The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, May 1, 2023, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Everett Bieri, Kirk Koberg, Harry Knutsen, Lisa Mengler, and Jacob Puck. Staff present: Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg.

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

Public Hearing on the Designation of Expanded Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area and Urban Renewal Plan Amendment. Rickertsen stated the notice for the public hearing on the designation of the expanded Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area and on an urban renewal plan amendment had been published according to law and as directed by the Council and that this is the time and place at which the Council shall receive oral or written objections from any resident or property owner of the City. No oral or written objections or statements were filed. Puck moved and Knutsen seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting. Motion carried.

Consent Agenda. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from April 17, 2023, and minutes from April 26, 2023. Motion carried.

Resolution 2023-22, To Declare Necessity and Establish an Urban Renewal Area and Urban Renewal Plan Amendment for the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area. Mengler moved and Koberg seconded to approve Resolution 2023-19. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Koberg, Knutsen, Bieri, and Puck. Motion carried.

Resolution 2023-23, Setting a Date of Meeting at Which it is Proposed to Approve a Development Agreement with Sterling I, LLC, Including Annual Appropriation Tax Increment Payments. Bieri moved and Koberg seconded to approve Resolution 2023-23. Roll call ayes: Bieri, Koberg, Knutsen, Mengler, and Puck. Motion carried. The public hearing will be on May 15, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall.

Ordinance 537-23, An Ordinance Providing for the Division of Taxes Levied on Taxable Property in the May, 2023 Addition to the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area, Pursuant to Section 403.19 of the Code of Iowa. Mengler introduced and moved to approve the first reading to adopt Ordinance 537-23. Seconded by Puck. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Puck, Koberg, Knutsen, and Puck. Motion carried.

Ordinance 538-23, Amending Chapter 92 Pertaining to Water Rates. Ordinance 538-23 includes an increase of 4% to both the minimum (base rate) and usage rate, effective with the July 1^st billing. Each customer shall pay a minimum bill of $17.65 per month (increase of $.65/month), which includes usage up to 1,400 gallons and all usage over 1,400 gallons shall be $6.05 per 1,000 gallons (increase of $.23/1,000 gallons). Koberg moved and Knutsen seconded to approve the first reading to adopt Ordinance 538-23. Roll call ayes: Koberg, Knutsen, Bieri, Mengler, and Puck. Motion carried.

Ordinance 539-23, Amending Chapter 106 Pertaining to Solid Waste Collection Fees (Garbage Rate). Ordinance 539-23 is a 4% increase ($.60) to the monthly garbage rate, which is the percentage increase the City pays to the collector per contract effective July 1^st. Puck moved and Knutsen seconded to approve the first reading to adopt Ordinance 539-23. Roll call ayes: Puck, Knutsen, Koberg, Bieri, Puck, and Mengler. Motion carried.

Lincoln Street Improvements Project. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve payment #8 to Needham Excavating in the amount of $215,873.59, as recommended by the project engineer. Motion carried.

Fire Department Steak Fry. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve closing a portion of W. Durant Street (west side of bank ATM to the west side of Legion property) on May 13^th and payment to Kalmes Catering in the amount of $10,500 for the Fire Department Steak Fry fundraiser. Motion carried.

Police Department Report. Chief Blake requested approval to participate in a multi-agency operation on Friday, May 19^th. He reported the Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT) will reimburse the City for wages and vehicle mileage dedicated to the project. Koberg moved and Knutsen seconded to allow Blake to participate in the IDOT project as presented. Motion carried.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen reported the Deputy City Clerk will be retiring this summer. Rickertsen met with the Policy & Administration Committee last week to discuss the position and revised job description. The Policy & Administration Committee, Bieri and Mengler, moved and seconded to approve Resolution 2023-24, Approving Deputy City Clerk Job Description. Roll call ayes: Bieri, Mengler, Puck, Knutsen, and Koberg. Motion carried. Rickertsen also reported a committee will be established for the next phase of the recreational trail. This will be discussed during the council meeting on June 5^th.

Council Member Comments. Council comments include Knutsen questioning the status of the sidewalk repairs on Main Street at the bridge. The project is included with another sidewalk project (James & Century), which has not been let for bid this year but Stagg stated he would place some cold patch down as a temporary fix.

