The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 20^th day of December, 2021, 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, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith.  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. None.

Public Hearing. Mayor Kostichek opened the public hearing on the budget amendment for fiscal year ending June 30, 2022 (FYE 2022). Rickertsen reported the amendment includes expenditure increases attributable to the Victory Park Improvements project and Prairie View Park trail repairs and pond rock. No other oral or written comments were received. Puck moved and Mengler seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting. Motion carried.

Consent Agenda. Koberg moved and Bieri seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices and minutes from December 6, 2021. Motion carried.

Resolution 2021-47, Approving the Adoption of the FYE 2022 Budget Amendment. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve Resolution 2021-47, FYE 2022 Budget Amendment. Roll call ayes: Puck, Bieri, Koberg, Mengler, and Smith. Motion carried.

Approval of Fire Department Member. Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the membership of Courtney-Jade Hudson to the Walcott Volunteer Fire Department. Motion carried.  

Engagement of Northland Securities as Underwriter. Rickertsen reported this was the first step when borrowing funds. It is non-binding and there would be no fee due to Northland Securities should the E. Lincoln Street project financing not proceed. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve the engagement of Northland Securities as underwriter for future bonds in connection with the proposed E. Lincoln Street project. Motion carried.

Stanley Consultants, Inc. Services Proposal. Stagg reported the sewer ordinances need to be updated to meet current IDNR regulatory requirements. Smith moved and Puck seconded to approve the proposal with Stanley Consultants, Inc. to review and update the sewer ordinances, not to exceed $7,325. Motion carried.

Public Works Department Report. Stagg reported on the completion of repairs to the recreational trail bridges and updates on the proposed E. Lincoln Street project.

City Clerk’s Report. Rickertsen reported on office closures during the upcoming holidays.

Mayor’s Report. Mayor Kostichek presented a certificate of appreciation to Smith for his four years of service on the City Council.

Council Member Comments. Mengler also thanked Smith for his service and extended thanks to the Fire and Police Departments for their assistance with the Walcott Women organization’s recent Santa event.

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

December 20, 2021

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 6^th day of December, 2021, 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, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith.  City staff present: Jeff Blake, Korry Kraft, 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 Koberg seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from November 15, 2021, November 2021 financial reports, Resolution 2021-44 – Wage Increase of Officer Horihan for defensive instructor certification, and Resolution 2021-45 – Approving Applications for Residential Tax Abatements within the 2017 Urban Revitalization Area.  Roll call ayes: Mengler, Koberg, Puck, Bieri, and Smith. Motion carried.

Victory & Wescott Park Concrete Improvements Project. Discussion was held on the pay request from All American Concrete, Inc. for the park concrete improvements project. Council members expressed their frustrations and dissatisfaction with the project, particularly the timeliness and landscaping. Following further discussion, Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve payment #1 to All American Concrete, Inc., for $123,189.92, as recommended by the City Engineer. Ayes: Mengler, Puck, and Bieri. Nays: Koberg and Smith. Motion carried.

Review of Alley Policy. Following discussion of the current alley policy, Koberg moved and Smith seconded to make no changes to the policy. Motion carried.

Ordinance 522-21, Amending Chapter 69 Pertaining to No Parking Zones. Bieri moved and Puck seconded to waive the second reading of Ordinance 522-21, Amending Chapter 69 Pertaining to No Parking Zones. Roll call ayes: Bieri, Puck, Koberg, Mengler, and Smith. Motion carried. Smith moved and Mengler seconded to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 522-21. Roll call ayes: Smith, Mengler, Bieri, Puck, and Koberg. Motion carried. This ordinance adds a no parking zone to the west side of the 200 block of S. Grove Street, between E. Bryant Street and E. Durant Street.

Resolution 2021-46, Transfer of Funds. Rickertsen reported on the details of Resolutions 2021-46, Transfer of Funds. Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2021-46, Transfer of Funds. Roll call ayes: Puck, Mengler, Smith, Bieri, and Koberg. Motion carried.

Fire Department Report. The Fire Department held officer elections and the members elected Korry Kraft as the Fire Chief. Puck moved and Smith seconded to approve the appointment of Korry Kraft as the Fire Chief, term ending December 31, 2022. Motion carried.  

