October 2023 Chamber Newsletter

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 3^rd day of May, 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. Due to COVID-19 and as permitted under the Iowa Code, Chapter 21.8, which allows an electronic meeting where individuals may participate remotely when an in-person meeting is impossible or impractical, call-in information was provided to the public on the meeting agenda notice.

Approval of Agenda. Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the agenda with the deletion of item two, Oath of Office. Motion carried. The Oath of Office was given to Council Member Kirk Koberg at the end of the last meeting.

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. None.

Consent Agenda. Puck moved and Smith seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from April 19, 2021, and Class C liquor license renewal including outdoor and Sunday sales for the Lampliter. Motion carried.

Ordinance 518-21, Amending Chapter 155 Pertaining to Above Ground Storage Tanks. Smith moved and Mengler seconded to approve the third reading of Ordinance 518-21. Roll call ayes: Smith, Mengler, Koberg, Puck, and Bieri. Motion carried. As discussed at prior meetings, changes included in the ordinance are to align more with the Code of Iowa and fire codes.

Fire Department Steak Fry. Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve closing a portion of W. Durant Street (west side of bank ATM to the west side of Legion property) on May 15^th. Motion carried. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve the payment to Kalmes Catering in the amount of $9,500 for the Fire Department Steak Fry fundraiser. Motion carried.

Badger Beacon Software & Training. Stagg presented a project worksheet to upgrade the current meter reading software and devices (endpoints) since the current remote meter reading devices are no longer available. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to transition to the Badger Meter Beacon software for new meter reading devices at a cost of $7,400. Motion carried. This cost includes software training and ten new endpoints, which are compatible with the current meters and registers.

Purchase Approval – Rock Around Pond. A project worksheet was presented to place 12” depth rock around the north and west sides of the pond at Prairie View Park. This was recommended by the Park Board and the Council requested Stagg to pursue bids at an earlier meeting. It was mentioned that it is difficult to mow close to the pond so the rock will help with weed growth around the pond. Following discussion, Mengler moved and Smith seconded to accept the low bid of $6,500 from Needham Excavating. Motion carried.    

Review of Proposed Code Changes – Chapters 90 – 125. Proposed City Code changes to chapters 90 – 125 were reviewed. These changes will be incorporated in the City Code recodification process.

Park Tournament Fences. Koberg reported that the installation and removal of the temporary fences for the tournaments are labor intensive for volunteers. At a prior meeting, the Council allowed temporary fences to be installed at Wescott and Victory Parks from April 28^th – May 5^th and again from May 26^th – June 30^th for the four scheduled ball tournaments. Koberg requested postponing the fence removal and questioned installing a permanent perimeter fence. Discussion included the following: current temporary fence condition, new temporary fencing, recent donated improvement, park expenses, and that the parks provide an open space for the public to enjoy. Park fencing will be discussed at the next Park Board meeting. Mengler moved and Smith seconded to allow the fences to remain up until Friday, May 7^th. Motion carried with Koberg opposing.

Public Works Department Report. Stagg provided updates on the Downey Street water main improvements project and reported a resident was interested in the merry-go-round that was removed from Water Tower Park. Following discussion, Council consensus was to post a notice to accept sealed bids. Stagg was asked about the opening of the splash pad and he noted it would open around Memorial Day.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen reviewed the proposed water and garbage rate increases. The minimum water bill (up to 1,400 gallons) is proposed to increase $2.00/month and a 3% increase on the usage rate above 1,400 gallons. Rate increases are needed to pay for water system improvements. The garbage rate will increase 4%, per the contract with the hauler. Ordinances will be prepared for the next meeting. Rickertsen reported that the Iowa 80 Truckstop will be hosting a COVID-19 vaccine clinic next week. Discussion was held on participating with the Scott County Emergency Management Agency regarding a county-wide messaging alert system, at no cost to the community.

Mayor Report. Mayor Kostichek stated he has recently received many positive comments regarding the latest park improvements. He expressed thanks to the individuals, businesses, and local clubs and organizations who were involved with donated funds and labor.

