1. WELLNESS CENTER AGREEMENTS: With the “tentative” 14.7 million (original was $13 million) budget authorization on December 19 the city needs to enter agreements with the Schools and Simpson for their contribution toward the pool. On April 18, 2011, council approved a proposal from attorney Daniel Manning of the Lillis O’Malley LLP Firm to assist with drafting the agreements.
This item will be on the January 9 committee agenda and my recommendation will be for council to establish a committee of myself and/or Finance Director Jean Furler and two council members. The Y’s Vernon Delpesce should also assist and the goal will be to develop agreements that:
• Provide for the timely and appropriate use of the YMCA/Wellness Center competitive pool
• Adequately compensates the city for pool use based on the competitive pool’s total cost and the proposal presented by Jay Byers on December 10, 2010
• Ensures the city’s expenses are within the parameters established by the March 1, 2010 bond referendum, and, the commitment to not increase taxes
I contacted Dan Manning on December 29 and he is prepared to provide assistance.
2. W HWY 92: I have been invited to attend a Project Management Team (PMT) meeting in Ames on February 9 to continue dialogue on the Hwy 92 Improvement Project from Indianola to R-57. Meeting details will be provided to elected officials immediately after.
As discussed previously, right-of-way for this project will be acquired by IDOT in 2012 and construction in 2013. Plans include extending the 3-lane design from R Street west thru R-63, and, the city asked IDOT to extend the project east to the Fair Grounds in order to provide curb/gutter from “N” Street west to R-63. A trail has also been requested by the city.
3. HWY 65/69 SPEED STUDY: Per the city’s request, IDOT performed a speed study on Hwy 65/69 north of Hillcrest in light of Theisen’s opening. The recommendation follows:
District 5 requested a Speed Study for the Subject area on behalf of the City. The City had concerns with speeds near the driveway of the recently opened Theisens.
Speed Data was collected (see below) and a review of the area was conducted.
Last Staff Action/Commission Order: 08-0130 dated August 21, 2007
The following observations were made of the area reviewed:
• 4-lane, divided (wide-ditch median), rural cross-section from E. Hillcrest
Avenue, northward.
• Signal at E. Hillcrest Avenue
• Alignment was good.
• Vertical curve length difference in northbound lanes versus southbound
lanes.
• Sight distance not limited as to merit a warning sign from the existing
accesses at the posted speed limit.
Upon completion of the data collection and review of the area, the Office of Traffic and Safety recommends maintaining the present speed zones.
The studied zones are within an acceptable range of the 85th percentile.
We do not recommend changes to the speed zones at this time.
If the District has crash data for this area that they would like us to factor into this speed study, please forward the information to us.
Please respond to this recommendation with your concurrence or suggestions for change.
If you have any questions or concerns please contact Ron McDaniel at 239-1537 or Ron.McDaniel@iowa.gov .
The IDOT determines speed limits by observing traffic speeds for a given period and adjusting that speed down to the 85th percentile. In other words, if the average speed is 50 in an area, they’ll set the limit at 45 mph. Their philosophy is that the average person will drive a speed at which they are most comfortable at so it does not make sense (in IDOT’s perspective) to set a speed that most people will not obey.
4. BUDGET PROCESS: Staff is working on the FY 12/13 budget and will present a recommendation on January 23. A detailed document will be provided with a line-item description of each department’s expenses, revenues and beginning balance. If questions are not answered or there are significant changes, council can meet again on January 30.
The formal process will begin on February 6 where council sets March 5 as the public hearing. The budget notice must be published twice and the date will be February 15 and 22. Once a tax rate is published it can be decreased but not increased.
5. CHRISTMAS TREES: We recently learned that there are no disposal options for live trees so the Brush Facility was opened on December 29 and will remain open through January 9.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
News Item - December 26, 2011
1. NEXT MEETING: The next meeting is January 3 and begins at 5:00 pm to allow attendance at the 7:00 pm caucuses.
2. HWY 65/69 SEWER: They are planning on paving today and hoping to open the highway to traffic tomorrow. Also a local business has filed a damage claim with our insurance company in regards to loss of business revenue due to the detour.
3. K-9: Sadly, our Police K-9 dog Scout, was euthanized on Monday the 19th. He suffered recently from seizures and treatment was not successful. Chief Bonnett reports the program will not be funded in 12/13 and that the Chief’s successor can review the program for 13/14.
4. LABOR NEGOTIATIONS: Labor consultant Jim Hanks would like to meet with council members (closed session) on January 3 to discuss progress with the city’s union. Depending on the length of the agenda and schedules, it may be before or after the 5:00 pm council meeting. More will be available next week.
5. TAX REVENUES: Revenues thru December are just over 52% and slightly ahead of this time last year. Good news!
6. RACE CAR ORDINANCE: In the packet is a letter from Community Development Director Chuck Burgin to 5 race car owners requesting compliance with the ordinance that was approved by the District and Appellate Courts. Race cars have been a source of complaint in the community for a number of years. The letters will be sent next week.
2. HWY 65/69 SEWER: They are planning on paving today and hoping to open the highway to traffic tomorrow. Also a local business has filed a damage claim with our insurance company in regards to loss of business revenue due to the detour.
3. K-9: Sadly, our Police K-9 dog Scout, was euthanized on Monday the 19th. He suffered recently from seizures and treatment was not successful. Chief Bonnett reports the program will not be funded in 12/13 and that the Chief’s successor can review the program for 13/14.
4. LABOR NEGOTIATIONS: Labor consultant Jim Hanks would like to meet with council members (closed session) on January 3 to discuss progress with the city’s union. Depending on the length of the agenda and schedules, it may be before or after the 5:00 pm council meeting. More will be available next week.
5. TAX REVENUES: Revenues thru December are just over 52% and slightly ahead of this time last year. Good news!
6. RACE CAR ORDINANCE: In the packet is a letter from Community Development Director Chuck Burgin to 5 race car owners requesting compliance with the ordinance that was approved by the District and Appellate Courts. Race cars have been a source of complaint in the community for a number of years. The letters will be sent next week.
Friday, December 16, 2011
News Items - December 19, 2011
1. NEXT MEETING: The next meeting is Tuesday January 3 at 6:00 pm.
2. HWY 65/69 SEWER: Per earlier discussions, Hwy 65/69 south of Euclid has been closed for an emergency repair on the sewer main that is about 25’ deep. It should be opened by Monday.
3. VISION IOWA: I attended the meeting on December 14 and updated the Board on the city’s progress. The next meeting is January 11.
4. MEETINGS: Another reminder the January meetings will be on Tuesdays, January 3 and January 17, due to New Years and Martin Luther King holidays.
February’s second meeting will be Tuesday, February 21 due to Presidents Day.
2. HWY 65/69 SEWER: Per earlier discussions, Hwy 65/69 south of Euclid has been closed for an emergency repair on the sewer main that is about 25’ deep. It should be opened by Monday.
3. VISION IOWA: I attended the meeting on December 14 and updated the Board on the city’s progress. The next meeting is January 11.
4. MEETINGS: Another reminder the January meetings will be on Tuesdays, January 3 and January 17, due to New Years and Martin Luther King holidays.
February’s second meeting will be Tuesday, February 21 due to Presidents Day.
Friday, December 2, 2011
News Items - December 5, 2011
1. COUNCIL COMMITTEES: The following are the committees that council members will need to appoint. The item will be placed on the January committee agenda for discussion and then the January 16 agenda for formal council approval.
Indianola Development Association - Mark Vickroy, Shirley Clark and Randy Gathers
Warren County Economic Development Association – Shirley Clark
Dangerous/Dilapidated Committee – Mark Vickroy
Wellness Center Committee – John Sirianni, Mark Vickroy
Landfill Committee – Pete Berry
Investment Committee – Pete Berry
Metropolitan Planning Organization – Chuck Burgin, Shirley Clark and Tim Zisoff
CIRTPA – Chuck Burgin and Tim Zisoff
2. WELLNESS CENTER: The committee met with the SVPA Team on the 1st and will present a progress report at the 12/12 council study committee meeting. There are still some figures and concepts to work thru.
3. STATE REPRESENTATIVES: Representative Julian Garret and Senator Kent Sorensen attended a chamber luncheon on the 1st to discuss 2012 legislative issues and respond to questions. Senator Sorensen commented that he did not think the commercial rollback would be passed in this session.
4. LOOP DETECTORS: Loop detectors are complete and operational at Hwy 69 and Valley Place Dr. The existing camera detection has been turned off for Valley Place Dr. as well as the NB and SB left turn movements. The cameras for NB and SB advance detection remain on. Loaner detector amplifiers were installed in the cabinet pending receipt of new amplifiers to enable turning on the new detectors at this time. The new amplifiers will be installed within 30 days. Invoice to follow.
5. JANUARY COUNCIL MEETING: January’s first meeting will be Tuesday the 3rd since Monday is the recognized holiday.
6. RECYCLING: City Clerk Diana Bowlin reports 32 residents have requested the 48 gallon recycling bins. The bins will be distributed the week of December 12.
7. SUMMERCREST HILLS: Taxable value to date is $16,368,200. Good news!
8. EASTON PARK: Storm water repairs (includes concrete flume, grading and fill material) in the amount of $40,000 will be made to Easton Park this fall and next spring. FEMA will reimburse about $5,500 of the city’s expense resulting from the 2010 storms.
9. CIP: Changes are being made per council direction and the Capital Improvement Plan will be presented to council December 19.
10. MCCORD PARK PLAY EQUIPMENT: The age 2-5 play equipment, retaining wall, drainage system and fall protection are completed and have been open for public use for several weeks. Also the border/walkway is completed on 3 sides. Work is currently being done on the toddler swings and border around the swings. Layout of the age 5-12 play equipment is also currently being done. With winter near, the larger play equipment and swings may not be completed if it snows and the ground freezes. The installation process had to be completed in two phases and took longer due to the topography, the larger size of fall protection area required for the equipment and trees not being where noted on the plans.
Indianola Development Association - Mark Vickroy, Shirley Clark and Randy Gathers
Warren County Economic Development Association – Shirley Clark
Dangerous/Dilapidated Committee – Mark Vickroy
Wellness Center Committee – John Sirianni, Mark Vickroy
Landfill Committee – Pete Berry
Investment Committee – Pete Berry
Metropolitan Planning Organization – Chuck Burgin, Shirley Clark and Tim Zisoff
CIRTPA – Chuck Burgin and Tim Zisoff
2. WELLNESS CENTER: The committee met with the SVPA Team on the 1st and will present a progress report at the 12/12 council study committee meeting. There are still some figures and concepts to work thru.
3. STATE REPRESENTATIVES: Representative Julian Garret and Senator Kent Sorensen attended a chamber luncheon on the 1st to discuss 2012 legislative issues and respond to questions. Senator Sorensen commented that he did not think the commercial rollback would be passed in this session.
4. LOOP DETECTORS: Loop detectors are complete and operational at Hwy 69 and Valley Place Dr. The existing camera detection has been turned off for Valley Place Dr. as well as the NB and SB left turn movements. The cameras for NB and SB advance detection remain on. Loaner detector amplifiers were installed in the cabinet pending receipt of new amplifiers to enable turning on the new detectors at this time. The new amplifiers will be installed within 30 days. Invoice to follow.
5. JANUARY COUNCIL MEETING: January’s first meeting will be Tuesday the 3rd since Monday is the recognized holiday.
6. RECYCLING: City Clerk Diana Bowlin reports 32 residents have requested the 48 gallon recycling bins. The bins will be distributed the week of December 12.
7. SUMMERCREST HILLS: Taxable value to date is $16,368,200. Good news!
8. EASTON PARK: Storm water repairs (includes concrete flume, grading and fill material) in the amount of $40,000 will be made to Easton Park this fall and next spring. FEMA will reimburse about $5,500 of the city’s expense resulting from the 2010 storms.
9. CIP: Changes are being made per council direction and the Capital Improvement Plan will be presented to council December 19.
10. MCCORD PARK PLAY EQUIPMENT: The age 2-5 play equipment, retaining wall, drainage system and fall protection are completed and have been open for public use for several weeks. Also the border/walkway is completed on 3 sides. Work is currently being done on the toddler swings and border around the swings. Layout of the age 5-12 play equipment is also currently being done. With winter near, the larger play equipment and swings may not be completed if it snows and the ground freezes. The installation process had to be completed in two phases and took longer due to the topography, the larger size of fall protection area required for the equipment and trees not being where noted on the plans.
Friday, November 18, 2011
News Items - November 21, 2011
1. WELLNESS CENTER: SVPA will provide a progress report on December 5.
The concepts look very good.
Terracon conducted 13 soil tests taken this week and the results should be available in early December. We are hopeful soils will not be an issue.
The 28-E agreement with the Y has also progressed and is intended to be on the December 5 agenda for council consideration.
2. STREET REPLACEMENT PROJECT: At the public information meeting on November 10, Community Development Director Chuck Burgin indicated that the formal process would proceed in December. In order to do so, council can hold a special meeting on November 28 (same night as committee meeting) to set December 19 as a public hearing on the assessment plat/schedule and resolution of necessity.
Ken will call the meeting.
3. NOVEMBER 28 COMMITTEE: Tentative agenda items for the November 28 meeting include:
General Fund Capital Plan
Downtown Incentive Program
Employee Wellness Program
J/K Realignment Engineering Proposal
Joint meeting with Trustees to discuss labor negotiations
4. BRUSH FACILITY: The facility will be open through December 4 for free leaf/brush disposal.
5. NARROW BANDING: Chief Brian Seymour reports that the FCC is mandating replacement of radios that can function on the new band by January ’13. All departments are budgeting accordingly and Brian estimates the cost in the $45,000 range (includes Electric/Water).
Norwalk decided to contract for their dispatch services thru Westcom as of January 2013. Norwalk has been with Warren County since the 70’s but feel the service provided by West Des Moines, Clive and Urbandale would better suit their needs. Chief Seymour reports the effect on the remainder of Warren County would not be significant.
The managers and chiefs from Carlisle, Indianola and Norwalk met on the 15th to discuss dispatch issues and plan to meet again in early December to continue dialogue on dispatch issues. The group is suggesting a meeting with elected officials from cities and the county in the near future.
6. SANITARY SEWER FARM CONTRACT: In 2002, the city purchased 352 acres of farm land (see map) on the Middle River for a future Sanitary Sewer Plant site. There are 247 tillable acres and every two years bids are received to farm the ground. The current contract expires March 2012 so on October 21 Supt Dan Miers sent six rfp’s and on November 15, two were received. They are:
Dennis Moser
Indianola, Iowa $50,200
Allen Henry
Indianola, Iowa $40,725
A recommendation will be placed on December 5 to accept the $50,200 proposal from Dennis Moser for March 1, 2012 through March 1, 2014.
FYI—The funds are placed in the Sewer Plant Budget and used to offset the $87,000 annual debt to retire the land’s purchase. The current contract is $34,264.
7. BUXTON PARK PLAN: The P&R Commission budgeted $8,000 to provide a plan for Buxton to accommodate future memorials, pedestrian access, garden locations, etc. On November 3, eight proposals were received and four companies were interviewed by Park Friend reps and staff. The group selected Civil Design Advantage (same firm that designed the amphitheater in Memorial Park) for a total fee of $9,300.
Glen indicates there are funds available from the DeNelsky Park budget that will not be spent this year. The Buxton Park Plan will be reviewed by the P&R Commission and presented to council in the spring.
8. RACE CARS: Community Development Director Chuck Burgin and I met with Phil Watson and our attorney Hugh Cain on Tuesday the 15th. Phil does not plan to take the case any further so the matter is complete.
9. SLUDGE: Supt Dan Miers is getting quotes to haul about 1.1 million gallons of sludge from the North Plant. A recommendation will be on the January 3 (Tuesday) agenda.
The concepts look very good.
Terracon conducted 13 soil tests taken this week and the results should be available in early December. We are hopeful soils will not be an issue.
The 28-E agreement with the Y has also progressed and is intended to be on the December 5 agenda for council consideration.
2. STREET REPLACEMENT PROJECT: At the public information meeting on November 10, Community Development Director Chuck Burgin indicated that the formal process would proceed in December. In order to do so, council can hold a special meeting on November 28 (same night as committee meeting) to set December 19 as a public hearing on the assessment plat/schedule and resolution of necessity.
Ken will call the meeting.
3. NOVEMBER 28 COMMITTEE: Tentative agenda items for the November 28 meeting include:
General Fund Capital Plan
Downtown Incentive Program
Employee Wellness Program
J/K Realignment Engineering Proposal
Joint meeting with Trustees to discuss labor negotiations
4. BRUSH FACILITY: The facility will be open through December 4 for free leaf/brush disposal.
5. NARROW BANDING: Chief Brian Seymour reports that the FCC is mandating replacement of radios that can function on the new band by January ’13. All departments are budgeting accordingly and Brian estimates the cost in the $45,000 range (includes Electric/Water).
Norwalk decided to contract for their dispatch services thru Westcom as of January 2013. Norwalk has been with Warren County since the 70’s but feel the service provided by West Des Moines, Clive and Urbandale would better suit their needs. Chief Seymour reports the effect on the remainder of Warren County would not be significant.
The managers and chiefs from Carlisle, Indianola and Norwalk met on the 15th to discuss dispatch issues and plan to meet again in early December to continue dialogue on dispatch issues. The group is suggesting a meeting with elected officials from cities and the county in the near future.
6. SANITARY SEWER FARM CONTRACT: In 2002, the city purchased 352 acres of farm land (see map) on the Middle River for a future Sanitary Sewer Plant site. There are 247 tillable acres and every two years bids are received to farm the ground. The current contract expires March 2012 so on October 21 Supt Dan Miers sent six rfp’s and on November 15, two were received. They are:
Dennis Moser
Indianola, Iowa $50,200
Allen Henry
Indianola, Iowa $40,725
A recommendation will be placed on December 5 to accept the $50,200 proposal from Dennis Moser for March 1, 2012 through March 1, 2014.
FYI—The funds are placed in the Sewer Plant Budget and used to offset the $87,000 annual debt to retire the land’s purchase. The current contract is $34,264.
7. BUXTON PARK PLAN: The P&R Commission budgeted $8,000 to provide a plan for Buxton to accommodate future memorials, pedestrian access, garden locations, etc. On November 3, eight proposals were received and four companies were interviewed by Park Friend reps and staff. The group selected Civil Design Advantage (same firm that designed the amphitheater in Memorial Park) for a total fee of $9,300.
Glen indicates there are funds available from the DeNelsky Park budget that will not be spent this year. The Buxton Park Plan will be reviewed by the P&R Commission and presented to council in the spring.
8. RACE CARS: Community Development Director Chuck Burgin and I met with Phil Watson and our attorney Hugh Cain on Tuesday the 15th. Phil does not plan to take the case any further so the matter is complete.
9. SLUDGE: Supt Dan Miers is getting quotes to haul about 1.1 million gallons of sludge from the North Plant. A recommendation will be on the January 3 (Tuesday) agenda.
Friday, November 11, 2011
News Items - November 14, 2011
1. PUBLIC INPUT MEETING: The public input meeting for the 2012 Street Improvement Project was held on Wednesday, November 9th. The input was split into two meetings, one being commercial property owners at 5:00 pm and residential property owners at 6:30 pm. 26 people attended the commercial meeting and approximately 20 people attended the residential meeting. City staff and Snyder and Associates had representatives in attendance to answer questions and provide information regarding the proposed construction. We anticipate final construction documents to be ready for Council consideration in December.
2. UNION PROPOSAL: Their first negotiation session is scheduled for Thursday November 17 at 4:30.
2. UNION PROPOSAL: Their first negotiation session is scheduled for Thursday November 17 at 4:30.
Friday, November 4, 2011
News Items - November 7, 2011
1. SOUTH B SEWER: Forrest Aldrich is drafting a plan/spec to reroute the sanitary sewer in the 400 Block of South B (see map). He anticipates getting quotes either the week of the 7th or 14th. Based on the numbers, I will likely authorize the repair given its emergency nature. The quotes will then be placed on the November 21 agenda for formal consideration.
