The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 16^th day of December, 2019, at Walcott City Hall.  Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were: Everett Bieri, John Brockmann, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith.  Absent:  None.  City staff present:  Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. No public comments at this time.

Public Hearing.  Mayor Kostichek opened the public hearing on the rezoning request for 210 & 230 W. Flagg Street from R-3 (Multiple Family Dwelling District) to R-1 (Single Family Dwelling District).  Rickertsen stated the Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of the zoning change.  Currently, 210 W. Flagg Street is a vacant lot and 230 W. Flagg Street is a single family home.  To the north of these lots, across the alley, the entire 200 block of W. Durant St is zoned R-1.  No written or other oral comments were received. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting.  Motion carried.

Consent Agenda.  Puck moved and Smith seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, November 2019 financial reports, Resolution 2019 – Approving Applications for Residential Tax Abatement within the 2017 Walcott Urban Revitalization Area, and ITC Midwest LLC right-of-way permit.  Roll call ayes:  Puck, Smith, Mengler, Bieri, and Brockmann.  Motion carried.

Minutes from December 2, 2019.  Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve the minutes from December 2, 2019.  Motion carried with Brockmann abstaining due to absence from the meeting.

Rezoning Request for 210 and 230 W. Flagg Street.  Smith introduced and moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 510-19, Amending the Official Zoning Map.  Seconded by Mengler.  Roll call ayes:  Smith, Mengler, Bieri, and Brockmann.  Motion carried with Puck abstaining due to conflict of interest. This Ordinance changes the zoning for 210 and 230 W. Flagg Street from R-3 to R-1.

Joe Aubry – Water Concerns. Aubry reported on concerns expressed on a local Facebook group regarding occasional water discoloration.  Other residents in attendance, including Kari Arivett, stated she notices discoloration periodically when running bath water and David Trees provided water samples and a picture of a whole house filter in his home.  Stagg stated that naturally occurring minerals and sediments can be stirred up in City mains or internal plumbing (private lines/pipes, softeners, and heaters) by high flows (bulk water sales, hydrant flushing, and water main breaks).  Stagg reported that the water is tested on a daily basis to ensure that it is safe to drink and he presented information on testing results indicating that iron and manganese levels are well below the recommended action levels.  Earlier this year Stagg implemented a unidirectional flushing program to proactively remove any mineral or sediment deposits within the system.  After further discussion, it was recommended by the Mayor and Council that residents should contact the appropriate City staff directly anytime they have questions or concerns related to City issues, rather than posting on social media.

Ordinance 509-19, Concerning Parking Regulations.  Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the third reading of Ordinance 509-19, Concerning Parking Regulations, with no parking on both sides of Walker Street and on the south and west sides of Sterling Drive.  Roll call ayes:  Puck, Mengler, Smith, and Bieri. Nays:  Brockmann.  Motion carried.

Police Department Report.  Chief Blake reported the Police Department received a $1,000 grant from Iowa 80/CAT Scale GO Iowa Endowment for load bearing tactical vests.

City Clerk’s Report.  Rickertsen reported the Planning & Zoning Commission supports changes to the accessory building code section.  The changes include prohibiting shipping containers and requiring accessory buildings to have weather resistant material treatment, both in single family and two family dwelling districts.  Council consensus was to move forward with the proposed code changes. Both the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council will have future public hearings on the proposed changes. 

Council Member Comments.  Brockmann questioned why all City vehicles do not have City of Walcott decals on them.  Stagg responded that he is more getting decals.  Mengler questioned when restoration of the easement, along the south side of Memorial Road, would be completed.  Stagg stated the restoration work will be completed in the spring.

Smith moved and Puck seconded to adjourn at 6:43 p.m.  Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

December 16, 2019

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 2^nd day of December, 2019, at Walcott City Hall.  Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were: Everett Bieri, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith.  Absent:  Brockmann.  City staff present:  Jeff Blake, Josh Geigle, Lisa Rickertsen, 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.  Smith moved and Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, Alliant Energy right-of-way permit, and minutes from November 18, 2019, and November 25, 2019.  Motion carried.