Council Member Comments. Council comments include the possibility of transforming the old water plant at Water Tower Park to restrooms and relocating clean-up day dumpsters to the compost area.

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

May 3, 2021 Signed Minutes & Claims

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 19^th day of April, 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. Absent: None. City staff present: Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg. Due to COVID-19 and as permitted under the Iowa Code, Chapter 21.8, which allows an electronic meeting where individuals may participate remotely when an in-person meeting is impossible or impractical, call-in information was provided to the public on the meeting agenda notice.

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 Smith seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from April 5, 2021, March 2021 financial reports, and Resolution 2021-16, Transfer of Funds. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Smith, Puck, and Bieri. Motion carried.

Ordinance 517-21, Amending the Official Zoning Map. Smith moved and Puck seconded to approve the third reading of Ordinance 517-21. Roll call ayes: Smith, Puck, Mengler, and Bieri. Motion carried. This rezones a portion of property owned by Ossian, Inc, at 111 N. Blue Grass Road, from S-A, Suburban Agriculture, to M-1, Light Industrial.

Ordinance 518-21, Amending Chapter 155 Pertaining to Above Ground Storage Tanks. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 518-21. Roll call ayes: Puck, Bieri, Mengler, and Smith. Motion carried. As discussed at prior meetings, changes included in the ordinance are to align more with the Code of Iowa and fire codes.

Ossian’s Second Addition. Rickertsen reported the Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of the preliminary and final plats for Ossian’s Second Addition. 

• Resolution 2021-17, Approving Preliminary Plat for Ossian’s Second Addition. Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve Resolution 2021-17, as recommended by the Planning & Zoning Commission. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Smith, Puck, and Bieri. Motion carried.
• Resolution 2021-18, Approving Final Plat for Ossian’s Second Addition. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve Resolution 2021-18, as recommended by the Planning & Zoning Commission. Roll call ayes: Puck, Bieri, Mengler, and Smith. Motion carried.

Iowa 80 Eighth Addition. Rickertsen reported the Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of the preliminary and final plats for Iowa 80 Eighth Addition.       

• Resolution 2021-19, Approving Preliminary Plat for Iowa 80 Eighth Addition. Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2021-19, as recommended by the Planning & Zoning Commission. Roll call ayes: Puck, Mengler, Smith, and Bieri. Motion carried.
• Resolution 2021-20, Approving Final Plat for Iowa 80 Eighth Addition. Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve Resolution 2021-20, as recommended by the Planning & Zoning Commission. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Smith, Puck, and Bieri. Motion carried.

Review of Proposed Code Changes – Chapters 50 – 81. Proposed City Code changes to chapters 50 – 81 were reviewed. These changes will be incorporated in the City Code recodification process.

Public Works Department Report. Stagg reported on the following: tree seedlings will be delivered this week, completion of spring hydrant flushing, and updates on the Downey Street water main improvement project. He also reported on the recent wetland clean-up event at Prairie View Park and expressed thanks to all the volunteers and to Scott County Watershed for organizing the event. Stagg was asked about the status of installing sidewalks at Wescott Park and W. Otis Street concerns. He responded he was waiting on the City Engineer.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen reported on the proposed budget amendment for fiscal year ending June 30, 2021. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to set the public hearing date for the FYE 2021 Budget Amendment for May 17, 2021, at 6:00 p.m. Motion carried.

Mayor Report. Mayor Kostichek thanked the organizations and volunteers that helped with the Wescott Park project and Prairie View Park clean-up, with a special thanks to Scott County Watershed.

Council Member Comments. Council members also expressed thanks to the volunteers for their  work at Wescott & Prairie View Parks. A special thanks was expressed to all the individuals and organizations that donated to the Wescott Park project. Chief Blake will look into parking concerns expressed by the Council.

Council Vacancy Appointment. Two applicants, Joe Aubry and Kirk Koberg, were both thanked for their interest in fulfilling the council vacancy. Following discussion, Mengler moved and Puck seconded to appoint Kirk Koberg to the City Council, until the next regular election on November 2, 2021. Motion carried. Mayor Kostichek administered the oath of office to Kirk Koberg.