2. WELLNESS CENTER: The committee met with SVPA et al on the 2nd to review the latest concept. A progress report will be provided at the December 5 council meeting.
The next Vision Iowa meeting is November 9 at 10:00 am in room 116 at the State Capitol Building.
On October 27 the city took ownership of the 6.63 acres in Summercrest Hills for the Wellness Center.
3. C STREET FORUM: A reminder the forum will be November 10 at 7:00 pm in the Parrish Hall of the Methodist Church on W. Ashland.
4. OFFICER METCALF: In the packet is a letter of commendation from Chief Steve Bonnett and Sergeant Brian Sher for Officer Brad Metcalf’s investigations that led to charges relating to vandalism, motor vehicle theft and burglary. Hats off to Brad!!
5. RECYCLING: Waste Management brought a 96 and 48 gallon toter to city hall for customers to view. They will be in the council chambers on November 7.
6. COMMITTEE AGENDA ITEMS: “Tentative” agenda items for the next two months include:
• Fire Dept Bay expansion
• General Fund Capital Budget
• Y/City 28-E Agreement
• Downtown/Square Incentive Program
• J/K Engineering Proposal
• Trailer Parking on City Streets
• Employee Wellness Program
• Natural Gas Franchise Fee
7. SUMMERCREST HILLS: Finance Director Jean Furler reports the Development Agreement conditions have been met and the first check for $325,000 has been paid to Downing Construction and Summercrest Hills Development.
8. INDIANOLA HEALTH PLAN: Our new third party administrator, UMR, has been providing very good discounts on our medical claims. Through September 30th, we’re averaging a 52% savings on all providers including inpatient stays, outpatient procedures and clinic visits. Good news!
9. EMPLOYEE BLOOD SCREEN: 59 employees/spouses participated in the annual blood screen. Many of the participants will take their results to their physicians saving the health plan additional lab expenses. It’s estimated the blood screen would cost up to $350.00 at the clinic versus the $27.00 charged per participant during the annual screen.
10. CHICKEN COMPLAINT: The Community Development Department received a complaint regarding five chickens at 410 W. Ashland. After staff asked to have the chickens removed, the owners asked (see letter) for council consideration to allow the chickens to remain at their residence. The request will be placed on the November 21 council agenda.
11. 2012 STREET REPLACEMENT: Just a reminder of the public information meetings scheduled for November 9th at 5:00 pm and 6:30 pm at the Activity Center. Approximately 180 notices of the meetings have been sent. These meetings are held to provide a project preview and answer property owner questions.
Staff is working with the engineer to phase the project to minimize impact on community events that normally take place. A project phasing will be placed in council packets within the next week or so.
2. WELLNESS CENTER: The committee met with SVPA et al on the 2nd to review the latest concept. A progress report will be provided at the December 5 council meeting.
The next Vision Iowa meeting is November 9 at 10:00 am in room 116 at the State Capitol Building.
On October 27 the city took ownership of the 6.63 acres in Summercrest Hills for the Wellness Center.
3. C STREET FORUM: A reminder the forum will be November 10 at 7:00 pm in the Parrish Hall of the Methodist Church on W. Ashland.
4. OFFICER METCALF: In the packet is a letter of commendation from Chief Steve Bonnett and Sergeant Brian Sher for Officer Brad Metcalf’s investigations that led to charges relating to vandalism, motor vehicle theft and burglary. Hats off to Brad!!
5. RECYCLING: Waste Management brought a 96 and 48 gallon toter to city hall for customers to view. They will be in the council chambers on November 7.
6. COMMITTEE AGENDA ITEMS: “Tentative” agenda items for the next two months include:
• Fire Dept Bay expansion
• General Fund Capital Budget
• Y/City 28-E Agreement
• Downtown/Square Incentive Program
• J/K Engineering Proposal
• Trailer Parking on City Streets
• Employee Wellness Program
• Natural Gas Franchise Fee
7. SUMMERCREST HILLS: Finance Director Jean Furler reports the Development Agreement conditions have been met and the first check for $325,000 has been paid to Downing Construction and Summercrest Hills Development.
8. INDIANOLA HEALTH PLAN: Our new third party administrator, UMR, has been providing very good discounts on our medical claims. Through September 30th, we’re averaging a 52% savings on all providers including inpatient stays, outpatient procedures and clinic visits. Good news!
9. EMPLOYEE BLOOD SCREEN: 59 employees/spouses participated in the annual blood screen. Many of the participants will take their results to their physicians saving the health plan additional lab expenses. It’s estimated the blood screen would cost up to $350.00 at the clinic versus the $27.00 charged per participant during the annual screen.
10. CHICKEN COMPLAINT: The Community Development Department received a complaint regarding five chickens at 410 W. Ashland. After staff asked to have the chickens removed, the owners asked (see letter) for council consideration to allow the chickens to remain at their residence. The request will be placed on the November 21 council agenda.
11. 2012 STREET REPLACEMENT: Just a reminder of the public information meetings scheduled for November 9th at 5:00 pm and 6:30 pm at the Activity Center. Approximately 180 notices of the meetings have been sent. These meetings are held to provide a project preview and answer property owner questions.
Staff is working with the engineer to phase the project to minimize impact on community events that normally take place. A project phasing will be placed in council packets within the next week or so.
Friday, October 28, 2011
News Items - October 31, 2011
1. NEXT MEETING: The next council meeting is November 7 at 6:00 pm. John Sirianni is unavailable for the meeting.
2. CANDIDATE FORUM: Simpson College is holding a council candidate forum on November 1 in the Pioneer Room at McNeill Hall beginning at 7:00 pm.
3. C STREET FORUM: Simpson is scheduling a forum on November 10 at 7:00 pm with the location yet to be announced. The format will include reps from the city, V&K, school and Simpson answering questions from the audience. Chief Bonnet and I plan to attend as will Forrest Aldrich from V&K.
4. BOND SALE SCHEDULE: Finance Director Jean Furler plans the following bond sale schedule:
Nov 7 Set public hearing on sewer/street Bonds
Nov 21 Public hearing for sewer/street bonds and direct advertisement of sale for sewer/street bonds and YMCA bonds
Dec 5 Bond Sale
Dec 12 Authorize issuance of both series (special meeting prior to committee meeting). This is necessary to close by Dec 31 and stay within the $10 million limit
The bonds will be used for the following:
1) YMCA
2) South “B” Sewer Emergency Repair
3) Sewer plant flare and boiler emergency repair
4) Street project ($500,000 in 2011 and the remaining issued in 2012)
5. SOUTH B SANITARY SEWER: We are in the process of obtaining IDNR permits and the survey was complete on the 28th. A recommendation will be to reroute the collapsed sanitary sewer (see map) in the 400 block of South B. A recommendation will be placed on the November 7 council agenda.
6. RECYCLING: City Clerk Diana Bowlin and Information Technology Manager Kurt Ripperger met with Waste Management reps on the 26th to discuss the recycling options that include:
• WM will offer a 48 gal. cart but prefers to provide 96 gal. carts initially because the 48 gal. may be too small for a two-week period
• Picking up carts at the house (no charge) will be offered only to residents who are physically unable to roll the cart to the curb
• Carts will be distributed beginning the week of December 12 and pick up will begin the week of December 26 with the city being divided into four sections (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday)
• Residents can keep their current bins or may place them on the curb and Waste Management will collect them. In the past Waste Management has donated used bins to area schools who like to use them in classrooms for their recyclables collections.
• Advertising/information will be provided on the city’s cable channel, web page, weekly flyer, utility bill, January quarterly update, posted on the community sign and RH&T
7. LIBRARY OPENHOUSE: The Friends of the Library are celebrating their 10th anniversary on November 4 from 6-8 pm. at the library.
8. UNION PROPOSAL: In the packet is the union’s opening proposal for July 1, 2012 thru June 30, 2015. Human Resource Director RoxAnne Hunerdosse estimates the initial proposal increase of $175,000 - $200,000 of new money per year of a 3-year contract not including FICA, IPERS or MFPRSI. The city’s response provided by Labor Negotiator Jim Hanks is in the packet.
9. 15TH STREET CLOSURE: A Middle School subcontractor requested closing 15th (see map in packet) between Hwy 92 and Plainview for utility work related to the Middle School. It will be closed from November 3-5 and the subcontractor will be responsible for all signage.
2. CANDIDATE FORUM: Simpson College is holding a council candidate forum on November 1 in the Pioneer Room at McNeill Hall beginning at 7:00 pm.
3. C STREET FORUM: Simpson is scheduling a forum on November 10 at 7:00 pm with the location yet to be announced. The format will include reps from the city, V&K, school and Simpson answering questions from the audience. Chief Bonnet and I plan to attend as will Forrest Aldrich from V&K.
4. BOND SALE SCHEDULE: Finance Director Jean Furler plans the following bond sale schedule:
Nov 7 Set public hearing on sewer/street Bonds
Nov 21 Public hearing for sewer/street bonds and direct advertisement of sale for sewer/street bonds and YMCA bonds
Dec 5 Bond Sale
Dec 12 Authorize issuance of both series (special meeting prior to committee meeting). This is necessary to close by Dec 31 and stay within the $10 million limit
The bonds will be used for the following:
1) YMCA
2) South “B” Sewer Emergency Repair
3) Sewer plant flare and boiler emergency repair
4) Street project ($500,000 in 2011 and the remaining issued in 2012)
5. SOUTH B SANITARY SEWER: We are in the process of obtaining IDNR permits and the survey was complete on the 28th. A recommendation will be to reroute the collapsed sanitary sewer (see map) in the 400 block of South B. A recommendation will be placed on the November 7 council agenda.
6. RECYCLING: City Clerk Diana Bowlin and Information Technology Manager Kurt Ripperger met with Waste Management reps on the 26th to discuss the recycling options that include:
• WM will offer a 48 gal. cart but prefers to provide 96 gal. carts initially because the 48 gal. may be too small for a two-week period
• Picking up carts at the house (no charge) will be offered only to residents who are physically unable to roll the cart to the curb
• Carts will be distributed beginning the week of December 12 and pick up will begin the week of December 26 with the city being divided into four sections (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday)
• Residents can keep their current bins or may place them on the curb and Waste Management will collect them. In the past Waste Management has donated used bins to area schools who like to use them in classrooms for their recyclables collections.
• Advertising/information will be provided on the city’s cable channel, web page, weekly flyer, utility bill, January quarterly update, posted on the community sign and RH&T
7. LIBRARY OPENHOUSE: The Friends of the Library are celebrating their 10th anniversary on November 4 from 6-8 pm. at the library.
8. UNION PROPOSAL: In the packet is the union’s opening proposal for July 1, 2012 thru June 30, 2015. Human Resource Director RoxAnne Hunerdosse estimates the initial proposal increase of $175,000 - $200,000 of new money per year of a 3-year contract not including FICA, IPERS or MFPRSI. The city’s response provided by Labor Negotiator Jim Hanks is in the packet.
9. 15TH STREET CLOSURE: A Middle School subcontractor requested closing 15th (see map in packet) between Hwy 92 and Plainview for utility work related to the Middle School. It will be closed from November 3-5 and the subcontractor will be responsible for all signage.
Friday, October 21, 2011
News Items - August 24, 2011
1. NEXT MEETING: The next council meeting is November 7 at 6:00 pm.
John is unavailable for that meeting.
2. “C” STREET PETITION: In the packet is the petition submitted by Charlotte Guilford and the committee in opposition to closing “C” Street. It has 600 signatures.
3. 2012 STREET REPLACEMENT: Public information meetings are scheduled for November 9th at 5:00 pm and 6:30 pm at the Activity Center. Approximately 180 notices of the meetings have been sent. These meetings are held to provide a project preview and answer property owner questions.
Staff is working with the engineer to phase the project to minimize impact on community events that normally take place. A project phasing will be placed in council packets within the next week or so.
4. PAUL SPEER: Meter Reader Paul Speer is retiring October 28 after 32 years of service. An open house will be held in the upstairs meeting room at the IMU Office on October 28 from 3-4 pm. Paul started in March 1979 and will be missed. We wish him the very best!!
5. RECOGNITION: In the packet is a letter from Iowa Public Safety Commissioner Larry Noble thanking Chief Seymour and the staff for “professional assistance provided by our Department during the loss of Trooper Mark Toney”. Hats off to Brian and the staff!!
6. JOINT STREET PROJECTS: Chuck Burgin, Jerry Kelley, Jason White and I met with Supervisor Dean Yordi on the 19th to continue discussions about potential joint city/county paving projects. We plan to meet again in December or early January. At this level priorities remain East Iowa Avenue and 150th from Hwy 92 to Hillcrest. Dean also indicates the bridge on Hoover just west of the Sewer Plant is in the 5-year plan.
7. TAX RECEIPTS: Tax revenues thru September are nearly 42% of the amount budgeted. At this time last year revenues were 45%. We’ll monitor closely.
8. WCEDC: Warren County Economic Development Corp will hold an open house Thursday, October 27 from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm in their new office at 111 N. Buxton.
9. J/K RE-ALIGNMENT: Chuck Burgin will receive an engineering proposal for the J/K Re-Alignment project that will be presented to council in November.
10. D&D PROPERTY: The Dangerous & Dilapidated Committee will meet November 1 to discuss the purchase of 301 N. Jefferson Way (northwest corner of Hwy 65 and Boston Ave). A recommendation will be brought to council on November 21.
11. LABOR NEGOTIATIONS: The Local Laborers #353 rescheduled their opening proposal meeting from October 19 to October 28 for both the council and trustees.
John is unavailable for that meeting.
2. “C” STREET PETITION: In the packet is the petition submitted by Charlotte Guilford and the committee in opposition to closing “C” Street. It has 600 signatures.
3. 2012 STREET REPLACEMENT: Public information meetings are scheduled for November 9th at 5:00 pm and 6:30 pm at the Activity Center. Approximately 180 notices of the meetings have been sent. These meetings are held to provide a project preview and answer property owner questions.
Staff is working with the engineer to phase the project to minimize impact on community events that normally take place. A project phasing will be placed in council packets within the next week or so.
4. PAUL SPEER: Meter Reader Paul Speer is retiring October 28 after 32 years of service. An open house will be held in the upstairs meeting room at the IMU Office on October 28 from 3-4 pm. Paul started in March 1979 and will be missed. We wish him the very best!!
5. RECOGNITION: In the packet is a letter from Iowa Public Safety Commissioner Larry Noble thanking Chief Seymour and the staff for “professional assistance provided by our Department during the loss of Trooper Mark Toney”. Hats off to Brian and the staff!!
6. JOINT STREET PROJECTS: Chuck Burgin, Jerry Kelley, Jason White and I met with Supervisor Dean Yordi on the 19th to continue discussions about potential joint city/county paving projects. We plan to meet again in December or early January. At this level priorities remain East Iowa Avenue and 150th from Hwy 92 to Hillcrest. Dean also indicates the bridge on Hoover just west of the Sewer Plant is in the 5-year plan.
7. TAX RECEIPTS: Tax revenues thru September are nearly 42% of the amount budgeted. At this time last year revenues were 45%. We’ll monitor closely.
8. WCEDC: Warren County Economic Development Corp will hold an open house Thursday, October 27 from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm in their new office at 111 N. Buxton.
9. J/K RE-ALIGNMENT: Chuck Burgin will receive an engineering proposal for the J/K Re-Alignment project that will be presented to council in November.
10. D&D PROPERTY: The Dangerous & Dilapidated Committee will meet November 1 to discuss the purchase of 301 N. Jefferson Way (northwest corner of Hwy 65 and Boston Ave). A recommendation will be brought to council on November 21.
11. LABOR NEGOTIATIONS: The Local Laborers #353 rescheduled their opening proposal meeting from October 19 to October 28 for both the council and trustees.
Friday, October 14, 2011
News Items - October 17, 2011
1. VISION IOWA: Mark Vickroy and I attended the Vision Iowa meeting in Sioux City on October 12. Mark presented additional information (see packet) about the city’s private funding but the board was insistent that additional fundraising be part of the funding.
The committee will meet and discuss options in the next couple weeks.
2. MCVAY TRAIL: In the packet is an erosion repair report from V&K’s Forrest Aldrich. I have asked Finance Director Jean Furler to place it in the Storm Water Utility budget.
FYI—One of the areas involves the High School’s storm water drain from the parking lot. I forwarded the report to Building/Grounds Director Rick Branson for his review.
3. SIMPSON PARKING: In the packet is a letter from Simpson’s Ken Birkenholtz requesting Simpson be allowed to asphalt a portion of the parking on C Street adjacent to the Kent Center (see concept drawing). Staff has reviewed and will authorize the temporary asphalt.
4. SOUTH Y UPDATE: Chuck has scheduled Tuesday, October 18th for a final walk through with the engineer and contractor to develop a punch list of items needed to be completed or repaired.
5. STORM WATER PROJECT UPDATE: All three areas, Easton Park, South Buxton and West Iowa Avenue have been completed. Final restoration of properties (sod) should begin within the next couple of weeks.
6. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: In the packet are city accomplishments over the last 10 years.
7. STORM SHELTERS: P&Z discussed the addition of storm shelters for single and multi-family dwellings at their October 11 meeting (see minutes) and voted to take no action. Community Development Director surveyed 12 cities and found none that requires shelters.
8. ELECTRIC FRANCHISE: When reviewing the recently adopted ordinance, MidAmerican reps noted a couple text issues. There may be a slight change in the wording (involves dates) that will be presented to council in a few weeks.
9. SLUDGE HAULING: The contractor is at our plant and started the sludge hauling process. Supt Dan Miers anticipates over 1 million gallons will be hauled in the next 3 weeks (weather permitting).
10. ELECTION: In your packet is a letter from Darwin Curl stating he will be withdrawing from the race. His name will remain on the ballot.
The committee will meet and discuss options in the next couple weeks.
2. MCVAY TRAIL: In the packet is an erosion repair report from V&K’s Forrest Aldrich. I have asked Finance Director Jean Furler to place it in the Storm Water Utility budget.
FYI—One of the areas involves the High School’s storm water drain from the parking lot. I forwarded the report to Building/Grounds Director Rick Branson for his review.
3. SIMPSON PARKING: In the packet is a letter from Simpson’s Ken Birkenholtz requesting Simpson be allowed to asphalt a portion of the parking on C Street adjacent to the Kent Center (see concept drawing). Staff has reviewed and will authorize the temporary asphalt.
4. SOUTH Y UPDATE: Chuck has scheduled Tuesday, October 18th for a final walk through with the engineer and contractor to develop a punch list of items needed to be completed or repaired.
5. STORM WATER PROJECT UPDATE: All three areas, Easton Park, South Buxton and West Iowa Avenue have been completed. Final restoration of properties (sod) should begin within the next couple of weeks.
6. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: In the packet are city accomplishments over the last 10 years.
7. STORM SHELTERS: P&Z discussed the addition of storm shelters for single and multi-family dwellings at their October 11 meeting (see minutes) and voted to take no action. Community Development Director surveyed 12 cities and found none that requires shelters.
8. ELECTRIC FRANCHISE: When reviewing the recently adopted ordinance, MidAmerican reps noted a couple text issues. There may be a slight change in the wording (involves dates) that will be presented to council in a few weeks.
9. SLUDGE HAULING: The contractor is at our plant and started the sludge hauling process. Supt Dan Miers anticipates over 1 million gallons will be hauled in the next 3 weeks (weather permitting).
10. ELECTION: In your packet is a letter from Darwin Curl stating he will be withdrawing from the race. His name will remain on the ballot.
Friday, September 30, 2011
News Items - October 3, 2011
1. COMMITTEE AGENDA ITEMS: We will have a big line-up of issues in the next 2-3 months. The tentative agendas follow:
• Sewer and Street Capital Budgets—October
• Goals/Priorities—October
• Fire Bay expansion—October
• Downtown Incentive Program ends December 31, ’11; consider extension and financing issues-October
• Square Streetscape design options—October
• General Fund Capital Budget—November
• Gas franchise vs. taxes to pay annual $140,000 Aerial Truck debt payment—November
• Wellness program enhancements-November
2. VISION IOWA: The next meeting is October 12 in Sioux City and we plan to have representation there.
3. HWY 65/69: We have asked IDOT to review the re-grade (addresses different levels of the north and southbound lanes) of Hwy 65/69 north of Hillcrest to the car dealerships. More information will be presented to council in the next few weeks when IDOT responds. A speed limit review has also been requested.
