Committee of the Whole Meeting Packets

COLUMBUS COMMON COUNCIL – COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE TUESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2020 – 6:45 PM COLUMBUS CITY HALL AGENDA Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81651695126?pwd=cGVuaEhnYVl5WmhzOFZzdlFuc1I2Zz09 OR Call: 312 626 6799 US Meeting ID: 816 5169 5126 Passcode: 680083 1. Roll Call 2. Notice of Open Meeting 3. Approve Agenda 4. Citizen Comments o Due to the COVID-19 health crisis, City staff continue to minimize attendance at the Council meetings in City Hall until further notice. Citizens wishing to make public comment at the meeting via Zoom, please email Kyle Ellefson at cityadministrator@columbuswi.us by Noon August 18. In your email, please include: your name, address, and the Zoom profile name or phone number you will be calling from. Citizens not signed up to comment via Zoom by Noon August 18, may still comment by appearing in person at the meeting and signing up for public comment. 5. Department Reports a. Police Report – July 2020 b. DPW Report – July 2020 c. Fire Dept. Report – July 2020 6. Review & discuss Bids for WWTP Influent Pump Replacement 7. Review & discuss Trick or Treat Date/Time 8. Review & discuss options for leak detection at the Aquatic Center 9. Review & discuss water attraction repair 10. Review & discuss potential CDBG close projects 11. Review & discuss recommendation from Plan Commission to approve the Site Plan Ordinance 12. Review & discuss preliminary details of a Storm Water Utility 13. Consider & take action on recommendation from Plan Commission to approve Conditional Use Permit for Gates Automotive Group at 250 Commerce Drive 14. Adjourn  COLUMBUS POLICE DEPARTMENT 159 S. Ludington St. Columbus, WI. 53925 920-623-5919 (Main) 920-623-5930 (Fax) August 13, 2020 Mayor Thom, Members of the Common Council: RE: POLICE DEPARTMENT ACTIVITY REPORT, July 2020 Attached is the monthly report for the Columbus Police Department. Please feel free to contact me at any time if you have questions. Chief Dennis Weiner www.cityofcolumbuswi.com Dennis R. Weiner, Chief of Police  COLUMBUS POLICE DEPARTMENT 159 S. Ludington St. Columbus, WI. 53925 920-623-5919 (Main) 920-623-5930 (Fax) PERSONNEL The department is not fully staffed. Current staffing as of August 13, 2020: Authorized by Budget Actual Sworn Officers Full-time sworn police positions: 10 10 (Position breakdown) Patrol Officer 6 6* Sergeant 1 1 Lieutenant 2 2 Chief 1 1 Clerical Office Manager (full-time) 1 1 Clerk (full-time) 1 1 Current personnel: Name Date of Hire Chief Dennis Weiner 2/18/2008 Lieutenant Roger Witthun 12/17/2001 Lieutenant Darrell Ward 06/30/2017 Sergeant Mark Creighton 01/06/2020 Officer Matt Schultz 12/23/2002 Officer Kelly Towne 02/02/2004 Officer Riley Vogel 05/30/2017 Officer Alexander Secord 08/13/2018 Officer Andrew Henn 12/04/2019 Officer Dillon Donahue 05/13/2020 Office Manager Erika Kellar 02/04/1999 Public Safety Clerk Bonnie Langsdorf 09/30/2006 *See Personnel section on next page www.cityofcolumbuswi.com Dennis R. Weiner, Chief of Police  COLUMBUS POLICE DEPARTMENT 159 S. Ludington St. Columbus, WI. 53925 920-623-5919 (Main) 920-623-5930 (Fax) PERSONNEL: Officer Alex Secord recently submitted his resignation effective August 18. He has been with us 2 years and has chosen to leave law enforcement. There are currently 3 people left on the eligibility list from the spring 2020 hiring process. We are reaching out to those applicants to see if they are still available. We will then conduct background investigations before any official hiring decisions are made. BUILDING: The remaining 2 central air conditioning units were installed in early July. The 3rd one was previsouly replaced in 2019 when it became unserviceable. These units were 28 years old. RADIO EQUIPMENT: The new portable radios, squad radios, and base station were all received and installed during the month. When Columbia County, who dispatches for us switches to a digital signal with encryption capability later this year, we will be able to communicate with them. Our previous squad and portable radios were 11 years old and would not be compatible with digital and encrypted signals. The old base radio is 15+ years old and also not capable of being upgraded to the new technology. TRAINING: All officers attended training and were re-certified in CPR. The 7 week Law Enforcement Command College I was selected for which I attend 1 week per month starting in September has been canceled. The program is ran by the UW Madison who made this decision in line with the in class policies they implemented for the fall 2020 classes on campus. A spot has been reserved for me for the 2021 class. TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT: During June of 2020, officers issued 128 traffic citations, 41 municipal ordinance citations and 107 warnings. A spike in those citations can be attributed to increased enforcement on USH 151 due to constant complaints of speeding and dangerous driving. A recent enforcement event for 2 1/2 hours resulted in 20 citations being issued. Three (3) of the vehicles were traveling over 90 miles per hour, the fastest being 95 miles per hour. We are able to submit officer wages on events such as these for reimbursement as part of the Speed Grant that WISDOT provided to all law enforcement agencies in Columbia County. MISCELLANEOUS EVENTS/INCIDENTS: During July several notable incidents occurred. Some of them include:  Spikes were noted this month in Domestic Abuse incidents as well as Child Sex Offenses.  Officers were dispatched to a fight and discovered an 18 year old who had been beaten unconscious and was continued to be struck after being unconscious. He was taken to the hospital by ambulance. Two subjects were arrested later that day and have been charged with both felonies and misdemeanors.  Officers responded to a double overdose (2 victims) where both were unresponsive but very combative with medical staff requiring law enforcement assistance.  Officers responded to a couple underage drinking parties where multiple citations were issued at each one. Those numbers attribute to the spike in ordinance citations this month. www.cityofcolumbuswi.com Dennis R. Weiner, Chief of Police  COLUMBUS POLICE DEPARTMENT 159 S. Ludington St. Columbus, WI. 53925 920-623-5919 (Main) 920-623-5930 (Fax)  Twice during the month we were called to the AmTrak station to remove people from the train due to their behavior. One of the incidents involved domestic violence and included injuries.  