2025 - The City of Walcott

Meeting Minutes

December 15, 2025 Minutes

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, December 15, 2025, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Everett Bieri, Harry Knutsen, Lisa Mengler, and Jacob Puck. Absent: Kirk Koberg. Staff present: Adam Hill, Lisa Rickertsen, Paul Stagg, and Joe Hahn.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Lesa Puck, Edgar Martinez, Bobbie Martinez, Matthew Morgan, Isabel Martinez, Molli Sovinson, Diego Martinez, Lynnette Tarchinski, and Joe Quick.

Consent Agenda. Rickertsen reported the December 1, 2025 minutes should read Koberg seconded to approve the agenda, not Knutsen. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve the consent agenda which includes the invoices, minutes from December 1, 2025 with correction as stated, November 2025 financial reports, and Resolution 2025-65, Authorizing Signatories on Bank Accounts. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Bieri, Knutsen, and Puck. Nays: None. Motion carried.

Set Public Hearing Date on Amending Chapter 160, Building Codes. Puck moved and Mengler seconded to set the public hearing date on amending Chapter 160 for January 5, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. Motion carried. The proposed amendment would update most of the International Building Codes currently adopted by the City, moving from the 2015 editions to the 2021 editions.

Resolution 2025-66, Approving the City Organizational Chart. Bieri moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2025-66. Roll call ayes: Bieri, Mengler, Puck, and Knutsen. Nays: None. Motion carried.

Fire Chief Appointment. The Fire Department members re-elected Joe Hahn as Fire Chief for the 2026 term. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve the appointment of Joe Hahn as the Fire Chief, term ending December 31, 2026. Motion carried

Mayor’s Report. Mayor Kostichek expressed thanks and appreciation to community members and organizations, noting that their cooperation made serving a small town easier during his 34 years of service to the City.

Mayor Kostichek and Harry Knutsen were thanked by staff and council members for their service to the community.

Oath of Office to Elected Officials. Mayor Kostichek administered the oath of office to newly elected Mayor Jacob Puck and Council Member Bobbie Martinez.

Mengler moved and Puck seconded to adjourn at 6:13 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

December 15, 2025 Signed Minutes & Claims

December 18, 2025

Meeting Minutes

2026 Recycling Calendar

December 4, 2025

Meeting Minutes

December 1, 2025 Minutes

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, December 1, 2025, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Everett Bieri, Kirk Koberg, Lisa Mengler, and Jacob Puck. Absent: Harry Knutsen Staff present: Adam Hill, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg. Knutsen arrived late.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Bernard Brus, Edgar Martinez, Joe Quick, Taylor Quick, and Lynnette Tarchinski.

Consent Agenda. Koberg moved and Bieri seconded to approve the consent agenda which includes the invoices and minutes from November 17 , 2025. Motion carried.

Discussion of Recreational Trail Advisory Committee. It was discussed that the route for the recreational trail extension has already been determined and approved by City Council. The Committee’s role includes pursuing funding opportunities, fundraising, and potential plantings along the trail extension.

New Member Appointments. Mayor Kostichek appointed and Mengler moved and Puck seconded to the approve the appointment of the following individuals to the existing Recreational Trail Advisory Committee: Jason Hensel, Jordan Gillund, and Taylor Quick. Motion carried.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen reported on the upcoming council vacancy in January and explained the process as outlined in the Iowa Code. During the meeting on January 5, 2026, the council will decide how to fill that position, either by an appointment or special election.

Knutsen arrived.

Council Member Comments. Koberg expressed concerns regarding recent snow plowing, noting that snow was being pushed onto sidewalks adjacent to the curb. Stagg explained that staff get as close to the curb as possible to clear the entire street, in accordance with previous council direction.

Puck moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 6:20 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

December 1, 2025 Signed Minutes & Claims

December 4, 2025

Alerts

Board & Commission Vacancies

Two vacancies exist on the Planning and Zoning Commission. The City of Walcott is seeking residents of Walcott to fill the vacancies in January of 2026.

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission is responsible for reviewing development proposals, zoning amendments, subdivision plats, and other land use matters to ensure compliance with the City’s Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance.

