of the street, between Main & Parker Streets, three feet to the south. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to leave the sidewalks as proposed in the project plans.  Ayes:  Mengler, Puck, and Koehler.  Nays:  Smith and Brockmann. Motion carried.

Resolution 2018-21, Approving Plans, Specifications, Form of Contract and Cost Estimate for the W. Otis Street Improvements Project. Koehler moved and Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2018-21, with the parking change as mentioned during the hearing.  Roll call ayes:  Koehler, Puck, Mengler, Smith, and Brockmann.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2018-22, Setting Date for Public Hearing on Urban Renewal Plan Amendment.  The plan amendment is for providing tax increment financing support to Atlantic Bottling Company in connection with the construction and operation of a new bottling warehouse and distribution facility within the Urban Renewal Area.  Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2018-22.  Roll call ayes:  Puck, Mengler, Smith, Koehler, and Brockmann.  Motion carried.  The public hearing is scheduled for July 16, 2018, at 6:00 p.m.

 Ordinance 499-18, Amending the Official Zoning Map.  Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to approve the third reading of Ordinance 499-18.   Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Koehler, Smith, Brockmann, and Puck.  Motion carried.  This rezones parcel #912555005 from SA Suburban Agricultural District to C-3 Interstate Highway Commercial District. 

 Ordinance 500-18, Amending Chapter 106 Regarding Solid Waste Collection Fees.  This ordinance increases the garbage rates from $12.33 to $12.87.  Koehler moved and Puck seconded to approve the third reading of Ordinance 500-18.  Roll call ayes:  Koehler, Puck, Brockmann, Mengler, and Smith.  Motion carried.

Police Department Report.  Chief Blake reported that both the Police & Fire Departments were recently each awarded $800 from the Iowa 80/CAT Scale Go Iowa Fund Grant Program.

Public Works Department Report.  Stagg stated the City could benefit from off-street parking on the lot adjacent to City Hall.  Council consensus was to have Stagg obtain quotes on installing a parking lot.  Stagg reported that he is reviewing the utility GIS maps he was recently sent and that Visu-Sewer has completed a majority of the sewer main cleaning and televising but a different truck is here working on some problem areas.  Stagg also stated the concrete slabs at the Main & Bryant Streets intersection were recently replaced and no major underlying issues were found but that the prior concrete did not have a suitable base and was not properly pinned.

City Clerk’s Report. Rickertsen relayed information regarding the Summer Youth Recreation Program.

Council Member Comments. Mengler extended her thanks to Chief Blake and Chief Geigle for their EMS services at the Park during the weekend tournament.  Koehler questioned the peeling paint on the south water tower.  Stagg stated the tower should have been sandblasted before it was painted in 2015 and that he recently had a crew inspect the tower and is waiting for a quote. Brockmann proposed that City staff mow the area between the sidewalk and street along Main Street from the bridge to Walcott Road (instead of the abutting property owners as required by City Code). This topic will be placed on the next regular agenda.

Mengler moved and Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:07 p.m. Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

Signed Minutes & Claims

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 4^th day of June, 2018, at Walcott City Hall.  Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were: John Brockmann, Tim Koehler, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith. Absent:  None.  City staff present:  Jeff Blake (arrived late), Jackie Huston, Scott Bengfort, Josh Geigle, Tom Schirman, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Kim Varner from Blue Grass presented a fact sheet and reported on the West Scott School District Project, which is a proposal to combine Walcott, Blue Grass, and Buffalo into a separate school district.  They are in the petition gathering phase that needs to be presented to the AEA prior to a feasibility study.  The committee is meeting with the Davenport School District this week.

Consent Agenda.  Puck moved and Smith seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from May 21, 2018, and Fireworks Permit for Iowa 80 Truckers Jamboree Displays on July 12^th & 13^th.  Motion carried.

Randy Scott – America’s Road Trip.  Mr. Scott was not in attendance, so no action was taken.

Chris Hebbel-Rental Property Code Nuisance Proposal. Mr. Hebbel, a Walcott resident, has been a Davenport Police Officer for 8 years and stated that Davenport has an ordinance that provides for fines for landlords that rent to tenants that have repeated police calls and can eventually lead to eviction.  He would suggest starting slowly with an ordinance that would require background checks.  The officer that runs the program in Davenport would be willing to help tailor the program for Walcott.  Huston stated that Chief Blake had mentioned he is working with the City Attorney on an ordinance for this.