Dan Fellman – Tree Removal at 309 W. Bryant Street.  Discussion was held on the unique situation, with the power lines and not being able to access the tree by the driveway or street without damaging the yard.  Smith moved and Puck seconded to grant an extension past December 15^th, with Fellman removing the tree once the ground is frozen, and to revisit on January 6, 2020 meeting.  Motion carried.       

Splash Pad – Resolution 2019-39, Accepting Improvements and Authorizing Final Payment.  Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve Resolution 2019-39.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Bieri, Smith, and Puck.  Motion carried.  A final payment, in the amount of $6,845.95, will be made to Centennial Contractors.  Motion carried.

Ordinance 509-19, Concerning Parking Regulations.  Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 509-19, Concerning Parking Regulations, with no parking on both sides of Walker Street and on the south and west sides of Sterling Drive.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Bieri, Puck, and Smith. Motion carried. This change is not effective until after three readings and publication of ordinance.  

Fire Department Report.  Geigle stated the Fire Department held officer elections for 2020 and the members re-elected him as Chief.  Puck moved and Smith seconded to approve the appointment of Josh Geigle as Fire Chief, term ending 12/31/2020.  Motion carried.  Geigle reported on new trainees and a successful steak fry fundraiser.

Mayor’s Report.  Mayor Kostichek thanked the volunteer fire department members for all their service.

Council Member Comments.  Mengler questioned the status of repairing the defective outlets on the light poles.  Stagg will get an electrician out this week.

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

December 2, 2019

A special meeting of the City Council of the City of Walcott, Iowa was held on Monday, November 25, 2019, with Mayor John Kostichek calling the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.  Council members present were: Everett Bieri, John Brockmann, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith. Lisa Mengler arrived at 5:45 p.m.  City employees present were:  Lisa Rickertsen and Paul Stagg.

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

Discussion/Review of Future Capital Improvement Projects.  The current Capital Improvement Plan, along with potential future projects, and short and long term goals, were reviewed and discussed.  Rickertsen will prepare changes as discussed and Stagg was asked to prioritize the infrastructure projects prior to the Council’s review and rankings.  Council consensus was to obtain cost estimates from the City Engineer on the potential water main replacement projects identified in the Plan.

Mengler moved and Puck seconded to adjourn at 6:14 p.m.  Ayes:  All.  Motion carried.

November 25, 2019

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 18^th day of November, 2019, at Walcott City Hall.  Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were: Everett Bieri, John Brockmann, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith.  Absent:  None.  City staff present:  Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. No comments.

Consent Agenda.  Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from November 4, 2019, October 2019 financial reports, Resolution 2019-37- Approving Iowa Department of Transportation Standard Title VI Assurances, Agreement, and City of Walcott Title VI Policy Statement, and Resolution 2019-38 – Approving Hourly Wage for Sergeant Hill for Instructor Certification.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Smith, Bieri, Puck, and Brockmann.  Motion carried.

Jamie Minnaert – 221 E. Flagg Street.  Minnaert was not present but submitted a letter to Council requesting an extension to March 1^st to remove the ash tree on his property.  His letter also included that if an extension was not granted and the City removed the tree he would request a payment pan to reimburse the City.  Smith moved and Puck seconded to deny the extension and have the City remove the tree and allow a payment plan.  Motion carried.  Stagg reported that six of the ten nuisance trees have already been removed.

Splash Pad Project – Payment #3.  Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve payment #3 to Centennial Contractors for $9,373.37.  Motion carried.

No Parking on Sterling Drive and Walker Street.  During the November 4^th meeting, Stagg had reported he spoke with both the Police Chief and Fire Chief regarding the ongoing parking problems on Sterling Drive and Walker Street, especially during the winter months, and the desire to initiate no parking regulations on those streets.  Stagg again addressed the difficulties with snow removal especially when semis are parked on Sterling Drive and Walker Street.  Iowa 80 Group representatives, Dave Meier and Mike Hutchinson, stated their concerns about restricting parking on Sterling Drive, while acknowledging the issues with snow removal and emergency vehicle access.  Meier spoke about difficulties drivers face with the electronic logbooks and that the I-80 Exit 284 is a permitted exit, by the Iowa Department of Transportation, for oversized loads.  Following further discussion, Mengler introduced and moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 509-19, Concerning Parking Regulations, with no parking on both sides of Walker Street and on the south and west sides of Sterling Drive.  Seconded by Puck.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Puck, Smith, and Bieri. Nays:  Brockmann.  This change is not effective until after three readings and publication of ordinance.            

