The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 20^th day of February, 2012 at Walcott City Hall. Mayor Pro-Tem John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Other council members present were: Tim Koehler, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: Mayor Couper. City employees present: John Brockmann, Lisa Rickertsen, Tom Schirman, and Adam Hill.

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

Consent Agenda. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices and January 2012 financial reports. Motion carried.

Audience. Kristal Koberg-Schaefer, Janice Dawson, and Wayne Latimer.

Minutes from 02/06/2012. Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the minutes from 02/06/2012. Jackie Puck abstained due to absence from meeting. Motion carried.

Vision Committee : Kristal Koberg-Schaefer. Koberg-Schaefer stated the Vision Committee would like feedback on trying to acquire property located at 123 Walcott Road for Main Street Enhancement and future location of a city sign. Following discussion, she requested approval for the Vision Committee to solicit private donors to acquire and purchase the property and gift it to the City for the placement of a city sign. Council expressed concerns that prior to accepting the property donation they would need confirmation that the property did not have any environmental issues. Following further discussion, Mengler moved and Koehler seconded to allow the Vision Committee to pursue private donors that would purchase the property at 123 W. Walcott Road and gift it to the City, free and clear of all financial and environmental issues. Motion carried with Jackie Puck voting against.

1113 N. Main Street : RFP. Rickertsen presented a proposed Request for Proposals (RFP) for the renovation of the building at 1113 N. Main Street. Discussion was held on adding more focus on experience and qualifications, pre-proposal meeting date and time, proposal submittal date and preference of local architect firms. Council consensus was to not send the RFP to an interested firm that is located in Madison, WI. Mengler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the RFP with additions as discussed. Motion carried.

Resolution 2012-10, Reduce Speed Limit on Walcott Road. This Resolution requests the Scott County Board of Supervisors to extend the 50 MPH speed limit to include all city limits from west to east. The City maintains the south side of the road and Scott County maintains the north side, therefore a joint agreement is needed when changing the speed limit. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2012-10. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Mengler, Jacob Puck, Koehler, and Kostichek. Motion carried. An ordinance changing the speed limit will be a prepared for a future meeting.

Sludge Removal & Disposal : Engineering Fees. Brockmann presented proposals from two engineering firms for assistance with the sludge disposal process from a closed wastewater lagoon. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to accept the bid from Stanley Consultants, Inc. at a fee of $5,660. Motion carried.

Summer Youth Program. Rickertsen reported the proposed rate for a six-week summer youth program with Scott County YMCA has increased by 3% ($5.40) per participant. Jackie Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve the 2012 Summer Youth Program, June 18^th : July 27^th, with a fee of $65 per participant for residents of the Walcott community (inside city limits and Fire District #6) and charge the full cost of $191.70 for non-residents. Motion carried. The program will be on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9 a.m. : Noon.

Wages and Benefits. Mengler reported on the following recommendations from the Policy and Administration Committee:

• FYE 2013 Wages : 2% average wage increase ($.47/hour) for full-time staff and department heads to grant increases to part-time staff not to exceed 2% of wage and no greater than $.47/hour.
• Grant holiday pay for Building Inspector as follows: If the holiday falls on a Monday, he will receive 4 hours holiday pay with the option to make up the remaining 4 hours another day and 4 hours holiday pay when it falls on his remaining regular scheduled days (Tuesday : Thursday).
• Allow employees to carry over two weeks (80 hours) of vacation instead of the current 40 hours.
• Leave all other benefits as is.

Koehler expressed concerns regarding the medical reimbursement policy. Rickertsen explained that the budgeted numbers are the City's exposure although the actual numbers typically are around 45% of the budgeted amount. The Policy and Administration Committee, Mengler and Jackie Puck, moved and seconded to approve the wages and benefits as discussed. Motion carried. Resolutions approving FYE 2013 wages and benefit changes will be prepared for a future meeting.

Public Work's Report. Brockmann presented his report including project updates, NPDES permit for wastewater treatment facility, and potential donation of picnic tables from Walcott Day Committee.

