Category: Meeting Minutes

December 17, 2012

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 17th day of December, 2012, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor Jim Couper called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present were: Tim Koehler, John Kostichek, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: None. City employees present: Lisa Rickertsen, John Brockmann, and Tom Schirman.

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

Consent Agenda. Jacob Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from December 3, 2012, and November 2012 financial reports. Motion carried.

Audience. Wayne Latimer.

Purchase Approval of Aluminum 24' Player Benches. Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the recommendation from the Park Board to purchase four aluminum player benches from Boland Recreation at a cost of $2,300. Motion carried.

Appointments by Mayor. Mayor Couper made the following appointments:

Park Board. Reappoint Mike Clayton to Park Board with a term ending 12/31/17. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the Mayor's appointment. Motion carried.

Council Committees:

Police, Fire, Street Lights, Animal Control, Civil Defense, ZBA, Forever Green : Jackie Puck & Koehler

Sanitary Sewer, Solid Waste : Kostichek & Jackie Puck

Streets, Parks, Equipment Operations : Jacob Puck & Kostichek

Policy & Administration, Mayor, Council, Clerk, Treasurer, P&Z, Elections, City Hall & Building : Koehler & Mengler

Water Plant Operations, Distributions & Maintenance : Mengler & Jacob Puck

Mayor Pro Tem : Kostichek


Appointments by Council. Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to appoint Cloe McKinley to the Planning & Zoning Commission, term ending 12/31/17. Motion carried. Kostichek moved and Mengler seconded to reappoint Sandy Liebbe to the Zoning Board of Adjustment, term ending 12/31/17. Motion carried. Kostichek moved and Jackie Puck seconded to reappoint Jon White, Verbeke-Meyer, as the City Engineer, term ending 12/31/13. Motion carried.

TIF Rebate Program. Discussion was held on the current TIF rebate program that expires December 31, 2012. Kostichek moved and Mengler seconded to have Rickertsen prepare a Resolution, extending the current program until December 31, 2013, for the next meeting. Motion carried.

Resolution 2012-42, Approving Park Shelter Reservation Policy. Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve Resolution 2012-42. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Koehler, Kostichek, Mengler, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried.

Ordinance 460-12, Amending Provisions Pertaining to No Parking Zones. Jacob Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to waive the second reading of Ordinance 460-12. Roll call ayes: Jacob Puck, Kostichek, Mengler, Koehler, and Jackie Puck. Motion carried. Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 460-12. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Koehler, Mengler, Kostichek, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried. This change adds No Parking Zones to the following locations: On the west side of South Henry Street between the railroad tracks to the intersection of East Bryant Street and on the east side of South Henry Street between East Bryant Street and East Durant Street.

Public Work's Department Report. Brockmann presented his report including the recent asbestos results at 1113 N. Main Street. He will obtain prices for asbestos removal as required by code. Brockmann also reported on the recent watermain break on S. Downey Street.

City Clerk's Report. Rickertsen reminded the council that City Hall will be closed December 24th & 25th and January 1st. A special council meeting workshop will be held on January 14th at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall to review and discuss the FYE 2014 budget.

City Attorney Report. Attorney Schirman reported on his findings regarding the platted street that runs east and west, south of Memorial Road through the Wegener property that was questioned at the last meeting. Jacob Puck moved and Koehler seconded to forward this issue to the Planning & Zoning Commission for a recommendation. Motion carried.

Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to adjourn at 6:29 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

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December 3, 2012

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 3rd day of December, 2012, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor Jim Couper called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present were: Tim Koehler, John Kostichek, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: None. City employees present: Lisa Rickertsen, Jeff Blake, Tom Schirman, and Joe Hahn.

Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to approve the agenda. Motion carried.

Consent Agenda. Jackie Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices and minutes from November 19, 2012. Motion carried.

Audience. Wayne Latimer, Perry Gere, John Wegener, and Recreational Trail Committee members: Chad Burt, Lee Muller, Brenda Thrapp, Jason Holdorf, and Brent Puck.