We were contacted by a subject whose wife was contacted by phone and she provided the caller her social security number. They were advised to check their credit reports and put a freeze on them. JULY 2020 CALL SUMMARY Columbus Police Department Nature of Call Total Calls Received ----------------------------- -------------------- TEN DAY SIGN OFF 1 911 HANG UP 28 ACCIDENT WITH FATALITY 1 ACCIDENT HIT AND RUN 2 ACCIDENT-NON REPORTABLE 1 ACCIDENT PROPERTY DAMAGE ONLY 1 ASSIST ANOTHER AGENCY 7 BURGLAR ALARM 3 FIRE ALARM 2 MEDICAL ALARM 1 ANIMAL COMPLAINTS 6 ANIMAL BITE 3 BOND VIOLATION 1 CHILD SEXUAL ASSAULT 3 CIVIL 4 CONTROLLED 1 DISORDERLY CONDUCT 6 DISABLED VEHICLE 4 DOMESTIC ABUSE 10 DRIVING COMPLAINT 12 EMS CALL 5 EXTRA PATROL 31 GENERAL FIRE 1 FIRE GAS LEAK/CARBON MONOXIDE 2 FIREWORKS 12 FLEET MAINTENANCE 4 FOOT PATROL 8 FRAUD 5 GAS DRIVE-OFF 2 GENERAL 12 ROAD HAZARD 2 HOUSE WATCH 1 JUVENILE ALCOHOL 2 JUVENILE INCIDENT 8 www.cityofcolumbuswi.com Dennis R. Weiner, Chief of Police  COLUMBUS POLICE DEPARTMENT 159 S. Ludington St. Columbus, WI. 53925 920-623-5919 (Main) 920-623-5930 (Fax) KEEP THE PEACE 3 LOST AND FOUND 5 MISSING PERSON 1 NOISE COMPLAINT 2 OUT WITH PERSON 10 OPEN DOOR 12 ORDINANCE VIOLATION 5 PARKING VIOLATION 9 RADAR 10 SECURITY 185 SEX OFFENSE 1 SUSPICIOUS 17 THEFT 8 THREAT 2 TIPS/LEADS 2 TRAFFIC CONTROL 1 TRAFFIC STOP 168 TRAINING 1 TRESPASS 1 TRO/INJ VIOL 1 VANDALISM 8 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Calls: 666 www.cityofcolumbuswi.com Dennis R. Weiner, Chief of Police  Columbus Public Works Department Directors Report July 2020 The month of July was the first “normal” month the department has had in quite some time as everyone was able to get back into the groove of a normal work week and normal work duties. The highlights of the work completed in the month of July include:  Park Maintenance, Prepping the ball diamonds at Kiwanis and Meister Parks for the two Columbus Baseball Organization (CBO) tournaments that took place. CBO received several compliments from visiting teams regarding how nice the park looked as well as how CBO handled the tournaments in the midst of a pandemic. Park maintenance also included some tree pruning and removals to keep the parks a safe and enjoyable space to enjoy.  Pavilion Prep, staff spent time repairing the damaged sided that they were able to get at as well as removing the old signage, wiring , and gutters on the building in preparation of CHLPC’s painting project. DPW was able to reuse the gutters from the pavilion at the DPW garage.  Addressed sink holes created by storm water issues on both Richmond St. and Fuller St. These issues both arose due to the flooding event in early June and exposed issues that the city wasn’t aware of prior to the flash flood.  Clean silted in storm sewers on Avalon Rd. and Cardinal Drive.  Prep Meister Park for the Lions Club bench donation as well as replace the seating section of the bleachers at the Meister park ball diamonds.  Attended a confined space training through MEUW in the field.  Clean up the Udey Dam, this includes raising the Dam gates to flush out debris and for staff to fish out debris that is wedged in the dam. For me, the month of July included meeting with user groups to better understand needs and wants in the parks, work on policies and programs to bring to Council as well as budget preparation. Specifically:  Working to create an updated sidewalk repair/replacement policy as well as a sidewalk program to implement. This will be on a September agenda for review.  Meet with Rotary Club to review park improvements. Both the City and the group have improvements they would like to see in the park and we are working together to help achieve these goals together. You will see that recently Rotary mulched around all the trees in the park as a service project.  Meet with CBO to discuss their wants and needs in Kiwanis Park to help improve the facilities and their program.  Attended a budgeting course online that was specific to Public Works budgeting.  Met with residents of Hibbard St. to review questions they had about the upcoming project.  CITY COUNCIL REPORT FOR AUGUST 18, 2020 MEETING LEVEL OF STAFFING - AS OF 07/31/2020 34 Paid on Call Firefighters - Non-Probationary Members 3 Paid on Call Firefighters - Probationary Members 1 Fire Chief 38 Total Active Members 2 Vacant Firefighter Positions 2 Hiring Process 0 Eligibility List Full staff level for active fire personnel is 40  INCIDENT RESPONSES July 2020 Alarm End City Rural # of Run # Alarm Date Time Time Incident Location Incident Incident Incident Type F.F. Mutual Aid to 20-078 06/03 10:13 12:13 538 Hubbell St. X Marshall - House 5 Fire Mutual Aid to W10284 County 20-079 07/03 19:53 23:00 X Reeseville - 10 Road I Barn Fire 20-080 07/08 21:43 22:20 655 N Dickason Blvd X CO Call 7 Hwy 151 SB Under Vehicle vs 20-081 07/13 08:33 10:50 X 12 Hwy 73 Pedestrian Electrical Outlet 20-082 07/17 04:05 04:35 526 North Ludington X 6 Fire CO Alarm – gas 20-083 07/19 20:21 22:34 218 Avalon Road X 7 leak Mutual Aid to 20-084 07/27 01:18 03:05 310 W Main St. X Marshall - Gas 6 Leak Current Monthly Total: 7 Total Runs by Month: Jan 14 July 7 Feb 16 Aug Mar 10 Sep Apr 9 Oct May 16 Nov June 12 Dec Year to date total 84 Last Year at this time 106 TRAININGS, MEETINGS, AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES July 2020 07/02 Open House for the new Rescue Truck 07/07 Department Extrication Training 07/11 Firefighter I Practical Exam – MATC – FF S. Hoffman 07/13 Department Officers Meeting 07/14 Semi-Monthly Drill Monthly Department Meeting 07/28 Dodge County Chiefs Meeting in Randolph – Kenevan, Kluetzman, & Koehn 07/28 Semi-Monthly Drill ITEMS OF NOTE FOR JULY I don’t recall when we had as few as seven calls in a month, and three of them were mutual aid to other communities. We received a $20,000 donation from the estate of Eugene and Carol Niehoff, earmarked for the restoration of our antique 1925 American LaFrance fire engine. Randy Koehn  2020 AGENDA ITEM Committee of the Whole Meeting date: August 18, 2020 Council Meeting date: September 1, 2020 ITEM: Influent Pump Replacement DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SUBJECT MATTER: This project consists of the removal of three influent pumps and the installation of one of increased capacity. Controls including variable frequency drives and piping modifications are also part of this project. Consider Ruekert Mielke's recommendation of August Winter's bid for the influent pump replacement project in the amount of $197,900.00 LIST ALL SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED: o Bid recommendation from Ruekert Mielke ACTION REQUESTED OF COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE: o Forward to next Regular meeting September 1 for approval  4001 Nakoosa Trail, Suite 200, Madison, WI 53714 608-819-2600 August 13, 2020 Mr. Kyle Ellefson City Administrator City of Columbus 105 N. Dickason Columbus, WI 53925 RE: City of Columbus WWTF Influent Pump Replacement Dear Mr. Ellefson: Bids for the above project were opened on August 11, at 11:00 a.m. online and are summarized as follows. BIDDER BASE BID 1. August Winter & Sons, Inc. $197,900.00 2. Sabel Mechanical $235,550.00 3. Staab Construction Corporation $237,000.00 4. . Lee Plumbing Mechanical Contractors, Inc $251,902.00 We reviewed the documentation submitted by the apparent low bidder and found that: 1. The Bid Form has been appropriately completed. 2. We have no objections to the low bidder. 