City Clerk's Report. Rickertsen presented a memo to the council regarding reimbursement of a portion of the CAT (Community Attraction & Tourism) grant funds for the Recreational Trail & Park Project. She explained that the grant writer included project funds in the application that had already been paid. These expenses are not considered as qualified (reimbursable) expenditures by the CAT grant program and should not have been included. Rickertsen stated that during the last Recreational Trail Committee meeting they made a motion to ask the City to cover the balance needed to complete the project. A committee member will be asked to attend a future meeting in April.

City Attorney Report. Schirman reported that after further investigation of the parcel on Cedar Lane Drive regarding the tree stump, it has been determined that it's a very unusual situation where the property extends to the middle of the street and a street easement is dedicated to the City instead of City owned right-of-way. Schirman recommended that since there is no liability and the stump is not obstructing traveled surfaces that it be left alone and be the sole responsibility of the property owners. The tree ordinance will be reviewed during a future meeting.

Questions/Concerns. It was reported that the letter was sent to the Mobile Home Park owner regarding a street light request but a response has not been received.

Jackie Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to adjourn at 7:30 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 6^th day of February, 2012 at WalcottCity Hall. Mayor Jim Couper called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present were: Tim Koehler, John Kostichek, Lisa Mengler, and Jacob Puck. Absent: Jackie Puck. City employees present: John Brockmann, Lisa Rickertsen, Tom Schirman, Jeff Blake, and Joe Hahn.

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

Consent Agenda. Koehler moved and Kostichek seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from January 16, 2012, minutes from January 18, 2012, and the liquor license renewal for Gramma's Kitchen & The Checkered Flag. Motion carried.

Audience. Sharon Hesse, Joe Taylor, Brent Puck, Josie & Verlyn Dietz, Mike Byington, Laura Berkley, Janice Dawson, Dick Hagen, Kristal Schaefer, and Wayne Latimer.

Resolution 2012-8, Supporting Approval & Adoption of the Scott County Multi-Jurisdiction Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. Bi-State Representative, Laura Berkley, attended the meeting and reported that Bi-State has been working with ScottCounty communities for the past three years on a multi-jurisdiction local hazard mitigation plan. Berkley gave a brief presentation on the plan and stated communities that participate in the plan will have access to FEMA funds. Koehler questioned the local hazard mitigation actions and Berkley stated communities are under no financial obligation to act on all the mitigation actions listed in the plan but they must be identified in order to apply for FEMA funding. Koehler moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2012-8. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Mengler, Kostichek, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried.

Quad City Convention Bureau. Joe Taylor, Quad City Convention Bureau, was present and stated the Bureau closed in LeClaire on December 30, 2011, but they are looking at other locations to impact visitors. He requested a partnership contribution of $5,000 from Walcott as they are working on a location at the Truckstop area for a small visitor's kiosk. Further discussion on the contribution request will be held during the budget discussion later in the meeting.

Vision Committee.

Appointment of Members. Following a request to add two members to the Vision Committee, Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the appointment of two new members, Josie Dietz and Dick Hagen. Motion carried.

Community Development Internship Program. Discussion was held on the Community Development Internship program with the University of Iowa in the Urban & Regional Planning Department. The program allows a graduate student to work with a community in identifying possible funding sources and providing valuable information and ideas at no cost. Mengler moved and Kostichek seconded to participate in the program and allow the Vision Committee to work with a graduate student. Motion carried.

Review of Visioning Meeting. Discussion was held on the Visioning Meeting held on January 25^th. Council member comments included the lack of attendance from all age groups, positive feedback on breaking into small groups, and overall consensus that it was a positive meeting. Ballots collected at the conclusion of the meeting indicated relocating City Hall to the building at 1113 N. Main Street was the most popular of the various options. A lengthy discussion was held on the next steps and how to proceed. Council consensus was to list a RFP (Request for Proposals) for an architect on the next regular agenda.