Austin Burt was present and questioned the status of the splash pad opening. Typically, the splash pad opens around Memorial Day but the area may need to be closed during the upcoming road construction project on W. Otis Street. The City anticipates having a construction timeline soon.

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

May 1, 2023 Signed minutes and claims

A special meeting of the City Council of the City of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00p.m. Council members present were: Everett Bieri, Harry Knutsen, Kirk Koberg, Lisa Mengler, and Jacob Puck. City staff present: Paul Stagg and Lisa Rickertsen.

Introduction of Audience: IMEG representatives, Jason Holdorf and Kirk Nelson, and residents: Bernard Brus, Brent Arp, Karla Burt, Kendall Mattson, Sarah Leonard, Stephanie Poggenpohl, and Sandy Barclay.

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

IMEG Report – W. Otis Street Construction Resolution. On behalf of IMEG, Jason Holdorf and Kirk Nelson presented an updated map of proposed improvements to W. Otis Street, which their company is taking responsibility for correcting the street deficiencies. Nelson stated there has been continued pavement movement since last year so they have modified the plans to replace the street and remove a few feet of backfill which was placed over the trenches. The parking area adjacent to the tennis court will also be replaced, as well as some sidewalk areas at trench crossings. They believe the movement was caused from the material used as the backfill and they feel this new plan will resolve the street issues. Mengler stated she wants to be sure there is some type of performance bond or 4-year guarantee on the improvements, which they had agreed to. Questions arose on the timing of the project. The scope has grown since last fall when they originally contacted a contractor so they do not have a current start date yet but it won’t start before Memorial Day. Holdorf will follow-up with their contractor and report a potential timeline back to the City. Discussion ensued and residents along the street were asked to contact Stagg if they have any project concerns although they feel most should be addressed in the proposed plan. Discussion was held on timing variables and having the contractor proceed with the project as soon as they are available. Questions arose on the opening of the splash pad. The opening will be dependent on the project timeline but will not be open during construction. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the construction proposal from IMEG to replace W. Otis Street. Motion carried. Brent Arp questioned the walkway to his business, which did not have stairs prior to the project, and Holdorf responded they would look at it.

Koberg moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 6:38 p.m. Ayes: All. Motion carried.

April 26, 2023 Special Mtg

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, April 17, 2023, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Everett Bieri, Kirk Koberg, Harry Knutsen, Lisa Mengler, and Jacob Puck. Staff present: Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg.

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

 Public Hearing on FYE 2024 Budget. Mayor Kostichek opened the public hearing on the budget for fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 (FYE 2024). Rickertsen stated the proposed tax levy tax rate of $10.59934 is 4.6% higher than the current levy rate but property tax revenue received will be 6.32% less than the current 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. Large expenditures include the purchase of a new fire truck and final payment for the E. Lincoln Street Improvements project. No written or other comments were received. Mengler moved and Knutsen seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting. Motion carried.

Consent Agenda. Knutsen moved and Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from April 3, 2023, March 2023 financial reports, Tax Increment Financing rebate payments per agreements to Iowa 80 Truckstop, Inc. for ½ of the 3^rd year rebate on the main building expansion in the amount of $12,829.15 and Atlantic Bottling Company for ½ of the 2^nd year rebate on the distribution building in the amount of $38,547.38, and Resolution 2023-18 – Transfer of Funds. Roll call ayes: Knutsen, Puck, Mengler, Bieri, and Koberg. Motion carried.

Resolution 2023-19, Approving the Adoption of the FYE 2024 Budget. Mengler moved and Koberg seconded to approve Resolution 2023-19. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Koberg, Knutsen, Bieri, and Puck. Motion carried.

Ordinance 534-23, Amending Provisions Pertaining to Chapter 160, Building Codes. The proposed ordinance amends Chapter 160 by adopting the State of Iowa plumbing, electrical, and mechanical codes, which will align with Scott County and other local communities. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 534-23. Roll call ayes: Puck, Bieri, Mengler, Koberg, and Knutsen. Motion carried.

Ordinance 535-23, Amending Chapter 47 Prohibiting Bounce Houses and Other Inflatables.  Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve the third and final reading of Ordinance 535-23. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Bieri, Puck, Koberg, and Knutsen. Motion carried.