City Clerk’s Report. Rickertsen presented her report including the proposed budget amendment for fiscal year ending June 30, 2022 (FYE 2022). Puck moved and Bieri seconded to set the public hearing date for the FYE 2022 budget amendment for December 20, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. Motion carried. Discussion was held on installing public sidewalks with the proposed E. Lincoln Street project, Water Tower Park lease, and utilizing direct deposit for all payroll (council, boards, and commission) after January 1, 2022.

Council Member Comments. Koberg questioned if citizens are allowed to take dirt from the pile behind the compost area. Stagg responded he has consistently turned residents away from taking City materials (dirt, mulch, rock) and the materials are stockpiled behind signs that prohibit unauthorized vehicles. He explained there may be a need for dirt for a project and if residents are removing it from the stockpiles the City may end up paying for dirt. Residents should obey all signs at the area.

Smith moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 6:52 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

December 6, 2021 Minutes & Claims

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 15^th day of November, 2021, 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, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith.  City staff present: Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg. City Engineer, Jason Holdorf, was also present.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Harry Knutsen reported the speed limit sign on 200^th Street/F58 has not been restored at the culvert project site. This was a county project so the Scott County Engineer will be contacted.

Consent Agenda. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from November 1, 2021, and the October 2021 financial reports. Motion carried.

Ordinance 522-21, Amending Chapter 69 Pertaining to No Parking Zones. Ordinance 522-21 was introduced and Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the first reading. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Puck, Koberg, Bieri, and Smith. Motion carried. This ordinance adds a no parking zone to the west side of the 200 block of S. Grove Street, between E. Bryant Street and E. Durant Street. Council consensus was to list both the second and third Ordinance readings on the next meeting agenda.

Police Report. Chief Blake reported he picked up the new squad.

Public Works Department Report. Stagg reported on the delivery of the new John Deere X739, City Hall tuck-pointing project, lift station grinder project, and the recent planting of 18 trees. Stagg was questioned about non-operable outlets at Welcome Park, recreational trail bridge plank repairs, and low spots on the trail. Stagg responded that the bridge plank repairs are not yet completed and he will follow-up on the other two items. Concerns regarding deficiencies on the W. Otis Street project were expressed and Holdorf responded that they intend to have an action plan, which will be submitted to Council, by spring. Council members expressed their disappointment with the Victory and Wescott Parks Concrete Improvements Project, especially the landscaping (sod) work. A lengthy discussion was held on their concerns, which includes the following: sod unevenness and trip hazards; transitions into existing sod (Wescott Park); and contract time frame. Holdorf provided written information regarding his contact with the project contractors, along with a remedy solution from the sod company which they intend to complete in the spring. Following further discussion, Holdorf will contact the general contractor and request the contractor move the bleachers off the grass and correct severe trip hazards now instead of waiting until spring.

City Clerk’s Report. Rickertsen reported on the upcoming Iowa League of Cities training workshops for the Council and that the City Code draft from Iowa Codification has been received and is being reviewed.

Mayor’s Report. Mayor Kostichek expressed his thanks to the members of the Walcott Volunteer Fire Department for their commitment to provide emergency services to the Walcott community. He also expressed thanks and appreciation to Central Petroleum Company for allowing their Fire Department member employees to respond to emergency calls during working hours.

Council Member Comments. Puck questioned if citations are being issued for those not obeying the four-way stop at James & Main Streets and if bikes and golf carts are required to follow the same traffic rules as vehicles. Chief Blake stated all traffic regulations for motor vehicles also apply to golf carts (including ATV’s & UTV’s) and bicycles on roadways. Following an outburst earlier from Smith, Mengler stated the Council needs to support each other and staff.

Koberg moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 6:48 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

November 15, 2021 Signed Minutes & Claims

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 1^st day of November, 2021, 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, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith.  City staff present: Jeff Blake and Lisa Rickertsen.

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.

Consent Agenda. Rickertsen reported details of the Resolutions. Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from October 18, 2021, Resolution 2021-40 – Transfer of Funds, Resolution 2021-41 – Obligating TIF Funds from the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal, and Resolution 2021-42 – Designating Financial Institutions and Depositories. Roll call aye: Puck, Mengler, Smith, Bieri, and Koberg. Motion carried.