Public Works Department Report.  Mengler questioned the status of the decorative light post on Main Street that was damaged during a storm this past summer.  Stagg responded that he had obtained two quotes and the light has been ordered but there was a twelve week lead time on it.

Council Member Comments.  Brockmann expressed concerns that he had previously brought up that the graveled portion of W. Memorial Road has potholes and it has not been addressed.  Smith responded that as a Street Committee member he looked at the area with Stagg but felt they were small and not worth staff’s time.  Following further discussion, Mayor Kostichek agreed to look at the area with Brockmann.  Brockmann reported the following:

• Low water pressure on the south side of the tracks. Stagg stated he had not received any complaints but will look into it.
• Concerns that the City did not maintain Y-40 during the last snow event. Stagg reported that the City did salt the area during the last snow event and although the County also maintains the road the City does plow and salt as needed.
• Questions on the invoice from Hahn Concrete for concrete lego blocks. These were purchased to organize the compost area by separating materials. Brockmann expressed concerns that a project worksheet was not presented for the project.

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

November 18, 2019

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 4^th day of November, 2019, at Walcott City Hall.  Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were: Everett Bieri, John Brockmann, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith.  Absent:  None.  City staff present:  Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Patricia Clare recently received a notice to remove a dead, diseased, or damaged tree on her property.  She requested an extension for completion and to only remove the dead limbs.

Consent Agenda.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from October 21, 2019, and Resolution 2019-36 – Approving Hourly Wage for Officer Horihan for Instructor Certification.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Puck, Bieri, Brockmann, and Smith.  Motion carried.

City Parking Lot Project.  City Engineer, Jason Holdorf, previously provided two options on how to examine the material used for the basement backfill on the lot directly east of City Hall.  Holdorf explained the exploratory excavation option and stated this was the more cost effective option.  Mengler moved and Smith seconded to proceed with the exploratory excavation for the proposed parking lot project. Motion carried.

Dan Fellman – 309 W. Bryant Street.  Fellman recently received a notice from the city to remove a dead, diseased, or damaged tree by December 15, 2019.  He is requesting an extension of the date for removal.  Due to the location of the tree, he reported that a local tree trimming contractor stated they can’t come into his yard until the ground is frozen.  Rickertsen reported on Attorney Schirman’s concerns regarding extending the removal date.  Issues could arise if the tree would fall and cause damage due to a winter storm during the extension period.  Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to revisit his extension request during the December 2^nd meeting to determine ground conditions.  Motion carried.

Jamie Minnaert – 221 E. Flagg Street.  Minnaert also received a tree notice and stated he only wants to remove the dead limbs, instead of the entire tree.  Council discussed safety concerns, especially if it is an infested ash tree and allowing it to stay can become a hazard by dropping limbs or falling over.  Smith and Stagg both reported that ash trees with signs of the ash borer should be removed completely. Minnaert will contact a local tree trimming contractor to verify the type of tree and he will report his findings to the Building Official/Code Enforcement Officer.  Clare was asked to do the same for the tree on her property that she received a notice for.

Public Works Department Report.  Stagg provided conceptual designs, prepared following input from the community during the Iowa Living Roadway’s Community Visioning Program process. These designs can be used during the Council’s review of future capital improvement projects. Stagg also reported he spoke with both the Police Chief and Fire Chief regarding the ongoing parking problems on Sterling Drive and Walker Street, especially during the winter months, and the desire to initiate no parking regulations on those streets.  This topic will be on the next agenda.

City Clerk’s Report.  Rickertsen reported on the changes to the health insurance plan for 2020.  Based on current enrollees, the health insurance premium for 2020 will increase 9.23% and there is no increase for dental insurance.  Rickertsen reported that some of the increase is due to the health insurer tax, which is being reintroduced in 2020 to help fund the ACA.  Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve the 2020 employee health and dental insurance benefits renewal with Wellmark.  Motion carried.