1113 N. Main Street. Architect, Perry Gere, presented updated costs for the proposed building renovation project at 1113 N. Main Street. He is estimating the base renovation cost at $1,092,451. Alternates, not included in the cost, include basement renovation and additional parking lot paving with a 2″ overlay with curb & gutter, at an additional cost of $174,980, bringing the total estimated cost to $1,267,431 if both alternates are completed. These are renovation costs only and do not include the purchase price of the property. At this time, it is unknown what the costs of any asbestos removal in the building will be. No action was taken as council requested time to review the information.

Recreational Trail Committee. Committee co-chair, Chad Burt, thanked the council for their support of the project which was kicked off in the fall of 2003. They will revisit the motorhome travelling along the trail at the next meeting. The committee’s term has come to an end as the project is considered complete. Burt also thanked the city staff for their support, committee members, businesses and individual support, capital campaign committee members, and all that participated in making the project a reality. Mayor Couper also thanked the committee members and presented a certificate of appreciation to Dr. Chad Burt, Dr. Mickey Burt, Jason Holdorf, Lee Muller, Brent Puck, and Brenda Thrapp. Mayor Couper also expressed his appreciation to Rickertsen and the Public Works Department for their assistance.

Council/Vision Committee Prioritizing Results. Rickertsen stated she spoke to the Vision Committee chair person about scheduling a joint meeting to review the results. Council agreed to wait until after the holidays before meeting with the Vision Committee. A meeting will be scheduled at a later date.

Resolution 2012-41, Approving Hourly Wage for Building/Code Enforcement Official. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2012-41. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Kostichek, and Koehler. Motion carried. Rickertsen reported that Building Official, Linda Rivers, started on November 20th.

Resolution Accepting Improvements & Authorizing Final Payment of the North Lift Station Improvements Project. Rickertsen reported there are concerns regarding the project trash basket and whether or not the issue with its operation is an engineering or contractor issue. Following discussion, Kostichek moved and Jackie Puck seconded to table the Resolution but authorize a payment in the amount of $17,170.90 to Jim Schroeder Construction. Koehler abstained due to conflict of interest since Koehler Electric is a subcontractor for the project. Motion carried. The payment amount is $1,000 less than the requested (final) amount.

Ordinance 460-12, Amending Provisions Pertaining to No Parking Zones. Kostichek introduced and moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 460-12. Seconded by Jacob Puck. Roll call ayes: Kostichek, Jacob Puck, Mengler, Koehler, and Jackie Puck. Motion carried. This change adds No Parking Zones to the following locations: On the west side of South Henry Street between the railroad tracks to the intersection of East Bryant Street and on the east side of South Henry Street between East Bryant Street and East Durant Street.

Capital Improvements Planning. Rickertsen distributed proposed capital improvement projects and asked the Mayor and Council to rank and return them prior to the next meeting.

Fire Department Report. Chief Hahn presented a project worksheet to purchase an accountability system for the Fire Department. The system will provide added safety to fire personnel when operating on the fire scene. Jackie Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to approve the purchase as presented, at a cost of $592. Motion carried. Hahn reported the Fire Department officer election results for 2013 : Fire Chief : Joe Hahn, 1st Assistant : Josh Geigle, and 2nd Assistant : Jim Kirkley. Kostichek moved and Mengler seconded to appoint Joe Hahn as Fire Chief, term ending 12/31/13. Motion carried. Hahn reported the department has received 268 calls in 2012.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake presented a project worksheet for the purchase of three automated external defibrillators. The purchase will be fully funded by grant funds from Scott County Regional Authority. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the purchase of three defibrillators from Physio-Control, Inc. at a cost of $5,446.25. Motion carried

City Clerk’s Report. Rickertsen reported on the building department activities for the month of November. She also reported the current TIF Rebate Policy program expires on December 31st. The topic will be on the December 17th agenda.

Mayor’s Report. Mayor Couper reported that he received notification from the Iowa Department of Transportation that they propose to let a patching project on I-80 from the Cedar County line east to the Mississippi River. The project is proposed for construction during 2013.

Old/New Business. John Wegener questioned if the City would be willing to vacate a platted street that runs east and west, south of Memorial Road through Wegener property. Additional information will be obtained for a future meeting.

Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:20 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

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November 19, 2012

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 19th day of November, 2012, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor Jim Couper called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present were: Tim Koehler, John Kostichek, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: None. City employees present: Lisa Rickertsen, Jeff Blake, Tom Schirman, and John Brockmann.

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

Consent Agenda. Koehler moved and Kostichek seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from November 5, 2012, October 2012 financial reports, and Resolution 2012-39 : Transfer of Funds. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Kostichek, Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried.

Audience. Wayne Latimer.

N. Plainview Road. Kostichek and Jackie Puck reported on their Water Committee meeting on November 13th. Discussion was held on the 25' public utility easement located west of and running parallel to N. Plainview Road. The property is owned by Avery Land & Farming LLC (Iowa 80 Truckstop Inc.). Following discussion, the Water Committee, Jackie Puck and Kostichek, moved and seconded to allow the property owner to cross the easement for drainage purposes. The Styrofoam insulation and erosion control as recommended by the City Engineer, will need to be installed, at the owner's expense, and will be inspected by City staff. Motion carried. A letter will be sent to the property owner regarding this matter and the City Engineer will be asked to determine grade at the site.

Witt Property. Selling prices were obtained in writing from Chip Witt, as requested at the last council meeting, for his property at 100 W. Lincoln Street and 116 N. Main Street. Following a short discussion, council chose not to take action at this time.

Scott County Regional Authority Grant Awards. Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to accept the grant award from Scott County Regional Authority in the amount of $30,000 for new playground equipment at Wescott Park. Motion carried. Jacob Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to accept the grant award from Scott County Regional Authority in the amount of $5,670 for defibrillators. Motion carried.

Approval of TIF Rebate Payments to T&C Storage. Jacob Puck moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the semi-annual TIF Rebate to T&C Storage for three storage building projects in the amount of $2,155.25. Motion carried.

2011-2012 Scott County Winter Maintenance Proposal. Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve the Scott County winter maintenance proposal in the amount of $556.67. Motion carried.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake reported on recent activities, utilization of cameras, and a proposed no parking location. He will meet with Rickertsen so an ordinance amendment to the Parking Regulation chapter can be prepared for the next meeting.

Public Work's Department Report. Brockmann reported on the televising of sewer lines and discovery of illegal drain connections, recent blacktopping projects, panel at gazebo, and problems with animal waste not being picked up at Prairie View Park.

City Clerk's Report.

  • 2013 Employee Benefits Renewal. Following discussion, Jackie Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to renew the employee benefits (health, dental, and life) for 2013. Ayes: Jackie Puck, Kostichek, Jacob Puck, and Mengler. Nays: Koehler. Motion carried. The combined rates for 2013 will be a decrease of $1,550 from the current year.
  • Resolution 2012-40, Approval of Annual Urban Renewal Report. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2012-40. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jacob Puck, Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Kostichek. Rickertsen reported the report includes information for each urban renewal area, financing data, and urban renewal projects and is a requirement as a result of action taken during the 2012 legislative session.

Rickertsen reported that 14 applications were received for the Building/Code Enforcement Official position, and Linda Rivers was hired to fill the position. Rickertsen also reported that City Offices would be closed November 22nd & 23rd in observance of Thanksgiving.

Old/New Business. Koehler revisited his concerns regarding legal language in city contracts and recommended that the City Attorney review the standard contract to ensure indemnification of the City with future contracts. Schirman responded that the recently settled claim was not a result of a contractual liability, it was a negligence claim but he would review the city's standard contract language. Chief Blake reported that that he is looking for a new Crossing Guard.