Police Department Report. Blake reported on the training he attended during the previous two weeks. Mengler questioned Blake about regulations on electric golf carts that have vehicle identification numbers and can be licensed through the state. Blake responded that if it meets the State of Iowa’s regulations of an electric car it can be registered,obtain a license plate, and not fall under the City’s golf cart regulations. Koberg expressed his concerns on the City’s ATV/UTV regulations.

Public Works Department Report.

• Resolution 2023-20, Establishing Hourly Wage for Public Works Laborer/Heavy Equipment Operator. Stagg reported on the hiring of a new employee to fill the current vacancy. Koberg moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2023-20. Roll call ayes: Koberg, Mengler, Puck, Bieri, and Knutsen. Motion carried.
• Resolution 2023–21, Awarding Contract for the Sewer Main Rehabilitation by CIPP Lining Project. Stagg reported he received two quotes, after resubmitting the request for quotes (RFQ) for a sewer lining project and extending the completion date to December 15, 2023. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2023-21. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Puck, Bieri, Knutsen, and Koberg. Motion carried.
• Public Works Storage Building – Overhead Door Reframing. Stagg presented a project worksheet to frame the openings of the storage building for the new overhead doors, replace two walk-in doors, and install new steel and trim on the east side of building. The cost of the overhead doors is not included as they have already been approved to be purchased and installed. Koberg had questions and stated he felt the cost was excessive. Following discussion, Bieri moved and Knutsen seconded to approve the Public Works Storage Building overhead door reframing project, awarding it to the low bidder, Brus Construction, at a cost not to exceed $12,586.93. Motion carried with Koberg opposing.

Mayor Kostichek questioned the status of Stagg’s Certified Public Manager training. Stagg reported on recent program classes and that he is set to graduate from the program this December. Mengler questioned the cost of grinding the sloped curb on E. Lincoln Street by Liquid Grow. Stagg stated it is $12/foot. It was reported the depth of the concrete, as questioned at the last meeting, is at least 8”. Koberg expressed several concerns with the E. Lincoln Street Improvements project, including that he feels the entrance from Blue Grass Road (70^th Ave.) and street width are too narrow. Stagg will discuss the reported concerns with the project engineer.

City Clerk Report.

• HUB Business Associate Agreement. Rickertsen stated Attorney Schirman reported he saw no issues with the proposed agreement with HUB International, which is needed to be compliant with the HIPAA Privacy Rules in order to assist the City with employee benefits needs. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the HUB Business Associate Agreement. Motion carried.

Rickertsen reported on a recent meeting regarding the proposed amendment to the urban renewal area and plan, which was attended by Davenport School District Superintendent, TJ Schneckloth. A special meeting was scheduled for April 26^th at 6:00 p.m. to discuss the W. Otis Street project.

Council Member Comments. Koberg expressed his concerns with the City’s engineering firm and that a new scoreboard for Wescott Park is being donated by the Larry Koberg family.

Mengler moved and Koberg seconded to adjourn at 6:56 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

April 17, 2023 Signed Minutes & Claims

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, April 3, 2023, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Everett Bieri, Kirk Koberg, Harry Knutsen, Lisa Mengler, and Jacob Puck. Staff present: Lisa Rickertsen and Paul Stagg.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Bridget Geigle, Megan & Ben McKibbin, and Korry Kraft were present on behalf of the Fire Department and Lesa Puck was present on behalf of Walcott Women. Megan McKibbin reported on a fundraiser opportunity through her employer, Front Street Brewery, for the Fire Department. Council had no opposition with the fundraiser for the Fire Department as presented but requested future communication regarding the event details.

Consent Agenda. Mengler moved and Koberg seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from March 20, 2023, and Resolution 2023-12, Transfer of Funds. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Koberg, Knutsen, Puck, and Bieri. Motion carried.

Special Class C License including Outdoor & Sunday Sales for Walcott Unified Fund at Victory Park. Mengler moved and Koberg seconded to approve the Special Class C license for Walcott Unified Fund at Victory Park, pending submittal of insurance. Motion carried.

Special Class C License including Outdoor & Sunday Sales for Walcott Unified Fund at Wescott Park. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve the Special Class C license for Walcott Unified Fund at Wescott Park, pending submittal of insurance. Motion carried.