Puck moved and Smith seconded to adjourn at 6:33 p.m.  Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

November 4, 2019

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 21^st day of October, 2019, at Walcott City Hall.  Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were: Everett Bieri, John Brockmann, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith.  Absent:  None.  City staff present:  Adam Hill, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg.

Approval of Agenda. Puck moved and Smith seconded to approve the agenda with the deletion of item 5, per request from Rita Stender.  Motion carried.

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. No comments at this time.

Consent Agenda.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from October 7, 2019, TIF rebate payment per agreement to Iowa 80 Truckstop, Inc. for Morton Building Project for $678.52, FYE 2019 Annual Financial Report, Resolution 2019-33 Transfer of Funds, and Resolution 2019-34 Obligating TIF Funds ($40,000) from the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area for FYE 2021.  Roll call ayes:  Smith, Mengler, Bieri, Puck, and Brockmann.  Motion carried.

Request for 4-Way Stop at Downey & Otis Street Intersection.  Joe Aubry reported a neighbor mentioned a request for a four-way stop at the intersection of Downey and Otis Streets.  There are currently stop signs on Downey Street for the north and south bound traffic.  Aubry stated he has observed the east and west bound traffic slow down to stop, causing confusion for other drivers, and inquired about installing signs that state that cross traffic doesn’t stop.  Following further discussion, Mengler moved and Smith seconded to deny the request of a four-way stop at the intersection of Downey and Otis Streets.  Motion carried.

Iowa Association of Municipal Utilities (IAMU) Safety & Health Management Services.  Rickertsen reported that IAMU is looking for cities and utilities that would be interested in a new service to have a Safety Coordinator in our area to provide on-site-training and assist, create, and maintain OSHA compliance and safety culture. The City currently pays $1,800/year for participation in the current IAMU safety group and the estimated fee for a Safety Coordinator would be approximately $8,000/year. Services provided from a Safety Coordinator are still available to the City for a fee under the existing safety group services. Smith moved and Mengler seconded to deny proceeding with a Safety Coordinator.  Motion carried.

City Parking Lot Improvements Project.  Stagg reported on the two cost opinions of borings versus exploratory excavation on the lot for a proposed parking lot.  Council consensus was to table until the next regular meeting, pending further details from the City Engineer.

Resolution 2019-35, Accepting Improvements and Authorizing Final Payment for the West Otis Street Improvements Project.  Stagg reported on the recommendation for payment and project acceptance by the City Engineer.  Stagg stated the contractor installed the inlet according to the plans and specifications and that the contractor has agreed to come back in the spring to weed and feed the area since it could not be done in the fall over new seed.  Smith moved and Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2019-35, which includes a final payment to Cornerstone Excavating, Inc. for $27,763.56.  Roll call ayes:  Smith, Puck, Brockmann, Mengler, and Bieri.  Motion carried.

Street Committee Recommendation – Tree Hazards.  Smith reported on the findings by the Street Committee (Smith and Puck) regarding trees, particularly ash trees, on private property that pose a danger to adjoining property, passing motorists, or pedestrians.  Resident Joe Hahn expressed his frustration that property owners are required to trim trees that overhang onto sidewalks and questioned when the City would enforce people to use the sidewalks instead of walking in the street. Following further discussion, Mengler moved and Puck seconded to have the Building/Code Enforcement Official send notices, with photos, to property owners regarding tree maintenance and extended deadline to seven weeks.  Motion carried.

Council Member Comments. Brockmann stated that the graveled portion of W. Memorial Road has potholes.  Stagg responded that he will look at it and spot rock if needed.                                                                               

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

October 21, 2019

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 7^th day of October, 2019, at Walcott City Hall.  Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were: Everett Bieri, John Brockmann, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith.  Absent:  None.  City staff present:  Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, Paul Stagg, and Jason Holdorf, City Engineer.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Karla Burt provided an update on the donated shelter and recently purchased property cleanup.  Joe Aubry requested consideration of a four-way stop at the intersection of N. Downey & E. Otis Streets.  This will be placed on the next agenda for council discussion.     

Consent Agenda.  Smith moved and Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from September 16, 2019, and the September 2019 financial reports.  Motion carried.   