4. SOUTH Y STREET LIGHTS: Chuck Burgin has been working with General Manager Todd Kielkopf who indicated that our Electric Utility can install the lights on South Y for about $34,000. The cost of the lighting will then be charged to the city as part of the total lighting bill that is paid annually.
The initial understanding was that MidAmerican Energy could only provide the lights/electricity since it is their territory.
A recommendation will be placed on the October 17 agenda as more detail is worked out.
5. PAPERLESS SOFTWARE: Information Technology Manager Kurt Ripperger reports iPad quotes are in and favorable. They will be here in about two weeks.
The software should be installed early next week since tests on the remote connection with the company have passed. Staff training will take another 4-5 weeks after software installation.
Kurt anticipates the entire system will be functional by the end of November.
iPad training for elected officials will be scheduled after the units are configured.
6. WAYFINDING SIGNS: IDOT indicated the proposed Way-Finding signs required some changes including colors, warranty and reflective materials. There is an additional cost of $2,900 which I authorized. The concepts have been returned to Shive-Hattery for revisions and will be provided to elected officials when available.
7. WELLNESS PROGRAM: In an effort to maintain or reduce health insurance claims, the insurance committee is working on enhancements to the city’s wellness program. Enhancements discussed include fitness center assistance for 12 months (currently 9), flu shots, blood screen report/follow-up, pre-diabetes/diabetes counseling, etc. A presentation will be provided by the committee at the November committee meeting.
8. NORTH E SHARED SERVICE: Supt Dan Miers met with the property owners in the 800 Blk of N E St to discuss a shared sewer service (see map) that was discovered during I&I Program testing. Dan provided a cost breakdown of the project including city and owner share. Total project is estimated at $32,726 with the owners paying about $33,000 ($6,500 ea). All owners indicated a desire to proceed.
Dan recommends the project be conducted thru the I&I Phase 2 (change order) with Visu Sewer. A recommendation will be brought to council on October 17.
9. INTERN: Intern Chelsea Fulton was hired as the new city administrator of Griswold, Iowa and will start on October 10. There is no question her internship with the City of Indianola helped her gain employment. Congratulations to Chelsea and we wish her the best!
10. COUNTY/CITY ROADS: Dean Yordi, Jerry Kelley, Jason White, Chuck Burgin and I are scheduling a meeting the week of October 10 to further discuss joint road projects.
11. DAMAGE RECOVERY: Efforts by Park Superintendent Mike Bowlin, and Risk Manager RoxAnne Hunerdosse, resulted in $500 damage reimbursement from IDOT resulting from a snowplow damage to curbing at Pickard Park last winter.
12. BULLET-PROOF VEST GRANT: The Police Department once again received funding from the US Department of Justice for the Bullet-Proof Vest grant program. This week we received $1,662.50 (50% of the cost) to help off-set the expense of new vests for our officers. Vests are purchased for new officers and replaced on a rotational basis for current officers. Each vest cost $675.
13. STORM & DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS: In your packet is a list and map from Veenstra and Kimm showing proposed storm and drainage improvements in the city. Note that not all sites have been reviewed for cost estimates. However, this information will be prepared for an improvement project next spring funded by the Storm Water Utility.
14. ROBERT HAWKINS: Returned to active employment with the Police Department on Sept. 30th after serving 20 months of active duty in the US Army. Welcome Rob and thank you for your military service.
• Sewer and Street Capital Budgets—October
• Goals/Priorities—October
• Fire Bay expansion—October
• Downtown Incentive Program ends December 31, ’11; consider extension and financing issues-October
• Square Streetscape design options—October
• General Fund Capital Budget—November
• Gas franchise vs. taxes to pay annual $140,000 Aerial Truck debt payment—November
• Wellness program enhancements-November
2. VISION IOWA: The next meeting is October 12 in Sioux City and we plan to have representation there.
3. HWY 65/69: We have asked IDOT to review the re-grade (addresses different levels of the north and southbound lanes) of Hwy 65/69 north of Hillcrest to the car dealerships. More information will be presented to council in the next few weeks when IDOT responds. A speed limit review has also been requested.
4. SOUTH Y STREET LIGHTS: Chuck Burgin has been working with General Manager Todd Kielkopf who indicated that our Electric Utility can install the lights on South Y for about $34,000. The cost of the lighting will then be charged to the city as part of the total lighting bill that is paid annually.
The initial understanding was that MidAmerican Energy could only provide the lights/electricity since it is their territory.
A recommendation will be placed on the October 17 agenda as more detail is worked out.
5. PAPERLESS SOFTWARE: Information Technology Manager Kurt Ripperger reports iPad quotes are in and favorable. They will be here in about two weeks.
The software should be installed early next week since tests on the remote connection with the company have passed. Staff training will take another 4-5 weeks after software installation.
Kurt anticipates the entire system will be functional by the end of November.
iPad training for elected officials will be scheduled after the units are configured.
6. WAYFINDING SIGNS: IDOT indicated the proposed Way-Finding signs required some changes including colors, warranty and reflective materials. There is an additional cost of $2,900 which I authorized. The concepts have been returned to Shive-Hattery for revisions and will be provided to elected officials when available.
7. WELLNESS PROGRAM: In an effort to maintain or reduce health insurance claims, the insurance committee is working on enhancements to the city’s wellness program. Enhancements discussed include fitness center assistance for 12 months (currently 9), flu shots, blood screen report/follow-up, pre-diabetes/diabetes counseling, etc. A presentation will be provided by the committee at the November committee meeting.
8. NORTH E SHARED SERVICE: Supt Dan Miers met with the property owners in the 800 Blk of N E St to discuss a shared sewer service (see map) that was discovered during I&I Program testing. Dan provided a cost breakdown of the project including city and owner share. Total project is estimated at $32,726 with the owners paying about $33,000 ($6,500 ea). All owners indicated a desire to proceed.
Dan recommends the project be conducted thru the I&I Phase 2 (change order) with Visu Sewer. A recommendation will be brought to council on October 17.
9. INTERN: Intern Chelsea Fulton was hired as the new city administrator of Griswold, Iowa and will start on October 10. There is no question her internship with the City of Indianola helped her gain employment. Congratulations to Chelsea and we wish her the best!
10. COUNTY/CITY ROADS: Dean Yordi, Jerry Kelley, Jason White, Chuck Burgin and I are scheduling a meeting the week of October 10 to further discuss joint road projects.
11. DAMAGE RECOVERY: Efforts by Park Superintendent Mike Bowlin, and Risk Manager RoxAnne Hunerdosse, resulted in $500 damage reimbursement from IDOT resulting from a snowplow damage to curbing at Pickard Park last winter.
12. BULLET-PROOF VEST GRANT: The Police Department once again received funding from the US Department of Justice for the Bullet-Proof Vest grant program. This week we received $1,662.50 (50% of the cost) to help off-set the expense of new vests for our officers. Vests are purchased for new officers and replaced on a rotational basis for current officers. Each vest cost $675.
13. STORM & DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS: In your packet is a list and map from Veenstra and Kimm showing proposed storm and drainage improvements in the city. Note that not all sites have been reviewed for cost estimates. However, this information will be prepared for an improvement project next spring funded by the Storm Water Utility.
14. ROBERT HAWKINS: Returned to active employment with the Police Department on Sept. 30th after serving 20 months of active duty in the US Army. Welcome Rob and thank you for your military service.
Friday, September 23, 2011
News Items - September 26, 2011
1. NEXT MEETING: The next council meeting is October 3 at 6:00 pm.
2. WELLNESS CENTER: Vernon Delpasce and I have begun discussions on the owner/operator agreement. We anticipate the document to be complete by end of October and presented to council in November.
3. J/K REALIGNMENT: Community Development Director Chuck Burgin reports the following:
1. Currently soliciting quotes for an appraisal review. Federal Highway requires a review of the original appraisal
2. Contacted Libby Weilenga of IDOT District 5 to confirm the environmental status of the project. DeeAnn Newell of National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) will be contacted for compliance.
3. Archaeological and historic surveys will need to be completed
These items need to be cleared prior to making an official offer to purchase the property. Also, Chuck suggests hiring V&K (they’ve done all the preliminary work thus far) to start preliminary design concepts. V&K has experience with Federally Funded projects.
4. ISA: P&R Director Glen Cowan reports the Indianola Sports Association had a challenging summer and that Rec Supt Doug Bylund spent a lot of time helping the leagues. There will be a meeting in the next couple weeks to discuss next season’s operations.
5. SOUTH Y REPORT: The street has been open for a week. The damaged driveway panels in front of the townhomes have been removed and replaced. The seeding contractor has not shown, and as September 23, 2011 allowable working days of 60 ended on Wednesday, September 21, 2011.
6. FY 10/11 BUDGET: In the packet is the August budget report showing departmental budget figures. Revenues are at about 12.3% (tax payments are due in October) and expenses about 16.9%.
7. GENERATOR: At around 7:00 AM this morning the Sewer Department received multiple alarms at the south plant lift station. Staff investigated and found phase loss in the incoming power. Dan Miers called IMU to investigate further. They arrived at the time the new generator transfer switch exploded.
Dan determined that the Onan transfer switch failed and also found the Westinghouse transformer switch will not trip. JETCO, Neuvirth and IMU installed temporary power to the station. The transfer switch is still under warranty and Dan ordered a new transformer switch ($5,700) to replace the old one.
Our thanks to Bob Miller and his staff for their quick response and excellent service!!
8. I&I: During extreme rain events in June of this year, city staff received reports of an excessive number of basement backups along N 8th Street from E Euclid to E Girard Avenue (see map). After the rain events, Dan Miers instructed staff to televise the sewer mains in the 500 block of E Iowa Ave to the intersection of E Euclid and N 8th St. They found several Inflow and Infiltration issues with the sewer mains and sewer services.
Staff reviewed the videos from 2002 and could not see the I&I issues when inspected in June of 2011. The rain event amplified the I&I conditions that were not visible in 2002. Dan asked V&K Engineers to include lining 6 segments of sewer main, 30 lateral launches and 16 T-liners to Phase 2 of the I&I Project. The good news is that staff already deleted 71 T-lines from the project so there will be little cost impact.
Dan will be contacting the property owners and hold a neighborhood meeting to explain what the city discovered. Dan expects to find several I&I issues with the sewer services and will be explaining that they will be responsible for any additional I&I issues that are discovered during lateral launches.
9. COUNCIL: For your information, the following is a list of candidates for the November election.
1st Ward 3rd Ward At Large
Randy Gathers Shirley Clark Darwin Curl Jr.
John Parker Jr. Eric Mathieu Greg Marchant
Mark Vickroy
10. HWY 65/69 TRAFFIC: Chief Bonnett, Ken Bresnan and I met with IDOT’s Jim Armstrong to discuss traffic concerns related to Theisen’s opening. Jim will explore options and report back. Chief Bonnett intends to have two officers on site during the grand opening.
2. WELLNESS CENTER: Vernon Delpasce and I have begun discussions on the owner/operator agreement. We anticipate the document to be complete by end of October and presented to council in November.
3. J/K REALIGNMENT: Community Development Director Chuck Burgin reports the following:
1. Currently soliciting quotes for an appraisal review. Federal Highway requires a review of the original appraisal
2. Contacted Libby Weilenga of IDOT District 5 to confirm the environmental status of the project. DeeAnn Newell of National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) will be contacted for compliance.
3. Archaeological and historic surveys will need to be completed
These items need to be cleared prior to making an official offer to purchase the property. Also, Chuck suggests hiring V&K (they’ve done all the preliminary work thus far) to start preliminary design concepts. V&K has experience with Federally Funded projects.
4. ISA: P&R Director Glen Cowan reports the Indianola Sports Association had a challenging summer and that Rec Supt Doug Bylund spent a lot of time helping the leagues. There will be a meeting in the next couple weeks to discuss next season’s operations.
5. SOUTH Y REPORT: The street has been open for a week. The damaged driveway panels in front of the townhomes have been removed and replaced. The seeding contractor has not shown, and as September 23, 2011 allowable working days of 60 ended on Wednesday, September 21, 2011.
6. FY 10/11 BUDGET: In the packet is the August budget report showing departmental budget figures. Revenues are at about 12.3% (tax payments are due in October) and expenses about 16.9%.
7. GENERATOR: At around 7:00 AM this morning the Sewer Department received multiple alarms at the south plant lift station. Staff investigated and found phase loss in the incoming power. Dan Miers called IMU to investigate further. They arrived at the time the new generator transfer switch exploded.
Dan determined that the Onan transfer switch failed and also found the Westinghouse transformer switch will not trip. JETCO, Neuvirth and IMU installed temporary power to the station. The transfer switch is still under warranty and Dan ordered a new transformer switch ($5,700) to replace the old one.
Our thanks to Bob Miller and his staff for their quick response and excellent service!!
8. I&I: During extreme rain events in June of this year, city staff received reports of an excessive number of basement backups along N 8th Street from E Euclid to E Girard Avenue (see map). After the rain events, Dan Miers instructed staff to televise the sewer mains in the 500 block of E Iowa Ave to the intersection of E Euclid and N 8th St. They found several Inflow and Infiltration issues with the sewer mains and sewer services.
Staff reviewed the videos from 2002 and could not see the I&I issues when inspected in June of 2011. The rain event amplified the I&I conditions that were not visible in 2002. Dan asked V&K Engineers to include lining 6 segments of sewer main, 30 lateral launches and 16 T-liners to Phase 2 of the I&I Project. The good news is that staff already deleted 71 T-lines from the project so there will be little cost impact.
Dan will be contacting the property owners and hold a neighborhood meeting to explain what the city discovered. Dan expects to find several I&I issues with the sewer services and will be explaining that they will be responsible for any additional I&I issues that are discovered during lateral launches.
9. COUNCIL: For your information, the following is a list of candidates for the November election.
1st Ward 3rd Ward At Large
Randy Gathers Shirley Clark Darwin Curl Jr.
John Parker Jr. Eric Mathieu Greg Marchant
Mark Vickroy
10. HWY 65/69 TRAFFIC: Chief Bonnett, Ken Bresnan and I met with IDOT’s Jim Armstrong to discuss traffic concerns related to Theisen’s opening. Jim will explore options and report back. Chief Bonnett intends to have two officers on site during the grand opening.
Friday, September 16, 2011
News Items September 19, 2011
1. WELLNESS CENTER: Our second meeting with the Vision Iowa Board was held on September 14 and it went well. Ken presented a revised budget (based on elected official, committee and citizen input) that included the walking track and a racquetball court. The $2.5 million request was lowered to $1 million to show actual need and be more inline with VI resources. There are nearly $12 million in applications and around $3.5-$4 million in available funds. Nearly $2 million in applications was forwarded to the negotiation stage by the Board on the 14th.
2. I&I CHANGE ORDER: Supt Dan Miers and V&K Engineers Forrest Aldrich and Rebecca Ford have been working with Visu Sewer on changes to the Phase 2 Project that will amount to about $112,000. Total contract amount is currently $4,185,979.00.
The C/O is the result of a 3-1/2 hour meeting between Becky, Dan, Forrest and the contractor on August 31st. The contractor was originally asking $227,524 before Becky and Dan negotiated the cost to the $112,000.
The changes are described by location/purpose in the V&K recommendation. Some repairs are for fixing a shared service while the majority is due to changes in sewer conditions (worse) compared to what was originally televised (several years ago). Becky, Dan and Forrest reviewed the original TV tape during design and the new TV tape for the repair. The difference is remarkable in some instances. It is not known why the sewer deteriorated so quickly in these locations but a guess is that the wet weather this spring surcharged some of the sewers and they couldn't take the strain. The rest is for miscellaneous odds and ends discovered during excavation.
Most of the entire Phase II has now been televised for repairs and most of the excavation work is completed, so we do not expect any more change orders of this magnitude.
3. RECYCLING PROPOSALS: On August 3, 2011 Diana Bowlin received recycling proposals for the next 3-5 years (see packet) indicating McCoy Sanitation as the low bid. However, McCoy’s recently sold to Waste Management.
I met with WM’s Brian Neppl and Dave Massey to discuss the transition and McCoy’s and recycling proposals. They are willing to honor the current (bin) option of $2.75/month and are considering a reduction to their cart system.
Based on the healthy financial condition of the Recycling Fund, and, the fact that the single-stream cart recycling option is becoming more accepted in the metro area, the recommendation is to accept the cart recycling option. Keep in mind that eventually the bin system will be obsolete and a change to carts will be inevitable. The 96 gallon carts would be provided to residents and picked up every two weeks compared to once/week under the bin program. WM also indicates participation increases with the cart system.
This will be placed on the October 3 council agenda.
4. STORM WATER FUNDING: Chuck Burgin, Jean Furler, Dan Miers and I had a meeting with reps from IDNR regarding a new program that will help fund Water Resource Restoration projects using interest paid (by cities) on their Sanitary Sewer improvements using the State Revolving Loan Fund. The city council has budgeted around $6 million for sewer plant improvements that will be constructed in 2013 (plans are being developed now) so the 3% interest on that project can be used for storm water improvement projects including permeable paving, drainage way improvements, water gardens and other projects that limit storm water freely flowing into a drainage way.
More information about the project will be available in a couple weeks when we plan to meet again. And, it will be placed on a future council study agenda.
5. EMPLOYEE BREAKFAST: Up to a year or so ago the council and trustees held an employee breakfast as a meet and greet and show of appreciation for the fine work performed by our employees. After discussion with Todd Kielkopf, we are scheduling October 27 from 7:00 am to 8:30 am for the breakfast that will be held at the Activity Center. Elected officials are asked to attend to help serve and meet employees. Mark your calendars.
6. THE VILLAGE: The Village will be celebrating their 20th anniversary on Friday, September 30 from 2:00-4:00 pm in the Heritage Room in the Maple Crest Building. The retirement/assisted living center have been a great corporate citizen of Indianola.
7. SOUTH Y PAVING UPDATE: South “Y” is open to the traffic, 90% of the sidewalks have been poured and restoration will begin next week. Chuck has met with the representative of the townhomes, to discuss detour damage and will be corrected. The damage was minimal and repairs will begin next week.
8. NO PARKING: I have received an informal request from a farmer to place no parking on South “Y” Street. He stated it is very difficult to get his large machinery through to his farm land. I have asked Steve Bonnett to review and make a recommendation.
9. TAXES: In your packet are the general fund and debt service tax distribution at a 100.35% and 100.39%. This is good news.
2. I&I CHANGE ORDER: Supt Dan Miers and V&K Engineers Forrest Aldrich and Rebecca Ford have been working with Visu Sewer on changes to the Phase 2 Project that will amount to about $112,000. Total contract amount is currently $4,185,979.00.
The C/O is the result of a 3-1/2 hour meeting between Becky, Dan, Forrest and the contractor on August 31st. The contractor was originally asking $227,524 before Becky and Dan negotiated the cost to the $112,000.
The changes are described by location/purpose in the V&K recommendation. Some repairs are for fixing a shared service while the majority is due to changes in sewer conditions (worse) compared to what was originally televised (several years ago). Becky, Dan and Forrest reviewed the original TV tape during design and the new TV tape for the repair. The difference is remarkable in some instances. It is not known why the sewer deteriorated so quickly in these locations but a guess is that the wet weather this spring surcharged some of the sewers and they couldn't take the strain. The rest is for miscellaneous odds and ends discovered during excavation.
Most of the entire Phase II has now been televised for repairs and most of the excavation work is completed, so we do not expect any more change orders of this magnitude.
3. RECYCLING PROPOSALS: On August 3, 2011 Diana Bowlin received recycling proposals for the next 3-5 years (see packet) indicating McCoy Sanitation as the low bid. However, McCoy’s recently sold to Waste Management.