Planning & Zoning Commission Appointment. Puck moved and Smith seconded to appoint Joe Aubry to the Planning & Zoning Commission, term ending 12/31/2021. Motion carried. Mayor Kostichek administered the oath of office to Joe Aubry.

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

Signed Minutes & Claims April 19, 2021

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 5^th day of April, 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. Absent: None. City staff present: Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg. Due to COVID-19, this meeting was held electronically via conference call, permitted under the Iowa Code, Chapter 21.8, which allows an electronic meeting where individuals may participate remotely when an in-person meeting is impossible or impractical. Call-in information was provided to the public on the meeting agenda notice.

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 Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from March 15, 2021, Class B beer permits with Sunday licenses for Walcott Unified Fund for Victory and Wescott Parks, and TIF rebate payment ($17,381.26) per agreement to Iowa 80 Truckstop, Inc. for main building expansion. Motion carried.

Ordinance 517-21, Amending the Official Zoning Map. Smith moved and Mengler seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 517-21. Roll call ayes: Smith, Mengler, Puck, and Bieri. Motion carried. This rezones a portion of property owned by Ossian, Inc, at 111 N. Blue Grass Road, from S-A, Suburban Agriculture, to M-1, Light Industrial.

Ordinance 518-21, Amending Chapter 155 Pertaining to Above Ground Storage Tanks. Bieri introduced and moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 518-21. Seconded by Puck. Roll call ayes: Bieri, Puck, Mengler, and Smith. Motion carried. As presented and discussed at the last meeting, changes included in the ordinance are to align more with the Code of Iowa and fire codes.

Resolution 2021-13, Accepting Improvements and Authorizing Final Payment for the 2019 Sanitary Sewer Repairs/Improvements Project on W. Bryant Street. Stagg recommended approval of the final payment and accepting the sanitary sewer improvements project. Smith moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2021-13, as recommended by Stagg. Roll call ayes: Smith, Mengler, Puck, and Bieri. Motion carried. Final payment will be made to BWC Excavating, L.C. in the amount of $19,924.48.    

P&A Committee Recommendations. Puck reported the Policy Administration Committee met last week and recommends the following:

• Hourly wage increase for part-time public works laborer. The Policy Administration Committee, Bieri and Puck, moved and seconded to approve the hourly wage of $13.50/hour for a part-time public works laborer. Motion carried.
• Resolution 2021-14, Setting Wages for Employees for Fiscal Year Beginning July 2, 2021. The Policy Administration Committee, Bieri and Puck, moved and seconded to approve Resolution 2021-14. Roll call ayes: Bieri, Puck, Smith, and Mengler. Motion carried. This is a 2.5% wage increase.
• Resolution 2021-15, Approving Amendments to the Personnel Policy Handbook. The Policy Administration Committee, Bieri and Puck, moved and seconded to approve Resolution 2021-15 with changes as discussed. Roll call ayes: Bieri, Puck, Mengler, and Smith. Motion carried. Policy changes include minor clean-ups and changes to the leave of absence, medical reimbursements, and drug and alcohol free workplace sections.

Joe Quick – Tournaments and Fencing. Joe Quick reported there are four tournaments planned for this summer. There will be two girls softball tournaments, April 30 – May 2^nd and June 11^th – 13^th, and the Fastpitch Invitational on May 28^th – 30^th and the Iowa Area ISC Qualifier Men’s Fastpitch Tournament June 25^th – 27^th.  Quick requested approval to install temporary fencing at Wescott and Victory Parks beginning April 28^th. Following discussion on the fencing, Council consensus was to allow temporary fences to be installed at Wescott and Victory Parks from April 28^th – May 5^th and again from May 26^th – June 30^th.

Review of Proposed Code Changes – Chapters 1 – 47. Proposed City Code changes to chapters 1 – 47 were reviewed and discussed. These changes will be incorporated in the City Code recodification process.