Request for One-Way Alley Traffic in 200 Block Between N. Parker & N. Main Streets. A written request, signed by six residents in the 200 block between N. Parker & N. Main Streets, proposed that the alley be one-way, northbound. Property owners in this block had the following comments: Karolyn Williams submitted a letter in support of a one-way alley; Kylie Moore reported on vehicles speeding through the alley and expressed safety concerns; Brent & Nancy Arp mentioned concerns of their business parking located off this alley and are not in favor of restricting it to a one-way; and Kendall Mattson was not in favor of restricting the alley to a one-way. Following further discussion, Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to deny the request to designate as a one-way and to have Chief Blake contact drivers observed to be speeding. Motion carried. Council thanked the citizens for attending and reminds all residents that the speed limit in alleys is 15 MPH.

Hearts & Hands Foundation – Wescott Park Concession Stand Improvements. Austin Burt presented proposed renovations to the Wescott Park concession stand and restrooms. He reported that the Hearts & Hands Foundation has applied for a grant to assist with the improvements and they have support/funding from other local organizations. All renovations to city-owned buildings require approval from the City Council. The Park Board will discuss future Wescott Park restroom fixture upgrades, to be paid by the City, at their next meeting. Following further discussion, Puck moved and Smith seconded to allow the Hearts & Hands Foundations to proceed with the proposed building related plans at the Wescott Park concession stand and restroom and to obtain any required permits. Motion carried.

Parking Concerns – 200 Block of S. Grove Street. Mengler again expressed safety concerns with restricted visibility and street narrowness due to parking on the west side of S. Grove Street, near the E. Bryant Street intersection. Joe Hahn stated that several years ago, prior to the Grove Street paving project, the west side of that block had signage prohibiting parking but the signs were not reinstalled following the project. Rickertsen will check with Attorney Schirman to see if an ordinance is required to institute a no parking zone or if this area falls under City Code section 62.06(13) Hazardous Locations. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to proceed with establishing a no parking zone on the west side of the 200 block of S. Grove Street, between Bryant and Durant Streets. Motion carried.

Resolution 2021-43, Approving Agreement with Scott County Emergency Management Agency (SCEMA) Regarding the Deployment of Unmanned Aircraft System(s). This allows the Fire & Police Departments to contact SCEMA to request drones during specific emergencies. Smith moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2021-43. Roll call ayes: Smith, Mengler, Puck, Bieri, and Koberg. Motion carried.

Fire Department Report. Interim Fire Chief Korry Kraft reported the department has banners, advertising recruitment, and requested permission to place them on City property. Following discussion, Smith moved and Koberg seconded to allow the Fire Department, as a department of the City, to place the signs on City property but not in City right-of-way. Motion carried.

City Clerk’s Report. Rickertsen reported the health insurance premium for 2022 will increase by 3.05% and the dental insurance rates will remain the same. Puck moved and Koberg seconded to approve the 2022 employee health and dental insurance renewal with Wellmark. Motion carried.

Mayor’s Report. Mayor Kostichek thanked the citizens in attendance, as well as the Hearts and Hands Foundation and Fire Department volunteers.

Council Member Comments. Council members expressed concerns with the Victory Park project landscaping. Koberg questioned the recent concrete pour on Main Street.

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

Nov 1, 2021 Signed Minutes & Claims

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 18^th day of October, 2021, 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, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith.  City staff present: Tim Horihan and Lisa Rickertsen.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Korry Kraft reported he is the interim Fire Chief, following the retirement of Chief Geigle. No other comments from audience members.

Consent Agenda. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from October 4, 2021, and the September 2021 financial reports. Motion carried.

Davenport Community School District Superintendent TJ Schneckloth. Superintendent Schneckloth was present to provide a State of the District report, which included early literacy, behavioral issues, establishing sound financial practices, and long range facility planning. Mengler questioned why it seems that behavioral disorder students residing outside of Walcott are transferred to the Walcott school. Schneckloth replied that past practice to resolve conflict between students was to transfer a student to a different school but they are trying to stop that practice. Following further discussion, Schneckloth thanked the City for giving him the opportunity to address the Mayor and City Council. Mayor Kostichek and Council members thanked Schneckloth for attending the meeting.

Resolution 2021-38, Acceptance of Dedication of Easement at 107 E. Walcott Road. Rickertsen stated this confirms an easement for an existing water main. Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve Resolution 2021-38. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Smith, Bieri, Puck, and Koberg. Motion carried.