Kostichek moved and Koehler seconded to adjourn at 7:35 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

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November 5, 2012

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 5th day of November, 2012, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor Pro Tem John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Other council members present were: Tim Koehler, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: Mayor Jim Couper. City employees present: Lisa Rickertsen, Tom Schirman, and John Brockmann.
Jacob Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to approve the agenda. Motion carried.
Consent Agenda. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from October 15, 2012, and minutes from October 23, 2012. Motion carried.
Audience. Wayne Latimer.
1113 N. Main Street. Discussion was held on the architect's revised plan for the proposed building renovation project at 1113 N. Main Street. Rickertsen reported that the plan with an interior vestibule reduces the building department office size, making it smaller than the current office. The architect will be notified to move the vestibule over so that the building department office can be enlarged and to center the door in the vestibule.
W. Bryant Street Storm Sewer Study. Brockmann reported that he approved the fee of $300 from the City Engineer to determine which of two storm sewer options would be more feasible. Once an option has been selected, engineer proposals on the design will be presented at a future meeting.
2013 Employee Benefits. Rickertsen reported the health benefit plan is reducing by $1,661 and the dental plan is increasing $325 in 2013. Additional information on proposed dental plans will be provided for the next meeting.
Resolution 2012-36, Obligating Funds from the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2012-36. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Mengler, and Kostichek. Motion carried. This resolution obligates $87,277 from the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Tax Revenue Fund with respect to the City's Development Agreements with Iowa 80 Truckstop Inc., T&C Storage, Ossian Walcott Investments LC, and JDW Holdings LLC for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2013.
Resolution 2012-37, Obligating Funds from the Walcott Urban Renewal Area #2. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2012-37. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, Koehler, and Kostichek. Motion carried. This resolution obligates $46,000 from the Walcott Urban Renewal Area No. 2 Revenue Fund with respect to the City's Development Agreement with Petersen Health Care for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2013.
Resolution 2012-38, Approving Litigation Release. Based on the recommendation from the City Attorney and Insurance Attorney,Jacob Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to approve Resolution 2012-38. Roll call ayes: Jacob Puck, Kostichek, Jackie Puck, Koehler, and Mengler. Motion carried.
Ordinance 459-12, Adopting the Code of Ordinances. Kostichek moved and Mengler seconded to approve the third reading of Ordinance 459-12. Roll call ayes: Kostichek, Mengler, Koehler, Jacob Puck, and Jackie Puck. Motion carried.
Public Work's Department Report. Brockmann reported on the temporary closing and repairs of the Main Street railroad crossing and updated council on projects including the televising of sewer lines and the curb and gutter replacement on W. Cedar Lane Drive.
City Clerk's Report. Rickertsen reported on the building department activities for the month of October. She distributed worksheets for council to complete for future capital improvements projects.
Old/New Business. Koehler revisited the litigation issue and expressed concerns regarding legal language in city contracts and recommended additional protections need to be inserted in future city contracts.
Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:07 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

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October 23, 2012

A special meeting of the City Council of the City of Walcott, Iowa was held on Tuesday, October 23, 2012, with Mayor Couper calling the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Council members present were: Tim Koehler, John Kostichek, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Others present: City Clerk Lisa Rickertsen, Architects Perry Gere and Richard Gallens, and residents Verlyn Dietz and Kevin Cole.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss and review the architect's plans for the proposed building renovation at 1113 N. Main Street.

Following discussion, the architect was asked to prepare two possible options with a vestibule located internally and externally. It was also requested he prepare a model with dimensions of all offices/areas and provide an updated cost estimate.

Estimates will be obtained for an environmental/asbestos inspection and remediation of findings at the property.

Verlyn Dietz questioned if the library could be located in the basement of the building. It was reported that the basement was not large enough to accommodate the requested space for the library.

Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 7:00 p.m. Ayes: All. Motion carried.