Tree Stump in City Right-of-Way on Cedar Lane Drive. Rickertsen read a letter from the property owner on Cedar Lane Drive that stated their intent is to turn the tree stump into a carving. A dead tree, located in the right-of-way, was removed by the City but several feet of the stump remains, per the adjacent property owner's request. Following discussion it was determined that Attorney Schirman will research this issue.

Street Light Request. A petition was received from residents in the Walcott Estates Mobile Home Park requesting the City install a street light at the east entrance in the park. Attorney Schirman stated the site plan that was approved for this addition twelve years ago included proposed street lights and it appears that one was to be located at the private entrance. He also reported the City Code states that lighting of private streets in mobile home parks is the responsibility of the park owner. Council consensus was to send a letter to the park owner, along with a copy of the petition.

Resolution 2012-9, Approving Change Order #1 for the North Lift Station Improvements Project. Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to approve Resolution 2012-9. Ayes: Jacob Puck, Mengler, and Kostichek. Koehler abstained due to conflict of interest since Koehler Electric is a subcontractor for the project. Motion carried. This change order includes multiple items but overall it reduces the total project amount by $1,990.

Asbestos Removal at 106 W. Lincoln Street. Brockmann presented a project worksheet to remove the asbestos at 106 W. Lincoln Street. Kostichek moved and Mengler seconded to accept the low bid from Environmental Management Services of Iowa, Inc. to remove and dispose of asbestos in the amount of $1,980. Motion carried. Brockmann reported that all utility services have been contacted to disconnect services.

Police Report. Chief Blake presented a project worksheet to purchase an AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) for the second squad. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to purchase an AED at a cost not to exceed $1,800 and to purchase the infant/child electrodes not to exceed $140. Motion carried.

Public Work's Report. Brockmann presented his report including updates on the following: new tractor, wastewater treatment plant, reflective signs, and lift station project.

FYE 2013 Budget. Discussion was held on the FYE 2013 budget. A contribution to the Quad City Convention Bureau in the amount of $2,500 was added to the proposed budget and this contribution will only be made if a kiosk in installed at the Iowa 80 Truckstop. Kostichek moved and Koehler seconded to set the levy rate at $9.99999 per $1,000 valuation on regular property. Motion carried. The current levy rate is $10.00. Discussion was held on the need to increase sewer rates, effective July 1, 2012. Rickertsen will prepare an ordinance amendment for a future meeting. Kostichek moved and Mengler seconded to set the public hearing for March 5, 2012, at 6 p.m. Motion carried.

Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:55 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

A special meeting of the City Council of the City of Walcott, Iowa was held on Wednesday, January 18, 2012, with Mayor Couper calling the meeting to order at 6:10 p.m. Council members present were: Tim Koehler, John Kostichek, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. City employees present were: Lisa Rickertsen, John Brockmann, Jeff Blake, and Joe Hahn.

Kostichek moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the agenda. Ayes: All. Motion carried.

Discussion was held on the proposed budget including a review of all general and reserve funds, special revenue funds, capital projects, and proprietary funds for FYE 2013. The budget will be discussed again during the regular council meeting on February 6, 2012

Jacob Puck moved and Mengler seconded to adjourn at 9:00 p.m. Ayes: All. Motion carried.

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 16^th day of January, 2012 at Walcott City Hall. Mayor Jim Couper called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present were: Tim Koehler, John Kostichek, Lisa Mengler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. City employees present: John Brockmann, Lisa Rickertsen, Tom Schirman, Jeff Blake, and Joe Hahn.

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

Consent Agenda. Mengler questioned the bill from Voelkers Plumbing for work done at 1113 N. Main Street. This bill was for a new boiler pump and removing and cleaning the burners as they had been under water and were full of rust. Brockmann stated that heat was needed in the building in order to keep the sump pump from freezing. Koehler moved and Kostichek seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from January 3, 2012, and the December 2011 financial reports. Motion carried.

Audience. Janice Dawson and Wayne Latimer.