Meets as needed on the second Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m.
Location: Walcott City Hall

How to Apply

Submit a completed application to:

Walcott City Hall
128 W. Lincoln Street, Walcott, IA

or email: info@cityofwalcott.com

Applications can be found here or at Walcott City Hall.

Deadline: By 4:00 p.m. on January 16, 2026

November 21, 2025

Meeting Minutes

November 17, 2025 Minutes

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, November 17, 2025, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Everett Bieri, Harry Knutsen, Kirk Koberg, Lisa Mengler, and Jacob Puck. Staff present: Adam Hill, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Lynnette Tarchinski, Bobbie & Edgar Martinez, Kari & Neal Arivett, Chris Townsend, Dave Meier, and Noah Glasgow.

Consent Agenda. Koberg moved and Bieri seconded to approve the consent agenda which includes the invoices, minutes from November 3, 2025, October 2025 financial reports, and Resolution 2025-62 – Obligating Funds from the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area Tax Revenue Fund for FYE 2027. Roll call ayes: Koberg, Bieri, Knutsen, Puck, and Mengler. Motion carried.

Resolution 2025-63, Approving the Site Plan for Addition to the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2025-63, as recommended by the City Engineer and Planning & Zoning Commission. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Puck, Bieri, Knutsen, and Koberg. Motion carried.

Resolution 2025-64, Approving the City of Walcott Snow and Ice Removal Policy. Mengler moved and Koberg seconded to approve Resolution 2025-64. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Koberg, Knutsen, Bieri, and Puck. Motion carried. This document outlines the level of service provided for street winter maintenance within the City of Walcott.

Persons with Disabilities Parking Near Water Tower Park. Stagg reported on the information he had presented regarding adding ADA parking spaces on Main Street, adjacent to Water Tower Park. Council consensus was to move forward with adding the spaces as presented, with the exact location dependent on meeting appropriate grade requirements. Koberg moved and Puck seconded to revisit the ADA parking spaces next April. Motion carried. Stagg will provide quotes at the April meeting.

Mayor Report. Mayor Kostichek thanked the Walcott Day Committee volunteers for installing the holiday decorations at Welcome Park. Mengler stated there will be a lighting ceremony at Welcome Park at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, November 23^rd.

Puck moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 6:21 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

Signed Minutes & Claims

November 20, 2025

Meeting Minutes

November 3, 2025

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Everett Bieri, Harry Knutsen, Kirk Koberg, Lisa Mengler, and Jacob Puck. Staff present: Adam Hill, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. John Brockmann, Edgar Martinez, Lynnette Tarchinski, and Noah Glasgow. Brockmann expressed concerns about prior manhole (surround) repairs on Memorial Road, as well as the condition of the Main Street railroad crossing approach. Stagg stated he had already reached out to the contractor regarding the manhole surrounds and the railroad for the crossing approach.

Consent Agenda. Knutsen moved and Mengler seconded to approve the consent agenda which includes the invoices, Resolution 2025-56 Acknowledgement of New Investment, and Resolution 2025-57 Authorizing the Transfer of Funds. Roll call ayes: Knutsen, Mengler, Puck, Bieri, and Koberg. Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes from October 20, 2025. Koberg moved and Bieri seconded to approve the minutes from October 20, 2025. Motion carried with Knutsen abstaining due to absence from meeting.

Resolution 2025-58, Accepting Public Improvements an Authorizing Final Payment for the 2025 Plainview Road and Sterling Drive PCC Panel Replacement Project. Koberg moved and Bieri seconded to approve Resolution 2025-58. Roll call ayes: Koberg, Bieri, Puck, Mengler, and Knutsen. Motion carried. The final payment is to Heuer Construction in the amount of $7,080.35.

Resolution 2058-59, Accepting Public Improvements and Authorizing Final Payment for the North Century Street Watermain Replacement Project. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2025-59. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Puck, Bieri, Knutsen, and Koberg. The final payment is to Triple B Construction in the amount of $14,111.20.