Public Works Department Report. Stagg reported on needed repairs on Walker Street, hydrant flushing during the month of April, and he provided updates on the Downey Street water main improvement project and Victory Park repairs. Smith reported on a water retention issue near the Century and Lincoln Streets intersection and landscape maintenance at Victory Park.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen reported on an expected payment to the City from the Federal Pandemic Relief funds to help offset the reduction in Road Use Tax payments last year due to the pandemic. She also reported on information from the Scott County Assessor, which was included in the meeting packet, regarding that a majority of Scott County property owners will see an increase in their 2021 property assessments due to the increase in real estate sales prices.

Council Member Comments. Mengler expressed thanks to the Hearts & Hands Foundation and community volunteers for their work and efforts at Wescott and Victory Parks. Smith stated the merry-go-round was removed from Victory Park several (20+) years ago due to safety concerns and he believes it was later relocated to Water Tower Park. Following discussion, council consensus was to remove the merry-go-round at Water Tower Park due to safety concerns.

Smith moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 7:10 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

April 5, 2021 Signed Minutes & Claims

APRIL 2021 CHAMBER NEWSLETTER

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 15^th day of March, 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. Absent: None. City staff present: Scott Bengfort, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg. Due to COVID-19, this meeting was held electronically via conference call, permitted under the Iowa Code, Chapter 21.8, which allows an electronic meeting where individuals may participate remotely when an in-person meeting is impossible or impractical. Call-in information was provided to the public on the meeting agenda notice.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. No comments.

Public Hearings. Mayor Kostichek opened the public hearing on the budget for fiscal year ending June 30, 2022 (FYE 2022). Rickertsen stated the proposed budget includes a levy tax rate increase of $.04143, which will provide the same tax levy dollars as the current year. Rickertsen reported the valuations for computing taxes did decrease but overall the City’s property valuations increased. The decrease for computing taxes is due to a shift in commercial property valuations to pay the tax increment financing rebates for the next fiscal year. The budget includes a water rate increase to cover costs associated with the maintenance and future improvements to the water system and a garbage rate increase to cover the annual rate increase from the garbage contractor. No written or other comments were received. Smith moved and Puck seconded to close the public hearing and open the public hearing on rezoning a portion of property owned by Ossian, Inc, at 111 N. Blue Grass Road, from S-A, Suburban Agriculture, to M-1, Light Industrial. Motion carried. Rickertsen reported the Planning & Zoning Commission held a public hearing for the rezoning request on March 8^th, and they recommended approving the rezoning. Mike Ossian was present and reported the rezoning will allow them to further develop their property. Mengler thanked Ossian for continuing to develop the property. No written or other comments were received. Puck moved and Mengler seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting. Motion carried.

Consent Agenda. Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from March 1, 2021, February 2021 financial reports, and set Spring Clean-Up Day for May 1, 2021, from 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Motion carried.

Resolution 2021-10, Approving the Adoption of the FYE 2022 Budget. Puck moved and Smith seconded to approve Resolution 2021-10 as proposed. Roll call ayes: Puck, Smith, Mengler, and Bieri. Motion carried. The levy tax rate for FYE 2022 is set at 10.12383.

Ordinance 517-21, Amending the Official Zoning Map. Mengler introduced and moved and Puck seconded to approve the first reading of Ordinance 517-21. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Puck, Bieri, and Smith. Motion carried. This rezones a portion of property owned by Ossian, Inc, at 111 N. Blue Grass Road, from S-A, Suburban Agriculture, to M-1, Light Industrial.

Review of Proposed Changes to Chapter 155, Above Ground Storage Tanks. Stagg reported that Bengfort researched and presented proposed changes to Chapter 155 that align more with the Code Iowa and fire codes. Smith moved and Bieri seconded to proceed with an ordinance change for Chapter 155, as proposed, for the next meeting. Motion carried.

Review/Deactivate Item 6 (use of fire meeting room) of the Public Health Disaster Emergency Policy. Rickertsen reported she received requests from local organizations to utilize the fire meeting room. She stated the Fire Chief had no issues with allowing them to utilize the room again. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to deactivate section 6 of the Public Health Disaster Emergency Policy. Motion carried. 