I met with WM’s Brian Neppl and Dave Massey to discuss the transition and McCoy’s and recycling proposals. They are willing to honor the current (bin) option of $2.75/month and are considering a reduction to their cart system.
Based on the healthy financial condition of the Recycling Fund, and, the fact that the single-stream cart recycling option is becoming more accepted in the metro area, the recommendation is to accept the cart recycling option. Keep in mind that eventually the bin system will be obsolete and a change to carts will be inevitable. The 96 gallon carts would be provided to residents and picked up every two weeks compared to once/week under the bin program. WM also indicates participation increases with the cart system.
This will be placed on the October 3 council agenda.
4. STORM WATER FUNDING: Chuck Burgin, Jean Furler, Dan Miers and I had a meeting with reps from IDNR regarding a new program that will help fund Water Resource Restoration projects using interest paid (by cities) on their Sanitary Sewer improvements using the State Revolving Loan Fund. The city council has budgeted around $6 million for sewer plant improvements that will be constructed in 2013 (plans are being developed now) so the 3% interest on that project can be used for storm water improvement projects including permeable paving, drainage way improvements, water gardens and other projects that limit storm water freely flowing into a drainage way.
More information about the project will be available in a couple weeks when we plan to meet again. And, it will be placed on a future council study agenda.
5. EMPLOYEE BREAKFAST: Up to a year or so ago the council and trustees held an employee breakfast as a meet and greet and show of appreciation for the fine work performed by our employees. After discussion with Todd Kielkopf, we are scheduling October 27 from 7:00 am to 8:30 am for the breakfast that will be held at the Activity Center. Elected officials are asked to attend to help serve and meet employees. Mark your calendars.
6. THE VILLAGE: The Village will be celebrating their 20th anniversary on Friday, September 30 from 2:00-4:00 pm in the Heritage Room in the Maple Crest Building. The retirement/assisted living center have been a great corporate citizen of Indianola.
7. SOUTH Y PAVING UPDATE: South “Y” is open to the traffic, 90% of the sidewalks have been poured and restoration will begin next week. Chuck has met with the representative of the townhomes, to discuss detour damage and will be corrected. The damage was minimal and repairs will begin next week.
8. NO PARKING: I have received an informal request from a farmer to place no parking on South “Y” Street. He stated it is very difficult to get his large machinery through to his farm land. I have asked Steve Bonnett to review and make a recommendation.
9. TAXES: In your packet are the general fund and debt service tax distribution at a 100.35% and 100.39%. This is good news.
Friday, September 2, 2011
News Items - September 6, 2011
1. SEPTEMBER 12 COMMITTEE: The tentative agenda includes the joint labor negotiation meeting with the trustees, C Street report from V&K, goals/priorities. Other items that will be discussed in the October/November meetings include gas franchise fee for ladder truck purchase, Downtown Square Incentive program, Square streetscape discussion, Fire Dept bay expansion, office building purchase.
2. P&R PRESENTATION: The P&R Commission has invited elected officials to attend a presentation by Dr. John Crompton about the benefits of parks and recreation in a community. The session will be held in the Training Room (basement of city hall) at 5:00 pm on September 14.
3. JOINT MEETING: Labor Negotiations Consultant Jim Hanks will meet on September 12 in closed session with the council/trustees to discuss the upcoming labor negotiations. The current contracts expire June 30, 2012.
4. VISION IOWA: The next Vision Iowa Board meeting is September 14 and Indianola will update its $2.5 million application/presentation from August 10. VI’s Alaina Santizo reports there is about $3.2 million (possibly more due to additional casino revenues) in FY 12 and about $15-$18 million in applications. Competition will be strong.
5. CUSTOMER APPRECIATION: The Municipal Utility will hold its annual customer appreciation event on September 15 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at 110 South Buxton. There will be information about energy efficiency, fiber, underground conversion and water quality.
6. BRUSH FACILITY: RoxAnne Hunerdosse reports mulching at the facility will be conducted this fall due to the large volume of brush collected from storm damage this year. Street Supt Ed Yando solicited quotes and received two from qualified vendors including Chamness Technology ($5,350) and JC's Services - $4,800. Staff authorized JC's Services due to price and quality of finished product.
Residents continue to use the mulch for home use thereby eliminating a removal or hauling charge for the city.
7. SOUTH Y PAVING: The main line paving has been completed. All the driveway approaches on the west side of “Y” Street are being graded, framed and paved on Friday, September 2, 2011.
8. STORM SEWER PROJECT: West Iowa culvert extension has begun and will be completed next week. As well as grading of the detention pond. Street repairs for both West Boston and South Buxton are completed and open to traffic.
9. MC COY SANITATION: Jeff Mc Coy informed us Friday morning that McCoy Sanitation has sold to Waste Management. Will keep you posted.
10. AMBULANCE: Sarah Palin is hosting a political event on September 3 at the Balloon Field from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The Fire Department has put an additional ambulance in service. Brian Seymour has billed them $450 to help cover the cost associated with covering the event. Along with the additional ambulance, the fire department will have two people roaming the grounds to provide first aid.
11. AERIAL UPDATE: Brian Seymour reports the specs went out to the two companies yesterday (Thursday, September 1) and are to be returned on September 16th @ 3pm for bid opening. Brian has talked to both companies and they currently see no problem with getting this completed. After the opening we will review the specs for compliance and forward information to you and the council.
2. P&R PRESENTATION: The P&R Commission has invited elected officials to attend a presentation by Dr. John Crompton about the benefits of parks and recreation in a community. The session will be held in the Training Room (basement of city hall) at 5:00 pm on September 14.
3. JOINT MEETING: Labor Negotiations Consultant Jim Hanks will meet on September 12 in closed session with the council/trustees to discuss the upcoming labor negotiations. The current contracts expire June 30, 2012.
4. VISION IOWA: The next Vision Iowa Board meeting is September 14 and Indianola will update its $2.5 million application/presentation from August 10. VI’s Alaina Santizo reports there is about $3.2 million (possibly more due to additional casino revenues) in FY 12 and about $15-$18 million in applications. Competition will be strong.
5. CUSTOMER APPRECIATION: The Municipal Utility will hold its annual customer appreciation event on September 15 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at 110 South Buxton. There will be information about energy efficiency, fiber, underground conversion and water quality.
6. BRUSH FACILITY: RoxAnne Hunerdosse reports mulching at the facility will be conducted this fall due to the large volume of brush collected from storm damage this year. Street Supt Ed Yando solicited quotes and received two from qualified vendors including Chamness Technology ($5,350) and JC's Services - $4,800. Staff authorized JC's Services due to price and quality of finished product.
Residents continue to use the mulch for home use thereby eliminating a removal or hauling charge for the city.
7. SOUTH Y PAVING: The main line paving has been completed. All the driveway approaches on the west side of “Y” Street are being graded, framed and paved on Friday, September 2, 2011.
8. STORM SEWER PROJECT: West Iowa culvert extension has begun and will be completed next week. As well as grading of the detention pond. Street repairs for both West Boston and South Buxton are completed and open to traffic.
9. MC COY SANITATION: Jeff Mc Coy informed us Friday morning that McCoy Sanitation has sold to Waste Management. Will keep you posted.
10. AMBULANCE: Sarah Palin is hosting a political event on September 3 at the Balloon Field from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The Fire Department has put an additional ambulance in service. Brian Seymour has billed them $450 to help cover the cost associated with covering the event. Along with the additional ambulance, the fire department will have two people roaming the grounds to provide first aid.
11. AERIAL UPDATE: Brian Seymour reports the specs went out to the two companies yesterday (Thursday, September 1) and are to be returned on September 16th @ 3pm for bid opening. Brian has talked to both companies and they currently see no problem with getting this completed. After the opening we will review the specs for compliance and forward information to you and the council.
Friday, August 26, 2011
News Items August 29, 2011
1. NEXT MEETING: The next council meeting is September 6 at 6:00 pm.
2. JOINT MEETING: Council will meet with the trustees on September 12 at 6:00 pm to discuss upcoming labor negotiations for FY beginning July 1, 2012. One question is who to use as the city’s negotiator. Jim Hanks of the Ahlers Firm has been our negotiator since 2003.
FYI—The current labor contract is in your packet and I suggest you review it for potential changes.
3. SOUTH Y PAVING: The contractor started paving on Thursday, August 25 and completed 1,475’. Weather permitting, they are hoping to pave the remainder of the street within two days.
4. STORM SEWER PROJECTS: The Underground Company is working on final grading at the West and East Candle Ridge Ponds, and starting tree removal and initial grading work at Iowa for the construction of the headwall.
5. SIMPSON HOMECOMING: Simpson’s Homecoming is October 8 and they have applied for a noise permit for a band playing in the Hillman Hall parking lot (C St at Clinton) from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm and 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm. Chief Steve Bonnett approved the permit as no complaints were received last year.
6. SOAP BOX DERBY: There is a group in the community researching the possibility of hosting a Soap Box Derby race in Indianola (possibly) next July. They are looking at potential streets and will talk to residents about blocking their street for one day. We are also checking. A request will be brought to council in the next several weeks once details have been worked out.
7. WAL MART SIGNAL: Finance Director Jean Furler reports the IDOT approved Urban Systems Traffic Engineering Program funds for the traffic signal detector loops at Highway 65/69 and Apple Drive (Wal-Mart). Council approved the $13,000 expense on May 16 and USTEP will pay about $7,300 of the cost. The project will be complete by the end of September.
8. RECYCLING: City Clerk Diana Bowlin received quotes on August 3 from three haulers to provide recycling service for calendar years 12, 13 and 14. McCoy is the apparent low quote and if the current bins are maintained, the monthly cost will remain at $2.75 for residential customers. However, if we switch to the 96-gallon toters, the monthly cost would rise to $3.85 for residential customers. The additional cost is due to purchasing the new toters.
9. PALIN EVENT: Sara Palin is hosting a political event on September 3 at the Balloon Field from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm and our Police/Fire Depts are preparing for a potential of up to 15,000 visitors. They are working with organizers, County Sheriff’s Dept and State Troopers.
10. HOMECOMING PARADE: The annual Homecoming Parade will be held on September 8 from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
11. BIMONTHLY UPDATE: Staff is currently looking at combining the bimonthly update and biannual activity guide into a quarterly magazine style publication. Combining the two publications would result in more pages of content being distributed to the public on annual basis for the same amount of expenditures. In addition, Park and Recreation would be able to promote their activities twice as often as they do now. The issues would be set up as seasonal issues (winter, spring, summer, and fall) and would be based on a similar format that West Des Moines is currently using for their city publication. Staff is planning on bringing a recommendation to a September meeting.
2. JOINT MEETING: Council will meet with the trustees on September 12 at 6:00 pm to discuss upcoming labor negotiations for FY beginning July 1, 2012. One question is who to use as the city’s negotiator. Jim Hanks of the Ahlers Firm has been our negotiator since 2003.
FYI—The current labor contract is in your packet and I suggest you review it for potential changes.
3. SOUTH Y PAVING: The contractor started paving on Thursday, August 25 and completed 1,475’. Weather permitting, they are hoping to pave the remainder of the street within two days.
4. STORM SEWER PROJECTS: The Underground Company is working on final grading at the West and East Candle Ridge Ponds, and starting tree removal and initial grading work at Iowa for the construction of the headwall.
5. SIMPSON HOMECOMING: Simpson’s Homecoming is October 8 and they have applied for a noise permit for a band playing in the Hillman Hall parking lot (C St at Clinton) from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm and 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm. Chief Steve Bonnett approved the permit as no complaints were received last year.
6. SOAP BOX DERBY: There is a group in the community researching the possibility of hosting a Soap Box Derby race in Indianola (possibly) next July. They are looking at potential streets and will talk to residents about blocking their street for one day. We are also checking. A request will be brought to council in the next several weeks once details have been worked out.
7. WAL MART SIGNAL: Finance Director Jean Furler reports the IDOT approved Urban Systems Traffic Engineering Program funds for the traffic signal detector loops at Highway 65/69 and Apple Drive (Wal-Mart). Council approved the $13,000 expense on May 16 and USTEP will pay about $7,300 of the cost. The project will be complete by the end of September.
8. RECYCLING: City Clerk Diana Bowlin received quotes on August 3 from three haulers to provide recycling service for calendar years 12, 13 and 14. McCoy is the apparent low quote and if the current bins are maintained, the monthly cost will remain at $2.75 for residential customers. However, if we switch to the 96-gallon toters, the monthly cost would rise to $3.85 for residential customers. The additional cost is due to purchasing the new toters.
9. PALIN EVENT: Sara Palin is hosting a political event on September 3 at the Balloon Field from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm and our Police/Fire Depts are preparing for a potential of up to 15,000 visitors. They are working with organizers, County Sheriff’s Dept and State Troopers.
10. HOMECOMING PARADE: The annual Homecoming Parade will be held on September 8 from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
11. BIMONTHLY UPDATE: Staff is currently looking at combining the bimonthly update and biannual activity guide into a quarterly magazine style publication. Combining the two publications would result in more pages of content being distributed to the public on annual basis for the same amount of expenditures. In addition, Park and Recreation would be able to promote their activities twice as often as they do now. The issues would be set up as seasonal issues (winter, spring, summer, and fall) and would be based on a similar format that West Des Moines is currently using for their city publication. Staff is planning on bringing a recommendation to a September meeting.
Friday, August 19, 2011
News Items - 08-22-11
NEWS ITEMS
TO: Mayor and Council
FROM: Tim
DATE: August 18, 2011
1. NEXT MEETING: The next council meeting is Tuesday September 6 at 6:00 pm due to Labor Day on the 5th.
2. SPECIAL MEETING: There will be a special council meeting in the council chambers Monday August 22 at 4:00 pm for final consideration of the ordinance re-districting wards and establishing precincts as required by Iowa Code 42.4.
3. WELLNESS CENTER: Seven project manager proposals were reviewed by the subcommittee (Chuck Burgin, Vicky Foresman, John Sirianni, Mike Teigland and myself) on the 17th. While all were very capable, they were narrowed to Ball Team, Hansen Company and Story Construction. Interviews will take place on August 30 and a recommendation presented to council on September 6.
4. COMP PLAN UPDATE: Indianola’s “draft” Comprehensive Plan Update can be viewed on the web site at: indianolaiowa.gov under the “I Want To” tab and “View the Comp Plan”.
5. CITY/COUNTY PAVING: Community Development Director Chuck Burgin and I met with County Supervisor Dean Yordi and IDA Executive Director Jerry Kelley on the 17th to begin dialogue on potential joint projects. Dean reported that the county will review their capital plan in the next several weeks.
I will contact Dean the first of October to continue discussions. Depending on progress and potential projects, a recommendation will be brought to council in our 5-year Capital Plan.
6. SOUTH Y: The sub grading is estimated at 95% complete as of August 19. Weather permitting, finish trim and paving main line should be completed Friday August 26.
Liquidated damages are $600/day and there are 60 working days (excludes weekends and rain days). 41.5 working days have been used thus far.
MidAmerican Energy serves South Y and will install the 8 street lights for $38,454 and charge $11.27/light/month forever. However, the city can pay $26.25/light/ month indefinitely with no initial payment for the infrastructure. When calculating interest on $38,454, the payback would take 34 years if paying the $26.25/light/month. A recommendation will be on the September 6 agenda.
7. JOINT COUNCIL/TRUSTEES: Another reminder of the joint council/trustee meeting on September 12 to discuss upcoming labor negotiations (see packet for union contract) and items of mutual interest.
8. WAY-FINDING SIGNS: Glen Cowan submitted the signage plan to the IDOT and they indicated some problems with one of the colors, a few places listed on some of the signs, straight forward arrows, and lettering font. The committee will meet with Shive Hattery to discuss how to address the IDOT comments/issues. The signs will be ordered once DOT gives their approval.
9. BRUSH: The Street Dept picked up brush from around 125 homes due to the August 6-7 & 11th storms. Our thanks to the crew!!
10. LIABILITY CLAIMS: Three claims have been submitted along with a fourth inquiry regarding the August 8th incident when a tree branch fell on an electric line at Iowa and “E” Street. When the branch fell it acted as a conductor between the 13.2 Kv and 4 Kv circuits and raised the voltage on the 4 kv system. The resulting power surge damaged electrical appliances in neighborhood homes.
This is a primary reason the Board of Trustees continue to invest in the underground conversion project and the on-going tree trimming program.
The Iowa Community Insurance Pool is not finding Electric Department negligence or liability.
11. STORMWATER REPAIRS: To date, all pipe on E. Euclid, E. Girard, S. Buxton and W. Boston has been completed. The contractor intends to start the W. Iowa area next week. Streets, driveways and sidewalks are completed on Euclid and Girard, and a portion on Boston. Grading of drainage areas and detention ponds still need to be completed. The project appears to be on schedule with minimal changes.
12. UTILITY BILLING: Billing Clerk Lindsey Offenburger reports 204 customers receive their bill online and 1329 are registered to pay online. The numbers are growing but we are working to get more online bills to reduce paper and postage.
13. MEMORIAL POOL: Recreation Superintendent Doug Bylund has compared the expensed and revenues from January – August of this year and 2010.
Revenues Expenses
2011: $157,756.82 2011: $141,829.46
2010: $159,125.32 2010: $150,498.26
The revenues are only through August 17, and there is still 9 days the pool will be open which gives potential for increased revenue.
TO: Mayor and Council
FROM: Tim
DATE: August 18, 2011
1. NEXT MEETING: The next council meeting is Tuesday September 6 at 6:00 pm due to Labor Day on the 5th.
2. SPECIAL MEETING: There will be a special council meeting in the council chambers Monday August 22 at 4:00 pm for final consideration of the ordinance re-districting wards and establishing precincts as required by Iowa Code 42.4.
3. WELLNESS CENTER: Seven project manager proposals were reviewed by the subcommittee (Chuck Burgin, Vicky Foresman, John Sirianni, Mike Teigland and myself) on the 17th. While all were very capable, they were narrowed to Ball Team, Hansen Company and Story Construction. Interviews will take place on August 30 and a recommendation presented to council on September 6.
4. COMP PLAN UPDATE: Indianola’s “draft” Comprehensive Plan Update can be viewed on the web site at: indianolaiowa.gov under the “I Want To” tab and “View the Comp Plan”.
5. CITY/COUNTY PAVING: Community Development Director Chuck Burgin and I met with County Supervisor Dean Yordi and IDA Executive Director Jerry Kelley on the 17th to begin dialogue on potential joint projects. Dean reported that the county will review their capital plan in the next several weeks.
I will contact Dean the first of October to continue discussions. Depending on progress and potential projects, a recommendation will be brought to council in our 5-year Capital Plan.
6. SOUTH Y: The sub grading is estimated at 95% complete as of August 19. Weather permitting, finish trim and paving main line should be completed Friday August 26.
Liquidated damages are $600/day and there are 60 working days (excludes weekends and rain days). 41.5 working days have been used thus far.
MidAmerican Energy serves South Y and will install the 8 street lights for $38,454 and charge $11.27/light/month forever. However, the city can pay $26.25/light/ month indefinitely with no initial payment for the infrastructure. When calculating interest on $38,454, the payback would take 34 years if paying the $26.25/light/month. A recommendation will be on the September 6 agenda.
7. JOINT COUNCIL/TRUSTEES: Another reminder of the joint council/trustee meeting on September 12 to discuss upcoming labor negotiations (see packet for union contract) and items of mutual interest.
8. WAY-FINDING SIGNS: Glen Cowan submitted the signage plan to the IDOT and they indicated some problems with one of the colors, a few places listed on some of the signs, straight forward arrows, and lettering font. The committee will meet with Shive Hattery to discuss how to address the IDOT comments/issues. The signs will be ordered once DOT gives their approval.
9. BRUSH: The Street Dept picked up brush from around 125 homes due to the August 6-7 & 11th storms. Our thanks to the crew!!