Resolution 2021-39, Approving Site Plan at 140 E. Lincoln Street for Central Petroleum Company. Rickertsen reported the Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of the Site Plan during their meeting on October 11^th. The warehouse will operate under a special use permit, as previously approved by the Zoning Board of Adjustment, which specifically lists what items may be stored in the building. Only new empty containers and other products that are non-hazardous and non-flammable are permitted. Puck moved and Koberg seconded to approve Resolution 2021-39. Roll call ayes: Puck, Koberg, Bieri, Mengler, and Smith. Motion carried.

Police Department Report. Officer Horihan provided a status update on the new squad. Discussion was held on the four-way stop at the intersection of Main and James Streets. Council consensus was to remove the small crosswalk stop signs to avoid any confusion at the intersection. It was requested that the topic of a no parking area on the west side of 200 block of South Grove Street be placed on the next agenda.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen reported on the following:

• Fiscal year annual report from the Scott County Library System.
• The City is participating with Scott County Emergency Management Agency in the Alert Iowa system, which sends alerts/messages to the public. Additional information, including how to sign-up, will be on the city’s website and in the next Chamber newsletter.
• There is an article in the current Chamber newsletter regarding the Eye on Water app that allows the City’s water utility customers to view their latest water usage on a desktop or mobile device.
• Open house at Deck Supply Services at 11:00 a.m. on October 23^rd.

Council Member Comments. Mengler stated there are electric poles behind the houses located in the block between W. Flagg and W. Memorial Road and stated she was informed by a resident that staff reported there is no City easement in that area. Rickertsen replied that area is in the original part of town and it’s possible Alliant Energy may have their own easement but she would contact Alliant.

Koberg moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 6:38 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

October 18, 2021 Signed Minutes & Claims

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 4^th day of October, 2021, 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, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith. Absent:  none. City staff present: Paul Stagg and Jackie Huston.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Harry Knutsen expressed his concerns about vehicles not stopping at the new stop sign on Main Street.  Koberg explained that the police department is responsible for enforcement and drivers are still getting used to the new stop sign.

Consent Agenda. Puck moved and Koberg seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices and Tax Increment Financing Rebate Payments Per Agreements – Iowa 80 Truckstop, Inc. – Main Building Expansion, ½ of 2^nd year rebate = $14,487.08 & Atlantic Bottling Company – Coke Building, ½ of 1^st year rebate = $43,748.82.  Motion carried.

Minutes from September 20, 2021.  Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve the minutes from September 20, 2021.  Motion carried with Smith abstaining due to absence.

IMEG Engineering Proposal.  Stagg presented a proposal for engineering services for the design of the E. Lincoln Street Reconstruction Project.  Following discussion, the Council consensus was to extend angle parking to both sides of the 200 block of E. Lincoln, if possible.  Bieri moved and Puck seconded to approve the engineering proposal for the E. Lincoln Street Resconstruction Project for $148,500 from IMEG.  Motion carried.

Public Works Department Report.  Stagg presented an agreement with the farmer adjacent to Sterling Drive to provide a windbreak to assist in snow removal.  Koberg moved and Bieri seconded to approve the Standing Corn Windbreak Agreement with Paustian Enterprises Ltd. to leave 16 rows of corn standing for a cost of $2,433.02.  Motion carried.  Stagg also reported on department activities including:  the Victory Park Project should start this week, Public Works has been mowing Prairie View Park instead of burning it off, and the water main break on Main Street was due to holes in the bottom of the main caused by corrosion to the outside of the pipe.

Mayor’s Report and Council Member Comments.  Comments included thanking Stagg and his department, along with Needham Excavating, for their efforts on the lengthy repairs required to restore water service after the recent water main break.

Koberg moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 6:34 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

_________________________                                        ______________________________

Mayor John Kostichek                                                      Jackie Huston, Deputy City Clerk

Signed Minutes & Claims

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 20^th day of September, 2021, 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:  Larry Smith. City staff present: Jeff Blake, Paul Stagg, and Jackie Huston.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Harry Knutsen, Keri Kraft, and Rhonda Brockmann.

Consent Agenda. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from September 7, 2021, and August 2021 Financial Reports.  Motion carried.

Block Party Street Closure.  Rhonda Brockmann explained her request to close N. Henry Street from James Street to Meadow Lane on October 2^nd from 4 – 7 p.m.  The intention is to have a block party with the neighborhood residents.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the closure of N. Henry Street from James Street to Meadow Lane from 4-7 p.m.  Motion carried.