Well #6 Installation Project

Resolution 2025-60, Establishing a Capital Project Fund for the Well #6 Installation Project. Mengler moved and Knutsen seconded to approve Resolution 2025-60. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Knutsen, Koberg, Bieri, and Puck. Motion carried.
Resolution 2025-61, Authorizing Internal Advance for Funding of Urban Renewal Project – Well #6 Installation Project. Koberg moved and Knutsen seconded to approve Resolution 2025-61. Roll call ayes: Koberg, Knutsen, Bieri, Mengler, and Puck. Motion carried.

Electric Mobility Devices. Some discussion was held on potential regulations for electric mobility devices, with some noting they don’t feel it’s an issue. Chief Hill is working on organizing an educational bike rodeo clinic that will encompass skateboards, scooters, and electric devices to promote safe riding practices. Koberg moved and Puck seconded to table discussion on electric mobility devices and revisit in May or following the bike rodeo. Motion carried.

Recreational Trail Phase 2 Extension Project – Advisory Committee. Rickertsen reported that three members of the original committee have agreed to continue serving, along with one additional individual agreeing to assist as needed. Council requested that Rickertsen post a notice seeking residents interested in joining the committee to assist with final project details and pursue funding opportunities for the extension of the recreational trail.

2026 Employee Insurance Benefits Renewal. Rickertsen reported the employee health and dental insurance combined increase will be 9.05% but the life insurance will remain the same. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve the 2026 employee insurance benefits renewal as presented. Motion carried.

Police Department Report. The request on adding disability parking spaces near Water Tower Park will be on the next regular meeting agenda.

Koberg moved and Knutsen seconded to adjourn at 6:24 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

November 3, 2025 Signed Minutes and Claims

November 7, 2025

Meeting Minutes

October 20, 2025

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, October 20, 2025, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Everett Bieri, Kirk Koberg, Lisa Mengler, and Jacob Puck. Absent: Harry Knutsen. Staff present: Adam Hill and Lisa Rickertsen.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Noah Glasgow.

Consent Agenda. Koberg moved and Mengler seconded to approve the consent agenda which includes invoices, September 2025 financial reports, Tax Increment Financing (TIF) rebate payments per agreements to Atlantic Bottling Company for the Coca-Cola distribution building in the amount of $11,264.41 and Sterling Partners I LLC for the new warehouse in the amount of $70,669.50, Resolution 2025-52 -Approving the Annual Street Finance Report for fiscal year ending June 30, 2025 (FYE 2025), Resolution 2025-53-Approving the Annual Urban Renewal Report for FYE 2025, Resolution 2025-54- Authorizing the Transfer of Funds, and Resolution 2025-55-Acknowledging New Investment. Roll call ayes: Koberg, Mengler, Puck, and Bieri. Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes from October 6, 2025. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve the minutes from October 6, 2025. Motion carried with Koberg abstaining due to absence from meeting.

Request for Persons with Disabilities Parking Space at Water Tower Park. Chief Hill reported on a recent request regarding accessible parking spaces near Water Tower Park. Council directed Chief Hill to research and evaluate the applicable Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements for accessible parking in that area.

Recreational Trail Extension Project Status. The Recreational Trail Advisory Committee has not met since the Council approved proceeding with the Recreational Trail Extension Phase 2 Extension Project. Rickertsen reported the committee chairperson indicated that other commitments and limited availability have prevented recent meetings, though there remains an interest in continuing. The Council directed Rickertsen to contact the appointed members of the Recreational Trail Advisory Committee to determine their interest in continuing to serve on the committee.

Police Department Report. Chief Hill previously provided a copy of the City of Eldridge’s ordinance regarding electric mobility devices for Council review in response to a few concerns and inquiries. Council requested that discussion of electric mobility devices be added to the next meeting agenda.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen reported on the FYE 2025 Annual Financial Report, highlighting large expenditures and projects. Mengler moved and Koberg seconded to approve the FYE 2025 Annual Financial Report. Motion carried.

Mayor Report. Mayor Kostichek expressed thanks to the Walcott Athletic Board and Walcott Jr. Panthers volunteers for their dedication and contributions to the youth sports programs. Koberg expressed appreciation to the local businesses and community members for their donations and sponsorship of the teams and programs.