10. LIABILITY CLAIMS: Three claims have been submitted along with a fourth inquiry regarding the August 8th incident when a tree branch fell on an electric line at Iowa and “E” Street. When the branch fell it acted as a conductor between the 13.2 Kv and 4 Kv circuits and raised the voltage on the 4 kv system. The resulting power surge damaged electrical appliances in neighborhood homes.
This is a primary reason the Board of Trustees continue to invest in the underground conversion project and the on-going tree trimming program.
The Iowa Community Insurance Pool is not finding Electric Department negligence or liability.
11. STORMWATER REPAIRS: To date, all pipe on E. Euclid, E. Girard, S. Buxton and W. Boston has been completed. The contractor intends to start the W. Iowa area next week. Streets, driveways and sidewalks are completed on Euclid and Girard, and a portion on Boston. Grading of drainage areas and detention ponds still need to be completed. The project appears to be on schedule with minimal changes.
12. UTILITY BILLING: Billing Clerk Lindsey Offenburger reports 204 customers receive their bill online and 1329 are registered to pay online. The numbers are growing but we are working to get more online bills to reduce paper and postage.
13. MEMORIAL POOL: Recreation Superintendent Doug Bylund has compared the expensed and revenues from January – August of this year and 2010.
Revenues Expenses
2011: $157,756.82 2011: $141,829.46
2010: $159,125.32 2010: $150,498.26
The revenues are only through August 17, and there is still 9 days the pool will be open which gives potential for increased revenue.
Friday, August 12, 2011
News Items August 15, 2011
1. 15th STREET: Steve Bonnett and Brian Seymour have approved temporary parking on the west side of 15th Street on August 19 for the Indianola Community School’s first football game. They are unable to use Simpson since it is still under construction.
2. SIDEWALK PROGRAM: According to Community Development Office Manager Mindi Robinson, 90 sidewalk letters were mailed on the 11th to advise homeowners that a contractor has been hired to complete the necessary repairs. The letter also provides their cost. May Construction Company is the low bid contractor and will begin work no sooner than August 29. Homeowners who complete their sidewalk repairs prior to that date will not be charged by the city.
3. TIF Committee: A committee comprised of Pam Pepper, Grant Johnson, Mike Coppess and Jean Furler is meeting August 23 to review the three city urban renewal areas. A report will be brought to the September committee meeting.
4. Fire Bays: At the last committee meeting a question was asked regarding how much additional space would be added for just adding bays. Brian indicated an additional 3,000 sq. ft. would be added to the current 5,486’ now. Also, Mike Allen of Shive-Hattery indicates there would NOT be a reduction in costs due to past improvements.
2. SIDEWALK PROGRAM: According to Community Development Office Manager Mindi Robinson, 90 sidewalk letters were mailed on the 11th to advise homeowners that a contractor has been hired to complete the necessary repairs. The letter also provides their cost. May Construction Company is the low bid contractor and will begin work no sooner than August 29. Homeowners who complete their sidewalk repairs prior to that date will not be charged by the city.
3. TIF Committee: A committee comprised of Pam Pepper, Grant Johnson, Mike Coppess and Jean Furler is meeting August 23 to review the three city urban renewal areas. A report will be brought to the September committee meeting.
4. Fire Bays: At the last committee meeting a question was asked regarding how much additional space would be added for just adding bays. Brian indicated an additional 3,000 sq. ft. would be added to the current 5,486’ now. Also, Mike Allen of Shive-Hattery indicates there would NOT be a reduction in costs due to past improvements.
Friday, July 29, 2011
August 1, 2011 News Items
NEWS ITEMS
TO: Mayor and Council
FROM: Tim
DATE: July 28, 2011
1. WELLNESS CENTER: Seven project manager proposals were received on July 27 and a sub-committee will review and narrow the list to present to the full committee on August 18. Interviews will take place in late August and a recommendation presented to council in September.
Also, we have been invited formally by Vision Iowa staff to make a presentation to the Board on August 10 regarding our $2.5 million grant application.
2. GIRARD STORM SEWER: The Storm Water Improvement Project begins at the detention ponds and works south (see map). However, I received a call from an adjacent property owner asking if we could extend the project north (to Iowa Avenue) by removing the brush and installing a small drainage tile. This concept was discussed several years ago but not all neighbors approved so it was dropped.
I have asked Forrest Aldrich to get a quote (change order) from Underground to provide the additional work and will bring a recommendation to council.
3. W HWY 92 SEWER: A meeting was held on July 27 to discuss property owner payment options for the new sewer extending from Y Street east 1,425 feet (see map). Two property owners attended (9 are affected).
The project has been planned as a “connect fee” (pay only when connecting to the sewer) but a special assessment option will be offered as well for those who prefer to pay (begin immediately) over 15 years.
Project acceptance will be placed on the August 15 agenda with an assessment schedule for council consideration. The connect fee ordinance will be on the agenda as well.
4. J/K RE ALIGNMENT: The $181,000 appraisal for property affected by the proposed re-alignment has to be “re-evaluated” according to IDOT policy. Community Development Director Chuck Burgin is getting quotes. When using IDOT funds there are additional steps/procedures the city must pursue.
The function and purpose of the review is to:
1. Protect the interests of the public
2. Protect the interests of the property owner
3. Provide an approved estimate of just compensation
4. Provide consistency of values
5. Maintain a high quality appraisal product
5. SOUTH Y: The Alliance Paving Company could begin paving on August 4 or 5 weather permitting. August 8 is their second option. Chuck Burgin met with the west side (see letter) residents and indicated east-side access options during paving. Access will be limited for 48-72 hours.
6. POOL: Rec Supt Doug Byland reports the heat is an advantage for pool attendance as well as not needing to heat the water for the last 3 weeks.
Through July 26, pool revenues averaged $770 for daily admissions compared to $528 in May and June. More admission revenue was collected thru July 27 than was collected the entire 41 days of May and June. However, since year-round school started at Irving, admissions dropped over the past week:
July 21-26: $723 average
July 15-20: $964 average
Those numbers show exactly a drop of 25% which coincides with 1/4 of the elementary kids now in school during the day.
7. C SPAN CAMPAIGN BUS: On August 10 from 11:30 am to 1:40 pm C-SPAN will park their 45’ bus on the south side of Salem just east of Crouses to allow political input. The bus interior is equipped with state-of-the art digital media technology and visitors will be encouraged to use the devices. Mediacom is the host for C-SPAN’s visit.
Steve Bonnett, Brian Seymour and Ed Yando have all been apprised and are ok with the concept.
8. P&R PRESENTATION: The P&R presentation will be delayed until September according to Director Glen Cowan.
9. SIDEWALK REPAIRS: The Community Development Dept sent RFP’s to 4 contractors to repair sidewalks that property owners have yet to repair themselves. The process of inspecting and repairing sidewalks is undertaken about every 2-3 years to maintain safety and minimize liability.
Property owners are given 30 days notice (letters were sent on June 27 with repairs to be made by July 27) and then the city hires a contractor (low bid) to make repairs. Costs are then placed as liens on the property.
A contractor recommendation will be brought to council in September.
10. HORTICULTURIST: As of Friday morning, 16 applications have been received. Mike Bowlin, Glen Cowan, and RoxAnne Hunerdosse will screen and interview candidates in the next couple weeks. They are anticipating a late August, early September start date so a recommendation will be brought accordingly.
TO: Mayor and Council
FROM: Tim
DATE: July 28, 2011
1. WELLNESS CENTER: Seven project manager proposals were received on July 27 and a sub-committee will review and narrow the list to present to the full committee on August 18. Interviews will take place in late August and a recommendation presented to council in September.
Also, we have been invited formally by Vision Iowa staff to make a presentation to the Board on August 10 regarding our $2.5 million grant application.
2. GIRARD STORM SEWER: The Storm Water Improvement Project begins at the detention ponds and works south (see map). However, I received a call from an adjacent property owner asking if we could extend the project north (to Iowa Avenue) by removing the brush and installing a small drainage tile. This concept was discussed several years ago but not all neighbors approved so it was dropped.
I have asked Forrest Aldrich to get a quote (change order) from Underground to provide the additional work and will bring a recommendation to council.
3. W HWY 92 SEWER: A meeting was held on July 27 to discuss property owner payment options for the new sewer extending from Y Street east 1,425 feet (see map). Two property owners attended (9 are affected).
The project has been planned as a “connect fee” (pay only when connecting to the sewer) but a special assessment option will be offered as well for those who prefer to pay (begin immediately) over 15 years.
Project acceptance will be placed on the August 15 agenda with an assessment schedule for council consideration. The connect fee ordinance will be on the agenda as well.
4. J/K RE ALIGNMENT: The $181,000 appraisal for property affected by the proposed re-alignment has to be “re-evaluated” according to IDOT policy. Community Development Director Chuck Burgin is getting quotes. When using IDOT funds there are additional steps/procedures the city must pursue.
The function and purpose of the review is to:
1. Protect the interests of the public
2. Protect the interests of the property owner
3. Provide an approved estimate of just compensation
4. Provide consistency of values
5. Maintain a high quality appraisal product
5. SOUTH Y: The Alliance Paving Company could begin paving on August 4 or 5 weather permitting. August 8 is their second option. Chuck Burgin met with the west side (see letter) residents and indicated east-side access options during paving. Access will be limited for 48-72 hours.
6. POOL: Rec Supt Doug Byland reports the heat is an advantage for pool attendance as well as not needing to heat the water for the last 3 weeks.
Through July 26, pool revenues averaged $770 for daily admissions compared to $528 in May and June. More admission revenue was collected thru July 27 than was collected the entire 41 days of May and June. However, since year-round school started at Irving, admissions dropped over the past week:
July 21-26: $723 average
July 15-20: $964 average
Those numbers show exactly a drop of 25% which coincides with 1/4 of the elementary kids now in school during the day.
7. C SPAN CAMPAIGN BUS: On August 10 from 11:30 am to 1:40 pm C-SPAN will park their 45’ bus on the south side of Salem just east of Crouses to allow political input. The bus interior is equipped with state-of-the art digital media technology and visitors will be encouraged to use the devices. Mediacom is the host for C-SPAN’s visit.
Steve Bonnett, Brian Seymour and Ed Yando have all been apprised and are ok with the concept.
8. P&R PRESENTATION: The P&R presentation will be delayed until September according to Director Glen Cowan.
9. SIDEWALK REPAIRS: The Community Development Dept sent RFP’s to 4 contractors to repair sidewalks that property owners have yet to repair themselves. The process of inspecting and repairing sidewalks is undertaken about every 2-3 years to maintain safety and minimize liability.
Property owners are given 30 days notice (letters were sent on June 27 with repairs to be made by July 27) and then the city hires a contractor (low bid) to make repairs. Costs are then placed as liens on the property.
A contractor recommendation will be brought to council in September.
10. HORTICULTURIST: As of Friday morning, 16 applications have been received. Mike Bowlin, Glen Cowan, and RoxAnne Hunerdosse will screen and interview candidates in the next couple weeks. They are anticipating a late August, early September start date so a recommendation will be brought accordingly.
Friday, July 22, 2011
News Items - July 25, 2011
1. NEXT MEETING: The next council meeting is August 1 at 6:00 pm.
2. BUDGET: In the packet is a budget summary for FY 10/11 that ended June 30. All departments were under budget and the Directors are to be commended for a job well done!!
3. ELECTRICITY USE: A new July peak of 32.6MW was set on Monday (old one of 31.4MW). The extended nature of the heat wave (both number of days and hours per day) spreads out the cost (higher demand charge) over additional kWh sales for the month.
4. WELLNESS CENTER: Project manager rfp’s will be received thru Wednesday the 27th. The committee will narrow them to 3-5 and interview in early to mid-august.
A recommendation will then be provided to council in September.
5. LABOR NEGOTIATIONS: This is the third and final year of the contract with our union so negotiations will begin this fall. The council and trustees can meet September 12 (closed session) to discuss the current contract and upcoming negotiations.
6. BIKE NITE: Resident Tim Paterson asked to be on the August 1 agenda (see request) to discuss the event and related noise.
7. TAX REVENUES: June receipts show collections at just over 100% for FY ended June 30, 2011. Good news!
8. W HWY 92 SEWER: An informational meeting with property owners on Hwy 92 West will be held July 27 at 4:00 p.m. in the council chambers to discuss connect fee/voluntary assessment payment options.
9. SIDEWALK PROJECT: The Community Development Department will be re-evaluating all properties that received a sidewalk repair letter in the next week and soliciting bids from local contractors for repairs. 200 sidewalk letters were mailed and 45 have been confirmed repaired.
After inspection, the department assumes many more will have been repaired, reducing the number of repairs the contractor will have to fix.
10. WEED COMPLAINTS: The Community Development Department has received 51 tall weed complaints this year.
2. BUDGET: In the packet is a budget summary for FY 10/11 that ended June 30. All departments were under budget and the Directors are to be commended for a job well done!!
3. ELECTRICITY USE: A new July peak of 32.6MW was set on Monday (old one of 31.4MW). The extended nature of the heat wave (both number of days and hours per day) spreads out the cost (higher demand charge) over additional kWh sales for the month.
4. WELLNESS CENTER: Project manager rfp’s will be received thru Wednesday the 27th. The committee will narrow them to 3-5 and interview in early to mid-august.
A recommendation will then be provided to council in September.
5. LABOR NEGOTIATIONS: This is the third and final year of the contract with our union so negotiations will begin this fall. The council and trustees can meet September 12 (closed session) to discuss the current contract and upcoming negotiations.
6. BIKE NITE: Resident Tim Paterson asked to be on the August 1 agenda (see request) to discuss the event and related noise.
7. TAX REVENUES: June receipts show collections at just over 100% for FY ended June 30, 2011. Good news!
8. W HWY 92 SEWER: An informational meeting with property owners on Hwy 92 West will be held July 27 at 4:00 p.m. in the council chambers to discuss connect fee/voluntary assessment payment options.
9. SIDEWALK PROJECT: The Community Development Department will be re-evaluating all properties that received a sidewalk repair letter in the next week and soliciting bids from local contractors for repairs. 200 sidewalk letters were mailed and 45 have been confirmed repaired.
After inspection, the department assumes many more will have been repaired, reducing the number of repairs the contractor will have to fix.
10. WEED COMPLAINTS: The Community Development Department has received 51 tall weed complaints this year.
Friday, July 15, 2011
News Items - July 18, 2011
1. MEMORIAL POOL: Unfortunately, the weather once again has not cooperated with our pool season so far. We closed early many days due to storms and cold in late May and early June.
Overall the fiscal year revenues were down $9,476 from budgeted and the expenses were down $3,080.
Season Pass Sales for the last 3 years through July 12 are shown below:
2011 - 700 passes, $67,172 (236 individual & 464 family)
2010 - 656 passes, $64,349 (214 individual & 442 family)
2009 - 725 passes, $71,290 (239 individual & 486 family)
May/June revenues from 2009, 2010 and 2011 are shown below:
2011 - $90,498
2010 - $100,485
2009 - $104,218
2. PARTY IN THE PARK: The Indianola Park Friends will host their first annual Party in the Park Saturday, August 6 at Buxton Park. They will unveil the Lyman Whitaker Wind Sculptures in addition to music, refreshments and lots of fun. The unveiling is at 2:00 pm.
3. CAPITAL PROJECT REPORTS: Per a suggestion made by Shirley Clark and Utility Billing/Payroll Clerk Lindsey Offenburger, Information Technology Kurt Ripperger placed a link on the city’s web site (www.cityofindianola.gov) where citizens can get updates about capital projects. Kurt added a "View Project Reports" page under the "I Want to" tab on the website. It will provide easy access for citizens. Thanks Shirley, Lindsey and thanks Kurt!!
4. D&D PROPERTY: An offer was submitted for 302 W 2nd Ave. City staff is working with the potential buyer and a recommendation will be brought to council on August 1. The city spent about $38,000 for the lot and building removal.
Overall the fiscal year revenues were down $9,476 from budgeted and the expenses were down $3,080.
Season Pass Sales for the last 3 years through July 12 are shown below:
2011 - 700 passes, $67,172 (236 individual & 464 family)
2010 - 656 passes, $64,349 (214 individual & 442 family)
2009 - 725 passes, $71,290 (239 individual & 486 family)
May/June revenues from 2009, 2010 and 2011 are shown below:
2011 - $90,498
2010 - $100,485
2009 - $104,218
2. PARTY IN THE PARK: The Indianola Park Friends will host their first annual Party in the Park Saturday, August 6 at Buxton Park. They will unveil the Lyman Whitaker Wind Sculptures in addition to music, refreshments and lots of fun. The unveiling is at 2:00 pm.
3. CAPITAL PROJECT REPORTS: Per a suggestion made by Shirley Clark and Utility Billing/Payroll Clerk Lindsey Offenburger, Information Technology Kurt Ripperger placed a link on the city’s web site (www.cityofindianola.gov) where citizens can get updates about capital projects. Kurt added a "View Project Reports" page under the "I Want to" tab on the website. It will provide easy access for citizens. Thanks Shirley, Lindsey and thanks Kurt!!
4. D&D PROPERTY: An offer was submitted for 302 W 2nd Ave. City staff is working with the potential buyer and a recommendation will be brought to council on August 1. The city spent about $38,000 for the lot and building removal.
Friday, July 8, 2011
News Items - July 11, 2011
1. PRESCRIPTION DRUG DISCOUNT: At the July 5 meeting, council approved National League of Cities membership and one of the membership benefits is a prescription drug discount for residents that do not have insurance, or, for drugs that are not covered by insurance. The city’s membership is effective August 1 and the prescription drug program will take 6-8 weeks to set up.
There will be no residency requirement and therefore no need for identity verification. The NLC prescription drug cards can be picked up at city hall and taken to local pharmacies where they will provide a 20% to 25% discount.
2. WEST HWY 92 SEWER: The Sanitary Sewer Project will be offered to property owners as a “connect fee” where no payment is required until there is an actual connection to the sewer (2 years, 5 years, 10 years?). A 5% interest rate will be recommended that will compound until the connection is made and the fee is paid.
However, an assessment option will be offered that requires 10 (can be up to 15) annual payments at 4% interest. This option is provided to encourage property owners to begin payment so the city does not carry the debt load indefinitely.
Connect fees/assessments will be about $11,500/acre compared to the original engineer’s estimate of $16,000/acre.
3. SANITARY SEWER JET/VAC TRUCK: Supt Dan Miers received two quotes to replace the 1995 Jet/Vac Truck used to clean/televise sanitary sewer mains. The low quote with trade is $306,245 ($300,000 is budgeted) from Trans Iowa Equipment. Dan will present a recommendation at the July 18 meeting.
4. INDIANOLA READYMIX: Snyder and Associates recommends the Readymix property be zoned low density (single family) residential as part of the Comprehensive Plan. It is currently industrial. The area residents will resume their rezoning request after the Comp Plan is approved by council in August.
5. TROPICAL SNOW: The time period for no future sales and removing the building has passed. At this time sales have ceased. John Hoyman has been asked to review what options are available to have the building removed.
6. WELLNESS CENTER: Project manager RFP’s were sent to nine firms and will be received until July 27. The committee and SVPA will interview candidates in August and a recommendation presented to council in September.
There will be no residency requirement and therefore no need for identity verification. The NLC prescription drug cards can be picked up at city hall and taken to local pharmacies where they will provide a 20% to 25% discount.
2. WEST HWY 92 SEWER: The Sanitary Sewer Project will be offered to property owners as a “connect fee” where no payment is required until there is an actual connection to the sewer (2 years, 5 years, 10 years?). A 5% interest rate will be recommended that will compound until the connection is made and the fee is paid.
However, an assessment option will be offered that requires 10 (can be up to 15) annual payments at 4% interest. This option is provided to encourage property owners to begin payment so the city does not carry the debt load indefinitely.
Connect fees/assessments will be about $11,500/acre compared to the original engineer’s estimate of $16,000/acre.
3. SANITARY SEWER JET/VAC TRUCK: Supt Dan Miers received two quotes to replace the 1995 Jet/Vac Truck used to clean/televise sanitary sewer mains. The low quote with trade is $306,245 ($300,000 is budgeted) from Trans Iowa Equipment. Dan will present a recommendation at the July 18 meeting.