Scott County Board of Supervisors. Scott County Supervisors, Tony Knobbe and Ken Croken, County Administrator, Mahesh Sharma, and Community Services Director, Lori Elam, were present.  Knobbe reported on recent projects and issues which include the following:  county-wide radio project financing; lake restoration project and new cabins at West Lake; secondary roads five year plan and challenging year with gravel roads; and the jail and juvenile detention study.  Elam reported on the free mental health and developmental disability services available to residents, including a 24 hour crisis line and mobile crisis services.

Donation to Walcott Historical Society.  Smith moved and Bieri seconded to donate $2,500, per the city budget, to the Walcott Historical Society.  Motion carried.

City Parking Lot Improvements Project.  Discussion was held on the proposed plans for a city parking lot adjacent to City Hall.  Council would like Holdorf to compare both options for storm flow and soil testings.

Resolution 2019-32, Approving Overhang Easement with ITC Midwest, LLC.  Rickertsen reported the agreement was amended and approved by Attorney Schirman.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2019-32.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Puck, Brockmann, Smith, and Bieri.  Motion carried.

Public Works Department Report.  Stagg reported there were four bids received for the 2000 Chevy Silverado and he recommended selling the truck to the highest bidder.  Smith moved and Mengler seconded to sell the 2000 Chevy Silverado to the high bidder, Martz Brothers, for $2,050.  Motion carried.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to accept the high bid of $2,125, from Kendall Mattson, for the 2011 Ford Crown Victoria.  Motion carried.

Council Member Comments.  Smith questioned the status of restoration along the recent water main project and Stagg responded that the contractor has not been back to do a final walk through yet.  Brockmann questioned the status on the storm intake along Memorial Road.  Stagg responded that the line was televised and a contractor is scheduled to replace the current 12” intake with a 30”.                                                                             

Smith moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 7:03 p.m.  Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

October 7, 2019 Minutes & Claims

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 16^th day of September, 2019, at Walcott City Hall.  Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were: Everett Bieri, John Brockmann, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith.  Absent:  None.  City staff present:  Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. No comments.    

Consent Agenda.  Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from September 3, 2019, and the August 2019 financial reports.  Motion carried.

Alliant Energy Proposed Rate Increase. Paula Schneckloth, Alliant Energy, was present to answer questions regarding the proposed electric rate increase they requested from the Iowa Utilities Board.  The base rate will increase but other components, energy efficiency and fuel costs, are expected to decrease.  An interim rate increase started on April 1, 2019, which was approximately $8.00 per month for the typical residential customer and another proposed increase of approximately $12.00 per month next year, if approved by the Iowa Utilities Board.  Concerns were expressed regarding the rising rates, notification timeline regarding city budgets, and hardship concerns for low and fixed income households.  Schneckloth reported there are low-income assistance programs through Alliant Energy.  Following further discussion, Mengler moved and Smith seconded to send a letter to the Iowa Utilities Board opposing Alliant Energy’s full base rate increase as requested.  Motion carried.

Private Use of Vacant City Lot (SE corner of Lincoln & Main Streets) for Parking on 10/26/19.  Dan Needham and Britta Adams were present to request the use of the vacant city grass lot for parking vehicles for a few hours on 10/26/2019. Mayor Kostichek expressed concerns about utilizing the lot for parking if the ground conditions are too wet.  Puck moved and Mengler seconded to allow parking on the grass lot, as requested, pending proof of insurance certificate if required.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2019-32, Approving Overhang Easement with ITC Midwest, LLC.  Rickertsen reported Attorney Schirman recommended changes, which were submitted to ITC Midwest, LLC.  This item will be placed on the next agenda, following communication from ITC regarding changes.

Rezoning Request for 342 E. Bryant Street – Ordinance 507-19, Amending the Official Zoning Map.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the third reading of Ordinance 507-19.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Puck, Smith, Mengler, and Bieri.  Brockmann abstained as he is the current property owner.  Motion carried.  This Ordinance changes the zoning for 342 E. Bryant Street from M-2 to C-2.

Rezoning Request for 107 E. Walcott Road – Ordinance 508-19, Amending the Official Zoning Map.  Smith moved and Bieri seconded to approve the third reading of Ordinance 508-19.  Roll call ayes:  Smith, Bieri, Mengler, Brockmann, and Puck.  Motion carried. This Ordinance changes the zoning for 107 E. Walcott Road from M-2 and M-1 to C-2.