Downey Street Water Main Improvements Project – Resolution 2021-11, Approving Contract & Bonds. Rickertsen reported the City Engineer has reviewed and approved the contract and required bonds for the Downey Street Water Main Improvements Project. Bieri moved and Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2021-11. Roll call ayes: Bieri, Puck, Mengler, and Smith. Motion carried. The contract is with Hagerty Earthworks, LLC for $130,082.35. Stagg stated he would set up a pre-construction meeting with the contractor and residents along the project.

City Council Vacancy. Due to John Brockmann’s resignation from the City Council at the last meeting, Smith moved and Mengler seconded to fill the vacancy by appointment during the April 19, 2021, council meeting at 6:00 p.m. at Walcott City Hall. Motion carried. Appointment forms will be available at City Hall and from the City’s website.

Police Department Report. Rickertsen reported that Chief Blake received a quote for a trade-in value of $15,200 from Stew Hansen Dodge for the 2016 Dodge Ram. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to trade-in the truck with Stew Hansen Dodge when purchasing the new squad. Motion carried.

Public Works Department Report. Stagg stated the Public Works laborer job description needed updated and he presented revisions based on a template from Iowa Association of Municipal Utilities. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2021-12, Approving Job Description for Public Works Laborer/Heavy Equipment Operator. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Puck, Bieri, and Smith. Motion carried.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen reported on a preliminary estimate of approximately $226,000 that the City of Walcott could possibly receive as part of the American Rescue Plan, which could potentially be used for water and sewer upgrades. She also reported that the Easter Egg Hunt will be on March 28^th at Water Tower Park.

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

March 15, 2021 Minutes & Claims

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 1^st day of March, 2021, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Everett Bieri, John Brockmann, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith. City staff present: Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg. Due to COVID-19, this meeting was held electronically via conference call, permitted under the Iowa Code, Chapter 21.8, which allows an electronic meeting where individuals may participate remotely when an in-person meeting is impossible or impractical. Call-in information was provided to the public on the meeting agenda notice.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. No comments.

Consent Agenda. Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from February 15, 2021, and the annual insurance renewal with Arp Insurance/EMC Insurance. Motion carried.

Walcott Day Committee – Approval of Food Trucks. Mengler reported that the Walcott Day Committee is exploring food serving options due to COVID concerns at Walcott Day this summer. One of the options is to have food trucks on the street and/or at the park during Walcott Day this year and she inquired if the Council would allow it. Following discussion, Puck moved and Smith seconded to allow the Walcott Day Committee to have food trucks on the street and/or at the park during Walcott Day this year. Motion carried.

Downey Street Water Main Improvements Project. Rickertsen reported there were eight bids received for the N. Downey Street Water Main Improvements Project and the City Engineer recommends the City accept the low bid from Hagerty Earthworks, LLC.

• Resolution 2021-9, Awarding Contract for the Downey Street Water Main Improvements Project. Smith moved and Bieri seconded to approve Resolution 2021-9. Roll call ayes: Smith, Bieri, Puck, Mengler, and Brockmann. Motion carried. The contract is awarded to Hagerty Earthworks, LLC, Muscatine, Iowa, for $130,082.35.
• IMEG Engineering Services. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the engineering proposal services with IMEG for $11,200. Motion carried. This is for the construction staking and administration services, and additional design of sanitary sewer for the Downey Street Water Main Improvements Project.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake presented his report including a project worksheet to replace the Dodge Ram squad. Blake stated he intends to apply for a grant this spring for the purchase; however, the squad needs to be ordered now and will not be ready or paid for until July. Blake will contact the dealer and inquire on trading in the current squad. Smith moved and Puck seconded to approve the request from Blake to order a Dodge Ram squad from Stew Hansen Dodge as presented. Motion carried. The cost presented is $32,477 from Stew Hansen Dodge.