Resolution 2012-7, Authorizing Internal Advance to Tax Increment Revenue (TIF) Fund. Rickertsen explained this is an internal loan, $225,000 from the Water Fund and $225,000 from the Local Option Sales Tax Fund, for the North Lift Station Improvements Project. The funds will be repaid from the TIF Fund by June 1, 2014. Mengler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2012-7. Roll call ayes: Mengler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Koehler, and Kostichek. Motion carried.

Street Light Request. Brockmann reported he had a citizen request a street light at the intersection of the east Mobile Home Park entrance and Walcott Road. Discussion was held regarding estimated costs and that the entrance is a private drive, not a city street. Following further discussion, Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to deny the request as it's not the City's responsibility to light a private drive. Motion carried. Brockmann was asked to relay the information to the citizen and the Mobile Home Park since it's their private drive.

North Lift Station Improvements Project. Brockmann reported on the preconstruction meeting for the project. Change orders, including credits, will be presented to council at a future meeting.

Police Report. Chief Blake requested training approval for Sergeant Hill and Officer Mayberry to attend a two week training session in Ankeny at a cost of $500 each plus travel and meals. Jackie Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to approve the training for two officers at a total cost of $1,000 plus travel and meals. Motion carried. Chief Blake also reported he would be attending a free instructor class on standardized field sobriety in February.

Public Work's Report. Brockmann updated the council on recent water main breaks and discussed concerns with the Vision Committee/meeting. Discussion was held on the building maintenance at 1113 N. Main Street. Mayor Couper stated he gave Brockmann permission to do some painting at 1113 N. Main Street as the city needs to maintain all city-owned buildings.

City Clerk's Report. Discussion was held on having available department heads present during the open house at 1113 N. Main Street on January 21^st.

Questions/Concerns. Jackie Puck questioned Chief Hahn if a full-time fire employee was needed in the near future. Hahn responded he didn't feel it was needed in the next few years and he stated that Walcott is a provisional fire and EMS service and has 28E agreements for mutual aid. Kostichek questioned the county-wide emergency system. Chief Blake responded that the radios are working better and so far the software is running faster.

Municipal Leadership Online Training Session. Audience members and staff, with the exception of Rickertsen, left meeting and the Mayor and council viewed a 40 minute online presentation on city budgets. Following the session, Mayor Couper questioned the tree stump remaining on Cedar Lane Drive. The item will be placed on the next regular agenda and Mayor Couper will contact Brockmann.

Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to adjourn at 7:47 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

• Resolution 2012-6, Approving Contract & Bonds. Jackie Puckmoved and Kostichek seconded to approve Resolution 2012-6. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Kostichek, Mengler, Koehler, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried. This contract is with Jim Schroeder Construction in the amount of $371,895. Schirman reported the council may want to consider adopting a policy requiring the bonds to be 115% of contract price instead of the current 100%. Rickertsen will check with other cities.

• Resolution 2011-64, Approving Change Orders #5 & #6. Rickertsen explained that change order #5 was a deduction in the amount of $15,216.32 due to field quantity of line items and change order #6 was a deduction of $7,000 for liquidated damages for overrun in working days. Koehler moved and Kostichek seconded to approve Resolution 2011-64. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Kostichek, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried.
• Resolution 2011-65, Accepting Improvements and Authorizing Final Payment. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2011-65. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jackie Puck, Kostichek, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried. The final payment to McCarthy Improvements is $27,450.82 bringing the total contractor payment to $855,999.21.

• Resolution 2011-66, Accepting Improvements and Authorizing Final Payment. Jackie Puck moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2011-66. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, Koehler, and Kostichek. Motion carried. The final payment to Muscatine Bridge Company is $29,611.31 bringing the total contractor payment to $250,959.75.

• Resolution 2011-67, Awarding Contract. Rickertsen reported there were twelve bidders and the low bidder was Jim Schroeder Construction. Discussion was held with Brockmann on the bid alternate of a flow meter. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2011-67 with a contract amount of $371,895 (base bid plus alternate A). Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, and Kostichek.