Trick-or-Treating.  Keri Kraft, representing the Walcott Women of Today, explained their plans for a Halloween Parade on October 31^st starting at 4 p.m. and going from Victory Park to the Walcott Legion.  They suggested Trick-or-Treating follow the parade from 5-7 p.m.  Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to set Trick-or-Treating for October 31^st from 5-7 p.m., following the parade.  Motion carried.

Appointment to the Planning & Zoning Commission.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to appoint Heidi Wulf to the P&Z Commission for a term ending 12/31/22.  Motion carried.

Handicapped Parking Sign on E. James Street.  Calvary United Methodist Church is requesting that this sign, erected around 1970, be removed, since they now provide several handicapped parking spots in the east parking lot which is adjacent to the handicapped entrance.  Bieri moved and Koberg seconded to remove the Disabilities Parking Sign in the 100 block of E. James Street.  Motion carried.

Memorial Road dust control. Mayor Kostichek stated that he and Puck had received complaints about the amount of dust coming from the graveled portion of W. Memorial Road. Following discussion, Koberg moved and Puck seconded to apply dust control on W. Memorial Road at the cost of approximately $2,000.  Motion carried.

Visit Quad Cities Annual Contribution.  Koberg moved and Bieri seconded to contribute $1,000 to Visit Quad Cities.  Motion carried.

IMEG Engineering Proposal.  Stagg presented a proposal to engineer ADA approved ramps for the four intersections on E. James Street.  Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to have IMEG engineer the ramps at a cost of $7,800.  Motion carried.

Ordinance 521-21, Amending Chapter 65, pertaining to Four-Way Stop Intersections. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to waive the second reading of Ordinance 521-21, establishing a 4-way stop at the intersection of Main and James Streets. Motion passed with a unanimous roll call vote.  Koberg moved and Mengler seconded to approve the 3^rd and final reading of Ordinance 521-21 establishing a 4-way stop at the intersection of Main and James Streets.   Motion passed with a unanimous roll call vote.

City Code review, chapter 161, Storm Water Detention Facilities.  Huston explained the proposed changes by the City Engineer to this chapter.  Koberg questioned the design process for storm water detention areas and expressed his concerns about the detention basin south of the Coke Distribution facility.

Public Works Department Report.  Stagg presented a project worksheet for street repairs to the intersection of Sterling Drive and Iowa 80 Road (deteriorated concrete) and E. James Street (concrete damaged by a vehicle fire).  Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve the street repairs by Hoekstra Masonry for a total of $13,100.  Motion carried.

Stagg also reported on the following:

• A water main break by the school that will require concrete replacement. Stagg thanked Needham Excavating for their prompt response in repairing the break.
• The Victory Park concrete project should start by October 4^th.
• The City Engineer did not find the cause of the problems with W. Otis Street and will continue to determine the appropriate repairs.
• He discussed how time consuming and difficult it is to keep Sterling Drive clear during snowfall. The IDOT pays farmers to leave 16 rows of corn adjacent to some roads to keep the snow from accumulating.  Stagg is suggesting that we offer an agreement to the farmer with a cornfield north of Sterling Drive to leave some corn standing during the winter, which will help with snow removal.  Cost would be $2 per bushel or approximately $3,200.  Council consensus was to have Stagg bring an agreement to the next meeting for approval.
• S&V Fence replaced the guardrails over the Parker Street culvert with fencing and Stagg is planning on reinstalling the sidewalk sections over the Lincoln Street culvert.

Mayor’s Report.  The Mayor expressed his thanks to the Park Board for painting the Wescott Park concession stand.

Council Member Comments.  Bieri asked about the Recreational Trail bridge plank installation and Stagg reported that they should be installed within a month.  Bieri also asked about the replacement of the damaged windmill and Stagg replied that he had been looking for a heavier model.

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

September 20, 2021 Signed Minutes & Claims

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Tuesday, the 7^th day of September, 2021, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Everett Bieri, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith. Council member Kirk Koberg arrived at 6:05 p.m. City staff present: Jeff Blake and Lisa Rickertsen.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Elaine Arp expressed her thanks and appreciation to the City and staff for the rain barrel at Welcome Park so she could water the flowers at the Veteran’s memorial garden.

Consent Agenda. Smith moved and Mengler seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from August 16, 2021, Resolution 2021-36 Annual Street Finance Report for FYE 2021, and Resolution 2021-37 Annual Urban Renewal Report for FYE 2021. Roll call ayes: Smith, Mengler, Bieri, and Puck. Motion carried.