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October 15, 2012

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 15th day of October, 2012, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor Jim Couper called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present were: John Kostichek, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: Tim Koehler. City employees present: Lisa Rickertsen, Tom Schirman, John Brockmann, and Adam Hill.
Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the agenda. Motion carried.
Consent Agenda. Jackie Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from October 1, 2012, minutes from October 8, 2012, and September 2012 financial reports. Motion carried.
Audience. Wayne Latimer, Janice Dawson, Margo McInnis, Nicole Dunkel, Glenn Appler, and Jake Worden.
Quad City Convention & Visitors Bureau (QCCVB). Margo McInnis was present to report on the new Quad Cities Iowa 80 Visitor Center located inside the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum. She reported that since the center's opening on April 1, 2012 through September 30, 2012, there have been over 13,500 visitors. She also commented on the outstanding partnership between the QCCVB and the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum.
Alliant Energy. Alliant Energy representative, Nicole Dunkel, was present todiscuss Alliant Energy's Community Annual Partnership Investment (involvement and investments in Walcott) including economic development support, state and regional support, and energy efficiency rebates. She reported that Walcott area non-profit, 501(c)(3), organizations are eligible to apply for grant assistance through the Alliant Energy Foundation. Alliant Operations Manager, Glenn Appler, reported on the recent power outage, caused by a squirrel, and discussed a possible future substation replacement
Witt Property (NW corner of Lincoln & Main Streets). Kostichek moved and Mengler seconded to table the item until all council members are present. Motion carried.
Fence at 1000 N. Main Street. Jake Worden, Midfield Pattern, was present to address the privacy fence installed at his property. He reported he installed the fence to hide the condensers, dumpster, and pallet storage area from public view. Comments were made that the fence only hides the view of items when travelling north on Main Street but they are visible when travelling south. Following further discussion, Attorney Schirman reported the fence was installed without a permit and is in violation of City Code because a portion of the fence extends beyond the building into the front yard area. He stated the council can propose an ordinance change or Worden can request a variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustments (ZBA). Worden will pursue a ZBA variance or remove the fence portion that is in violation of City Code by November 30th.
2014 Aerial Photography Project. Jackie Puck moved andMengler seconded to approve the letter of support for the joint acquisition of 2014 countywide digital orthophotography project. Motion carried. The estimated contribution for Walcott is $4,000.
W. Bryant Street Storm Sewer Study. Brockmann reported that there are two different options for the storm sewer so he has requested new proposals from the engineers.
Tar and Chip Street Project. Brockmann presented proposed areas to be tar and chipped this fall. Jacob Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to approve hiring Municipal Streets to tar and chip the streets as presented at an approximate cost of $19,500. Motion carried.
TIF Rebate Payments. Jackie Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to approve the semi-annual TIF rebates in the amount of $64,070.84 to Iowa 80 Truckstop Inc. ($18,832.61), Ossian Walcott Investments LC ($16,836.71), and Petersen Health Systems Inc. ($28,401.52). Motion carried.
Ordinance 459-12, Adopting the Code of Ordinances. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 459-12. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Mengler, Kostichek, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried.
Sidewalk Repair Program. Rickertsen stated she still has not received responses from two residential properties that received sidewalk repair notices. Council consensus was to wait until Spring to pursue further.
Public Work's Department Report. Estimated costs were presented for separate indoor meter for outside watering use. City code does allow residents to install separate indoor meters for outside watering use at their expense. Costs would include the meter, remote reading device, shut-off valve, backflow preventer, and installation.
City Clerk's Report. Rickertsen reported that the 2013 employee medical premiums are decreasing 1.52% but she will be soliciting rates for dental and life insurance.
Old/New Business. Brockmann reported that he has received positive comments from residents regarding our new meter reading system, which provides leak detection capability. The Clerk's Department contacts water customers for potential leaks when they appear on the leak detection report which has been helpful for customers to control their water usage.
Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 7:23 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

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October 8, 2012 – Special Meeting/Vision Committee

A special meeting of the City Council of the City of Walcott, Iowa was held on Monday, October 8, 2012, with Mayor Couper calling the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Council members present were: Tim Koehler, John Kostichek, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Vision Committee members present were: Mike Byington, Dick Hagen, Larry Koberg, Brent Puck, and Kristal Schaefer. City Clerk Lisa Rickertsen and resident Wayne Latimer were also present.
The purpose of the meeting was to review, identify, and discuss priorities in the recent Downtown Assessment Report that was prepared by two downtown revitalization development professionals with the Iowa Economic Development Authority.
Those present discussed what they felt some of the priorities (both short and long term) should be. Some of the priorities mentioned include the following: focus on residential development, provide youth activities (examples: skate park, splash pad, or library/teen center), community building activities/family centered events, retain current businesses and how to attract new businesses, signage, establish a community foundation, be proactive with infrastructure for future development, clean-up community/properties, and Main Street Enhancement (decorative lighting and hanging baskets).
Discussion was held on the future vision and focus for Walcott. A short and long term list will be drafted and presented to the Mayor, council, and committee members for ranking and will be discussed again during a future public meeting.
Jackie Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to adjourn at 6:55 p.m. Ayes: All. Motion carried.