Walcott Women – Street Closure Request for Summer Fest. Lesa Puck reported on the request to close either a portion of W. Otis Street, or N. Henry Street, on June 11^th for a summer celebration for the kids. Puck stated that a Kona Ice truck will be there and Walcott Women will be providing the shaved ice to the kids. Discussion was held on the potential closure of W. Otis Street around this date due to street deficiencies. Koberg moved and Bieri seconded to approve the closure of N. Henry Street, between James and Otis Streets, on June 11^th from 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Motion carried.

Resolution 2023-13, Approving Muscatine County Mutual Aid Fire Protection Agreement. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2023-13. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Puck, Bieri, Knutsen, and Koberg. Motion carried.

Resolution 2023-14, Setting Date for Public Hearing on Designation of the Expanded Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area and Urban Renewal Plan Amendment. This Resolution is to set a public hearing date on the proposal to amend the boundaries of the urban renewal area and the urban renewal plan. Bieri moved the adoption of Resolution 2023-14 and the motion was seconded by Puck. Roll call ayes: Bieri, Puck, Mengler, Knutsen, and Koberg. Motion carried. The public hearing will be on May 1^st at 6:00 p.m. The expansion is to add lot 1 of the Iowa 80 9^th Addition to the urban renewal area.

Ordinance 534-23, Amending Provisions Pertaining to Chapter 160, Building Codes. The proposed ordinance amends Chapter 160 by adopting the State of Iowa plumbing, electrical, and mechanical codes, which will align with Scott County and other local communities. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 534-23. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Bieri, Puck, Knutsen, and Koberg. Motion carried.

Ordinance 535-23, Amending Chapter 47 Prohibiting Bounce Houses and Other Inflatables. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 535-23. Roll call ayes: Puck, Bieri, Mengler, Knutsen, and Koberg. Motion carried.

Ordinance 536-23, Deleting Property from the Tax Increment Financing District. The initial consideration to Ordinance 536-23 was given on March 20, 2023. It was moved by Puck and seconded by Mengler that the statutory rule requiring an ordinance to be considered and voted on for passage at two Council meetings prior to the meeting at which it is to be finally passed be suspended (waive the 2^nd reading) for Ordinance 536-23. Roll call ayes: Puck, Mengler, Bieri, Knutsen, and Koberg. Motion carried. Bieri moved and Puck seconded that Ordinance 536-23 be put upon its final consideration and adoption (3^rd reading). Roll call ayes: Bieri, Puck, Mengler, Koberg, and Knutsen. Motion carried.

Policy & Administration Committee (Bieri and Mengler) Recommendations.

• Resolution 2023-15, Approving Amendments to the Personnel Policy Handbook for the City of Walcott. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve Resolution 2023-15. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Bieri, Puck, Koberg, and Knutsen. Motion carried.
• Resolution 2023-16, Setting Wages for Employees for Fiscal Year Beginning July 1, 2023. Bieri moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2023-16 as presented. Roll call ayes: Bieri, Mengler, Koberg, Knutsen, and Puck. Motion carried. Koberg felt the Police Chief’s wage should be higher and he questioned why the Chief is no longer allowed to take a squad home. It was reported the use of the squad to and from his personal residence was allowed due to the K9 dog, which is now retired, and policy prohibits employees using vehicles to travel to and from their personal residence (with exceptions).

Lincoln Street Improvements Project. Stagg stated he (and the project engineer) recommends approval of payment #7 and the change orders as stated in Resolution 2023-17. Koberg questioned if the street concrete depth is 8” and felt the drive over curb at Liquid Grow is too steep. Stagg responded he will verify the concrete depth and stated the sloped curb in front of Liquid Grow was poured per the plans and specifications, which were discussed during the meeting with two representatives from Liquid Grow in attendance. Koberg expressed concerns with the curb around the concrete containment area and the narrow width of the street. Stagg will obtain a cost to grind the curb by Liquid Grow.

• Payment #7 – Needham Excavating Inc. Mengler moved and Koberg seconded to approve payment #7 to Needham Excavating in the amount of $71,686.64. Motion carried.
• Resolution 2023-17, Approving Change Orders for the E. Lincoln Street Improvements Project. Stagg reported on the change order additions and deletion, which total $5,630.36. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve Resolution 2023-17. Roll call aye: Puck, Bieri, Mengler, Koberg, and Knutsen. Motion carried.
• Sidewalk Modifications for Property from Century Street to School. Stagg reported on a request to move the sidewalk from 1’ to 4’ from the property line (from Century St to school) due to trees, drainage, and matching the sidewalk west of Century Street. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the sidewalk modification as presented (locate the sidewalk 4’ from property line instead of 1’). Motion carried.

