David Flattery

The council held a special meeting to discuss property acquisition in an executive session, but no action was taken afterward. The regular business meeting included a public hearing on proposed nuisance assessments, followed by a motion to certify assessments to the Webster County Treasurer. A citizen requested an extension for property improvements. The council also addressed various agenda items, including liquor license applications, setting a date for a public hearing on water stop box assessments, invoices from the North Central Iowa Regional Solid Waste Agency, a special event permit for Shellabration Concert, and resolutions related to sanitary sewer and water main projects. Additionally, the council discussed development agreements with Triton Plaza, LLC and Decker Investments, Inc., and awarded a contract for the Harlan Rogers Bleacher Project. Finally, they acknowledged an amendment to a proposal from SMO Real Estate, LLC and discussed an agreement with McClure Engineering for the Fort Dodge Riverfront Trail project.

The City Council discussed the acquisition of the property at 115 2nd Avenue NW, owned by Raymond Knutson, which is located in the 100-year floodplain. An agreement was reached to purchase the property for $17,500. In addition to the purchase price, the City would waive special assessments and past due water bills on the property, totaling approximately $3,600. The council approved the Offer to Purchase and authorized the Department of Business Affairs and Community Growth to proceed with the execution of said Offer.

The City Council is reviewing the final pay estimate for Jensen Builders Ltd. for the 2nd Avenue South Trail Project. This project involves the construction of a PCC Recreational Trail, excavation, topsoil strip, salvage and spread, erosion control, and seeding. Change Orders have been approved to adjust the contract price, including deductions and increases for specific work items. The final pay estimate is now due to Jensen Builders.

The City Council is considering a change order for the East Region Public Improvements, specifically Phase 1B of the project. The original project involved preliminary and final designs for storm sewers and roadway improvements. Phase 1B includes storm water sewer and paving work. Change Order #2 addresses poor soil conditions, the addition of a right turn lane, and the paving of a slip street. The change order results in an increased cost to the contract, bringing the total project costs to $693,718.43. Funding sources for the project include LOST, Stormwater Utility GO Bond, a federal transportation grant, TIF, Iowa Clean Air Attainment Program, Traffic Safety Improvement Program, and Water Quality related loans or grants.

The City Council is set to vote on a resolution to approve the Annual Tax Increment Certification and Reporting Requirements. The TIF Certification is required by Section 403.19 of the Code of Iowa, and the TIF Report is required by Section 384.22. The reports detail the City's obligations, indebtedness, and activities within the Urban Renewal Areas. Staff recommends approval of the TIF certifications and annual report, which will then be submitted to the Webster County Auditor and the State Department of Management by the City Clerk/Finance Director.