3. Low bidder has successfully completed similar projects. On these bases, we recommend that August Winter & Sons, Inc. be awarded the WWTF Influent Pump Replacement contract, in the amount of $197,900.00. On all construction projects, unpredictable factors may increase the final contract amount. Our review did not include an evaluation of bidder's current financial condition nor of their permanent safety program. Should you decide to accept our recommendation, we will prepare the Notice of Award for your signature. We will then forward it, with contracts for execution, to the Contractor. One fully completed Notice of Award will be returned to you for your records. Bids remain subject to acceptance for 60 days from the bid date, unless Bidder agrees to an extension. Please advise us of your award decision or call if there are any questions. Respectfully, RUEKERT & MIELKE, INC. Mark B. Van Weelden, P.E. Project Engineer mvanweelden@ruekert-mielke.com MBV:nah cc: John Nehmer, City of Columbus Wastewater Director ~Columbus City 8117-10066 WWTF Influent Pump Replacement > 200 Design > Bidding > Ellefson-20200813 -Recommendation of Award_WWTF.docx~ Your Infrastructure Ally ruekertmielke.com  2020 AGENDA ITEM Committee of the Whole Meeting date: __August 18, 2020______ Council Meeting date: ____September 1, 2020 ITEM: Columbus Trick Or Treat, 2020 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SUBJECT MATTER: For many years, the City has designated community trick or treat hours on either the evening of the last Saturday in October or the afternoon of the last Sunday in October. Last year the trick or treat hours were on Saturday, October 26th, from 5:00p.m. – 8:00 p.m. This year, the last Saturday in October is October 31st, while the last Sunday will fall on October 25th. In the past, the City has implemented safety measures such as no parking zones in congested trick or treat areas. Once the consensus regarding trick or treating is known, staff will bring safety recommendations to the next COW for consideration. With the uncertainty of COVID-19, it is impossible to determine at this time what, if any, restrictions or guidance local, state, and federal officials may provide related to community-wide door-to-door events like trick or treating. ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Set Trick or Treat for 2020. LIST ALL SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED: None.  CITY OF COLUMBUS FOR MEETING OF: August 18, 2020 REQUEST FROM/DEPARTMENT: CAAC AGENDA ITEM/REQUEST: Continued Leak Detection *************************************************** DESCRIPTION AND SCOPE OF PROJECT/ITEM WITH KEY ISSUES NOTED: Enclosed is a quote from Neuman Pools for continued leak detection at the CAAC. The main source of the leak we believe has been found (water feature) however, there continues to be some water loss each day. A contributing factor is the expansion joints and caulk lines, which are to be replaced by Mid-America in September. We are asking council to approve the work by Neuman to rule out any other significant areas The scope of work could be disbursed from several funds:  215-555210-249 POOL: EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE / a balance of 12,765.59 remains (least likely)  215-555210-298 POOL; PROFL SVCS/CONSULTANTS / a balance of 6,737.00 remains  215-555210-312 POOL; SUPPLIES & OP EXPENSES / a balance of 12,098.17 remains PREVIOUS ACTION TAKEN (IF APPLICABLE): BUDGET AND FINANCING INFORMATION: Account #: _________________________ Department: __________________________ Acct. # Approved Budget: ______________ Current Balance in Acct #: ________________ Remaining Balance in Acct #: _______________ (after approval)  Contract Owner: Columbus Area Aquatic Center Date: 8/7/2020 Address: 161 Dickason Blvd. Phone Number: 920 623 5936 City, State, Zip Code: Columbus, WI 53925 Fax Number: Job Name: Columbus Area Aquatic Center Email: recreation@columbuswi.us Job Location: 1049 Park Avenue, Columbus, WI 53925 Contact Person: Amy Jo Meyers Phone Number: 847 350 5559 Feature Pipe Repair Neuman Pools, Inc. (NPI) proposes to complete the following scope of work including all labor and materials. Repair the Leaking Pool Feature 4” Line • Repair of the 4” broken pipe for the Blue Feature spray loop. • Pressure testing of repaired line to ensure there are no additional breaks in the line. If additional breaks are found in the 4” line between the toy and the valve vault, additional costs may be incurred. • All concrete removal and excavation of soils is by others. • All backfilling and concrete placement is by others. • Work to be performed on a Time and Material Basis. Time & Material Estimated Price: $ 6,500.00____ Initial Pool Leak Detection • Perform leak detection services on the rest of the pool. • Develop a plan of repair if any leaks are found. • Work to be performed on a Time and Material Basis. Time & Material Estimated Price: $ 5,900.00____Initial Notes: • If additional leaks are detected, additional charges may be incurred. • Pricing is based on leaks previously identified by others. • Additional work must have prior approval and will be performed for a lump sum amount or billed at the following rates: Supervisory Labor: $100/hour; General Labor: $65/hour; Tradesman: $90/hour; Travel Time: $65/hour.  Page 2 of 3 CONDITIONS 1. Owner shall provide access for equipment and trucks. 2. Draining the pool just prior to work starting is the responsibility of the owner. 3. Builder will not be responsible for damage to grass, shrubs, walks, or driveways, etc. caused by normal performance of work. 4. Filling of the pool and chemical treatment is by the owner. 5. Electric power and water for construction purposes shall be furnished by the Buyer at no charge to the Contractor. 6. All materials used in construction shall remain the property of the Contractor until fully paid, and all surplus materials are to remain the property of the Contractor. 7. Buyer’s and Contractor’s representations, limitations and responsibilities: The Contractor agrees to perform the work in a good and workmanlike manner with reasonable dispatch in accordance with the attached specifications which set forth a custom-built pool, but do not necessarily duplicate any particular photograph. 8. Title and ownership to equipment and accessories described in the Agreement, whether or not affixed to Buyer’s realty, shall remain the property of the Contractor until the total price of the pool has been paid. None of such equipment or accessories shall be deemed to become a part of the real property regardless of the completeness of their obligation until such time of entire payment. In the event of non-payment, the Contractor may without notice enter upon the premises and remove said equipment and accessories. The Contractor will then apply the reasonable value of the removed items, less costs and expenses of removal, against the unpaid balance. 9. Builder shall pay all applicable state sales tax and carry liability and worker’s compensation insurance. 10. Extra work (work performed outside the contract) must be approved in writing by the Owner and the Contractor prior to the start of work. 11. Changes or alterations made to the installation performed by Neuman Pools, Inc., including pool accessories such as ladders and the like equipment with Owner’s consent, except changes or alterations performed by Neuman Pools, Inc., shall be at Owner’s sole risk. Neuman Pools, Inc. shall not be responsible for defects or damages to the pool installation caused by other contractors or tradesmen of any kind of character arising from improper maintenance, supervision, or neglect of the pool installation by Owner, who shall hold Neuman Pools, Inc. harmless therefore. 