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 5^th day of December, 2011 at WalcottCity Hall. Mayor Couper called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present were: Tim Koehler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: John Kostichek and Larry Koberg. City employees present: J. Brockmann, L. Rickertsen, and J. Blake.

Mayor Couper reported item six (Vision Committee) would be removed from the agenda and placed on the next agenda and items seven (Engineering & Surveying Fees for Sewage Lagoon/Sludge Removal & Disposal) and twelve (Purchase Approval of Case 570MXT Tractor) were requested to be removed by J. Brockmann. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the agenda with the three deletions as discussed. Motion carried.

Consent Agenda. Jackie Puck questioned a bill from Verbeke-Meyer. J. Brockmann responded it was a non-contract item for the change order request which he approved the engineer to proceed. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices and minutes from 11/21/2011. Motion carried.

Audience. Brent Puck, Lisa Mengler, Janice Dawson, Wayne and Beth Latimer, Mary Lincoln, Josie Dietz, and Loretta Beitel.

North Downey Street Project. Discussion was held on the change order request regarding additional gravel at the south end of North Downey Street. Following discussion Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2011-63, Approving Change Order. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried. This change order is in the amount of $2,308.50, bringing the total project construction amount to $258,477.25.

Approval of TIF Rebate Application. Rickertsen stated the application is from Sterling Partners LLC for a multi-use building in the Iowa 80 Sixth Addition. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the application from Sterling Partners LLC. Motion carried. Rickertsen will contact the bonding attorney to initiate development agreement proceedings.

TIF Rebate Program. This topic was tabled until the next meeting since two council members were absent.

Police Department Report. Blake presented a project worksheet for purchase approval of two bulletproof vests. Following discussion, Jackie Puck moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve purchasing two vests from Panther Uniform at a cost of $1,134. Motion carried.

Public Work's Report. Brockmann presented his report including the following:

• Completion of gazebo at PrairieViewPark.
• Underground boring completed at PrairieViewPark and WelcomePark. Brockmann reported the contractor, Bortec Inc. (Reed & Shauna Storjohann), donated the labor for the boring at WelcomePark and that Walcott Day Committee was paying for the boring materials.
• Problems with a variable speed drive at the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

City Clerk's Report. Rickertsen reported she received confirmation that the State Auditor's Office would perform the audit required for FYE 2012 at a range of $8,200- $8,800.

City Attorney Report. Attorney Schirman reported the closing on the Wulf property (lift station project) and the property at 106 W. Lincoln Street should both occur prior to the next meeting.

Questions/Concerns. Discussion was held on the notice of violation received from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) for a NPDES permit for the North Downey Street Project. Brockmann reported that Engineer Jon White responded to the IDNR addressing the issues.

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

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 21^st day of November, 2011 at WalcottCity Hall. Mayor Couper called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Council members present were: Larry Koberg, Tim Koehler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: John Kostichek. City employees present: J. Brockmann, L. Rickertsen, and J. Blake.

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

Mayor Couper opened the Public Hearing on the Plans, Specifications, Cost Estimate, and Form of Contract for the North Lift Station Improvements Project. Rickertsen stated the construction cost estimate with contingency is $418,777. No other oral or written comments were received. Koberg moved and Jackie Puck seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting. Motion carried.

Consent Agenda. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from 11/07/2011, minutes from 11/16/2011, October 2011 Financial Reports, Resolution 2011-59, Transfer of Funds. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jackie Puck, Koberg, and Jake Puck. Motion carried.

Audience. Brent Puck, Lisa Mengler, Janice Dawson, Wayne and Beth Latimer, Howard Johnson, Nicole Dunkel, and Dick Hagen.

Alliant Energy. Alliant Energy representative, Nicole Dunkel, was present to discuss Alliant Energy's community involvement and investments in Walcott including infrastructure investments, energy-saving services, and tree planting program. Customer forms and information can be found online at their website at www.alliantenergy.com.