Stagg also reported on a request to seed the south side of E. Lincoln Street instead of using sod per the plan. Council consensus was to move forward with the proposed change to seed the area as presented. Stagg also reminded council that E. Lincoln Street is not open for traffic until the project is completed and accepted by the City.

Public Works Department Report. Stagg reported he submitted a request for quotes (RFQ) for a sewer lining project but only received one bid. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to reject the bid. Motion carried. Stagg will reissue the RFQ with a later project completion date of December 2023. Stagg reported on the recent wastewater inspection by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen presented her report which included that unfortunately the YMCA Camp Abe Lincoln is unable to administer the City of Walcott’s Summer Youth Recreation program in 2023.

Mayor’s Report. Mayor Kostichek thanked the Fire Department members for pursuing other funding opportunities. He also expressed thanks to the members of the Walcott Women organization for sponsoring community events for the youth.

Council Member Comments. Mengler thanked the Walcott Women organization for sponsoring the recent Easter Egg Hunt.

Koberg moved and Puck seconded to adjourn at 6:53 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

April 3, 2023 Signed Minutes & Claims

April 2023 Walcott Chamber Newsletter

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 20^th day of March 2023 at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Everett Bieri, Kirk Koberg, Harry Knutsen, Lisa Mengler, and Jacob Puck. Staff present: Lisa Rickertsen and Paul Stagg.

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

Public Hearing. Mayor Kostichek opened the public hearing on the proposed ordinance amending Chapter 160 of the Walcott City Code, which will align with the State of Iowa’s mechanical, electrical, and plumbing codes. No written or oral 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 Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from March 6, 2023, and set Spring Clean-Up Day for May 6, 2023, from 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Motion carried. The dumpsters will be located at the compost area and the area will be closed from Friday, May 5^th until Monday, May 8^th, except during the clean-up day hours.

Park Board Recommendation – Naming of Field at Wescott Park. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the Park Board’s recommendation to name the field at Wescott Park, Larry Koberg Field, and purchase two signs, to be placed on backstop and third base line. Motion carried.

Resolution 2023-11, Deleting Property from the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area. Bieri moved the adoption of Resolution 2023-11, Deleting Property from the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area, and the motion was seconded by Koberg. Roll call ayes: Bieri, Koberg, Knutsen, Mengler, and Puck. Nays: None. Motion carried.

Ordinance 534-23, Amending Provisions Pertaining to Chapter 160, Building Codes. The proposed ordinance amends Chapter 160 to adopt the State of Iowa plumbing, electrical, and mechanical codes, which will align with Scott County and other local communities. Koberg moved and Puck seconded to approve the first reading of Ordinance 534-23. Roll call ayes: Koberg, Puck, Mengler, Bieri, and Knutsen. Motion carried.

Ordinance 535-23, Amending Chapter 47 Prohibiting Bounce Houses and Other Inflatables. Mengler expressed concerns with some wording in the proposed ordinance and suggested changes in sections A, B, and D. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve the first reading of Ordinance 535-23 with the changes as presented. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Bieri, Puck, Knutsen, and Koberg. Motion carried.

Ordinance 536-23, Deleting Property from the Tax Increment Financing District. The proposed ordinance removes Lot 1 of the Iowa 80 9^th Addition from the tax increment financing district. Knutsen moved and Bieri seconded to approve the first reading of Ordinance 536-23. Roll call ayes: Knutsen, Bieri, Mengler, Puck, and Koberg. Motion carried.

Public Works Department Report. Stagg presented a project worksheet to inspect the water tower and replace the outdated safety climb system in the tower. Koberg expressed concerns regarding the cost and necessity. Mengler moved and Knutsen seconded to approve the purchase of the safety climb system and tower inspection as presented at a cost of $5,424 (Utility Service Co., Inc.). Motion carried with Koberg opposing.

City Clerk Report. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to set the public hearing date on the FYE 2024 budget for April 17, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. Motion carried. Rickertsen presented information on the proposed FYE 2024 budget. Following discussion, council consensus was to list the levy rate on the hearing notice at 10.59934.