12. It is the responsibility of the owner to supply and fill the pool with water. It is also the responsibility of the owner to make sure that the quality of water used is such that it will not be harmful to the pool’s interior finish and equipment. Neuman Pools, Inc. will assist you in determining the quality of your fill water, and give you options of treatment. Filling with unsuitable water will void the warranty. WARRANTY Contractor makes the following limited warranties of its work, subject to the limitations and restrictions in Paragraph c. hereof: a. Contractor warrants its workmanship to be free from defects for one (1) year from date of completion. Contractor shall remedy defects of workmanship, which occur within the warranty period, without cost to the Owner. Contractor’s work as used herein shall include work of Subcontractors employed by Contractor, and shall not include any work performed by other contractors separately from the Contract by Owner. b. Waterline tile and plaster applied to the pool shell by Contractor are guaranteed against defects in materials and workmanship for one (1) year from the date of completion of plastering the pool. Walks and decking are not warranted against normal cracking, checking, raising, settling, or discoloration, and plaster is not guaranteed against discoloration or staining. Contractor assumes no responsibility for quality of water used to fill pool, or any damage caused by high water. c. The following limitations to Contractor’s warranties shall apply: aa. Contractor’s performance under the terms and provisions of its warranties shall not be required, until final payment of the full Contract has been made. bb. Contractor shall not be responsible for the cost of labor to remedy defects in material for purchase assemblies. Purchased assemblies (for example: filtration system, water treatment equipment, etc.) or materials (for example: concrete, caulking, chemicals, etc.) used in this installation are subject only to manufacturer’s or processor’s warranty of fitness and from defects in manufacture. Contractor makes no warranty expressed or implied as to such assemblies or materials, except that the same will be installed in accordance with specifications, which occur during the warranty period. cc. Contractor’s warranties shall not apply to damage to any part of the swimming pool shell, circulation piping, deck or equipment, resulting from natural causes or acts of God, including earthquakes, ground swells, inundation’s, ground or hillside motion, landslides, or any natural or accidental cause or peril resulting from storms, surface drainage, floods, war, riot, or damage caused by negligent or willful acts of person(s) other than Contractor, its Subcontractors or employees. dd. Contractor shall not be responsible for damage to the swimming pool shell, if the Owner causes the pool to be emptied of water without a representative of the Contractor present to supervise the emptying and prompt refilling of the pool. ee. Owner shall notify Contractor within seven (7) days of discovery of any defect in the pool, equipment or accessories; otherwise the Contractor’s warranty shall be void. No warranty repair expense by the Owner shall be a valid claim under Contractor’s warranties, unless the Contractor is given written notice as provided herein, and a reasonable time to obtain parts or equipment, and to repair the defects.  Page 3 of 3 Amount (words): TBD Amount (numbers): TBD Offer Valid Until: 08/30/2020 Neuman Pools, Inc. Neuman Pools, Inc. Mark Othmer (signature): Representative: $2,000.00 Initial payment with signed proposal; monthly progress payments for Terms: work completed to date. As required by Wisconsin Construction Lien Law, neuman pools, inc. hereby notifies Owner that persons or companies furnishing labor or materials for construction on Owner’s land may have lien rights on Owner’s land and buildings if not paid. Those entitled to lien rights, in addition to neuman pools, inc., are those who contract directly with the Owner, or those who give the Owner notice within 60 days after they first furnish labor or materials for construction or improvement. Accordingly, the Owner probably will receive notices from those who furnish labor or materials for the construction or improvement, and should give a copy of each notice to his mortgage lender, if any. Neuman Pools, Inc. agrees to cooperate with the Owner and his lender, if any, to see that all potential lien claimants are duly paid. Accepted by: Date: (Signature) Print Name: NOTE – Please sign the contract and return with your deposit (if applicable) to Neuman Pools, Inc. Upon receipt, I will sign and return a fully executed contract to your office for your files. If a contract or a purchase order is used, this contract must be signed and attached to it.  CITY OF COLUMBUS FOR MEETING OF: August 18, 2020 REQUEST FROM/DEPARTMENT: CAAC AGENDA ITEM/REQUEST: Water Attraction *************************************************** DESCRIPTION AND SCOPE OF PROJECT/ITEM WITH KEY ISSUES NOTED: The Blue Feature spray loop water attraction at the CAAC has a 12” crack in the vertical pipe that feeds water to this attraction. To save on water loss, we closed the attraction down this summer. We believe this was our main source of the leak in 2019. Enclosed are quotes to the City for repair on the cracked pipe as well as an option to abandon the water attraction. Below is a brief description of each quote received:  Fischer Brothers: DPW would prep the area of concrete demolition, and replace the concrete and rebar when the pipe is repaired. $1450.00 / DPW to configure cost.  Musson Brothers, Inc.: This is less evasive of the quotes received where the cracked pipe would be slip-lined. Slip lining is completed by installing a smaller, fiberglass liner into the larger host pipe. Patching of any cracked surface would be the City’s responsibility to fix. $6980.00  Neuman Pools Inc.: DPW would prep the area of concrete demolition, and replace the concrete and rebar when the pipe is repaired. $6500.00 / DPW to configure cost.  Abandon the water feature: All plans for review are required to be submitted electronically through the State. The fee for an alteration to an existing swimming pool is $320, the fee for a modification is $1000.00, and an inspection would be included with either. A modification consists of restructuring of the existing pool basin, which may or may not include drain sumps. An alteration consists of changes to a pool or any of its components or accessories that does not include any restructuring of the existing pool basin. Mid-America Pool Renovation will be returning to the CAAC mid-September to resurface the pool and to replace the expansion joints and caulk lines set in place in 2017. This work will be a contributing factor to continued water loss. Knowing if a repair or an abandonment is to take place, we can communicate with Mid-America what steps they need to have in place to mend that area.  