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October 1, 2012

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 1st day of October, 2012, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor Jim Couper called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present were: Tim Koehler, John Kostichek, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: None. City employees present: Lisa Rickertsen, Tom Schirman, Jackie Huston, and Joe Hahn.
Mengler moved and Kostichek seconded to approve the agenda. Motion carried.
Public Hearing : Urban Renewal Plan Amendment. Mayor Couper opened the public hearing on the urban renewal plan amendment for the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area. The amendment to the plan would facilitate the undertaking of a new urban renewal project consisting of renovating a vacant building located at 1113 N. Main Street for use as a new City Hall/Police Department facility and improving the grounds thereof. The proposed debt to be incurred in connection with the project is $1,250,000. No written or oral comments were received. Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to close the public hearing. Motion carried.
Public Hearing : Code of Ordinances. Mayor Couper opened the public hearing on theadoption of the proposed "Code of Ordinances of the City of Walcott, Iowa". No written or oral comments were received. Kostichek moved and Mengler seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting. Motion carried.
Consent Agenda. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices and minutes from September 17, 2012. Motion carried.
Audience. Kristal Schaefer, Wayne Latimer, Janice Dawson, Loretta Beitel, Brent Puck, and Mike Byington.
Resolution 2012-34, Urban Renewal Plan Amendment. Jackie Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to approve Resolution 2012-34. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Kostichek, Mengler, Koehler, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried.
Ordinance 459-12, Adopting the Code of Ordinances. Koehler introduced and moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 459-12. Seconded by Jacob Puck. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Mengler, and Kostichek. Motion carried.
Vision Committee
  • Downtown Assessment Report- The Vision Committee requested direction on how to proceed with the Downtown Assessment report and suggested a joint work session with the city council. Following discussion, a special council meeting will be held on Monday, October 8th at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall/Fire Meeting Room. Council members were each asked to identify five priorities in the report. The report will be placed online on the City's website and copies will be taken to the Library and are available at City Hall.
Recreational Trail Committee. Brent Puck reported on the recent additions at Prairie View Park. Mayor Couper questioned the location of the windmill and Puck stated the original plan was to utilize the windmill for pumping water but the placement of the existing well doesn't allow for it. Puck stated that the windmill can be used as an aerator in the pond in the future, if needed.
Resolution 2012-35, Establishing Fund Balance Policies Pursuant to GASB 54. Kostichek moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2012-35. Roll call ayes: Kostichek, Jacob Puck, Koehler, Jackie Puck, and Mengler. Motion carried.
Fire Department Report. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the payment to Kalmes Catering in the amount of $7,750 for 1,000 steaks. Motion carried. Koehler questioned the status of the FEMA Firefighters Grant. Chief Hahn replied that this year's deadline was missed as he didn't have all the information on the proposed vehicle available at the time of the grant filing.
City Clerk's Report. Rickertsen questioned what to do with the two residential properties that have not responded to the sidewalk notices. The topic will be placed on the next regular meeting agenda as two council members volunteered to speak to the individuals involved prior to taking further action. Rickertsen reported on the building department activities for the month of September. Koehler moved and Kostichek seconded to approve the FYE 2012 Annual Report. Motion carried.
Mayor's Report. Mayor Couper commended the Clerk's Department regarding the recent audit. The auditor reported the audit went smoothly and the financial records were in excellent condition and found no irregularities. Mayor Couper reported he had received questions from citizens regarding sewer charges for outdoor water use. Huston stated that some communities purchase, at the city's expense, outdoor water meters for citizens to use during the summer and sewer charges are not applied, however, loss of sewer revenue could result in increasing the sewer rates. Per City Code, residents are currently allowed to purchase and install permanent meters for outdoor water use. Brockmann will be asked to obtain cost estimates for outdoor water use meters and installation.
Old/New Business. City Council scheduled a special meeting with the architect, regarding the building at 1113 N. Main Street, for Tuesday, October 23rd at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall.
Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to adjourn at 6:55 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