Council member Koberg arrived.

Galaxy Meter Receiver/Collector. Rickertsen reported the collector on the water tower will no longer be able to collect meter readings by the end of this year so a new collector is required to continue receiving water meter readings. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to purchase a Galaxy Gateway Receiver for $6,500 from Metering and Technology Solutions. Motion carried. Rickertsen reported on the new meter reading software conversion and the ability for customers to sign up online or through an app to view their water usage. Information on how to sign up will be in the next newsletter.      

Fall Clean-Up Day. Discussion was held on scheduling dumpsters for a clean-up day this fall, coinciding with the fall garage sale date, and locating the dumpsters at the compost area on W. Cedar Lane Drive. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve setting the Fall Clean-Up Day on October 9, 2021, from 2:00 – 5:-00 p.m., with the dumpsters to be located at the compost area. Motion carried. The compost area will be closed from Friday, October 8^th until the morning of October 11^th, with the exception of during 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 9^th to allow residents to drop off eligible items in the dumpsters or compost area materials.

Walcott Historical Society Contribution. Koberg moved and Smith seconded to contribute $2,500 to the Walcott Historical Society, as budgeted. Motion carried.

Planning & Zoning Commission Vacancy. Rickertsen reported no one has expressed interest in filling the vacancy on the Planning & Zoning Commission. A vacancy occurred due to a member relocating for work. Interested residents should contact City Hall for additional information.

Ordinance 521-21, Amending Chapter 65 Pertaining to Four-Way Stop Intersections. Ordinance 521-21 was introduced and Smith moved and Mengler seconded to approve the first reading. Roll call ayes: Smith, Mengler, Bieri, Puck, and Koberg. Motion carried. This ordinance will make the intersection at Main & James Street a permanent four-way stop.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake reported the new squad will take approximately one more month before it is ready.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen questioned contacting the TIF attorney to proceed with amending the Urban Renewal Plan to add the Lincoln Street Improvements Project to it. Council consensus was to move forward with amending the Plan.

Council Member Comments. Council reviewed the written Public Works Department updates provided by Stagg. Discussion was held on naming Wescott Park ball field after Larry Koberg. This will be placed on a future agenda in early 2022 for formal action. Discussion was held on setting an annual date to remove the hanging flower baskets. Consensus was to remove them on the first day of fall or sooner. Mengler requested status updates on the W. Otis Street project concerns, recreational trail bridge planks, guard rails on N. Parker Street, and barricaded sidewalk on E. Lincoln Street. Bieri stated organizations that have signs that were at Wescott Park and want them back up should drop them off. Smith expressed concerns about potential street deterioration due to heavy truck traffic detouring on James Street instead of Memorial Road. Chief Blake will talk to the County about changing and adding some project/detour signs.

Koberg moved and Puck seconded to adjourn at 6:47 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

September 7, 2021 Signed Minutes & Claims

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 16^th day of August, 2021, 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, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith.  Absent:  none. City staff present: Jeff Blake, Jackie Huston, Josh Geigle, and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Harry Knutsen, Bryce Hewlett, and Kelsie Denoyer.

Consent Agenda. Mengler moved and Koberg seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from August 2, 2021, July 2021 financial reports, Resolution 2021-33 Wage increase for Building Official due to Residential Electrical Inspector Certification, and Resolution 2021-34 Establishing Special Revenue Fund for COVID Recovery Fund monies. Motion carried with unanimous roll call vote.

Partners of Scott County Watershed.  Mayor Kostichek read a Proclamation declaring August 2021 Water Quality Month.  Kelsi Denoyer, representing the Watershed, presented information regarding:  water quality, watersheds, and educational tools to protect and raise water quality.

Harry Knutsen, sign request for Main & James Streets intersection.  Mr. Knutsen stated that recently more children have moved into this area and he has observed vehicles exceeding the speed limit on Main Street.  Mr. Hewlett lives on that intersection and agrees with that information and they are requesting a 4-way stop at the intersection.  Mengler commented that she had been in favor of a 4-way stop, but the previous Council had decided against it.  The rest of the Council agreed that a 4-way stop would be beneficial.  Chief Blake stated that during an observation period he noted that the average speed on Main Street was 27 mph with 2 cars out of 100, exceeding the speed limit by over 11 mph.  He also noted that the temporary stop signs that are used before and after school, have been hit by vehicles and he would also recommend the 4-way stop.  Mengler moved and Smith seconded to proceed with the process to establish a 4-way stop at the intersection of Main & James Streets.  Motion carried.