Nuisance Abatement Hearing – Mike Reynolds, 247 W. Durant Street.  Mr. Reynolds has placed landscaping including concrete blocks, flowers, and a windmill in the right-of-way and in the path of the sidewalk if it is installed.  The Building Inspector had informed Mr. Reynolds when he put the blocks in that he would have to move them to private property, but he continued to add additional items.  Mr. Reynolds asked if the landscaping could stay in the ROW and the sidewalk be routed around it.  Puck spoke in favor of that idea.  Koehler, Mengler, and Smith stated that he should have moved the blocks instead of adding more landscaping when informed by the Building Inspector.  Council Members and the Mayor expressed their appreciation for and complimented Mr. Reynolds on the rehabilitation of the house and property.  Following a lengthy discussion, Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to give Mr. Reynolds 60 days to move the landscaping off of the ROW to private property.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2018-19, Providing for a Notice of Hearing on Proposed Plans, Specifications, Forms of Contract and Estimate of Cost for the W. Otis Street Reconstruction Project. Huston reported that the Public Hearing would be on June 18^th and the bids will be accepted until 2 p.m. on July 19^th.  Plans will be uploaded on or around July 2^nd.  Mengled moved and Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2018-19.  The motion passed on a unanimous roll call vote.

Ordinance 499-18, Amending the Official Zoning Map.  Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 499-18.   Motion carried with a unanimous roll call vote.  This rezones parcel #912555005 from SA Suburban Agricultural District to C-3 Interstate Highway Commercial District. 

Ordinance 500-18, Amending Chapter 106 Regarding Solid Waste Collection Fees.  This ordinance increases the garbage rates from $12.33 to $12.87.  Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 500-18.  Motion carried with unanimous roll call vote.

Building Department Report – FYE 2019 Sidewalk Repair Reimbursement Program. Stagg presented the proposed list for indentified deficiencies and new sidewalks.  He stated that Bengfort had examined all sidewalks for deficiencies and they were proposing three properties for installing sidewalks in gap situations that would complete sidewalks in neighborhoods or on a main route to school.  The approved properties would be eligible for the program which provides a 50% reimbursement for the homeowner upon completion.  Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to approve the proposed list.  Motion carried with Brockmann opposed.  The approved property owners will be contacted by the Building Inspector.  Upon questioning, Stagg stated that the Council had not budgeted the money to construct all of the gap properties at one time and that is why he prioritized them and intends to continue that process on a yearly basis.  Brockmann stated that if we couldn’t afford to construct sidewalks for all the properties that don’t have them, then we shouldn’t do any.

Fire Department. Puck moved and Mengler seconded to purchase 2 replacement nozzles for $880.  Motion carried.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to purchase a grain auger rescue tube for $835.  Motion carried.  Puck moved and Mengler seconded to purchase 28 new helmets from Sandry Fire for $8,624. from the Donation Fund.  Motion carried.  Chief Geigle requested that Fire Department Members be allowed to keep their old helmets if they chose to.  Council consensus was to allow this.

Police Department Report.  Chief Blake had arrived and stated that he was working on the landlord nuisance program with the City Attorney.

Public Works Department Report.

Prairie View Park Tree Plan: Stagg presented the plan for tree planting that was recommended for approval by the Park Board, having been prepared by a member of Trees Forever who is a landscape architect.  He reported that he intended to apply for a “Branching Out” grant through Alliant Energy that would involve Trees Forever personnel and school children from Durant and Walcott in the planting.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the plan.  Motion carried.

Council Member Comments. Bonnie Jackson and Glen Houghton were in attendance and the Mayor and Bengfort both stated that a lot of progress had been made in the cleanup of their property.  In response to questions, Stagg reported that the City Hall renovation would wait until winter due to increased foot traffic at this time and the manholes that had been uncovered for the sewer televising and GIS projects would be raised level with the streets when the projects are complete.

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

JUNE 4, 2018 Signed Minutes & Claims