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September 4, 2012

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Tuesday, the 4th day of September, 2012, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor Pro Tem John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Other council members present were: Tim Koehler, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: Mayor Jim Couper. City employees present: Lisa Rickertsen, John Brockmann, Jeff Blake, and Tom Schirman.
Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the agenda. Motion carried.
Consent Agenda. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices and minutes from August 20, 2012. Motion carried.
Audience. Joe Hahn, Josh Geigle, and Brent Puck.
Witt Property : NW Corner of Main & Lincoln Streets. Attorney Schirman reported on the setback requirements and lot size if the south lot was purchased and combined with the adjacent vacant lot. Schirman also reported on costs for a Phase 1 environmental study and asbestos survey. Following further discussion, Jackie Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to table the topic to the October 1st meeting. Motion carried.
Landscaping Bids for Prairie View Park. Five bids were received for the landscaping project at Prairie View Park. Brent Puck reported the Recreational Trail Committee recommended the low bidder, Freeman Tree Farm & Landscaping. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to award the landscaping project to Freeman Tree Farm & Landscaping at a cost of $4,705. Motion carried. Discussion was held on how to provide water to the landscaped areas. Brockmann will obtain pricing on the most cost effective options and present at the next regular meeting.
Trick-or-Treating. Jacob Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve Trick-or-Treating on October 30th from 6 : 8 p.m. Motion carried. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the Halloween parade from Victory Park to the Walcott Legion on October 30th. Motion carried.
N. Lift Station Project. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve payment #4, to Jim Schroeder Construction, in the amount of $75,346.45. Motion carried.
Crack Sealing Project. Jackie Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to award the crack sealing project on Main Street from James Street to the railroad tracks to Affordable Parking Lot at a cost of $3,400. Motion carried.
Fire Department Report.
Service Level. Assistant Chief Josh Geigle reported on upcoming changes to the EMS (emergency medical services) levels beginning in 2014. Geigle stated that the Fire Department's service level is being reclassified from EMT-I to EMT-B. He stated only two volunteers are currently able to operate at an EMT-I level, which can initiate saline IV's, so the department has typically been operating at an EMT-B level. Geigle also stated the patient care level won't change and the ambulance services can start IV's and administer drugs as needed.
Street Closure. Chief Hahn was present to request permission to close E. Bryant Street from Main Street to Henry Street for the Fire Department Steak Fry on October 6, 2012. Kostichek moved and Mengler seconded to approve closing E. Bryant Street between Main Street and Henry Street on October 6, 2012, beginning at Noon. Motion carried.
Banners on City Property. Chief Hahn requested permission to temporarily place banners on the city-owned properties at 1113 N. Main Street and the south-east corner of Main and Lincoln Streets. The banners will be adverting for volunteers to join the department. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the temporary banner locations request. Motion carried.
Police Report. Chief Blake reported a second camera was installed at Prairie View Park and the police bike is now equipped with lights and a siren.
City Clerk's Report. Mengler moved and Kostichek seconded to approve Resolution 2012-33, Approving the 2012 Fiscal Year Street Finance Report. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Kostichek, Koehler, Jacob Puck, and Jackie Puck. Motion carried. Discussion was held on the proposed Urban Renewal Plan Amendment. Rickertsen reported the event for the street closure on September 8th which was previously approved by council has been cancelled.
City Code Review. Following a review and discussion on the proposed draft of the City Code, Jackie Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to approve Resolution 2012-32, Notice of Hearing on the Adoption of the Proposed Code of Ordinances. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Kostichek, Koehler, Jacob Puck, and Mengler. Motion carried. A public hearing will be held on October 1, 2012 at 6:00 p.m.
Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 7:47 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