Purchase of Ram Hurst R430.  Chief Geigle presented the Fire Department’s Project Worksheet to purchase this used equipment from Alex Air Apparatus at a cost of $2,820.00.  It will be used for extrication and is cheaper than a new model.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to purchase the equipment as presented.  Motion carried.

City Hall Tuck Pointing Project:  Stagg presented the Project Worksheet with 2 bids.  Smith moved and Koberg seconded to accept the bid from Otto Baum, not to exceed $30,000, as budgeted.  Motion carried.

Fire Station Roof Project:  Stagg presented the Project Worksheet with 2 bids.  Mengler moved and Puck seconded to accept the bid from West Branch Roofing for $57,411.00.  Motion carried.

Zoning & Subdivision Code Review:  Huston presented the changes recommended by the Planning & Zoning Commission which include:  An increase in maximum size for attached garages to 1,250 sq. ft., reorganization of the sign chapter, and shipping containers cannot be used as accessory buildings, except in C-3 zoning.  Smith moved and Puck seconded to charge developers 50% of the cost of engineering reviews for Subdivisions and Site Plans.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2021-35, Approving the contract and bonds for the Victory and Wescott Concrete Improvements Project.  Timeline and other details were discussed.  Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to accept the contract and bonds with the project starting as early as possible taking shelter reservations into consideration.  Motion carried with unanimous roll call vote.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake reported that the motor in his truck squad is having serious difficulties so the trade-in amount has been changed to $10,000, as is.

Public Works Department Report.  Stagg reported that an individual has offered to donate 7 large maple trees to Victory and Wescott Parks.  The Park Board is recommending placement of 5 trees at Victory and 2 at Wescott.  Smith moved and Puck seconded to thankfully accept the donation.  Motion carried.  Stagg also reported on the following:  W. Otis Street – IMEG is taking elevations and will prepare a report to determine the cause of deficiencies, the replacement of the culvert on F58 at 70^th Avenue will begin by the County on Monday, August 23^rd, and the culvert on 60^th Avenue south of Walcott will likely not be done until next spring.  Council consensus was to pursue a weight limit for James Street during the replacement of the culvert on F58, due to the detour, if possible. Stagg informed the Council that damage had been done to the new surfacing on the recreational trail by an individual on an electric scooter who drove around the barricades and left grooves in the new resurfacing for a significant length.  He is getting an estimate for repairs to the surface.  He also reported that due to shortages, he can’t obtain street paint for the crosswalks, at this time.

Huston reported that there is still a vacancy on the Planning & Zoning Commission and asked the Council to encourage someone to apply.

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

Signed Minutes & Claims August 16, 2021

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 2^nd day of August, 2021, 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, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith. 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. None.

Consent Agenda. Puck moved and Koberg seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from July 19, 2021, and the FYE 2021 Annual Financial report. Motion carried.

Lift Station Grinder. Stagg presented a project worksheet to purchase a grinder for the north lift station. This will grind debris before it enters the wetwell, which will help alleviate clogged pumps and service calls. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve the lift station grinder as presented, at a total cost of $59,486.00. Motion carried.

Victory and Wescott Parks Concrete Improvements Project.

• Resolution 2021-32, Awarding Contract for Victory and Wescott Parks Concrete Improvements Project. Smith moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2021-32. Roll call ayes: Smith, Mengler, Bier, Puck, and Koberg. Motion carried. The contract is awarded to the low bidder, All American Concrete, Inc., in the amount of $127,192.50.
• Basketball Poles & Hoops. Koberg moved and Smith seconded to purchase two new basketball adjustable systems (poles, backboards and hoops) from Douglas Industries for $2,499/each. Motion carried.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake reported on the status of the new squad. He was asked to review temporary load restrictions on E. James Street.

Public Works Department Report. Stagg provided his department report, including updates on the S. Downey Street project, maintenance at Prairie View Park, and a cost to extend the water line at Welcome Park. Discussion was held on the S. Downey Street contractor not meeting project deadlines and potential penalties. Council consensus was to not pursue the water extension at Welcome Park due to cost.

City Clerk’s Report. Rickertsen reported on recent training and that nomination papers for the November 2^nd City election are available at City Hall.

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

August 2, 2021 Signed Minutes & Claims