Hearts and Hands Foundation. Austin Burt presented an update on the Wescott Park project, including project costs and donations from volunteer organizations and donated services from Tim Hamann/County Line Excavating and Needham Excavating. He also reviewed the next steps to finish the project, which include grading, seeding, and park signage. He stated their goal is to have the park improvements completed by April 30^th. Rickertsen inquired if teams would be able to utilize the diamond for practices after April 1^st. They will work to have them ready for practice but it will depend on the weather. A lengthy discussion ensued regarding installing the planned city sidewalk on the east side of the park now (along Parker Street), instead of early fall, so the area will not need to be seeded twice. Discussion was held on the request to install a walkway from the SE corner of the park to the bleacher pad. The sidewalk plans and specifications, which were prepared last year, do not include the walkway so it needs to be verified if the proposed walkway will be able to meet ADA requirements. Following further discussion, council consensus was to have Stagg check the grade and have the engineer see if it’s feasible to add a walkway from the SE corner of the park to the bleacher pad and obtain bids for the sidewalk along Parker Street.

Public Works Department Report. Stagg reported on a new business opening this month, S&V Fence, located south of the Dollar General along Main Street. He inquired if Council would entertain a change to the City Code section regarding above ground gas tanks, no greater than 1,000 gallons, to be more consistent with State and NFPA Codes. Stagg stated the City’s current chapter on above ground storage tanks is more restrictive than the other codes. Council consensus was to have staff research and present proposed code changes at a future meeting. Stagg provided an update on the park repairs/improvements at Victory Park.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen presented her report including the proposed budget for FYE 2022.

Council Member Comments. Brockmann stated he is resigning from the City Council at the end of his presentation tonight. He commented on several items including the following: his justification for vehicle and equipment purchases during his tenure that were mentioned at the last meeting; his past utilization of part-time help versus current use of a landscape contractor; his concerns regarding flaws with the culvert installed on Memorial Road and the city parking lot and W. Otis Street improvement projects; concerns with the fire department roof and single quote; and questioned why the crosswalk painting was not completed last year. Stagg responded to some of the project concerns and in regards to the crosswalk painting he noted there was a reduction in staff hours last spring due to the pandemic. It was mentioned that the fire department roof cost is for budgeting purposes and bids would be requested if the project proceeds. Brockmann again stated he is resigning from the City Council and left immediately at 7:21 p.m.

Bieri moved and Smith seconded to adjourn at 7:21 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

March 1, 2021 Minutes & Claims

MARCH CHAMBER NEWSLETTER

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 15^th day of February, 2021, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Everett Bieri, John Brockmann, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith. City staff present: Jeff Blake, Josh Geigle, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg. Due to COVID-19, this meeting was held electronically via conference call, permitted under the Iowa Code, Chapter 21.8, which allows an electronic meeting where members may participate remotely when an in-person meeting is impossible or impractical. Call-in information was provided to the public on the meeting agenda notice.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. No comments.

Public Hearing. Mayor Kostichek opened the public hearing on the maximum property dollars levy for fiscal year ending June 30, 2022 (FYE 2022). Rickertsen stated the notice listed the maximum property tax levy dollars at 1.45% higher than the current year, with a maximum levy tax rate at 10.27100. In order to receive the same tax levy dollars as the current year, the levy tax rate would need to increase by .04143, to 10.12383. Rickertsen reported on residential county reassessments and state rollback figures and reduction of the City’s valuations due to multi-residential property rollback percentages and commercial tax increment financing rebates. No written or other oral comments were received. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting.  Motion carried.   

Consent Agenda. Smith moved and Bieri seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from February 1, 2021, and January 2021 financial reports. Motion carried.

Tammy Buhman – Sanitary Sewer Issues. Tammy Buhman reported on a recent sanitary sewer issue at her residence on January 26, 2021. Buhman requested reimbursement of an invoice from Roto-Rooter since the issue did not clear until the City jetted the main line. Stagg presented a time line of events to Council and reported it is difficult to tell where the blockage was since there are no manholes on this line. He did report that installation of a manhole is included with the Downey Street water main project. Brockmann stated he felt Buhman’s problem was due to issues from a past water main project near her residence. Stagg responded that prior issues were resolved and not related to this. Brockmann moved and Smith seconded to reimburse Tammy Buhman for the invoice from Roto-Rooter as presented. Motion carried.

Park Board Recommendations.