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

March 20, 2023 Minutes & claims

March 2023 Walcott Chamber Newsletter

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 6^th day of March, 2023 at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Everett Bieri, Kirk Koberg, Harry Knutsen, Lisa Mengler, and Jacob Puck. Staff present: Jeff Blake, Lisa Rickertsen, and Paul Stagg. Attorney Jeff McDaniel was also present.

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

Introduction of Audience/Public Comments. Kendall Mattson, Korry Kraft, Crystal Bolser, and Vinh Phan were present. Kendall Mattson presented photos of areas of concern on W. Otis Street that he felt were not identified on the map from IMEG (presented to City Council on 2/13/23), as sections they intend to replace, and Mattson wanted to be sure the City was aware of the areas. Mayor Kostichek thanked Mattson for the information.

Consent Agenda. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, February 2023 financial reports, and Resolution 2023-10, Transfer of Funds. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Bieri, Puck, Koberg, and Knutsen. Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes from February 20, 2023. Knutsen moved and Puck seconded to approve the minutes from February 20, 2023. Motion carried with Koberg abstaining due to absence at meeting.

Approval of Fire Department Members. Chief Korry Kraft introduced residents Crystal Bolser and Vinh Phan and stated they both completed the required training and the department members voted to approve their membership, pending council approval. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to appoint Crystal Bolser and Vinh Phan to the Walcott Volunteer Fire Department. Motion carried. Mayor Kostichek and Council members expressed their appreciation to Bolser and Phan and thanked them for volunteering to join the Fire Department.

All audience members left the meeting.

Kaitlynn Capper & Nic Butcher – Sewer Backup at 133 N. Downey Street. Neither Capper or Butcher were in attendance so the matter will be brought up again at the end of the meeting.

 Ordinance 533-23, Amending Chapter 162 Pertaining to Requirements for Rental Property. The proposed change references the City’s Rental Housing Guide, which will exclude single family homes occupied by children or parents of the owner from rental housing inspections. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve the third reading of Ordinance 533-23. Roll call ayes: Puck, Bieri, Mengler, Koberg, and Knutsen. Motion carried.

Public Works Department Report.

• Replace Gas Monitoring System at WWTP (Wastewater Treatment Plant). Stagg presented a project worksheet to replace the gas monitoring system at the WWTP. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve the purchase of the gas monitoring system as presented, in the amount of $9,485. Motion carried.
• Set Public Hearing Date on Amending Chapter 160, Building Codes. Stagg reported the Building Official, Scott Bengfort, is recommending to adopt the State of Iowa Plumbing, Electrical, and Mechanical codes. Scott County and other communities in the County are also adopting these same codes. Bieri moved and Knutsen seconded to set the public hearing date for March 20, 2023, at 6:00 p.m.

Stagg also reported on equipment recently ordered for the UV system at the WWTP. Mengler and Koberg had questions and concerns on the E. Lincoln Street project. Stagg also reported he intends to obtain quotes on a sewer lining project.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen presented information on the proposed FYE 2024 budget, including changes to the taxable valuations due to recent legislation, lower property tax revenue, General Fund revenue account details, and levy rate history. Questions arose on the fine revenue and discussion ensued on why traffic violations were written on state codes instead of local codes since the revenue from the local code violations would come to the City instead of the state. Chief Blake will research and provide information at a future meeting. Rickertsen reported on her communication with the City Attorney that local organizations should not be using the City’s address as that of its registered agent when registering and submitting reports with the Iowa Secretary of State.

Kaitlynn Capper & Nic Butcher – Sewer Backup at 133 N. Downey Street. Rickertsen reported Capper had requested to be placed on the agenda, which was verified via email on 3/3/23. Since both Capper and Butcher failed to attend the meeting the matter is closed.

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

March 6, 2023 Signed Minutes & Claims

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 20^th day of February, 2023 at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Everett Bieri, Lisa Mengler, Harry Knutsen, and Jacob Puck. Absent: Kirk Koberg. Staff present: Jeff Blake and Lisa Rickertsen.

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

Consent Agenda. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from February 13, 2023, and annual insurance renewal with EMC Insurance with Arp Insurance being the local agent. Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes from February 6, 2023. Knutsen moved and Bieri seconded to approve the minutes from February 6, 2023. Motion carried.