Contract Owner: Columbus Area Aquatic Center Date: 8/7/2020 Address: 161 Dickason Blvd. Phone Number: 920 623 5936 City, State, Zip Code: Columbus, WI 53925 Fax Number: Job Name: Columbus Area Aquatic Center Email: recreation@columbuswi.us Job Location: 1049 Park Avenue, Columbus, WI 53925 Contact Person: Amy Jo Meyers Phone Number: 847 350 5559 Feature Pipe Repair Neuman Pools, Inc. (NPI) proposes to complete the following scope of work including all labor and materials. Repair the Leaking Pool Feature 4” Line • Repair of the 4” broken pipe for the Blue Feature spray loop. • Pressure testing of repaired line to ensure there are no additional breaks in the line. If additional breaks are found in the 4” line between the toy and the valve vault, additional costs may be incurred. • All concrete removal and excavation of soils is by others. • All backfilling and concrete placement is by others. • Work to be performed on a Time and Material Basis. Time & Material Estimated Price: $ 6,500.00____ Initial Pool Leak Detection • Perform leak detection services on the rest of the pool. • Develop a plan of repair if any leaks are found. • Work to be performed on a Time and Material Basis. Time & Material Estimated Price: $ 5,900.00____Initial Notes: • If additional leaks are detected, additional charges may be incurred. • Pricing is based on leaks previously identified by others. • Additional work must have prior approval and will be performed for a lump sum amount or billed at the following rates: Supervisory Labor: $100/hour; General Labor: $65/hour; Tradesman: $90/hour; Travel Time: $65/hour.  Page 2 of 3 CONDITIONS 1. Owner shall provide access for equipment and trucks. 2. Draining the pool just prior to work starting is the responsibility of the owner. 3. Builder will not be responsible for damage to grass, shrubs, walks, or driveways, etc. caused by normal performance of work. 4. Filling of the pool and chemical treatment is by the owner. 5. Electric power and water for construction purposes shall be furnished by the Buyer at no charge to the Contractor. 6. All materials used in construction shall remain the property of the Contractor until fully paid, and all surplus materials are to remain the property of the Contractor. 7. Buyer’s and Contractor’s representations, limitations and responsibilities: The Contractor agrees to perform the work in a good and workmanlike manner with reasonable dispatch in accordance with the attached specifications which set forth a custom-built pool, but do not necessarily duplicate any particular photograph. 8. Title and ownership to equipment and accessories described in the Agreement, whether or not affixed to Buyer’s realty, shall remain the property of the Contractor until the total price of the pool has been paid. None of such equipment or accessories shall be deemed to become a part of the real property regardless of the completeness of their obligation until such time of entire payment. In the event of non-payment, the Contractor may without notice enter upon the premises and remove said equipment and accessories. The Contractor will then apply the reasonable value of the removed items, less costs and expenses of removal, against the unpaid balance. 9. Builder shall pay all applicable state sales tax and carry liability and worker’s compensation insurance. 10. Extra work (work performed outside the contract) must be approved in writing by the Owner and the Contractor prior to the start of work. 11. Changes or alterations made to the installation performed by Neuman Pools, Inc., including pool accessories such as ladders and the like equipment with Owner’s consent, except changes or alterations performed by Neuman Pools, Inc., shall be at Owner’s sole risk. Neuman Pools, Inc. shall not be responsible for defects or damages to the pool installation caused by other contractors or tradesmen of any kind of character arising from improper maintenance, supervision, or neglect of the pool installation by Owner, who shall hold Neuman Pools, Inc. harmless therefore. 12. It is the responsibility of the owner to supply and fill the pool with water. It is also the responsibility of the owner to make sure that the quality of water used is such that it will not be harmful to the pool’s interior finish and equipment. Neuman Pools, Inc. will assist you in determining the quality of your fill water, and give you options of treatment. Filling with unsuitable water will void the warranty. WARRANTY Contractor makes the following limited warranties of its work, subject to the limitations and restrictions in Paragraph c. hereof: a. Contractor warrants its workmanship to be free from defects for one (1) year from date of completion. Contractor shall remedy defects of workmanship, which occur within the warranty period, without cost to the Owner. Contractor’s work as used herein shall include work of Subcontractors employed by Contractor, and shall not include any work performed by other contractors separately from the Contract by Owner. b. Waterline tile and plaster applied to the pool shell by Contractor are guaranteed against defects in materials and workmanship for one (1) year from the date of completion of plastering the pool. Walks and decking are not warranted against normal cracking, checking, raising, settling, or discoloration, and plaster is not guaranteed against discoloration or staining. Contractor assumes no responsibility for quality of water used to fill pool, or any damage caused by high water. c. The following limitations to Contractor’s warranties shall apply: aa. Contractor’s performance under the terms and provisions of its warranties shall not be required, until final payment of the full Contract has been made. bb. Contractor shall not be responsible for the cost of labor to remedy defects in material for purchase assemblies. Purchased assemblies (for example: filtration system, water treatment equipment, etc.) or materials (for example: concrete, caulking, chemicals, etc.) used in this installation are subject only to manufacturer’s or processor’s warranty of fitness and from defects in manufacture. Contractor makes no warranty expressed or implied as to such assemblies or materials, except that the same will be installed in accordance with specifications, which occur during the warranty period. cc. Contractor’s warranties shall not apply to damage to any part of the swimming pool shell, circulation piping, deck or equipment, resulting from natural causes or acts of God, including earthquakes, ground swells, inundation’s, ground or hillside motion, landslides, or any natural or accidental cause or peril resulting from storms, surface drainage, floods, war, riot, or damage caused by negligent or willful acts of person(s) other than Contractor, its Subcontractors or employees. dd. Contractor shall not be responsible for damage to the swimming pool shell, if the Owner causes the pool to be emptied of water without a representative of the Contractor present to supervise the emptying and prompt refilling of the pool. ee. Owner shall notify Contractor within seven (7) days of discovery of any defect in the pool, equipment or accessories; otherwise the Contractor’s warranty shall be void. No warranty repair expense by the Owner shall be a valid claim under Contractor’s warranties, unless the Contractor is given written notice as provided herein, and a reasonable time to obtain parts or equipment, and to repair the defects.  