4. INDIANOLA READYMIX: Snyder and Associates recommends the Readymix property be zoned low density (single family) residential as part of the Comprehensive Plan. It is currently industrial. The area residents will resume their rezoning request after the Comp Plan is approved by council in August.
5. TROPICAL SNOW: The time period for no future sales and removing the building has passed. At this time sales have ceased. John Hoyman has been asked to review what options are available to have the building removed.
6. WELLNESS CENTER: Project manager RFP’s were sent to nine firms and will be received until July 27. The committee and SVPA will interview candidates in August and a recommendation presented to council in September.
Friday, June 24, 2011
News Items 06-27-11
1. NEXT MEETING: The next council meeting is Tuesday July 5 at 6:00 pm.
2. JULY 4 CELEBRATION: Festivities begin for the ALL AMERICAN CELEBRATION on Monday, July 4 at 9:00 am till noon at Pickard Park. There will be a Carousel Theater presentation of “1776” at 2:00 pm in the High School Auditorium and then more activities at the Balloon Field from 5:00 pm to 10:30 pm. More information can be found at www.Indianola4thofJuly.org.
3. STORM WATER: The Sewer Dept is televising East Iowa Avenue mains upstream from the 8th & Franklin neighborhood and finding many services still running clear water. This area was tested and corrected in 2003 but problems are occurring.
These properties will receive notices to repair their infiltration as they would be contributing to the downstream backups around 8th and Franklin.
FYI—There are flooding problems on E Iowa Ave (see letter) that the city will try to relieve with silt removal of a drainage way and possible enlargement of a culvert under the McVey Trail. However, the culvert will be reviewed by V&K to ensure the problem is not relocated downstream. This area has had flooding issues for many, many years regardless of previous attempts to mitigate them.
4. SIDEWALKS: The intern in the Community Development Dept completed the sidewalk inspection this week. 210 sidewalk repair (includes 10 on the square) letters and 378 tree trimming letters will be sent on Monday to property owners.
FYI—The city performs a sidewalk inspection about every 2 years for safety and liability reasons. Typically at the end of the season the city bids the repairs that owners have failed to do.
5. NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES: Intern Chelsea Fulton researched a prescription drug program sponsored by the National League of Cities that provides a 20% discount for citizens that do not have prescription drug insurance. The annual NLC membership fee is about $1,400 and the potential savings to residents is projected at $2,400/year.
Chelsea will present a recommendation to council on July 5.
6. I&I: Finance Director Jean Furler reports the city has spent $4.285 million for the Infiltration/Inflow Program and the same amount has been either received or requested from the State Revolving Loan Fund.
FYI—Supt Dan Miers and City Attorney John Hoyman are preparing letters for 24 property owners who have failed to repair their I&I issue after the two-year notice. The municipal infractions process will begin in mid-July.
7. RE-DISTRICTING: With a new census the city is required to keep wards within a 10% variation in population so every 10 years the boundaries get moved. This year intern Chelsea Fulton is working with Ryan Lafreutz of the Warren County to provide an option or two that will be presented to council in July or August.
8. W EUCLID ASSESSMENTS: In the packet is a Procendo/Bill of Cost from the Iowa Supreme Court showing the total court costs of $3,171.12. The Court assessed 75% ($2,378.34) of the fees to the six property owners and 25% ($792.78) to the city.
9. RECYCLE CONTRACT: The city’s recycle contract with McCoy Sanitation will end December 31, 2011 so City Clerk Diana Bowlin is preparing an RFP to send in June. A recommendation will be brought to council in September.
10. WEB PAGE: Information Technology Manager Kurt Ripperger reports the new web site can provide statistics about visits. Some are provided below:
32,203 visits from 56 countries since April 15, 2011.
31,836 of those visits were from the United States--26,618 from Iowa, 1,003 from Minnesota, 1,003, 593 from Illinois and 590 from California
16,000 were from Indianola; 7,688 from Des Moines, 412 from West Des Moines and 403 from Urbandale
The average Indianola user spent 2 minutes 46 seconds on the site and visited an average of 2.67 pages.
The average of all users was 2 minutes 40 seconds and 2.98 pages translating to 95,686 pages viewed in the last two months.
The main home page was viewed most with 16,513 hits followed by the Library home page with 15,068 hits and Parks & Rec home page with 9,406 hits.
The top non-Library/non-Park & Rec pages viewed were:
Job openings - 1,775
Departments - 1,478
Calendar - 1,255
Fire - 932
"I Want to" tab - 833
Police - 748
9. BALLOON MUSEUM DRAINAGE: The contractor will grade and seed the drainage area given our moderate and weather. However, if it does not take, they’ll return in September to over seed.
10. NARCOTICS ENFORCEMENT GRANT: Chief Steve Bonnett learned this week that the federal grant that funds the Mid Iowa Narcotics Enforcement (MINE) program will end June 30. $30,000 was budgeted for FY 11/12 so the agencies will meet to discuss options and provide a recommendation in July or August.
2. JULY 4 CELEBRATION: Festivities begin for the ALL AMERICAN CELEBRATION on Monday, July 4 at 9:00 am till noon at Pickard Park. There will be a Carousel Theater presentation of “1776” at 2:00 pm in the High School Auditorium and then more activities at the Balloon Field from 5:00 pm to 10:30 pm. More information can be found at www.Indianola4thofJuly.org.
3. STORM WATER: The Sewer Dept is televising East Iowa Avenue mains upstream from the 8th & Franklin neighborhood and finding many services still running clear water. This area was tested and corrected in 2003 but problems are occurring.
These properties will receive notices to repair their infiltration as they would be contributing to the downstream backups around 8th and Franklin.
FYI—There are flooding problems on E Iowa Ave (see letter) that the city will try to relieve with silt removal of a drainage way and possible enlargement of a culvert under the McVey Trail. However, the culvert will be reviewed by V&K to ensure the problem is not relocated downstream. This area has had flooding issues for many, many years regardless of previous attempts to mitigate them.
4. SIDEWALKS: The intern in the Community Development Dept completed the sidewalk inspection this week. 210 sidewalk repair (includes 10 on the square) letters and 378 tree trimming letters will be sent on Monday to property owners.
FYI—The city performs a sidewalk inspection about every 2 years for safety and liability reasons. Typically at the end of the season the city bids the repairs that owners have failed to do.
5. NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES: Intern Chelsea Fulton researched a prescription drug program sponsored by the National League of Cities that provides a 20% discount for citizens that do not have prescription drug insurance. The annual NLC membership fee is about $1,400 and the potential savings to residents is projected at $2,400/year.
Chelsea will present a recommendation to council on July 5.
6. I&I: Finance Director Jean Furler reports the city has spent $4.285 million for the Infiltration/Inflow Program and the same amount has been either received or requested from the State Revolving Loan Fund.
FYI—Supt Dan Miers and City Attorney John Hoyman are preparing letters for 24 property owners who have failed to repair their I&I issue after the two-year notice. The municipal infractions process will begin in mid-July.
7. RE-DISTRICTING: With a new census the city is required to keep wards within a 10% variation in population so every 10 years the boundaries get moved. This year intern Chelsea Fulton is working with Ryan Lafreutz of the Warren County to provide an option or two that will be presented to council in July or August.
8. W EUCLID ASSESSMENTS: In the packet is a Procendo/Bill of Cost from the Iowa Supreme Court showing the total court costs of $3,171.12. The Court assessed 75% ($2,378.34) of the fees to the six property owners and 25% ($792.78) to the city.
9. RECYCLE CONTRACT: The city’s recycle contract with McCoy Sanitation will end December 31, 2011 so City Clerk Diana Bowlin is preparing an RFP to send in June. A recommendation will be brought to council in September.
10. WEB PAGE: Information Technology Manager Kurt Ripperger reports the new web site can provide statistics about visits. Some are provided below:
32,203 visits from 56 countries since April 15, 2011.
31,836 of those visits were from the United States--26,618 from Iowa, 1,003 from Minnesota, 1,003, 593 from Illinois and 590 from California
16,000 were from Indianola; 7,688 from Des Moines, 412 from West Des Moines and 403 from Urbandale
The average Indianola user spent 2 minutes 46 seconds on the site and visited an average of 2.67 pages.
The average of all users was 2 minutes 40 seconds and 2.98 pages translating to 95,686 pages viewed in the last two months.
The main home page was viewed most with 16,513 hits followed by the Library home page with 15,068 hits and Parks & Rec home page with 9,406 hits.
The top non-Library/non-Park & Rec pages viewed were:
Job openings - 1,775
Departments - 1,478
Calendar - 1,255
Fire - 932
"I Want to" tab - 833
Police - 748
9. BALLOON MUSEUM DRAINAGE: The contractor will grade and seed the drainage area given our moderate and weather. However, if it does not take, they’ll return in September to over seed.
10. NARCOTICS ENFORCEMENT GRANT: Chief Steve Bonnett learned this week that the federal grant that funds the Mid Iowa Narcotics Enforcement (MINE) program will end June 30. $30,000 was budgeted for FY 11/12 so the agencies will meet to discuss options and provide a recommendation in July or August.
Friday, June 17, 2011
News Items June 20, 2011
NEWS ITEMS
TO: Mayor and Council
FROM: Tim
DATE: June 16, 2011
1. HWY 65/69 CORRIDOR STUDY: The powerpoint presentation by Snyder’s Mark Perington on Monday the 13th is in the packet. The study will be on the July 5 agenda for formal council consideration.
2. ELECTRIC FRANCHISE FEE: In the packet is a Resolution Adopting Revenue Purpose Statement from the proposed electric franchise fee. Note that the fee is only for Mid American customers and is consistent with IMU’s payment in lieu of tax.
Ivan Webber (Ahlers Firm) reports condemnation is purely a local decision and there is no particular advantage/disadvantage to allowing MAE to condemn or leaving it to the city. It can be decided when council sets a hearing date on July 5 for July 20.
If removed, the city would have to condemn on behalf of MAE should the need arise. If left in, the city does not have control of that decision.
3. TAX REVENUES: Revenue thru June is just over 100%. Very good news!
4. STORM RECOVERY: About 127 calls were received resulting from last week’s record rain and 117 households had damaged items removed from their parking this week and Thursday the 21st.
Also, two Project Recovery Iowa Teams from the Dept of Human Services went thru the neighborhoods on June 16 and 17 educating residents about counseling, education services and additional assistance. Project Recovery Iowa is funded by a grant from FEMA under the direction of Polk County Health Services.
In the packet is a letter regarding a 4-plex on E Iowa that flooded last week. I advised the owner the city would clean the culverts and drainage ditches to help improve flow.
5. LIBRARY: The Library is getting new carpeting and lighting this summer and the Board set the following schedule:
The Library will be closed completely from August 4-7 (Thursday through Sunday). In addition, should it be necessary, it will close early on Wednesday, August 3 so that the carpet installers can begin removing the carpet. The carpet will not be done by August 7. Additional early closings might be necessary but the hope is that the carpet installer can bring in a crew to work overnight after closing. The work needed to add additional floor outlets in the middle of the building will be done on August 4. Preparatory work will begin on August 2.
During this time the staff will be doing some much needed housecleaning, pulling data cables, packing up desks so that "all systems are go" when it's time to do the staff area, and moving books on bottom shelves for the carpet people.
A question was raised at Monday’s meeting about the size of the Library. It has about 9,800 sq. ft. of finished space.
6. STREET WIDTH: Building Inspector Rich Parker surveyed metro cities for the minimum width of their residential streets and found the following:
• Des Moines – 26’
• Clive – 26’
• West Des Moines – 26’
• Waukee – 25’
• Newton – 26’
7. AMBULANCE: 3 bids were received on the 17th to replace the 2000 with 133,700 miles. $160,000 is budgeted for FY 11/12 and the low was $152,497.00. Chief Brian Seymour is reviewing the proposals and will have a recommendation at the July 5 council meeting.
8. MCVAY TRAIL: There is some severe erosion approaching the trail just north of the High School. The record rains in 2010 and 2011 are the cause. V&K’s Forrest Aldrich will tour the trail next week and provide recommendations.
9. HORTICULTURIST: Kathy Nutting submitted her two-week notice and intends to become a minister. She has been with the city since August 1, 2000 and will be missed. We wish her the best!
Glen Cowan and Mike Bowlin are reviewing the job description for possible changes.
10. SOUTH PLANT: Neuvirth Construction has requested a 2 month contract extension due to weather related delays.
The completion date would change from June 17th to August 19th, contingent on when lagoon discharge will start.
The change order will be placed on the July 5 agenda for approval. Dan Miers and V&K’s Becky Ford will recommend approval.
11. ROOF REPLACEMENT: During Phase 3 construction at the South Plant Lift Station, contractors working on the blower building noticed the roof leaking above the electrical panel (see memo). V&K Engineering inspected the roof and recommended replacing it. It is original from 1978. 3 bids were received:
• Central States Roofing – Des Moines - $10,540
• Hedberg & Son Roofing – Des Moines - $9,600
• Superior Roofing – Altoona - $9,650
Dan Miers reviewed the quotes, and recommends accepting Hedberg & Son Roofing for the roof replacement. Funds are budgeted under plant/grounds maintenance so we will proceed with the Hedberg Quote.
TO: Mayor and Council
FROM: Tim
DATE: June 16, 2011
1. HWY 65/69 CORRIDOR STUDY: The powerpoint presentation by Snyder’s Mark Perington on Monday the 13th is in the packet. The study will be on the July 5 agenda for formal council consideration.
2. ELECTRIC FRANCHISE FEE: In the packet is a Resolution Adopting Revenue Purpose Statement from the proposed electric franchise fee. Note that the fee is only for Mid American customers and is consistent with IMU’s payment in lieu of tax.
Ivan Webber (Ahlers Firm) reports condemnation is purely a local decision and there is no particular advantage/disadvantage to allowing MAE to condemn or leaving it to the city. It can be decided when council sets a hearing date on July 5 for July 20.
If removed, the city would have to condemn on behalf of MAE should the need arise. If left in, the city does not have control of that decision.
3. TAX REVENUES: Revenue thru June is just over 100%. Very good news!
4. STORM RECOVERY: About 127 calls were received resulting from last week’s record rain and 117 households had damaged items removed from their parking this week and Thursday the 21st.
Also, two Project Recovery Iowa Teams from the Dept of Human Services went thru the neighborhoods on June 16 and 17 educating residents about counseling, education services and additional assistance. Project Recovery Iowa is funded by a grant from FEMA under the direction of Polk County Health Services.
In the packet is a letter regarding a 4-plex on E Iowa that flooded last week. I advised the owner the city would clean the culverts and drainage ditches to help improve flow.
5. LIBRARY: The Library is getting new carpeting and lighting this summer and the Board set the following schedule:
The Library will be closed completely from August 4-7 (Thursday through Sunday). In addition, should it be necessary, it will close early on Wednesday, August 3 so that the carpet installers can begin removing the carpet. The carpet will not be done by August 7. Additional early closings might be necessary but the hope is that the carpet installer can bring in a crew to work overnight after closing. The work needed to add additional floor outlets in the middle of the building will be done on August 4. Preparatory work will begin on August 2.
During this time the staff will be doing some much needed housecleaning, pulling data cables, packing up desks so that "all systems are go" when it's time to do the staff area, and moving books on bottom shelves for the carpet people.
A question was raised at Monday’s meeting about the size of the Library. It has about 9,800 sq. ft. of finished space.
6. STREET WIDTH: Building Inspector Rich Parker surveyed metro cities for the minimum width of their residential streets and found the following:
• Des Moines – 26’
• Clive – 26’
• West Des Moines – 26’
• Waukee – 25’
• Newton – 26’
7. AMBULANCE: 3 bids were received on the 17th to replace the 2000 with 133,700 miles. $160,000 is budgeted for FY 11/12 and the low was $152,497.00. Chief Brian Seymour is reviewing the proposals and will have a recommendation at the July 5 council meeting.
8. MCVAY TRAIL: There is some severe erosion approaching the trail just north of the High School. The record rains in 2010 and 2011 are the cause. V&K’s Forrest Aldrich will tour the trail next week and provide recommendations.
9. HORTICULTURIST: Kathy Nutting submitted her two-week notice and intends to become a minister. She has been with the city since August 1, 2000 and will be missed. We wish her the best!
Glen Cowan and Mike Bowlin are reviewing the job description for possible changes.
10. SOUTH PLANT: Neuvirth Construction has requested a 2 month contract extension due to weather related delays.
The completion date would change from June 17th to August 19th, contingent on when lagoon discharge will start.
The change order will be placed on the July 5 agenda for approval. Dan Miers and V&K’s Becky Ford will recommend approval.
11. ROOF REPLACEMENT: During Phase 3 construction at the South Plant Lift Station, contractors working on the blower building noticed the roof leaking above the electrical panel (see memo). V&K Engineering inspected the roof and recommended replacing it. It is original from 1978. 3 bids were received:
• Central States Roofing – Des Moines - $10,540
• Hedberg & Son Roofing – Des Moines - $9,600
• Superior Roofing – Altoona - $9,650
Dan Miers reviewed the quotes, and recommends accepting Hedberg & Son Roofing for the roof replacement. Funds are budgeted under plant/grounds maintenance so we will proceed with the Hedberg Quote.
Friday, June 10, 2011
News Items June 13, 2011
1. WELLNESS CENTER: Three architect interviews were conducted by the committee (Ken Bresnan, Chuck Burgin, Vernon Delpasce, Vicky Foresman, Jill Johnson, Todd Kielkopf, John Sirianni, Mike Teigland, Mark Vickroy, Tim Zisoff) on Tuesday the 7th and a firm will be recommended at the June 20 council meeting.
Negotiations/discussions continue on the Summercrest Hills Development Agreement and land purchase agreement.
2. REDISTRICTING: Staff is working on a new city redistricting map based on the new population census number (14,782). The draft map will be brought to council study on July 11.
3. STREET REPLACEMENT PROJECT: Snyder’s Jenifer Croat asked to delay committee discussion of the 2011 replacement project until July 11 when more information will be available.
4. SUMP PUMP DRAINAGE SYSTEM: Community Development Director Chuck Burgin sent RFP’s for sump pump tile drains (in parkings) for W. Euclid, W. Jackson, North “K” and E. Ashland. These tiles are placed in the parkings and property owners connect their sump pumps to them to minimize water issues in the neighborhoods. Storm Water Utility revenues fund these projects that have been very popular with residents.
A recommendation will be on the June 20 Council agenda.
5. WEATHER: The city received around 7” of rain from early Thursday morning thru Friday morning. Consequently many basements had water and/or sewage. The staff did its best to work with home owners.
We received approximately 60 phone calls regarding sewer/water in residential basements. Due to amount of calls, the City of Indianola will be contracting for free curbside pickup of flood and backup damaged items for city residents. Citizens can call City Hall at 961-9410 by noon on Monday, June 13th to be put on the curbside pickup list. Items will need to be placed on the curb no later than 5:00 pm on the 13th.
Actual pickup will begin on the morning of the 14th.
6. TRAFFIC SIGNAL: The signal at 12th and E Hwy 92 (high school) will be modified by the Indianola Schools to accommodate the new driveway entering the Middle School (see map). The signal is primarily a pedestrian crossing now and only goes red (east/west) when the ped crossing button is pushed. The modifications will include loop detectors to call for e/w red when cars are on the north or south legs.
7. STOP SIGN: It came to our attention that a few neighbors were concerned about a southbound stop sign on Fairway at Orchard (council set a hearing date for June 20). After discussing with Tab Bartling and the resident asking for the stop sign, a yield will be recommended instead. The change will be discussed at the June 20 public hearing.
Negotiations/discussions continue on the Summercrest Hills Development Agreement and land purchase agreement.
2. REDISTRICTING: Staff is working on a new city redistricting map based on the new population census number (14,782). The draft map will be brought to council study on July 11.
3. STREET REPLACEMENT PROJECT: Snyder’s Jenifer Croat asked to delay committee discussion of the 2011 replacement project until July 11 when more information will be available.