Resolution 2011-60, Obligating Funds from the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Area. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2011-60. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, and Koberg. Motion carried. This resolution obligates $96,556 from the Consolidated Walcott Urban Renewal Tax Revenue Fund with respect to the City's Development Agreements with Iowa 80 Truckstop Inc., T&C Storage, and Ossian Inc. for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2012.

Resolution 2011-61, Obligating Funds from the Walcott Urban Renewal Area #2. Koberg moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2011-61. Roll call ayes: Koberg, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck, and Koehler. Motion carried. This resolution obligates $63,000 from the Walcott Urban Renewal Area No. 2 Revenue Fund with respect to the City's Development Agreement with Petersen Health Care for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2012.

North Lift Station Improvements Project. Brockmann and Project Engineer Howard Johnson presenting their differing opinions on the proposed amendment in the amount of $4,800 to the Engineering Agreement with Shive-Hattery and the City for the North Lift Station Improvements Project. Following discussion, Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve an amendment to the agreement in the amount of $3,100. Motion carried. Koberg moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2011-62, Approving Plans & Specifications. Roll call ayes: Koberg, Koehler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried. Koberg moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve a payment to Shive-Hattery in the amount of $2,100.78. Motion carried.

Recreational Trail Project. Brockmann present a project worksheet and recommended installing a permanent fence around the pond. He stated he felt the pond is a hazard during the winter. Brent Puck reported that the Trail Committee members were unanimous in their opposition to a permanent fence. They understand the safety concern during winter months but felt that clearing snow on the trail will assist in defining the area and tall grasses will eventually create a natural border. Brent Puck suggested stakes and rope around the pond as it would help define the area during the winter months. Following discussion, Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to install a temporary snow fence for this year. Motion carried. The council will revisit the issue after one more season of growth. Rickertsen reported the project engineer has been working on final grant documents and scheduled a project meeting with the Iowa Department of Transportation in early December. Discussion was held on the project amenities and the final project punch list.

Police Department Report. Blake presented a proposed snow emergency policy which includes utilizing the odd-even parking system during snow emergencies. The change will be incorporated in the re-codification process.

Public Work's Report. Brockmann presented his report including obtaining a cost estimate for installing a new watermain on James Street to improve the system and reported on a change order for the N. Downey Street Improvements Project for additional rock at cul-de-sac. The change order will be on the next agenda.

City Clerk's Report. Rickertsen presented her report including the following:

• Reminder that minutes are a record of council action and topic of discussion.
• Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at WalcottSchool on Friday December 2, 2011, at noon.
• Ossian Inc. has been notified of recent complaints and a new tarp is scheduled to be installed November 28^th.
• Mediacom is increasing rates on or about December 15, 2011.
• City offices will be closed November 24^th & 25^th.
• Attorney Schirman is waiting on updated abstracts for the property at 106 W. Lincoln Street and the Wulf property.

Concerns/New Business. Mayor Couper stated he was approached about moving the election voting location to the building at 1113 N. Main Street. Discussion was held on the dim lights on the flags at WelcomePark. Brockmann stated Walcott Day Committee is paying to upgrade the electrical at the park. Brockmann stated the property at 1113 N. Main Street has been winterized and they will start disconnecting utilities upon ownership of the building at 106 W. Lincoln Street. Mayor Couper questioned the specifics regarding the proposed public meeting facilitated by the Vision Committee. Brent Puck reported it will be a community forum to gather ideas and obtain input from citizens on alternatives and scenarios for city buildings/properties. The Vision Committee will then bring information back to council as the committee has no ability to make decisions on behalf of the City. Discussion was held on the formation of the committee, members, & terms. The topic will be on the next regular agenda.

Jackie Puck moved and Koehler seconded to adjourn at 8:05 p.m. Motion carried. All votes on motions were unanimous, unless noted.

A special meeting of the City Council of the City of Walcott, Iowa was held on Wednesday, November 16, 2011, with Mayor Couper calling the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. Council members present were: Larry Koberg, Tim Koehler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Absent: Kostichek. City employees present were: L. Rickertsen and J. Blake.