Hearts & Hands Foundation Updates. Brent Puck and Austin Burt were present on behalf of the Hearts & Hands Foundation. Puck questioned if the City was interested in moving forward with phase two of the recreational trail. This would go from the current trail, behind the homes on the north side of Michelle Lane, and run along the creek to W. Otis Street. Following discussion, the potential trail project will be placed a future council agenda. Puck also expressed concerns with the need for future residential growth and offered their assistance. Burt presented three options on wayfinding signs, an idea that came out of the 2019 Community Visioning Program. The options include using the same decorative poles as on N. Main Street, either with or without the light fixture. The signage would indicate direction of amenities, such as parks and public facilities. The preliminary proposal is for seven poles, located at three Main Street intersections. Burt will obtain updated costs on options for the poles and signage. Mengler thanked the Hearts & Hands Foundation members and expressed appreciation for everything they do for the City.

E. Lincoln Street Improvements Project. Mengler moved and Puck seconded to approve payment #6 to Needham Excavating in the amount of $803,671.39. Motion carried.

Resolution 2023-8, Amending and Approving the Rental Housing Guide for the City of Walcott. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve Resolution 2023-8. Roll call ayes: Puck, Bieri, Mengler, and Knutsen. Motion carried.

Resolution 2023-9, Amending and Approving the Investment Policy for the City of Walcott. Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to approve Resolution 2023-9. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Bieri, Knutsen, and Puck. Motion carried.

Ordinance 533-23, Amending Chapter 162 Pertaining to Requirements for Rental Property. The proposed change references the City’s Rental Housing Guide, which will exclude single family homes occupied by children or parents of the owner from rental housing inspections. Puck moved and Bieri seconded to approve the second reading of Ordinance 533-23. Roll call ayes: Puck, Bieri, Mengler, and Knutsen. Motion carried.

City Clerk Report. Rickertsen presented her report including an update on senate study bill (SSB 1124) and the impact it may have to the City. She also reported on a notice from the County Assessor regarding a valuation litigation settlement on a parcel located in the City.

• FYE 2024 Budget Update. Rickertsen reported on recent state legislation which reduces the residential taxable valuations in the next budget, FYE 2024. The budget deadline has been extended in order for Counties to recalculate the taxable valuations. Further budget discussions will resume in March.
• Urban Renewal Area Changes. Discussion was held on changes to the current urban renewal area and potential projects. Council consensus was to proceed with area changes as presented.

Mayor Report. Mayor Kostichek thanked the Hearts & Hands Foundation members for their efforts in providing the preliminary work on potential City projects.

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

February 20, 2023 Signed Minutes & Claims

A special meeting of the City Council of the City of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, February 13, 2023, at Walcott City Hall. Mayor John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 5:03 p.m. Council members present were: Everett Bieri, Harry Knutsen, Kirk Koberg, Lisa Mengler, and Jacob Puck. City staff present: Paul Stagg and Lisa Rickertsen. City Engineer, Jason Holdorf, was also present.

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

City Engineer Report – W. Otis Street Construction Resolution. On behalf of IMEG, Jason Holdorf presented an updated map of sections of W. Otis Street they intend to replace. IMEG is taking responsibility for correcting the street deficiencies. Holdorf stated they will monitor to make sure the corrections are sufficient, similar to a four-year maintenance bond. Mayor Kostichek, Koberg, and Mengler all expressed concerns with only replacing partial concrete sections, especially since it has deteriorated more since last fall and if additional slag is not removed future movement and cracks may occur. Holdorf stated in IMEG’s opinion their proposal should work but will have more information once sections are removed. He also stated he doesn’t feel it’s financially realistic to remove all the slag and replace the entire street at this time. Discussion ensued and Mengler and Koberg both stated they feel the slag should be removed and the entire street should be replaced. Stagg stated the slag used in the trench backfill was identified as the issue causing concrete movements/cracks but expressed concerns that there aren’t very many panels directly over the sanitary sewer trench that are being proposed for replacement, so only a minimal amount of slag would be removed. Mengler questioned the potential timeline and Holdorf replied the contractor won’t be able to start until after Memorial Day. Discussion was held on additional studies and drafting an agreement between IMEG and the City for the resolution of W. Otis Street. Holdorf will take the City’s concerns back to IMEG and attend a future council meeting this spring.

Mengler moved and Bieri seconded to adjourn at 5:46 p.m. Ayes: All. Motion carried.

February 13, 2023 Special Mtg