4. SUMP PUMP DRAINAGE SYSTEM: Community Development Director Chuck Burgin sent RFP’s for sump pump tile drains (in parkings) for W. Euclid, W. Jackson, North “K” and E. Ashland. These tiles are placed in the parkings and property owners connect their sump pumps to them to minimize water issues in the neighborhoods. Storm Water Utility revenues fund these projects that have been very popular with residents.
A recommendation will be on the June 20 Council agenda.
5. WEATHER: The city received around 7” of rain from early Thursday morning thru Friday morning. Consequently many basements had water and/or sewage. The staff did its best to work with home owners.
We received approximately 60 phone calls regarding sewer/water in residential basements. Due to amount of calls, the City of Indianola will be contracting for free curbside pickup of flood and backup damaged items for city residents. Citizens can call City Hall at 961-9410 by noon on Monday, June 13th to be put on the curbside pickup list. Items will need to be placed on the curb no later than 5:00 pm on the 13th.
Actual pickup will begin on the morning of the 14th.
6. TRAFFIC SIGNAL: The signal at 12th and E Hwy 92 (high school) will be modified by the Indianola Schools to accommodate the new driveway entering the Middle School (see map). The signal is primarily a pedestrian crossing now and only goes red (east/west) when the ped crossing button is pushed. The modifications will include loop detectors to call for e/w red when cars are on the north or south legs.
7. STOP SIGN: It came to our attention that a few neighbors were concerned about a southbound stop sign on Fairway at Orchard (council set a hearing date for June 20). After discussing with Tab Bartling and the resident asking for the stop sign, a yield will be recommended instead. The change will be discussed at the June 20 public hearing.
Friday, June 3, 2011
News Items 06-06-11
1. WELLNESS CENTER: Three architect firms will be interviewed Tuesday the 7th in the council chambers.
2. FY 10/11 BUDGET: In the packet is the May budget report showing departmental budget figures. I am happy to report revenues are at about 97% and expenses about 85%. A job well done by department heads!!
3. UTILITY BILLING: Billing Clerk Lindsey Offenburger reports 162 customers receive their bill online and 1250 pay online. The numbers are growing but we are working to get more online bills to reduce paper and postage.
4. TAX REVENUES: Revenues thru May are 99.35% and slightly ahead of last years total. Good news!
5. SAFETY REPORT: In the packet is the first quarterly safety report.
2. FY 10/11 BUDGET: In the packet is the May budget report showing departmental budget figures. I am happy to report revenues are at about 97% and expenses about 85%. A job well done by department heads!!
3. UTILITY BILLING: Billing Clerk Lindsey Offenburger reports 162 customers receive their bill online and 1250 pay online. The numbers are growing but we are working to get more online bills to reduce paper and postage.
4. TAX REVENUES: Revenues thru May are 99.35% and slightly ahead of last years total. Good news!
5. SAFETY REPORT: In the packet is the first quarterly safety report.
Friday, May 27, 2011
News Items - May 30, 2011
1. NEXT MEETING: The next council meeting is June 6.
2. WELLNESS CENTER: The committee will interview 3 architectural firms on June 7. Negotiations will begin shortly after and a recommendation will be presented Tuesday (Monday is a holiday) at the July 5 council meeting.
3. MERCY CLINIC: An appraisal will be available by the end of next week for 108 N Jefferson.
4. D&D: The Dangerous/Dilapidated committee will discuss 200 N Jefferson at their June 2 meeting. A recommendation will be brought to council in June.
5. ANNUAL GARDEN TOUR: A reminder the Chamber’s Annual Garden Tour will be June 11 from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. They will use the south (city hall) parking lot and have a tent on the east side. Our Centennial Park will be a great starting point for this event!
2. WELLNESS CENTER: The committee will interview 3 architectural firms on June 7. Negotiations will begin shortly after and a recommendation will be presented Tuesday (Monday is a holiday) at the July 5 council meeting.
3. MERCY CLINIC: An appraisal will be available by the end of next week for 108 N Jefferson.
4. D&D: The Dangerous/Dilapidated committee will discuss 200 N Jefferson at their June 2 meeting. A recommendation will be brought to council in June.
5. ANNUAL GARDEN TOUR: A reminder the Chamber’s Annual Garden Tour will be June 11 from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. They will use the south (city hall) parking lot and have a tent on the east side. Our Centennial Park will be a great starting point for this event!
Friday, May 20, 2011
News Items - May 23, 2011
1. NEXT MEETING: The next council meeting is June 6.
2. SOUTH Y PAVING: The pre-construction meeting was held Tuesday the 17th. Highlights include:
• Construction is scheduled to begin June 6th, 2011.
• Completion date is August 31, ‘11 (assumes favorable weather)
• A temporary access road located along the east side of South Y Street will be constructed. This access road will eventually extend to West 10th Avenue as work progresses and will have a gross weight limit of 20 tons. Furthermore, speed bumps will be installed along the portion of existing driveway payment being utilized as access.
• As the work progresses, mailboxes along the west side of South Y Street within the project limits will be relocated to the northern access of the townhome located along South Y Street until construction is completed.
• Garbage haulers have been contacted and have made arrangements to provide lighter vehicles for garbage pickup.
• The contractor is to provide 48 hour notification for any utility and or access interruptions. Written notification will be posted on your front door.
• The entire project is scheduled for completion by August 26, 2011, however access to new pavement will take place prior to the completion date.
Letters were sent to property owners on Y and 10th providing the above information.
FYI—Per the May 18, 2011 RH&T, some of the South Y property owners retained Joe Happe to sue the city because of their assessments. The assessments have been reduced 40% resulting from the city’s $160,000 contribution and the $140,000 W 10th access assessment. South Y will be paved as a normal residential street which is 25 ft wide and 7 inches deep.
The current engineer’s contract includes about 20 hours/week for project inspection. Community Development Director Chuck Burgin recommends that be increased to 40 hours/week to minimize potential problems related to construction. Additional cost is $17,500 and will be discussed at the June 6 council meeting. W. Euclid and North “Y” had 40 hours/week inspection.
3. DOWNTOWN INCENTIVE PROGRAM: The program is scheduled to conclude on December 31, 2011 and has been a great success thus far. Below are the buildings that participated in the program and those that are pending. The program will be on a future (July, August, September) council study committee agenda to consider its success and possible extension.
Participants:
• Grant McGraw – 115 N. Howard
• Pro Ad Venture – 110 W. Ashland
Pending:
• Downey Insurance – 112 E. Salem
• Peoples Company – 113 W. Salem
• Mary Donaghy – 124 & 126 W. Ashland
• Linda Hayes – 125 W. Salem
• Canoesport Outfitters – 203 W. Salem
FYI—At the time we developed the incentive program, there was discussion about improving the streetscape (pedestrian amenities, parking, other amenities) on the square as well. Priority 1 was building improvements and priority 2 was improving the public aspect. Since building improvements are well under way, I will be recommending the city move to priority 2 which will involve professional assistance and public input.
4. NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES PRESCRIPTION PROGRAM: The National League of Cities has a prescription drug program that allows member city residents to get a 20% discount on prescription drugs if they are not covered by insurance.
Intern Chelsea Fulton is researching the program and will have a recommendation at a June council meeting. Membership is about $1,300 annually.
5. SOUTH LIFT STATION ROOF: In the packet is a V&K report regarding the roof on the north garage/blower building at the south lift station. Neuvirth Const. installed new controls, electrical panels and CPU's in this building as part of the renovation and unfortunately the roof began leaking above the panel.
Supt Dan Miers is getting quotes from a flat roof contractors and a recommendation will be presented to council in June.
6. SALARY RESOLUTION: In the packet is the annual resolution showing employee salaries for FY 11/12. They are in accordance with the union contract and applied to all staff, and, included in the FY 11/12 approved by council on March 7. It will be placed on the June 20 council agenda (annual approval).
7. AUGUST 22: The P&R Commission would like to schedule August 22 (4th Monday) at 6:00 pm to meet and present information about how P&R impacts a community.
8. WALMART SIGNAL: Finance Director Jean Furler contacted IDOT and the potential for traffic signal loop detector funding is positive. If approved, Urban System Traffic Engineering Program Funds (USTEP) would pay 55% of the construction costs.
9. W EUCLID SEWER REPAIR: Vanderpool Const reports they’ll begin the repair at “U” Street in about two weeks.
10. ELECTRIC FRANCHISE AGREEMENT: At the June 14, 2010 council study meeting council recommended moving forward with an electric franchise agreement with MidAmerican Energy (see map for their Indianola territory). Staff and Ivan Webber have been negotiating the agreement (on and off) for over a year and have an ordinance that is ready for council review. It will be placed on the June 13 council study agenda.
The franchise agreement includes a franchise fee that begins at 2% and increases to 5% over a 4-year period. These percentages will equal the 5% payment in-lieu of taxes provided by our own electric utility.
In the packet is a resolution adopting a revenue purpose for the use of franchise revenues that will also be discussed on June 13.
11. COMMERCIAL PROPERTY: Still no word from the State legislature regarding commercial taxable value.
12. SEWER VAC TRUCK: $300,000 is budgeted for FY 11/12 to replace the Sewer Department’s 1995 Vac Truck. The vehicle is used to clean manholes/mains and is used in the televising process.
Dan found an option through the State of Minnesota to specify and purchase a truck. He’s in the process of drafting the spec for two options and will provide a recommendation in June.
2. SOUTH Y PAVING: The pre-construction meeting was held Tuesday the 17th. Highlights include:
• Construction is scheduled to begin June 6th, 2011.
• Completion date is August 31, ‘11 (assumes favorable weather)
• A temporary access road located along the east side of South Y Street will be constructed. This access road will eventually extend to West 10th Avenue as work progresses and will have a gross weight limit of 20 tons. Furthermore, speed bumps will be installed along the portion of existing driveway payment being utilized as access.
• As the work progresses, mailboxes along the west side of South Y Street within the project limits will be relocated to the northern access of the townhome located along South Y Street until construction is completed.
• Garbage haulers have been contacted and have made arrangements to provide lighter vehicles for garbage pickup.
• The contractor is to provide 48 hour notification for any utility and or access interruptions. Written notification will be posted on your front door.
• The entire project is scheduled for completion by August 26, 2011, however access to new pavement will take place prior to the completion date.
Letters were sent to property owners on Y and 10th providing the above information.
FYI—Per the May 18, 2011 RH&T, some of the South Y property owners retained Joe Happe to sue the city because of their assessments. The assessments have been reduced 40% resulting from the city’s $160,000 contribution and the $140,000 W 10th access assessment. South Y will be paved as a normal residential street which is 25 ft wide and 7 inches deep.
The current engineer’s contract includes about 20 hours/week for project inspection. Community Development Director Chuck Burgin recommends that be increased to 40 hours/week to minimize potential problems related to construction. Additional cost is $17,500 and will be discussed at the June 6 council meeting. W. Euclid and North “Y” had 40 hours/week inspection.
3. DOWNTOWN INCENTIVE PROGRAM: The program is scheduled to conclude on December 31, 2011 and has been a great success thus far. Below are the buildings that participated in the program and those that are pending. The program will be on a future (July, August, September) council study committee agenda to consider its success and possible extension.
Participants:
• Grant McGraw – 115 N. Howard
• Pro Ad Venture – 110 W. Ashland
Pending:
• Downey Insurance – 112 E. Salem
• Peoples Company – 113 W. Salem
• Mary Donaghy – 124 & 126 W. Ashland
• Linda Hayes – 125 W. Salem
• Canoesport Outfitters – 203 W. Salem
FYI—At the time we developed the incentive program, there was discussion about improving the streetscape (pedestrian amenities, parking, other amenities) on the square as well. Priority 1 was building improvements and priority 2 was improving the public aspect. Since building improvements are well under way, I will be recommending the city move to priority 2 which will involve professional assistance and public input.
4. NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES PRESCRIPTION PROGRAM: The National League of Cities has a prescription drug program that allows member city residents to get a 20% discount on prescription drugs if they are not covered by insurance.
Intern Chelsea Fulton is researching the program and will have a recommendation at a June council meeting. Membership is about $1,300 annually.
5. SOUTH LIFT STATION ROOF: In the packet is a V&K report regarding the roof on the north garage/blower building at the south lift station. Neuvirth Const. installed new controls, electrical panels and CPU's in this building as part of the renovation and unfortunately the roof began leaking above the panel.
Supt Dan Miers is getting quotes from a flat roof contractors and a recommendation will be presented to council in June.
6. SALARY RESOLUTION: In the packet is the annual resolution showing employee salaries for FY 11/12. They are in accordance with the union contract and applied to all staff, and, included in the FY 11/12 approved by council on March 7. It will be placed on the June 20 council agenda (annual approval).
7. AUGUST 22: The P&R Commission would like to schedule August 22 (4th Monday) at 6:00 pm to meet and present information about how P&R impacts a community.
8. WALMART SIGNAL: Finance Director Jean Furler contacted IDOT and the potential for traffic signal loop detector funding is positive. If approved, Urban System Traffic Engineering Program Funds (USTEP) would pay 55% of the construction costs.
9. W EUCLID SEWER REPAIR: Vanderpool Const reports they’ll begin the repair at “U” Street in about two weeks.
10. ELECTRIC FRANCHISE AGREEMENT: At the June 14, 2010 council study meeting council recommended moving forward with an electric franchise agreement with MidAmerican Energy (see map for their Indianola territory). Staff and Ivan Webber have been negotiating the agreement (on and off) for over a year and have an ordinance that is ready for council review. It will be placed on the June 13 council study agenda.
The franchise agreement includes a franchise fee that begins at 2% and increases to 5% over a 4-year period. These percentages will equal the 5% payment in-lieu of taxes provided by our own electric utility.
In the packet is a resolution adopting a revenue purpose for the use of franchise revenues that will also be discussed on June 13.
11. COMMERCIAL PROPERTY: Still no word from the State legislature regarding commercial taxable value.
12. SEWER VAC TRUCK: $300,000 is budgeted for FY 11/12 to replace the Sewer Department’s 1995 Vac Truck. The vehicle is used to clean manholes/mains and is used in the televising process.
Dan found an option through the State of Minnesota to specify and purchase a truck. He’s in the process of drafting the spec for two options and will provide a recommendation in June.
Friday, May 13, 2011
News Items - May 16, 2011
1. WELLNESS CENTER: Ten architect rfp’s were received on the 12th for the wellness center. A subcommittee (Chuck Burgin, Vicky Foresman, Mike Teigland and I) will review them, narrow to 4-6 and present them to full committee on May 24. The full committee will interview architect firms in early June and a recommendation will be on the July 5 agenda.
2. WEST EUCLID: Total sidewalk assessments were $55,882.32 so a 50% reduction would reduce them by $27,941.16 according to V&K’s Jeremy Enano.
A resolution changing the assessments is being drafted by Eric Boehlert and a recommendation will be on the June 6 council agenda.
In the packet is the May 11 Register Editorial titled “Like it or not, court’s ruling is sound”.
3. AMBULANCE REPLACEMENT: Fire Chief Brian Seymour sent four rfp’s to replace our 12 year-old ambulance that has 135,000 miles. City policy is to replace one of the three ambulances every four years.
This year Brian spec’d a “truck-style” chassis because Ford no longer makes the “van-style”. Chevrolet and Dodge make a van chassis but there are other challenges in addition to being more expensive according to Brian. Brian also reports the truck chassis was cheaper with a 4-wheel drive unit to replace the automatic tire chains the dept has used on past units.
$160,000 is budgeted in FY 11/12. Bids will be received on June 17 and a recommendation presented to council on July 5.
4. JUNE 13 COMMITTEE: Agenda items include:
• 2011 Street Replacement Update-- Snyder’s Jennifer Croat will provide the latest project updates
• Hwy 65/69 Corridor Study—IDOT’s Troy Jerman will review the Snyder study (Hillcrest to city limits) and discuss their intent to provide additional options
• W Hwy 92 Update—IDOT’s Troy Jerman will provide the project concept and schedule. At a meeting on May 12, Community Development Director Chuck Burgin and I asked the DOT to extend the project east to the fairgrounds where existing curb ends. The plan is to extend the 3-lane highway thru R-63 with curb/gutter and a trail.
• Paperless agendas/packets
4. TROPICAL SNOW: In the packet is a letter to the Tropical Snow owner (303 N. Jefferson) indicating the building violates the city code for temporary structures.
5. COMMERCIAL TAXATION: Thus far the Iowa House/Senate have not reached a compromise on commercial property taxation. The House version will lower commercial taxable value which could create a loss of about $1.1 million over 5 years with the (includes state backfill). The Senate version creates tax credits and has no effect on city, county or school governments.
Should the House version be adopted, the tax rate may increase to make up lost revenue therefore shifting tax to residential property.
6. HUMANE SOCIETY: In the packet are state inspection reports for Kiya Koda. The city provides about $36K annually for domestic animal care.
7. 506 W 2ND: The city purchased 506 W 2nd thru the Dangerous/Dilapidated program and will receive proposals to remove the building on May 24. A recommendation will be on the June 6 agenda. The work must be completed by July 15.
8. FD EXHAUST: The Fire Dept Bay exhaust system was installed by the first of May and is functioning well according to Chief Brian Seymour.
9. LAZERFEST: A reminder Lazerfest is Sunday May 15. Weather does not look that favorable however there will still be a sizable crowd thru Indianola. Last year the Fest received complaints about music playing until 11:30/12:00 pm (on a school night). The county supervisors approved their permit allowing music until 10:30 pm.
There is also a weekend softball tournament at Pickard.
2. WEST EUCLID: Total sidewalk assessments were $55,882.32 so a 50% reduction would reduce them by $27,941.16 according to V&K’s Jeremy Enano.
A resolution changing the assessments is being drafted by Eric Boehlert and a recommendation will be on the June 6 council agenda.
In the packet is the May 11 Register Editorial titled “Like it or not, court’s ruling is sound”.
3. AMBULANCE REPLACEMENT: Fire Chief Brian Seymour sent four rfp’s to replace our 12 year-old ambulance that has 135,000 miles. City policy is to replace one of the three ambulances every four years.
This year Brian spec’d a “truck-style” chassis because Ford no longer makes the “van-style”. Chevrolet and Dodge make a van chassis but there are other challenges in addition to being more expensive according to Brian. Brian also reports the truck chassis was cheaper with a 4-wheel drive unit to replace the automatic tire chains the dept has used on past units.
$160,000 is budgeted in FY 11/12. Bids will be received on June 17 and a recommendation presented to council on July 5.
4. JUNE 13 COMMITTEE: Agenda items include:
• 2011 Street Replacement Update-- Snyder’s Jennifer Croat will provide the latest project updates
• Hwy 65/69 Corridor Study—IDOT’s Troy Jerman will review the Snyder study (Hillcrest to city limits) and discuss their intent to provide additional options
• W Hwy 92 Update—IDOT’s Troy Jerman will provide the project concept and schedule. At a meeting on May 12, Community Development Director Chuck Burgin and I asked the DOT to extend the project east to the fairgrounds where existing curb ends. The plan is to extend the 3-lane highway thru R-63 with curb/gutter and a trail.
• Paperless agendas/packets
4. TROPICAL SNOW: In the packet is a letter to the Tropical Snow owner (303 N. Jefferson) indicating the building violates the city code for temporary structures.
5. COMMERCIAL TAXATION: Thus far the Iowa House/Senate have not reached a compromise on commercial property taxation. The House version will lower commercial taxable value which could create a loss of about $1.1 million over 5 years with the (includes state backfill). The Senate version creates tax credits and has no effect on city, county or school governments.
Should the House version be adopted, the tax rate may increase to make up lost revenue therefore shifting tax to residential property.
6. HUMANE SOCIETY: In the packet are state inspection reports for Kiya Koda. The city provides about $36K annually for domestic animal care.
7. 506 W 2ND: The city purchased 506 W 2nd thru the Dangerous/Dilapidated program and will receive proposals to remove the building on May 24. A recommendation will be on the June 6 agenda. The work must be completed by July 15.
