Muscatine council adopts multiple infrastructure plans, approves design and inspection contracts

At its March 20 meeting the Muscatine City Council adopted several resolutions and approved professional services and payments to move a range of infrastructure and public-works projects forward. All votes recorded during the meeting were unanimous.

Key approvals included resolutions adopting plans and specifications for the West Hills Sewer Separation Phase 6D project and the Folium Avenue Reconstruction Phase 3 project, and a resolution approving a cured-in-place pipe liner project. The council also approved plans for snow removal equipment at the Muscatine Municipal Airport.

Council approved a supplemental agreement No. 2 with Stanley Consultants for the West Hills Sewer Separation design contract in an amount not to exceed $1,237,576. The council also authorized a professional services agreement with Fulton & Mink for up to $24,600 to design an Oregon Street trail crossing and approved payment of up to $21,293.28 to the Federal Aviation Administration for a commissioning flight inspection of runway lights at the airport. A resolution awarding a $16,500 contract to S and R Lawn Care LLC for lift-station mowing and lawn services was likewise adopted.

Several items were set for public hearings: the consolidated transit (Muscabas) grant application (public hearing set for April 17), an ordinance to promote residential infill by relaxing side-yard setback requirements, an ordinance removing engineered-plan submission for small accessory buildings under 1,440 square feet, and community comment hearings on sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages at the new Musco Sports Centre (hearing set for April 3). During the Musco Sports Centre discussion staff said beer, wine and champagne would be allowed under the proposed approach and that “no hard liquor” was planned for that venue.

Folium Avenue drew a resident question about traffic and truck detours. A resident identified as Kevin asked whether the portion of Folium closed by prior work would reopen by April; the city engineer, identified in the meeting as Kevin, said work on adjacent phases and storm sewer connections are ongoing and that the reopening is expected but not promised. He told the council he anticipates increased neighborhood traffic while West Hill construction continues and asked for patience as work proceeds.

Motions and seconds were recorded on the public record for each item; staff will proceed to implement contracts and prepare required follow-up reports and hearings.