Marengo Council accepts public works facility design service bid

Accepting a bid for the public works facility’s design and specification services topped the agenda at the Dec. 28 meeting of the Marengo City Council. Public works director Lonnie Altenhofen stated bids were received from Veenstra and Kimm, Inc. and Design Dynamics, with Design Dynamics providing lowest bid. He requested approval to accept the contract.

Discussion regarding municipal construction bidding requirements, options for reducing construction costs and potential for purchasing third party building occurred. Council member Sue Peterson requested the council reconsider moving the building to Roberts Avenue property. Altenhofen stated safety concerns with establishing a city workshop in a residential district, and questioned if city should from deviate from city zoning regulations. Council approved the Design Dynamics bid.

C6-Zero Fire

Marengo Police Chief Ben Gray and City Administrator Karla Marck provided update on the 810 South Street (C6-Zero) fire and explosion. The fire marshal’s investigation continues. C6-Zero was to submit a cleanup plan to the DNR by Dec. 30, 2022. A meeting was scheduled with the DNR, Drainage District, Iowa County Emergency Services and City for Jan. 4 to discuss storm sewer cleanup, emergency services personnel reimbursements and site cleanup. In addition, Gray reported cleanup crews were on site at 295 East Miller, Walker Acres, LTD, where the cleanup is in progress.

Other business

Financial manager Ellen Young stated an increase in the compost fee is due to an increase in vendor costs. Council approved the increase.

Altenhofen reported on the repair of a water main leak on West Pine Street and also on snow plowing.

Young reported will be beginning processes to set FY24 maximum levy at next council meeting.

In other business, council:

Approved a resolution authorizing the hospital’s capital improvement project and setting a public hearing related to USDA financial assistance regarding the same.

Approved quantity modifications for a four-inch dual main project, increasing project costs by $43,454.

Held a public hearing and third reading for Ordinance 512, amending Chapter 91 — Water Meters, relating to irrigation system metering and irrigation meter rates. There were no comments by the public. Council approved the reading.