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August 20, 2012

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 20th day of August, 2012, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor Jim Couper called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present were: Tim Koehler, John Kostichek, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: None. City employees present: Lisa Rickertsen, John Brockmann, Jeff Blake, and Tom Schirman.
Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the agenda. Motion carried.
Consent Agenda. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices and July 2012 Financial reports. Motion carried.
Audience. Approximately thirty nine audience members were in attendance.
Kent Arp : Proposed Fertilizer Plant. Kent Arp was present to report findings on a recent survey of Walcott citizens complied regarding the proposed fertilizer plant. He stated he has a list with 302 signatures opposed to the proposed fertilizer plant, 10 agree, and 40 are undecided. Arp stated they feel the proposed plant is in the wrong location, due to safety, and he hopes to have the City Council send a letter to the Scott County Supervisors opposing the plant location. Jackie Puck stated the council needs to revisit the safety issues. All council members agreed there are safety issues/concerns. Mengler moved and Kostichek seconded to send a letter to the Scott County Board of Supervisors stating the citizens of Walcott are opposed to the location of the fertilizer plant, due to safety concerns. Motion carried with Koehler abstaining due to conflict of interest as his company would be a potential bidder on the proposed project. Motion carried. Other audience expressed concerns regarding pollution, air, water, noise, increased road and rail traffic, and traffic flow interruption relating to emergency response times. Mayor Couper and Mengler both thanked Arp and others for their efforts. Mayor Couper stated he plans on representing the City during the Board of Supervisors meeting on August 28th.
Minutes from 08/06/12. Koehler requested adding that Phases 1 & 2, as referenced in the motion from the August 6th minutes regarding the architect contract at 1113 N. Main Street, are per the architect's letter dated 07/13/12. Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to approve the minutes from 08/06/12 with the addition as discussed. Motion carried with Mengler abstaining due to absence from meeting.
Recreational Trail Committee. Brent Puck presented information regarding the remaining amenities, including landscaping, entrance sign, informational kiosk, educational signs, trail signs, and windmill for Prairie View Park. Kostichek moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve letting the landscaping out for bid as discussed. Motion carried. The following areas will be included in the landscaping bid: park entrance and parking lot area, east seating area, and west seating area. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the purchase of amenities as recommended by the Recreational Trail Committee. Motion carried. The amenities and cost estimates are as follows: entrance sign : $6,000, informational kiosk – $15,000, educational signs – $6,000, and windmill – $2,500. Kostichek reported that pictures of Prairie View Park were on display as 4-H projects. Discussion was held on the recent vandalism at the parks and gazebo. Chief Blake reported on purchasing additional cameras. Mayor Couper asked for citizen awareness and involvement and encourages reporting suspicious activity to the Police Department. Debbie Moeller volunteered to post a reward regarding the vandalism.
Street Closure Request. A request to close a portion of East Bryant Street on September 8th from Noon : five was presented on behalf of the 8th grade D.C. trip fundraising. Discussion was held regarding the insurance requirement for events requesting street closures. Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to approve the E. Bryant Street closure request on September 9th, subject to receipt of proper insurance. Motion carried. The street will be closed within boundaries of the Coliseum per their outdoor service area.
Witt Property : NW Corner of Main & Lincoln Streets. Schirman reported that the two lots are described separately and are only combined for tax purposes. Discussion involved the Phase 1 environmental study on the previous purchase offer, flood plain area and building setbacks. The topic will be placed on the next agenda.
Resolution 2012-31, Setting Date for Public Hearing on Urban Renewal Plan Amendment. Rickertsen reported that the required consultation meeting with Scott County and school district will be held at 5:00 p.m. on September 17th. Rickertsen also reported that the bonding attorney is working on preparing the required documents to submit with the public hearing notice. Rickertsen suggested utilizing City funds Local Option Sales Tax funds for the sidewalk and storm sewer installation to the property. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2012-31, Setting Date for Public Hearing on Urban Renewal Plan Amendment. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, Mengler, and Kostichek. Motion carried. The public hearing will be at 6:00 p.m. on October 1, 2012.
City Clerk's Report. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the FYE 2012 Investment Report. Motion carried. Rickertsen reported on a membership proposal received from ECivis. The company has a web-based subscription that allows members to research and track grant programs on one site. Council agreed with Rickertsen that the annual $3,000 fee was too high and they do not wish to participate.
City Attorney Report. Discussion was held on the options available regarding the nuisances at 402 W. Cedar Lane Drive. Following discussion, Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to initiate nuisance abatement procedures. Motion carried.
Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 7:47 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

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