Fire Department Steak Fry.  Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve closing a portion of W. Durant Street (west side of bank ATM to the west side of Legion property) on September 21^st until the next morning.  Motion carried.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the payment to Kalmes Catering in the amount of $9,000.  Motion carried.                                                                              

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

September 16, 2019 Minutes & Claims

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Tuesday, the 3^rd day of September, 2019, at Walcott City Hall.  Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.  Council members present were: Everett Bieri, John Brockmann, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith.  Absent:  None.  City staff present:  Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg.       

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. No comments.     

Consent Agenda.  Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from August 19, 2019 and August 26, 2019, Resolution 2019-30, Approving the Annual 2019 Fiscal Year Street Finance Report, and Resolution 2019-31, Approval of FYE 2019 Annual Urban Renewal Report.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Bieri, Smith, Brockmann, and Puck.  Motion carried.    

Trick-or-Treating – October 31, 2019.  Rickertsen reported that Walcott Women is proposing Trick-or-Treating on October 31^st.  Puck moved and Mengler 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. 

Visit Quad Cities Annual Donation.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve a donation to Visit Quad Cities, in the amount of $1,000, as budgeted.  Motion carried. 

Rezoning Request for 342 E. Bryant Street – Ordinance 507-19, Amending the Official Zoning Map.  Puck moved and Smith seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 507-19.  Roll call ayes:  Puck, Smith, Mengler, and Bieri.  Brockmann abstained as he is the current property owner.  Motion carried.  This Ordinance changes the zoning for 342 E. Bryant Street from M-2 to C-2. 

Rezoning Request for 107 E. Walcott Road – Ordinance 508-19, Amending the Official Zoning Map.  Bieri moved and Mengler seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 508-19.  Roll call ayes:  Bieri, Mengler, Smith, Puck, and Brockmann.  Motion carried. This Ordinance changes the zoning for 107 E. Walcott Road from M-2 and M-1 to C-2.   

W. Otis Street Improvements Project – Seeding and Right-of-Way Restoration.  City Engineer, Jason Holdorf, arrived and reported that the landscape contractor will do additional raking to remove debris and the contractor recommended to utilize the existing growth and slit seeding the areas.  Discussion ensued that the contract specifications gives the contractor options on how to establish grass and it is the contractor’s responsibility to get the grass established.  The City has the ability to use the contractor’s bond if the grass does not grow.  Holdorf explained that due to the fall seeding, they won’t be able to treat the weeds until next spring.  He will talk to the general contractor regarding raising the storm intake near the splash pad area.  Council consensus was to have the contractor proceed with the slit seeding as recommended by the contractor.         

Parking Lot Engineering Proposal. Brockmann expressed concerns regarding the soil stability.  Stagg stated the foundation was removed and it was compacted when the house was demolished.  Holdorf stated the current proposal does not include soil testings but he will provide an estimate. The engineering proposal is in the amount of $10,000 and includes a topographic survey, construction plans and specifications, and a bidding form.  Smith moved and Mengler seconded to approve the parking lot engineering proposal.  Motion carried with Brockmann opposing.                                                                                       

Mayor Report.  Mayor Kostichek reported on the proposed rate increase from Alliant Energy.  This topic will be on the next regular meeting agenda for council discussion regarding submitting comments about the proposed electric rate increase.

Council Comments.  Brockmann questioned the bid status on the Chevy truck.  The City is currently accepting sealed bids on a 2000 Chevy Silverado and a 2011 Ford Crown Victoria police interceptor.  Sealed bids are due by 2:00 p.m. on October 3^rd.  A notice is posted online and at City Hall with additional information, including the minimum bid amount.  

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

September 3, 2019

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 19^th day of August 2019, 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 Koehler seconded to approve the agenda.  Motion carried.     

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Resident Joe Hahn reported he has heard a lot of positive comments regarding the new splash pad.   