Koberg moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the agenda. Ayes: All. Motion carried.

Chapters 145 : 162 (Building and Property Regulations) of the Walcott Code of Ordinances were reviewed and discussed. Rickertsen will forward the proposed changes, as discussed, to Iowa Codification to incorporate in the recodifcation process. Rickertsen reported that the Zoning & Subdivision Chapters (165-168) are currently being thoroughly reviewed by the Planning & Zoning Commission.

Discussion was held on a proposed snow emergency parking policy presented by Blake. The topic will be listed on a future council agenda. Rickertsen will prepare an article for the newsletter to encourage parking on the side with even addresses on even numbered days and on the side with odd numbered addresses on odd numbered days for those who do not have any off street parking available during snowfalls.

Jackie Puck moved and Koberg seconded to adjourn at 6:25 p.m. Ayes: All. Motion carried.

The semi-monthly meeting of the City Council of Walcott, Iowa, was held on Monday, the 7^th day of November, 2011. Mayor Pro Tem John Kostichek called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Other council members present were: Larry Koberg, Tim Koehler, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. City employees present: J. Brockmann, L. Rickertsen, J. Blake, and T. Schirman.

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

Mayor Pro Tem Kostichek opened the Public Hearing on the Budget Amendment for FYE 2012. Rickertsen stated the budget needs to be amended due to property purchase and bond refinancing. No other oral or written comments were received. Koberg moved and Koehler seconded to close the public hearing and resume the regular meeting.

Consent Agenda. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve the consent agenda including the invoices, minutes from 10/17/2011, and minutes from 10/24/2011. Motion carried.

Audience. Brent Puck, Mike Byington, Lisa Mengler, Janice Dawson, Wayne and Beth Latimer, Loretta Beitel, Josie Dietz, Mary Lincoln, Dave Meier, Drew, Deke, and Reed Hagen, and John and Josh Friede.

Vision Committee. Mike Byington and Brent Puck were present on behalf of the Vision Committee. Byington stated that according to a recent article in the North Scott Press, it seemed like the use of the building at 1113 N. Main Street as a City Hall has already been decided and he questioned if the Committee should proceed. Koehler responded he had not read the article, but based on Byington's comments did not agree with the article and stated there needs to be an all-inclusive plan. Byington stated the Committee would like to hold a community forum to obtain input and look at all city properties. The Committee would also like to modify and update results from the 2008 "Which Way, Walcott?" meeting, talk with the community, staff, and catalog the information to present to the council. Jackie Puck commented that she felt it would be a worthwhile exercise. Koehler stated he didn't believe the council could make spending decisions without obtaining additional information. Brent Puck stated a community meeting would not be just about city buildings but other short and long term goals. Following further discussion, Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to allow the Vision Committee to obtain further information and organize a community meeting in January. Motion carried. Jacob Puck stated he would like to have an open house at the property at 1113 N. Main Street.

On behalf of the Recreational Trail Committee, Brent Puck distributed a preliminary logo for Prairie View Park. Responding to a question from the audience, Brent Puck stated the trail was intended to be utilized during the winter with the understanding that removing snow from the recreational trail would not be done until city streets are cleared.

Iowa 80 Sixth Addition. Attorney Schirman reported he has received and reviewed all final platting documents with the exception of the performance bond which should be received from the bonding company in the morning. Following further discussion, Koehler moved and Koberg seconded to approve Resolution 2011-57, Approval of Final Plat for Iowa 80 Sixth Addition, contingent upon receiving the required bonds. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Koberg, Jackie Puck, Jacob Puck and Kostichek. Motion carried. Jackie Puck moved and Koberg seconded to approve Resolution 2011-58, Approving Site Plan for Lot 1 of Iowa 80 Sixth Addition. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Koberg, Jacob Puck, Koehler, and Kostichek. Motion carried.

Resolution 2011-52, Approving Budget amendment for FYE 2012. Kostichek moved and Koehler seconded to approve Resolution 2011-52. Roll call ayes: Kostichek, Koehler, Koberg, Jackie Puck, and Jacob Puck. Motion carried.