Page 3 of 3 Amount (words): TBD Amount (numbers): TBD Offer Valid Until: 08/30/2020 Neuman Pools, Inc. Neuman Pools, Inc. Mark Othmer (signature): Representative: $2,000.00 Initial payment with signed proposal; monthly progress payments for Terms: work completed to date. As required by Wisconsin Construction Lien Law, neuman pools, inc. hereby notifies Owner that persons or companies furnishing labor or materials for construction on Owner’s land may have lien rights on Owner’s land and buildings if not paid. Those entitled to lien rights, in addition to neuman pools, inc., are those who contract directly with the Owner, or those who give the Owner notice within 60 days after they first furnish labor or materials for construction or improvement. Accordingly, the Owner probably will receive notices from those who furnish labor or materials for the construction or improvement, and should give a copy of each notice to his mortgage lender, if any. Neuman Pools, Inc. agrees to cooperate with the Owner and his lender, if any, to see that all potential lien claimants are duly paid. Accepted by: Date: (Signature) Print Name: NOTE – Please sign the contract and return with your deposit (if applicable) to Neuman Pools, Inc. Upon receipt, I will sign and return a fully executed contract to your office for your files. If a contract or a purchase order is used, this contract must be signed and attached to it.  Play Attraction Repair Because the quotes provided for repairs at the pool did not include removal and replacement of concrete, the Recreation Director asked that DPW provide estimates to complete the work. The cheapest for DPW is about $1,000 on top of the current quotes Amy Jo provided (Option 1). This includes opening up a 5’x5’ area to replace the broken pipe. The most expensive is about $3,500 on top of the quotes. This is if DPW needs to open up the entire length of the pipe which is approximately 60’ (Option 2). Please keep in mind that we have no idea what we are getting into once we start digging up the concrete as the plans are not true to specs and if we have to dig up the entire length of the pipe we will be trying to bore under the concrete slab and under the gutter system. We will most likely end up having to remove and replace all the valves and associated plumbing from the connection pit so that we have room to work, which could be another $1,000+. 1) If DPW just has to saw cut and open a 5ft x5ft area to expose the pipe below are the costs to complete the job: Removal Saw cutting 2hrs - $67.68 Labor cost for removal of debris (this includes jackhammering) 6hrs -$203.04 Truck #42 8hrs - $115.20 Rental of jackhammer - $40 Total cost of removal - $425.92 Replacement of Concrete Replacement of re-rod (1 stick) - $13.79 3 yards of gravel - $16.95 1 yard of concrete - $135 End loader #6 - $47.10 (pick up concrete) Truck #42 4hrs - $57.60 Labor 8hrs (2 people 4hrs) – $270.72 Total cost for replacement of concrete - $541.16 2) If DPW just has to saw cut and open the entire length of the pipe the costs to complete the job are approximately: Removal Saw Cutting 8 hrs. - $270.72 Labor cost for removal of debris (this includes jackhammering) 16hrs - $541.44 Truck #42 - 8hrs - $115.20 Rental of Jackhammer (2days) - $80 No clue what the cost will be for the gutter if we have to remove it Estimated cost of removal - $1,007.36 Replacement of Concrete Replacement of re-rod (10 sticks) - $139.79 9 yards of gravel/clear stone - $50.85 8 yards of concrete - $1,080 Tool cat 8 hrs - $195.36 #42 8hrs - $115.20 Labor costs 24 hrs - $812.16 Total cost for replacement of concrete - $2,393.36  AGENDA ITEM Committee of the Whole Meeting date: ____August 18 __ Council Meeting date: ______________ ITEM: Review and Consider CDBG Close Program Project DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SUBJECT MATTER: Review and Consider CDBG Close Program Project In June of 2019, the City of Columbus the city turned over the assets of the old Revolving Loan Fund totaling $423,476.54 of federal funds to Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA) as part of the CDBG CLOSE program. The funds that were relinquished as part of the CLOSE program are being held for City of Columbus as non- competitive grant. Even though the grants are non-competitive, all projects must meet the national objectives and rules of the CDBG program. Applications must be submitted by January 31, 2021 and the city will have 2 years to complete the project. The CLOSE program does not have the matching fund requirements that are required by other CDBG programs. The Development Team has reviewed and potential projects for the CDBG CLOSE Program. The recommendation is to use the funds to complete storm water project to mitigate flooding risks in Columbus. A storm water project would maximize the use of these funds and have the largest impact on Columbus. Jason Lietha and Zach Navin developed three storm water projects that could potentially utilize these funds. Jason has developed Cost Estimates for each potential project and is included in your packet. The projects are: 1) 2nd Ward Creek Dredging, 2) Fuller Street Storm Sewer Repair, and 3) Maple Avenue Dredging Project. When the city applies for the CDBG funds, we will need to complete an LMI (Low Moderate Income) survey for area of benefit to establish project eligibility. These projects were developed with that in mind. The area of benefit for each project has the potential to meet the LMI requirements. LIST ALL SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED: Storm Water Projects Cost Estimates ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Review and Consider CDBG Close Program Project 2nd Ward Creek Dredging Project City of Columbus 7/15/2020 Preliminary Cost Estimate for 2 Ward Creek Ditch Cleaning Approx Unit Total No Description Unit Quantity Price Price Grading, Pavement, and Erosion Control 1 Tree Removal LS 1 $10,000.00 $10,000.00 2 Topsoil, Seed, Fertilze, Class 1 Type A Erosion Mat SY 8500 $5.00 $42,500.00 Storm Sewer 3 Dredging Mill Pond to James LF 890 $55.00 $48,950.00 4 Dredging James to DPW LF 600 $65.00 $39,000.00 5 Dredging DPW to Farhnam Street LF 2000 $40.00 $80,000.00 6 Dredging Trib. To 2nd Ward Creek LF 475 $40.00 $19,000.00 Subtotal $220,450.00 Contingency (10%) $22,045.00 Engineering (15%) $33,067.50 GRAND TOTAL $275,562.50 Fuller Street Storm Sewer Replacement City of Columbus 7/15/2020 Preliminary Cost Estimate for Fuller Street Storm Sewer Replacement ‐ Fuller Street to Washington Park Approx Unit Total No Description Unit Quantity Price Price Grading, Pavement, and Erosion Control 1 Traffic Control LS 1 $5,000.00 $5,000.00 2 Silt Fence LF 350 $3.00 $1,050.00 3 Tracking Pad EA 1 $1,000.00 $1,000.00 4 Tree Removal LS 1 $2,500.00 $2,500.00 5 Inlet Protection ‐ Type D EA 4 $110.00 $440.00 6 Full Depth Saw Cutting LF 150 $3.00 $450.00 7 Excavation Below Subgrade (EBS) CY 0 $30.00 $0.00 8 Remove Roadway and construct to Subgrade LS 1 $5,000.00 $5,000.00 9 Geogrid Subgrade Reinforcement SY 0 $3.25 $0.00 10 Crushed Aggregate Base Course TON 200 $14.00 $2,800.00 11 30‐Inch Concrete Curb and Gutter LF 100 $25.00 $2,500.00 12 6‐Inch Concrete Driveway Apron SF 0 $7.00 $0.00 13 Remove and Replace Concrete Sidewalk SF 100 $7.00 $700.00 14 New Concrete Sidewalk SF 0 $6.00 $0.00 15 Detectable warning Field EA 0 $350.00 $0.00 16 2.25‐Inch Asphaltic Concrete Binder Course TON 40 $120.00 $4,800.00 17 