• Tournament and Game Fees. The Park Board recommended increasing the tournament fees to $50 per field without lights and $70 per field with lights each day and initiating a fee of $10 for each non-tournament game except for Walcott Athletic Board and Tri-County games. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the tournament and game fees as recommended by the Park Board. Motion carried. Tournament fees are not charged for Walcott Athletic Board sponsored tournaments.
• Pond Riprap. Stagg reported on the Park Board’s recommendation to place white rock around approximately 350’ of shoreline. Discussion was held on a weed barrier and size of rocks. Council consensus was to have Stagg pursue bids to place rocks around the pond as recommended by the Park Board.
• Splash Pad Shelter. The Park Board recommended to not allow the splash pad shelter to be reserved. Concerns were conveyed regarding lack of shade and seating and taking food onto the splash pad area. Smith moved and Puck seconded to leave the shelter open to the public and not allow it to be reserved. Motion carried.   

Resolution 2021-8, Approving the Maximum Property Dollars Levy for FYE 2022. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve Resolution 2021-8. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Bieri, Smith, Puck, and Brockmann. Motion carried.

Ordinance 516-21, Amending Chapter 167 Pertaining to Floodplain Management Overlay Districts and Standards. This Ordinance was drafted by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and the City needs to adopt it prior to FEMA’s adoption of the new floodplain maps. Smith moved and Puck seconded to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 516-21.Roll call ayes: Smith, Puck, Mengler, Brockmann, and Bieri. Motion carried.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake provided the monthly call report and an update on staffing.

Public Works Department Report. Stagg presented his department report including the following:

• Replaced approximately 73’ of defective sanitary sewer main off the end of N. Grove Street. The defective pipe was a corrugated plastic pipe and it was replaced with an approved pipe material for sewer mains.
• Repaired a broken storm sewer pipe on N. Downey Street, near the Lincoln Street intersection.
• During the last meeting, Brockmann accused Stagg of wasting City money, after he obtained a quote for budgeting purposes, as requested, to replace the Fire Department roof. Stagg presented examples of equipment purchases, which he felt was wasteful spending in the Public Works Department during Brockmann’s tenure. Stagg also presented information indicating his fiscal responsibility, including a drastic reduction of overtime and part-time hours in the Public Works Department since his employment.
• As requested by City Council, Stagg presented an email from the roofing contractor regarding their professional recommendation of the fire station roof. Assuming conditions have not changed and only worsened, they recommended replacing the roof area. They referenced a letter to the City, which Stagg distributed copies of, dated June 9, 2015, where they suggested replacing the existing roof area in lieu of spending money on repairs that will not alleviate any leaking issues. Josh Geigle, Fire Chief, presented photos of tar leaking on a fire truck and several areas where the roof is leaking.

Brockmann stated he felt the equipment purchased was not wasteful and that the current staff doesn’t maintain some right-of-ways and alleys which were previously maintained. Stagg responded that he follows the Alley Policy, adopted by City Council before his employment, as well as prior direction by the City Council to not have staff mow private property. Mayor Kostichek and Council Members Smith and Mengler expressed their frustration with Brockmann’s continued and unwarranted criticism of Stagg.

Fire Department Report. Geigle reported the electrician will be fixing the siren when they are here working on other city electrical jobs. Mengler inquired if it would be beneficial to replace the fire department roof with a pitched roof. Following discussion, council consensus was for Stagg to obtain a quote for a pitched roof for budgeting purposes. Smith left the meeting at 6:53 p.m. for another meeting.

City Clerk Report. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to set the FYE 2022 budget public hearing date for March 15, 2021, at 6:00 p.m. Motion carried. Rickertsen inquired about council’s thoughts on bee keeping restrictions within city limits. Following discussion, Rickertsen will research and report at a future meeting.

Mayor Report. Mayor Kostichek reported on an email he received from a resident complimenting the Public Works Department staff for their efforts this winter season.

Council Member Comments.