North Lift Station Improvements Project. Koberg moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2011-53, Provide for Notice of Hearing on Plans & Specifications. Roll call ayes: Koberg, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Koehler, and Koberg. Motion carried. The hearing will be at 6:00 p.m. on November 21^st and bids will be accepted and read aloud at 2:00 p.m. on December 14, 2011. Attorney Schirman provided an update on purchasing the Wulf property. Koehler moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve Resolution 2011-54, Approving Purchase Offer with Wilbert and Joyce Wulf. Roll call ayes: Koehler, Jacob Puck, Jackie Puck, Koberg, and Kostichek. Motion carried.

Flagg Street Paving Project. Jackie Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to approve Resolution 2011-55, Approving Contract & Bonds for the Flagg Street Paving Project. Roll call ayes: Jackie Puck, Kostichek, Jacob Puck, Koehler, and Koberg. Motion carried.

106 W. Lincoln Street. Attorney Schirman reported the bank has submitted a counter offer on the property at 106 W. Lincoln Street. Schirman stated that the offer details are typical with foreclosed property. Discussion was held on regarding a Phase I environmental study. Following discussion, Jacob Puck moved and Kostichek seconded to approve Resolution 2011-56, Approving Purchase Offer with Citicorp Trust Bank FSB/Citimortgage Inc. without proceeding with a Phase I study. Roll call ayes: Jacob Puck, Kostichek, Jackie Puck, Koehler, and Koberg. Motion carried. The offer includes a purchase of $22,000 including a down payment of $2,500.

1113 N. Main Street. Attorney Schirman reported he has reviewed documents for accuracy. Koehler moved and Kostichek seconded to proceed with the closing and authorize a final payment of $166,250. Motion carried.

Fire Station Expansion Project. Brockmann presented a project worksheet for roof repairs, which he stated was routine maintenance. Questions arose and discussion was held that only one bid was received. Koehler moved and Jackie Puck seconded to approve hiring White Roofing to do repairs as stated in their proposal at a cost not to exceed $1,200. Motion carried. Jackie Puck moved and Koberg seconded to approve the remaining expansion improvements, not to exceed $4,000. Motion carried.

Approval of TIF (Tax Increment Financing) Rebate Payments. Rickertsen reported there are currently six rebate agreements in effect for this fiscal year but only three of the agreements qualify for a partial year rebate at this time. Koberg moved and Jacob Puck seconded to approve the TIF rebates to Iowa 80 Truckstop (2 rebates – $21,977.25) and Exit 284 Land & Development ($2,594.96), total amount of $24,572.11. Motion carried.

2012 Employee Benefits Renewal. Rickertsen reported the health insurance renewal rates increased approximately 6.38% and the dental increased approximately 3%. She also reported the increase was within budgeted amounts. Questions arose on moving Brockmann to a Medicare Plan, as discussed in May, 2010. The City would reimburse Brockmann for all costs and have a potential savings of approximately $6,000/year. Brockmann stated he wants to continue with the current plan as other employees as change sometimes is not good. Following further discussion, Koberg moved and Koehler seconded to approve the 2012 Employee Benefits Renewal with Wellmark. Motion carried.

Snow Emergency Parking. Following discussion, Blake and Brockmann will work on an ordinance recommendation for snow emergency parking and bring back to council at a future meeting.

Police Department Report. Blake reported on current department activities, including that Racom came out, following the last council meeting with the Board of Supervisors, and made some repairs which has improved their radio system in most areas.

Public Work's Report. Brockmann updated council on recent department projects including the north water tower cleaning, gazebo, leaf pick-up, and sealing the exterior block walls on the new fire department expansion. Questions arose on the lack of guardrails on the newly opened Blue Grass Road/Y-40, and Brockmann responded that he spoke with the County Engineer and guardrails are not required as they are box culverts.

City Clerk's Report. Rickertsen reminded council that city offices would be closed Friday, November 11^th in observance of Veteran's Day.

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