1.75‐Inch Asphaltic Concrete Surface Course TON 30 $120.00 $3,600.00 18 Fill Required for Terraces LS 0 $0.00 $0.00 19 Topsoil, Seed, Fertilze, Class 1 Type A Erosion Mat LS 1 $5,000.00 $5,000.00 20 Street Trees EA 0 $600.00 $0.00 21 Pavement Marking, Cross Walk, 6‐Inch White, Epoxy LF 0 $6.00 $0.00 22 Pavement Marking, Stop Bar, 18‐Inch White, Epoxy LF 0 $6.00 $0.00 Storm Sewer 23 12‐Inch RCP Class V Storm Sewer w/ Granular Backfill LF 20 $65.00 $1,300.00 24 15‐Inch RCP Class IV Storm Sewer w/ Granular Backfill LF 0 $75.00 $0.00 25 24‐Inch RCP Class IV Storm Sewer w/ Granular Backfill LF 15 $109.00 $1,635.00 26 83"x53"‐Inch HERCP Class IV Storm Sewer endwall EA 1 $6,500.00 $6,500.00 27 83"x53"‐Inch HERCP Class IV Storm Sewer w/ Granular Bac LF 350 $300.00 $105,000.00 28 48‐Inch Storm Manhole w/Frame and Cover EA 0 $5,000.00 $0.00 29 10' x 6 ' Concrete Storm Manhole w/Frame and Cover EA 4 $15,000.00 $60,000.00 2'x3' Standard Catch Basin Precast Box w/Frame and 30 EA 2 $2,100.00 $4,200.00 Grate 31 Heavy Rip Rap TON 35 $25.00 $875.00 32 Bypass Pumping WK 1 $15,000.00 $15,000.00 Subtotal $229,350.00 Contingency (10%) $22,935.00 Engineering (15%) $34,402.50 GRAND TOTAL $286,687.50 Maple Ave Dredging Project City of Columbus 7/15/2020 Preliminary Cost Estimate for Maple Ditch Cleaning Approx Unit Total No Description Unit Quantity Price Price Grading, Pavement, and Erosion Control 1 Topsoil, Seed, Fertilze, Class 1 Type A Erosion Mat SY 3500 $5.00 $17,500.00 Storm Sewer 2 Dredging Storm outlet to Robbins Creek LF 1625 $35.00 $56,875.00 Subtotal $74,375.00 Contingency (10%) $7,437.50 Engineering (15%) $11,156.25 GRAND TOTAL $92,968.75  AGENDA ITEM Committee of the Whole Meeting date: ____August 18 __ Council Meeting date: ______________ ITEM: Review and Discuss recommendation from Plan Commission to adopt the Site Plan Ordinance DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SUBJECT MATTER: In review of our ordinance, Staff has noted that City Ordinance only identifies submission requirements for site plans under 114-26. Section 114-26 outlines the submittal requirements for Conditional Use Permits. The site plan requirements for permitted uses are not clearly identified in our Zoning Code. To provide transparency the site plan requirements should be identified in our Zoning Code. This item was discussed at a Development Team meeting. As a result of that meeting City Attorney Johnson has created a draft ordinance for review. The draft ordinance was reviewed by the Plan Commission multiple times and they are recommending council approve the draft ordinance as presented. LIST ALL SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED: Draft Ordinance ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Move the recommendation from Plan Commission to council to adopt the Site Plan Ordinance  CITY OF COLUMBUS ORDINANCE NO. ______________ AN ORDINANCE TO CREATE SECTION 78-15 OF THE CITY CODE OF ORDINANCES REQUIRING A SITE PLAN IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES AND TO REPEAL SECTION 78-53 OF THE CITY CODE OF ORDINANCES The Common Council of the City of Columbus, Columbia County, Wisconsin, does ordain as follows: 1. Section 78-15 of the City of Columbus Code of Ordinances is created to now read as follows: Sec. 78-15. – Site Plan Required. (1) Purpose. It is determined that in certain circumstances where a person or entity is seeking to subdivide a parcel of land under Chapter 90, or change the zoning of a parcel of land under Chapter 114, or in other certain circumstances, a site plan of the parcel being modified would be beneficial to the City decision makers. (2) Applicability and Governance. Proposed development on any parcel of land that meets the criteria in paragraphs a. through d., below, must submit a site plan to the Zoning Administrator. Sites to which this section applies include: a. Buildings of any size, except for structures under 200 square feet b. Any site which proposes to place concrete, gravel, asphalt, or other hardscape that would result in a total impervious area exceeding 4,000 square feet; c. Any conditional or permitted use of an existing building that requires offstreet parking under Sec. 114 of the Municipal Code; or d. Grading in excess of 4,000 square feet. (3) Authority. The Zoning Administrator or Building Inspector may direct an applicant to provide a site plan as part of its initial submittal. (4) Contents of Site Plan. A site plan required under this Section shall contain all the following: a. Project Narrative. A narrative or cover letter that includes the following: i. Owner and applicant’s name, phone number and address; ii. Where applicable, the architect’s or engineer’s name, phone number and address; iii. Description of all proposed buildings indicating proposed uses and building size; iv. Description of the location, type and size of all outside signs; v. Calculations indicating the total site size, building floor area, number of parking spaces, amounts of impervious surfaces,  and amount of non-impervious green space, size of total disturbed area during construction; vi. Proposed project schedule; b. Site Plan. A site plan including the following: i. Name of project and date of plan preparation; ii. Seal of professional engineer; iii. Scale of drawing and north arrow; iv. Property boundaries and project boundary; v. Where applicable, the 100 year flood plain and floodway delineations; vi. Where applicable, wetlands or delineated by the applicant’s scientists and confirmed by a concurrence letter from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources; vii. Existing and proposed easements on the subject property; viii. Adjoining public street rights-of-way, sidewalk locations, existing and proposed driveways and curbcuts, and parking and unloading areas; ix. Locations of existing and proposed building footprints with building setback lines shown; x. Location of any existing or proposed signs; xi. Location and type of all outdoor lighting proposed to illuminate the site; xii. Existing land use and zoning of adjacent properties within 100 feet of the site, including: Existing buildings, structures, and major features including but not limited to, woodlands, wetlands, floodplains, steep slopes and drainageways; xiii. Location of any existing or proposed fire hydrants providing fire protection to the site. xiv. Property lines, easements, and right-of-way frontage with dimensions shown; c. Building Plans. Building plans including the following: i. Architectural elevation drawings, at a specified engineering scale depicting each side of new or remodeled buildings indicating materials and building dimensions; ii. A colored rendering of the front façade of the principal building showing the proposed color; d. Grading and Stormwater Plans. Grading and stormwater plans including the following: i. Spot elevations, including an on-site benchmark elevation; ii. Plan should clearly indicate existing and proposed drainage patterns; iii. Existing and proposed topography shown at a contour interval of not less than 2 feet at national geodetic vertical datum; iv. Location and dimension of stormwater retention or detention basins and/or stormwater conveyances including 2  calculations of anticipated stormwater impacts for the site in the