Traffic signals, solid waste contract top council agenda

Todd Happel and Jacob Sprengeler from Anderson Bogert were present at the April 5 meeting of the Belle Plaine City Council to answer questions regarding the HAWK System plans. Council approved the proposal from Anderson Bogert for development plans for the HAWK System traffic signals.

RFPs received for solid waste and recycling were discussed. All contractors that were present spoke at the request of the council. Council awarded the five-year solid waste and recycling contract to Serious Sanitation from Dysart, beginning July 1.

A public hearing for the 2023-2024 Budget of the City of Belle Plaine was held. There were no comments from either the public or the council. Council approved Resolution #23-04-02, approving the City of Belle Plaine Budget for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

City admin’s report

Steve Beck, city administrator, reported city wells are holding steady. He has been looking into grants for wetland creation/restoration at the well fields. He presented a quote for a production test well to the city council for their review. They would check for quantity as well as quality in a test area south of well #4. With all the efforts by the city team at finding and fixing leaks, the pumping rate is at the lowest it has been.

Beck has spent time preparing for severe weather possibilities over the recent storms in the area. He has attended meetings with Alliant and others over the natural gas build-out that will occur this summer. The city is still waiting for FEMA hearings, which are scheduled in May.

The need to close 10th Avenue near the old bus barn due to the safety hazard that the collapsing culvert is presenting was noted. Beck also gave an update on the status of the Herring Hotel demolition and the steps that still need to take place before that project can start.

Mayor Dave Fish reported on ECICOG and Benton County Landfill meetings recently attended. He has also been reelected as president of BDG.

Mary Preston gave an update on Preston’s Station progress. She has submitted a proposal for funding to the Lincoln Highway Association and will be sending out other solicitations in April and again in October. She is planning to have the storage container moved before RAGBRAI comes through in July.

Other business

In other business, council:

Approved Resolution #23-04-01, establishing Catalyst Grant and CDBG-DR Grant Project Funds.

Approved Resolution #23-04-03, proposing to dispose of real property and publishing a notice of public hearing for 1402 2nd Ave. set for May 3.

Approved Resolution #23-04-04, approving transfer of funds in FY2023.

Approved Resolution #23-04-05, allowing for the police chief to be paid overtime for GTSB traffic enforcement.

Approved Resolution #23-04-06, on setting a public hearing on delinquent animal licenses for May 3.