• Brockmann expressed concerns again about snow around fire hydrants that haven’t been cleared. Stagg agreed that it’s important to have access to hydrants, however he didn’t notice any ports that weren’t accessible. He stated that due to the recent weather and time constraints it’s difficult to clear all 146 hydrants. Following discussion, Geigle stated he will again post on social media asking residents to clear the hydrants adjacent to their property.
• Mengler encouraged Brockmann to work with the rest of the council and staff for the betterment of the community.
• Puck took issue with Brockmann’s criticism of staff and thanked Stagg for his hard work and department improvements. Puck stated he considers him to be the best Public Works Director the City has had.

Puck moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 7:14 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

February 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 February, 2021, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Everett Bieri, John Brockmann, Lisa Mengler, Jacob Puck, and Larry Smith. City staff present: Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg. City Engineer, Jason Holdorf, participated remotely. Due to COVID-19, this meeting was held electronically via conference call, permitted under the Iowa Code, Chapter 21.8, which allows an electronic meeting where members may participate remotely when an in-person meeting is impossible or impractical. Call-in information was provided to the public on the meeting agenda notice.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. None.

Public Hearing. Mayor Kostichek opened the public hearing on the proposed plans, specifications, form of contract, and cost estimate for the N. Downey Street Water Main Improvements Project. This project is on N. Downey Street, between James and Otis Streets. No public comments were received. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting. Motion carried.

Consent Agenda. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from January 18, 2021, and January 25, 2021, and request for services from the State of Iowa Auditor’s Office for the FYE 2021 examination. Motion carried.

Resolution 2021-7, Approving Plans, Specifications, Form of Contract, and Cost Estimate for the N. Downey Street Water Main Improvements Project. Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve Resolution 2021-7. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Smith, Puck, Brockmann, and Bieri. Motion carried.

Ordinance 516-21, Amending Chapter 167 Pertaining to Floodplain Management Overlay Districts and Standards. This Ordinance was drafted by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and the City needs to adopt it prior to FEMA’s adoption of the new floodplain maps. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 516-21.Roll call ayes: Puck, Bieri, Brockmann, Smith, and Mengler. Motion carried.

2021 Summer Youth Program.  Rickertsen stated that a representative from the YMCA reported they feel confident they can provide an environment that meets CDC guidelines but due to the pandemic restrictions, the number of participants would be limited. The six-week program would be held on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 9:00 a.m. to noon. The cost remains at $196.45 per child from the YMCA, so the proposal is to charge $70 per child for Walcott and Fire District #6 residents and $196.45 for non-residents. Mengler questioned if the number of participants could be adjusted if pandemic restrictions would change. Rickertsen stated she would inquire about it. Mengler moved and Smith seconded to approve the Summer Youth Program as presented. Motion carried. Program dates will be determined at a later date.

Public Works Department Report. Stagg presented his department report including an updated equipment list. Discussion was held on the quote to replace the Fire Department roof that Stagg was asked to obtain for budgeting purposes. The roof is currently leaking in multiple areas and has been patched several times in the past 10 – 15 years. Brockmann stated his objection to replacing the roof. He stated he felt the City could continue patching the current roof but felt a contractor should be hired to do all patching instead of utilizing city staff. The contractor that provided the current quote will be asked to inspect the roof and provide a recommendation.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake provided an update on K-9 Titan who has been out of service but is slowly improving.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen provided an update on the repair quotes and insurance reimbursement from the derecho last August. She also presented and discussed taxable property valuations in the City for the current and next fiscal year.

Council Member Comments.  Brockmann recommended having staff clear snow from around the hydrants that may not be accessible. He also expressed concerns regarding the following: proposed tax levy rate, W. Otis Street project, and the overgrown areas in the ditch on railroad property impeding agriculture drainage. Rickertsen stated the City is required to publish a maximum levy rate but the City Council has not yet approved a tax levy rate for the next fiscal year. Stagg reported he recently met with the City Engineer and project contractor regarding the W. Otis Street project and the contractor is preparing a remedy proposal. Mayor Kostichek stated that Iowa Interstate Railroad responded to a letter sent by the City last year regarding drainage concerns. They indicated their engineers did not observe conditions on their property that would impede agriculture drainage.

Puck moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 6:32 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.