form of a storm water management plan; v. Location and dimension of storm water infiltration areas as required. vi. Oil and grease separation best management practices as applicable. vii. A site erosion control plan including location, size and dimension of all best management practices including location and number of construction entrances; e. Lighting Plans. Lighting plans that include: i. A photo-metric plan of the entire site extended to property boundary; ii. Specifications for the selected fixtures; iii. Pole design and mounting height and specifications; f. Landscaping Plans. Landscaping plans including: i. Notation of drawing scale; ii. Drawing orientation (indicated by conventional north arrow); iii. Name of landscape design professional; iv. Location of all existing vegetation which is equal to or exceeds the following sizes: 1. Deciduous trees greater than 3 inch caliper; 2. Evergreen trees 5 feet or higher; 3. Shrubs greater than 36 inches in height; v. Common name, location, botanical name, quantity and planting size of all proposed plant material; and the location of other pertinent landscape features; vi. The location, design, height and building material of all proposed walls, railings, planter boxes, fences, bicycle racks and other site appurtenances; vii. Proposed method of saving existing vegetation during construction; viii. Plant installation details; ix. ; x. Location of existing and proposed street lights and fire hydrants in public right-of-way; g. Traffic and Parking i. Proposed layout of vehicular use areas including the location, dimensions of parking spaces, curb and gutter locations, curb islands, interior plantings, pedestrian walkways, and maneuvering isles; ii. Driveway width dimension, location and dimension to property line iii. Sight triangles at intersections and at alley or driveway curb cuts. 3 2. Section 78-1. through 78-14. and 78-16. through 78-30. are reserved for future use. 3. Section 78-53. – Fees is hereby deleted in its entirety. 4. If any portion of this Ordinance or its application on any person or circumstances is held invalid, the validity of this Ordinance as a whole or any other provision herein or its application shall not be affected. 5. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon its passage and publication or posting, as required by law. Adopted this ____ day of _______________, 2019. CITY OF COLUMBUS By: ___________________________ By: __________________________ Michael Thom, Mayor Patricia Goebel, Clerk Vote: Yes ______ No ______ Published on: _________________ 4  2020 AGENDA ITEM Committee of the Whole Meeting date: ____8/18/2020_______ Council Meeting date: ____________ ITEM:_Storm Water Utility Details_ DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SUBJECT MATTER: Columbus is located along the banks of the Crawfish River, and the 2 nd Ward Creek cuts through a significant portion of the City. For years, Columbus has been subject to major and minor floods, resulting in damage to personal property, city property, and at times major disruptions across the community. Most recently, on June 10 th, the City experienced another flood event after a heavy rain event, although the extent and duration was not as severe across the entire community as in past floods. As might be expected, residents have expressed their frustration with the ongoing threat of flood. Currently, storm water improvements are completed as the City has funds available, such as the improvements done to the 2 nd Ward Creek in Fireman’s Park earlier this year. That funding is constrained; however, by the Statutory levy limits imposed on the City. Levy limits limit the City’s ability to increase the tax levy beyond the amount of new construction, so it is nearly impossible to undertake significant expenses like storm water improvements without reducing or eliminating the services we provide. There are dozens of communities of all sizes in Wisconsin that have established stormwater utilities to address stormwater needs. Dozens of communities have addressed these issues by establishing stormwater utilities dedicated to managing stormwater and making related improvements in their communities, and the City of Columbus is free to establish a stormwater utility at any time. However, if not created correctly, the current statutes would reduce our levy by every dollar the utility collected, up to the amount the City spent on stormwater expenses in 2013. With the Gateway project that was completed in 2013, the total amount of stormwater expenses the city incurred in 2013, and the amount our levy could be reduced by, is nearly $150,000. A reduction of $150,000 from the property tax levy is only possible to accommodate by reducing or eliminating staff and/or programs from the City’s budget. The only method authorized by Statute to avoid this levy penalty is to have the voters approve by referendum a Resolution providing that the levy should not be reduced by the amount of revenue collected for storm water management. If the Council chose, this referendum could occur during the regular spring election. If the Council chooses not to pursue a referendum, I would recommend abandoning the concept of a stormwater utility entirely, and continuing to make stormwater improvements as funds are available. A storm water utility does several things to target storm water improvements and to develop an equitable system for allocating storm water costs across all benefited users. First, a stormwater utility collects money specifically for stormwater-related expenses, such as planning, maintenance, and construction of stormwater facilities. These funds will not compete with (and cannot be used for) emergency services, recreation expenses, and road maintenance funds. Another benefit of a storm water utility is that there are multiple properties in the community currently exempt from property tax payments, so a storm water utility would receive revenue from these exempt properties to recover their fair share of storm water expenses. Additionally, when you establish a utility, the City could determine the best method to allocate costs, resulting in smaller properties with less runoff and stormwater generation paying a fee that is proportionally lower than larger sites that generate a significant amount of storm water runoff. It is worth noting that this is a very preliminary discussion, and there are a multitude of details that would need to be worked out prior to establishing a formal framework for approval. Based on preliminary information we do not believe the act of establishing a stormwater utility will expose the City to additional environmental or stormwater regulations (and costs), but that should be specifically verified prior to the creation of a utility. The goal at this point is to determine if there is sufficient interest of the City Council to continue dedicating time and resources to this initiative. LIST ALL SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ATTACHED:  List of Wisconsin Stormwater Utilities ACTION REQUESTED OF COUNCIL: Consider the preliminary merits of establishing a Storm Water Utility, the process necessary to make the utility a viable option, and determine if staff should work to develop additional details related to a storm water utility.