Koberg moved and Bieri seconded to adjourn at 6:31 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

October 20, 2025 Signed Minutes & Claims

October 23, 2025

Meeting Minutes

October 6, 2025 Minutes

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, October 6, 2025, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Other council members present: Everett Bieri, Harry Knutsen, Lisa Mengler, and Jacob Puck. Absent: Kirk Koberg. Staff present: Chief Adam Hill and Trish Moses. Chief Joe Hahn arrived at 6:10 p.m.

Approval of Agenda. Knutsen moved and Bieri seconded to approve agenda. Motion carried.

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. None.

Consent Agenda. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda which includes the invoices. Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes from September 15, 2025. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve the minutes from September 15, 2025. Motion carried with Mengler abstaining due to absence from the meeting.

Fire Department Report. Chief Hahn reported that the new fire truck is operational and ready for use. He also stated the new Lucas device was successfully used in a medical call, resulting in a positive outcome.

Sale of 1997 Freightliner Rescue Truck. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the sale of the 1997 Freightliner Rescue Truck in the amount of $10,100.00, to the highest bidder on GovDeals. Motion carried.
Purchase of Battery-Operated Tools – $7,719.99. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve the purchase of Milwaukee battery-operated tools as presented in the amount of $7,719.99. Motion carried.

Mayor Report. Mayor Kostichek expressed gratitude to Chief Hahn for the successful use of the Lucas device.

Council Member Comments. Mengler requested an update on the recreational trail extension project to be added to the next meeting’s agenda.

Mengler moved and Knutsen seconded to adjourn at 6:17p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

October 6, 2025 Signed Minutes & Claims

October 9, 2025

Meeting Minutes

September 15, 2025 Minutes

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, September 15, 2025, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Everett Bieri, Harry Knutsen, Kirk Koberg, and Jacob Puck. Absent: Lisa Mengler. Staff present: Adam Hill, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg.

Approval of Agenda. Knutsen moved and Bieri seconded to approve the agenda. Motion carried.

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Lance Wilden, Laura Martin, and Noah Glasgow.

Public Hearing on Urban Renewal Plan Amendment for the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area. Mayor Kostichek opened the public hearing. Rickertsen reported a letter was received from the Scott County Board of Supervisors regarding the proposed plan amendment for the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area to utilize up to $750,000 of tax increment financing (TIF) funds to pay a portion of the costs to construct another well. The Board does not support the use of TIF for public infrastructure. The goal of the project is to meet peak demand and lay the groundwork for future economic development in the City. No other written or oral comments were received. Puck moved and Koberg seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting. Motion carried.

Consent Agenda. Knutsen moved and Bieri seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from September 2, 2025, August 2025 financial reports, Resolution 2025-49, Approving Hourly Wage Increase for the Building Official (certification), and Resolution 2025-50, Establishing Hourly Wage and Vacation Leave for the new full-time Police Officer (Lance Wilden). Roll call ayes: Knutsen, Bieri, Puck, and Koberg. Motion carried.

Resolution 2025-51, Approve Urban Renewal Plan Amendment for the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve Resolution 2025-51, Approve Urban Renewal Plan Amendment for the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area. Roll call ayes: Puck, Bieri, Knutsen, and Koberg. Motion carried.

Walcott Women – Trick-or-Treating. Laura Martin, representing Walcott Women, stated they would like to have Trick-or-Treating on Friday, October 31^st from 6 – 8 p.m. with the Halloween Parade starting at 5:30 p.m. Lining up for the parade will begin at 5:15 p.m. Koberg moved and Knutsen seconded to approve Trick-or-Treating on October 31^st from 6 – 8 p.m. and the Halloween Parade at 5:30 p.m., from Victory Park to the Walcott Legion. Motion carried. Mayor Kostichek extended thanks to the Walcott Women members for their efforts in organizing the annual Halloween event, as well as many other events they sponsor throughout the year for the youth in our community.

New Restroom Stall Doors at Victory Park. Rickertsen reported the Park Board recommended approval of new stall doors for the restrooms at Victory Park, at an estimated cost of $6,300.Koberg moved and Puck seconded to approve the stall doors for Victory Park as presented. Motion carried.

Police Department Report. Chief Hill introduced Officer Lance Wilden. Mayor Kostichek administered the oath of office to Officer Wilden.