8. FD EXHAUST: The Fire Dept Bay exhaust system was installed by the first of May and is functioning well according to Chief Brian Seymour.
9. LAZERFEST: A reminder Lazerfest is Sunday May 15. Weather does not look that favorable however there will still be a sizable crowd thru Indianola. Last year the Fest received complaints about music playing until 11:30/12:00 pm (on a school night). The county supervisors approved their permit allowing music until 10:30 pm.
There is also a weekend softball tournament at Pickard.
Friday, May 6, 2011
News Items - May 9, 2011
1. W. EUCLID ASSESSMENTS: On Friday, May 6th, the Supreme Court of Iowa confirmed the city’s assessments, and the Flint Formula, on W. Euclid. The Court did agree with the district court’s sidewalk assessment reduction. The primary reasons for confirmation were that the city “only” assessed for a 25’, 7” street even though a 31’, 8” street was installed. In addition large lots were separated and valued at $25,000 to lower the assessments.
2. COUNCIL MEMO: Starting May 6 the mayor/council memo written by myself and staff will be available to the general public at www.indianolaiowa.gov located under the tab labeled “About”. This change will improve transparency with our citizens and provide useful information about the decision making process.
3. COMMUNITY SURVEY: The surveys were sent to 820 citizens and are due on May 27. The results will be tabulated and placed on the July 11 committee agenda to coincide with the strategic plan/goals discussion.
4. SOUTH Y: The pre-construction meeting with Alliance, Garden and utility representatives is May 17 with an anticipated start on May 23. Notices will be sent to property owners next week.
5. LIBRARY CARPET: Five bids were received on May 4 ranging from $24,822 to $32,000. The Board will meet to review on May 10 and a recommendation presented on May 16.
$50,000 is budgeted and installation is scheduled for the month of August.
6. POOL: Glen Cowan reports the pool will open May 21 at 1 pm. The last day of school is May 23.
7. ROTH IRA: The International City/County Management Retirement Corporation now offers a Roth IRA (individual retirement account) contribution as one of it’s member options. The Roth accepts contributions that are taxed (opposed to normal IRA which is tax exempt) and then pays tax free when a member retires.
The new option requires council authorization allowing employee participation. Todd Kielkopf, RoxAnne Hunerdosse and I reviewed the plan and can see no disadvantage to the city. The only restriction we’d recommend is that employee contributions be applied to the Roth and not the city’s.
A recommendation will be on a May or June council agenda.
8. EMPLOYEE ORIENTATION: New employees Justin Brand, WPC Operator; Chelsea Fulton, Administration Intern; Brian McDonough, Community Development Intern; Vonnie Peters, WPC Office Manager; Bob Soukup, Paramedic/Firefighter and Dorothy Knight, Library Assistant part-time, will participate in the city’s orientation on June 7 and 8. The process acquaints new employees with all departments and their operations.
9. STORM SHELTERS: Per a recommendation from Steve Richardson, P&Z will discuss storm shelters on “slab” home at a future meeting.
10. S. PLANT: In your packet is a letter from Dan Cook, DNR, stating there is no futher action on the S. Plant Lift Station.
2. COUNCIL MEMO: Starting May 6 the mayor/council memo written by myself and staff will be available to the general public at www.indianolaiowa.gov located under the tab labeled “About”. This change will improve transparency with our citizens and provide useful information about the decision making process.
3. COMMUNITY SURVEY: The surveys were sent to 820 citizens and are due on May 27. The results will be tabulated and placed on the July 11 committee agenda to coincide with the strategic plan/goals discussion.
4. SOUTH Y: The pre-construction meeting with Alliance, Garden and utility representatives is May 17 with an anticipated start on May 23. Notices will be sent to property owners next week.
5. LIBRARY CARPET: Five bids were received on May 4 ranging from $24,822 to $32,000. The Board will meet to review on May 10 and a recommendation presented on May 16.
$50,000 is budgeted and installation is scheduled for the month of August.
6. POOL: Glen Cowan reports the pool will open May 21 at 1 pm. The last day of school is May 23.
7. ROTH IRA: The International City/County Management Retirement Corporation now offers a Roth IRA (individual retirement account) contribution as one of it’s member options. The Roth accepts contributions that are taxed (opposed to normal IRA which is tax exempt) and then pays tax free when a member retires.
The new option requires council authorization allowing employee participation. Todd Kielkopf, RoxAnne Hunerdosse and I reviewed the plan and can see no disadvantage to the city. The only restriction we’d recommend is that employee contributions be applied to the Roth and not the city’s.
A recommendation will be on a May or June council agenda.
8. EMPLOYEE ORIENTATION: New employees Justin Brand, WPC Operator; Chelsea Fulton, Administration Intern; Brian McDonough, Community Development Intern; Vonnie Peters, WPC Office Manager; Bob Soukup, Paramedic/Firefighter and Dorothy Knight, Library Assistant part-time, will participate in the city’s orientation on June 7 and 8. The process acquaints new employees with all departments and their operations.
9. STORM SHELTERS: Per a recommendation from Steve Richardson, P&Z will discuss storm shelters on “slab” home at a future meeting.
10. S. PLANT: In your packet is a letter from Dan Cook, DNR, stating there is no futher action on the S. Plant Lift Station.
Friday, April 29, 2011
News Items - May 2, 2011
1. MAY 9 COMMITTEE: Randy Gathers is unable to attend the meeting and thus far there are no urgent agenda items.
2. INVESTMENT COMMITTEE: The committee authorized Finance Director Jean Furler to solicit quotes for the city’s investment and banking services. Quotes are due by June 3 and a recommendation will be presented to council and trustees in June. The contracts will be effective July 1, 2011.
3. 2011 SUSTAINABILITY MONTH: Indianola’s April Sustainability Month was a great success once again this year! Throughout the month there were many opportunities for citizens to get involved and learn about sustainable living practices.
Highlights include:
• 269 electronic items and 352 appliances were properly recycled by Midwest Recovery Inc. during the city’s free E-cycling/appliance drop off
• Eleven citizens participated in the bike/walk to work challenge.
• Approximately 200 citizens attended the 3rd annual Sustainability Fair held at the IMU line shop on North B Street. Eighteen vendors had displays to share their “Green” products and services.
• The month concluded with the Parks and Recreation Spring Fling at the Indianola Fairgrounds Saturday, April 30th. Committee members promoted sustainability and fun activities for our younger consumers.
The Indianola Sustainability Committee would like to thank the entire community for helping make Indianola a more sustainable city for future generations. Thanks also go to Chris Longer and Mindi Robinson for making the entire month a success!
4. SANITARY SEWER PROJECT: The Clerk’s Office has received several questions about the sanitary sewer projects in town. A summary follows:
The General Contractor for the Phase 2 Inflow and Infiltration Project is Visu-Sewer (Blue jet trucks and camera trucks) with 3 crews doing sewer main lining, short liners and manhole grouting.
Visu-Sewer has 2 main sub contractors. One is Vanderpool Construction doing excavation of mains and manhole repairs. The second is United Pipe Renewal working on the sewer service (pipe from a home to the main) connection "T-Liner and Vac-Tee (white pipes along the curb) repairs.
United Pipe has a subcontractor (Precision Excavation) installing the Vac Tee's on 125 sewer services where T-liners will be used. The T-Liner repairs sewer service connections “inside” the main and avoids open excavation.
This "Trenchless Technology" utilizes the Vac-Tee (also called a clean-out) that is installed on the sewer service (white pipes sticking above ground). Precision Excavation is initially installing a longer (than needed) pipe on the ground so they can find them quickly. The T-Liner will be installed as the liners are ordered for length. When the T-Liner has been installed the contractor will lower the cleanouts, cap them (below ground) and mark them. The property owners with these Vac-Tees will be able to use this access in the future for much more efficient service maintenance.
Visu-Sewer leaves door knockers on properties that receive the Vac-Tees prior to installation informing owners of the times/date of installation.
5. PROPERTY TAX LEGISLATION: HSB 240 was submitted to the Iowa House of Representatives on April 27 and has the potential to reduce tax revenues by about $660,000 annually resulting from a reduction of commercial property values. The legislation contains language to reimburse cities about ½ this amount but previous experience shows that when the state falls into financial difficulty, they lessen or remove payments to cities, counties and schools.
The Senate version, SF 522, provides commercial property tax relief but has no effect on cities, counties or schools.
In your packet is a table showing the affect on Indianola.
6. SKID LOADER: Street Supt Ed Yando is soliciting bids to replace the 13 year-old Bobcat skid loader. They will be received on May 31, 2011 and a recommendation provided on the June 6 council agenda. $70,000 is budgeted in FY 11/12.
7. SOUTH LIFT STATION: Per the IDNR, soil tests were taken several weeks ago to determine lead or antimony content. The results showed levels were well below the amount requiring remediation.
Also, Supt Dan Miers reports the plant will not meet its 30 day average ammonia limit for April. The NPDES permit limit is 2.8 mg/l for a 30 day average and the plant is at 3.7 mg/l. On April 20th, the staff brought all tanks online to deal with higher flows (brought in with warmer, wetter weather) and there has been a resulting decline in the effluent ammonia. The solids return rate was also increased to improve the sludge age. Dan discussed operational options with Forrest Aldrich and Tim O'Conner of V&K and they provided some of these suggestions to improve ammonia removal.
As a further precaution, the staff is checking the process to see if ammonia is increasing in the treatment process. They found that March and April are the most challenging months to meet the ammonia limits due to temperature change, seasonal changes and higher flows.
The ammonia was reported to IDNR’s Dave Perry and he noted the plant may receive a notice of violation. Dave stated that if a notice is sent, the city must respond in writing as to what actions have been taken to abate the problem and prevent future occurrences.
8. I&I: In your packet is an administrative consent order with IDNR and the City of Indianola extending the completion of the Phase III project to July 31, 2011. The dates for the completion of the south plant lift station in the original order was not going to be meet because of the amount of it took IDNR to complete the environmental review of the site. The specified completion date with the contactor, Neuvirth, is June 17, 2011. Neuvirth is on schedule with the project and right now they do not see a problem with meeting the completion date.
9. STP TE ADJUSTMENTS: We received an e-mail today regarding federal allocation for Surface Transportation Program and Transportation Enhancement (received by CIRTPA) could possibly decrease from $4.9 to $3.7 million. If this happens, the city’s funding allocation would decrease from $239,000 to $179,000 annually.
2. INVESTMENT COMMITTEE: The committee authorized Finance Director Jean Furler to solicit quotes for the city’s investment and banking services. Quotes are due by June 3 and a recommendation will be presented to council and trustees in June. The contracts will be effective July 1, 2011.
3. 2011 SUSTAINABILITY MONTH: Indianola’s April Sustainability Month was a great success once again this year! Throughout the month there were many opportunities for citizens to get involved and learn about sustainable living practices.
Highlights include:
• 269 electronic items and 352 appliances were properly recycled by Midwest Recovery Inc. during the city’s free E-cycling/appliance drop off
• Eleven citizens participated in the bike/walk to work challenge.
• Approximately 200 citizens attended the 3rd annual Sustainability Fair held at the IMU line shop on North B Street. Eighteen vendors had displays to share their “Green” products and services.
• The month concluded with the Parks and Recreation Spring Fling at the Indianola Fairgrounds Saturday, April 30th. Committee members promoted sustainability and fun activities for our younger consumers.
The Indianola Sustainability Committee would like to thank the entire community for helping make Indianola a more sustainable city for future generations. Thanks also go to Chris Longer and Mindi Robinson for making the entire month a success!
4. SANITARY SEWER PROJECT: The Clerk’s Office has received several questions about the sanitary sewer projects in town. A summary follows:
The General Contractor for the Phase 2 Inflow and Infiltration Project is Visu-Sewer (Blue jet trucks and camera trucks) with 3 crews doing sewer main lining, short liners and manhole grouting.
Visu-Sewer has 2 main sub contractors. One is Vanderpool Construction doing excavation of mains and manhole repairs. The second is United Pipe Renewal working on the sewer service (pipe from a home to the main) connection "T-Liner and Vac-Tee (white pipes along the curb) repairs.
United Pipe has a subcontractor (Precision Excavation) installing the Vac Tee's on 125 sewer services where T-liners will be used. The T-Liner repairs sewer service connections “inside” the main and avoids open excavation.
This "Trenchless Technology" utilizes the Vac-Tee (also called a clean-out) that is installed on the sewer service (white pipes sticking above ground). Precision Excavation is initially installing a longer (than needed) pipe on the ground so they can find them quickly. The T-Liner will be installed as the liners are ordered for length. When the T-Liner has been installed the contractor will lower the cleanouts, cap them (below ground) and mark them. The property owners with these Vac-Tees will be able to use this access in the future for much more efficient service maintenance.
Visu-Sewer leaves door knockers on properties that receive the Vac-Tees prior to installation informing owners of the times/date of installation.
5. PROPERTY TAX LEGISLATION: HSB 240 was submitted to the Iowa House of Representatives on April 27 and has the potential to reduce tax revenues by about $660,000 annually resulting from a reduction of commercial property values. The legislation contains language to reimburse cities about ½ this amount but previous experience shows that when the state falls into financial difficulty, they lessen or remove payments to cities, counties and schools.
The Senate version, SF 522, provides commercial property tax relief but has no effect on cities, counties or schools.
In your packet is a table showing the affect on Indianola.
6. SKID LOADER: Street Supt Ed Yando is soliciting bids to replace the 13 year-old Bobcat skid loader. They will be received on May 31, 2011 and a recommendation provided on the June 6 council agenda. $70,000 is budgeted in FY 11/12.
7. SOUTH LIFT STATION: Per the IDNR, soil tests were taken several weeks ago to determine lead or antimony content. The results showed levels were well below the amount requiring remediation.
Also, Supt Dan Miers reports the plant will not meet its 30 day average ammonia limit for April. The NPDES permit limit is 2.8 mg/l for a 30 day average and the plant is at 3.7 mg/l. On April 20th, the staff brought all tanks online to deal with higher flows (brought in with warmer, wetter weather) and there has been a resulting decline in the effluent ammonia. The solids return rate was also increased to improve the sludge age. Dan discussed operational options with Forrest Aldrich and Tim O'Conner of V&K and they provided some of these suggestions to improve ammonia removal.
As a further precaution, the staff is checking the process to see if ammonia is increasing in the treatment process. They found that March and April are the most challenging months to meet the ammonia limits due to temperature change, seasonal changes and higher flows.
The ammonia was reported to IDNR’s Dave Perry and he noted the plant may receive a notice of violation. Dave stated that if a notice is sent, the city must respond in writing as to what actions have been taken to abate the problem and prevent future occurrences.
8. I&I: In your packet is an administrative consent order with IDNR and the City of Indianola extending the completion of the Phase III project to July 31, 2011. The dates for the completion of the south plant lift station in the original order was not going to be meet because of the amount of it took IDNR to complete the environmental review of the site. The specified completion date with the contactor, Neuvirth, is June 17, 2011. Neuvirth is on schedule with the project and right now they do not see a problem with meeting the completion date.
9. STP TE ADJUSTMENTS: We received an e-mail today regarding federal allocation for Surface Transportation Program and Transportation Enhancement (received by CIRTPA) could possibly decrease from $4.9 to $3.7 million. If this happens, the city’s funding allocation would decrease from $239,000 to $179,000 annually.
Friday, April 22, 2011
News Items - April 25, 2011
1. PRIORITIES: In the packet is the list of priorities as ranked by the council and mayor. In the last news items the high rankings were provided, the medium rankings are as follows:
• Trail system expansion
• Park north of Iowa Avenue
• Purchase land for soccer fields
• Hwy 65/69 improvements S. of Hwy 92
• Street Department expansion
• Sewer plant improvement
2. NEXT MEETING: The next meeting is May 2.
3. FEMA: HR/Risk Manager RoxAnne Hunerdosse and Finance Director Jean Furler met with FEMA reps on the 20th and reports over $96,000 will be reimbursed to the Sewer Dept within two weeks for expenses resulting from last summer’s storms. There is another $30,000 outstanding and will be reimbursed when all work is complete. Good news and hats off to Rox and Jean for all their efforts.
4. W HWY 92: Chuck Burgin and I have a meeting on May 12 with IDOT reps to discuss the W Hwy 92 Improvement Project (R Street to R-57) scheduled for FY’s 12/13 and 13/14. When plans are underway, I’ll ask IDOT to attend a council study meeting to provide an update and address comments/questions.
5. STORM SEWERS: Based on comments from a resident on W Boston, our Sewer Dept televised the mains and found issues related to a collapsed intake (Boston at J) and a utility bore thru the main. The intake was repaired this week and the utility intrusion will be repaired within a few weeks.
6. POLICE WEEK: National Police Week is May 15-21 and according to Brian Seymour our flags will be flown at half-mast on the 15th because it is National Peace Officers Memorial Day.
7. CHAMBER GARDEN TOUR: The Chamber will use the south parking lot and the park at city hall for their Garden Tour registration area on Saturday June 11.
8. SOUTH LIFT STATION PROJECT: In the packet is a copy of the Neuvirth letter to IDNR regarding the notice of violation for erosion control. It appears the issue has been resolved but we are waiting to hear from IDNR.
9. J/K RE-ALIGNMENT: Per council discussion, Community Development Director Chuck Burgin is getting appraisal quotes for possible land acquisition regarding this project. They will be provided to council when received.
10. SHARED SERVICE: Supt Dan Miers and Forrest Aldrich are working on a shared service removal with property owners (see map) around 400 N Buxton. A resolution/project will be brought to council in a few weeks.
11. POLICE CLERICAL: Pat Allsup, PD Office Manager and RoxAnne Hunerdosse will begin the selection process next week. To date, 45 applications have been received for the 3-11 p.m. clerical assistant position.
• Trail system expansion
• Park north of Iowa Avenue
• Purchase land for soccer fields
• Hwy 65/69 improvements S. of Hwy 92
• Street Department expansion
• Sewer plant improvement
2. NEXT MEETING: The next meeting is May 2.
3. FEMA: HR/Risk Manager RoxAnne Hunerdosse and Finance Director Jean Furler met with FEMA reps on the 20th and reports over $96,000 will be reimbursed to the Sewer Dept within two weeks for expenses resulting from last summer’s storms. There is another $30,000 outstanding and will be reimbursed when all work is complete. Good news and hats off to Rox and Jean for all their efforts.
4. W HWY 92: Chuck Burgin and I have a meeting on May 12 with IDOT reps to discuss the W Hwy 92 Improvement Project (R Street to R-57) scheduled for FY’s 12/13 and 13/14. When plans are underway, I’ll ask IDOT to attend a council study meeting to provide an update and address comments/questions.
5. STORM SEWERS: Based on comments from a resident on W Boston, our Sewer Dept televised the mains and found issues related to a collapsed intake (Boston at J) and a utility bore thru the main. The intake was repaired this week and the utility intrusion will be repaired within a few weeks.
6. POLICE WEEK: National Police Week is May 15-21 and according to Brian Seymour our flags will be flown at half-mast on the 15th because it is National Peace Officers Memorial Day.
7. CHAMBER GARDEN TOUR: The Chamber will use the south parking lot and the park at city hall for their Garden Tour registration area on Saturday June 11.
8. SOUTH LIFT STATION PROJECT: In the packet is a copy of the Neuvirth letter to IDNR regarding the notice of violation for erosion control. It appears the issue has been resolved but we are waiting to hear from IDNR.
9. J/K RE-ALIGNMENT: Per council discussion, Community Development Director Chuck Burgin is getting appraisal quotes for possible land acquisition regarding this project. They will be provided to council when received.
10. SHARED SERVICE: Supt Dan Miers and Forrest Aldrich are working on a shared service removal with property owners (see map) around 400 N Buxton. A resolution/project will be brought to council in a few weeks.
11. POLICE CLERICAL: Pat Allsup, PD Office Manager and RoxAnne Hunerdosse will begin the selection process next week. To date, 45 applications have been received for the 3-11 p.m. clerical assistant position.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