Public Hearings.  The public hearing was opened for rezoning of 342 E. Bryant Street from M-2 (Moderate Industrial District) to C-2 (Central Business District).  Rickertsen reported that an application was received from Dan & Jodeen Stepleton which request the property be rezoned to allow it to be used for storage and repair of their personal vehicles and equipment.  Their intention is to expand the building to the required setbacks for C-2.  The Planning & Zoning Commission held a public hearing on the request on August 12^th and unanimously recommended the property be rezoned to C-2.  Mengler questioned if this would have any effect on the parking area for the Lampliter.  Any expansion to the building would be on their own property.  No written or other oral comments were received.  Mengler moved and Smith seconded to close the public hearing and open the public hearing on the rezoning request for 107 E. Walcott Road from M-2 and M-1 (Light Industrial) to C-2.  Rickertsen reported that an application was received from Bryan Newell which requests the rezoning to allow construction or restoration of an automotive repair shop due to recent storm damage.  The property has been utilized as an automotive repair shop for many years under a non-conforming use status.  The request is so the business would be in compliance with the C-2 zoning classification.  The Planning & Zoning Commission held a public hearing on the request on August 12^th and unanimously recommended the property be rezoned to C-2.  No written comments or other oral comments were received.  Puck moved and Koehler seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting.  Motion carried. 

Consent Agenda.  Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from August 5, 2019, July 2019 financial reports, Class C beer permit and Sunday sales renewal for Dolgencorp, LLC (Dollar General), and Resolution 2019-28, Transfer of Funds.  Roll call ayes:  Koehler, Mengler, Smith, Brockmann, and Puck.  Motion carried.    

Rezoning Request for 342 E. Bryant Street – Ordinance 507-19, Amending the Official Zoning Map.   Smith introduced and moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 507-19.  Seconded by Puck.  Roll call ayes:  Smith, Puck, Koehler, and Mengler.  Brockmann abstained as he is the current property owner.  Motion carried.  This Ordinance changes the zoning for 342 E. Bryant Street from M-2 to C-2. 

Rezoning Request for 107 E. Walcott Road – Ordinance 508-19, Amending the Official Zoning Map.  Mengler introduced and moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 508-19.  Seconded by Koehler.  Roll call ayes:  Mengler, Koehler, Smith, Puck, and Brockmann.  Motion carried. This Ordinance changes the zoning for 107 E. Walcott Road from M-2 and M-1 to C-2.   

Proposed City Hall/Fire Station Parking Lot. The current budget includes funds for a proposed parking lot, which would be paid from the Municipal Building Reserve Fund.  Discussion was held on the three options presented by the City Engineer last fall.  Smith moved and Mengler seconded to proceed with option A (lot adjacent to City Hall).  Motion carried with Brockmann opposing.                                                                                     

Police Department Report.  Chief Blake reported on the department’s participation with the recent multi-jurisdictional traffic enforcement event.   He also introduced, Timothy Horihan, as the new full-time officer he hired.  Smith moved and Koehler seconded to approve Resolution 2019-29, Establishing Hourly Wage for Police Officer Timothy Horihan.  Roll call ayes:  Smith, Koehler, Brockmann, Puck, and Mengler.  Motion carried.  Rickertsen administered the Oath of Office to Officer Horihan. 

Public Works Department Report.  The high bid of $2,125 was one of three received for the 2011 Ford Crown Victoria.  The Council felt that the high bid was too low and it was noted that the notice stated that the City has a right to reject any or all bids.  Stagg also reported he has a 2000 Chevy pickup to dispose of since the new truck is ready for delivery.  Following discussion, Mengler moved and Smith seconded to re-advertise the sale of the 2011 Crown Victoria with a minimum bid of $3,500 and to also list the 2000 Chevy pickup for sale, with Stagg determining a minimum bid for the pickup.  Motion carried. 

Council Comments.  Koehler mentioned he appreciated the opportunity to serve the community and felt the experience was educational.  Koehler was thanked for his willingness to serve as a member of the City Council for almost nine years.    

Council Vacancy Appointment.  The two applicants, Joe Aubry and Everett Bieri, were both thanked for their interest in fulfilling the council vacancy.  Smith moved and Mengler seconded to appoint Everett Bieri to the City Council, until the next regular election on November 5, 2019.  Motion carried.  Rickertsen administered the oath of office to Everett Bieri.      

Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 6:39 p.m.  Motion carried.  All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

August 19, 2019