Knutsen moved and Koberg seconded to adjourn at 6:15 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

September 15, 2025 Signed Minutes & Claims

September 19, 2025

Meeting Minutes

September 2, 2025 Minutes

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Everett Bieri, Harry Knutsen, Kirk Koberg, Lisa Mengler, and Jacob Puck. Absent: None. Staff present: Adam Hill, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Liz Bruns, Brenda Thrapp, Brenda Warner, Karen Puck, Sandy Bramstedt, Sherry Roberts, Andrea Schmidt, Joe Quick, and Austin Bowman.

Consent Agenda. Puck moved and Koberg seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from August 18, 2025, and Resolution 2025-48, Authorizing Signatories on Bank Accounts. Roll call ayes: Puck, Koberg, Knutsen, Bieri, and Mengler. Motion carried.

Walcott Jr. Panthers – Request to Allow Food Trucks on City Street. Liz Bruns was present to request food trucks be allowed to sell food on Saturdays from September 13^th – October 11 (rain date of October 18^th)from approximately 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m during games at Water Tower Park. Last year, the food trucks were located on private commercial property across the street, raising concerns about the safety of children crossing a busy street. Koberg moved and Knutsen seconded to approve the request allowing food trucks on the east side of Main Street (adjacent to Water Tower Park) on Saturdays, beginning September 13^th – October 18^th, only during games, from approximately 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Motion carried. Mayor Kostichek thanked the organization volunteers for continuance of providing new activities for youth sports.

Walcott Historical Society Contribution Request. Karen Puck presented a set of 8 collector pint glasses depicting scenes and history from our community to the City and expressed appreciation to the City for their support over the past 10 years. It was reported the Walcott Historical Museum will be open on Saturdays in September from 9:00 a.m. – Noon. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the contribution request to the Walcott Historical Society, as budgeted, in the amount of $2,500. Motion carried. This contribution is to promote and assist in preservation of the City’s history. The members were thanked for their efforts in preserving and promoting the history of the community.

Midwest Iron Addicts – Request for Approval of 5K Race Route on May 23, 2026. Austin Bowman, Midwest Iron Addicts, was present to request approval of a 5K run on Saturday, May 23, 2026. Koberg moved and Puck seconded to approve the 5K race route on May 23, 2026, as presented. Motion carried.

Board Vacancy Appointments. One application was received for each of the board vacancies.

Park Board – Mayoral Appointment. Mayor Kostichek appointed Jordan Orcutt to the Park Board with a term ending 12/31/27. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve the Mayor’s appointment of Jordan Orcutt to the Park Board. Motion carried.
Zoning Board of Adjustment. Mengler moved and Knutsen seconded to appoint Kara Schinkel.

2025 Plainview Road and Sterling Drive PCC Panel Replacement Project Pay Request. Koberg moved and Mengler seconded to approve the pay request to Heuer Construction in the amount of $78,499.93.Motion carried.

N. Century Street Watermain Replacement Project Pay Request. Koberg moved and Puck seconded to approve the pay request to Triple B Construction in the amount of $4,080.25. Motion carried.

Public Works Department Report.

Sale of 2006 International 7400 Dump Truck with Plow. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to accept the high bid of $2,725 from GovDeals for the 2006 International 7400 dump truck with plow. Motion carried.

Stagg addressed the potential for sanitary sewer extensions to support future development, the council was open to further exploration.

Council Member Comments. Mengler stated she felt the electronic speed signs on Memorial Road have been effective in reducing traffic speeds. Koberg reported on the donated Victory Park concession stand improvements and noted funding from the Walcott Day Committee towards improving the park restrooms. He inquired about City funding for new stall partitions, which will be discussed at the next Park Board meeting. Restroom improvements will be deferred until after September 14^th due to scheduled shelter reservations, ensuring the facilities remain available for use.

Mengler moved and Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:18 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

September 2, 2025 Signed Minutes & Claims

September 3, 2025

December 15, 2025 Minutes

2026 Recycling Calendar

December 1, 2025 Minutes

Board & Commission Vacancies

November 17, 2025 Minutes

November 3, 2025

October 20, 2025

October 6, 2025 Minutes

September 15, 2025 Minutes

September 2, 2025 Minutes

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