The Combined Lake Delhi Recreational Facility and Water Quality District

Thursday, September 17, 2020

6:30 pm

210 South St.

Delhi, IA 52223

The regular meeting of the Combined Lake Delhi Recreational Facility and Water Quality District was called to order at 6:30 pm by President Doug Herman.

Present: Staebell, Herman, Burger and Jasper. Scherrman, Althoff and Leonard were present via Zoom

Absent: None

Visitors: Laurie Kramer via Zoom, Ed Schmidt, Larry Aschbrenner, Pat Colgan and Randy Rattenbor

Herman asked for a motion to approve the meeting agenda. A motion was made by Scherrman, second by Staebell. Motion carried.

Motion to approve the minutes of the previous meeting was made by Jasper, second by Staebell. Motion carried.

Claims were presented for payment in the amount of $7,137.16 from the General Fund for electricity, internet services, beach maintenance, dam operation services, copier expense, clerical expense and lobbyist expense and LP fuel. A motion was made by Staebell to accept the claims as presented. Seconded by Burger. Motion carried.

August financial reports were presented. The General Fund had revenues of $63,498.95 from Delaware County and FEMA assist. Expenditures for August were $7,710.68 ending August at $2,028,962.75. The Debt Service Fund had revenues of $68,618.02 from Delaware County and no expenditures ending August at $108,208.91. The Dam Improvement Fund had no new revenues and no expenditures ending August with a $40,000.00 balance. A motion was made by Staebell to receive and file the August financial report. Burger seconded the motion. Motion carried.

The next agenda item was discussion on possible SCADA building renovations.  Herman gave an update with regard to renovations. The District will be moving their meeting site to the SCADA building due to the fact that the Maquoketa Valley School District is renting our current office site to another party. After viewing the SCADA office, it was determined renovations need to be done before moving the meetings to that location. Work would include new flooring, some inside renovations along with a new bathroom overhaul. The outside includes new siding. Herman received a quote from Jeff Knutson to do some of the work.  His quote included new siding and a new storm door. Inside work would include tearing out two walls and moving the sink and counter to provide more meeting room space. The trustees will need to hire an electrician and plumber to move some electrical and water lines. Knutson’s total bid is $6,000. Miscellaneous items could potentially cost $2,000. Herman noted the focus would be on the inside projects first but weather permitting, the whole project could be done by the end of the year.   Staebell added that he received flooring estimate for around $6,000 that includes tearing out the old carpet and put down new flooring. He also noted that painting should be included in the total estimate.  Leonard asked who would be managing the project. Herman said he would plan to take the lead on the project. Leonard made a motion to approve Knutson Construction quote and approve up to $20,000 for total project including cleanup, painting, electrical, plumbing, dumpsters, flooring, etc.   He stated that there are usually overruns on any construction project and this way unexpected expenses could be taken care of without coming back to the board. Staebell seconded the motion.  Motion carried.

There was discussion and possible action on RFP for cameras and security systems. Herman suggested adding a point of contract if there are any questions. Staebell suggested publishing the RFP with the Manchester Press and also send out the RFP to interested vendors. A question was raised regarding requiring vendors to do a site visit. Althoff recommended requiring a site visit. Leonard suggested having all vendors meet at the same date to keep costs down. Burger asked how long the project will take to complete. Rattenborg said we could ask for an installed date by December 31^st. A question was asked how long would it take to get the equipment to install once the bid is awarded. Althoff didn’t think there would be an issue with getting product . Althoff also suggested putting a five-year warranty into the RFP. After much discussion, a motion was made by Leonard, second by Staebell to allow Rattenborg and Althoff to finalize the RFP. Bids will be due by noon on October 15. Motion carried with Althoff abstaining.

The next agenda item was regarding a quote by Kistler Crane for putting the Lake Delhi rescue boat in by the dam. Rattenborg stated he had not received a quote from Kistler so he suggested tabling this item until the next meeting.    It was suggested that the motion be tabled until a quote is received and more information is obtained from the Delhi Fire & Rescue on their concerns and suggestions. Staebell made the motion to table, Burger seconded the motion. Motion carried.

The trustees discussed possible action on a request for the District to accept ownership of “Injun Joe”.   Herman spoke with the new owner. The amount of property that would be transferred is basically the area around the Injun Joe rock. Burger reached out to ICAP to see what the liability would be for the District to take ownership of the property. According to ICAP, the liability would not be that great and the cost to insurance would also not be significant. Herman suggested that a motion be made that the District is open to consider ownership once more information is available.   A question was raised about the need for a survey. Herman stated the owner will pay for that expense. Leonard made the motion to consider ownership of Injun Joe once more information becomes available from the current owner. Staebell seconded the motion. Motion carried.

The Board discussed moving the lake materials from the current office to Joe Scherrman’s storage building. Scherrman and Kramer will coordinate the effort to get everything moved within the next week.

The Board discussed options for a meeting place for the October 15^th meeting. Herman and Kramer will look into some possibilities and get back to the Board before the October meeting.

A motion was made by Staebell, seconded by Leonard to change the meeting time of the for the October meeting to 5:30 p.m. Motion carried.

Committee Updates:

Water Quality – Leonard stated that the Watershed Management Authority recently met. They are looking at getting college students educated to do the water testing and more grants are being reviewed.

Community Quality of Life – Leonard noted that because the contractor that has been involved with the Wall of Recognition is yet to commit a timeline for the project he is going to be investigating other contractors who might be interested in the project. The intent would be for a project completion time of the Spring of 2021. Burger suggested opening up the project for bid.

Property, Assets & Dam – Burger noted that the port-a-potties will be picked up in October. He also noted that there has been some erosion on the east side of Lost Beach. He suggested dropping in some big rock in that area. The consensus of the Board was to allow Burger to look into purchasing rock for the repair. Leonard made the motion to allow up to $1,000 for materials, second by Staebell. Motion carried.

Public Comment:

Ed Schmidt suggested if the Scada Office is going to be used for meetings there’s a need for improving the lighting in that area. He also asked a question about the lift for the rescue boat and what areas would be covered. Burger noted that there are areas around the lake that allow the Delhi Fire & Rescue to use in the event of an emergency.

Larry Aschbrenner expressed concern about the potential purchase of Injun Joe.

Joe Scherrman asked what the plan was to inform homeowners that they need to make sure they have their docks permitted with the DNR.  Herman stated that he received information from the DNR for on what is required for getting a permit. It was decided to have an email blast go out through the Trustee email as well as having the Lake Delhi Rec post in on their Facebook page.

A motion to adjourn was made by Staebell, second by Jasper. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned at 7:43 p.m.

The Combined Lake Delhi Recreational Facility and Water Quality District

Thursday, August 20, 2020

6:30 pm

210 South St.

Delhi, IA 52223

The regular meeting of the Combined Lake Delhi Recreational Facility and Water Quality District was called to order at 6:30 pm by President Dan Staebell.

Present: Staebell, Herman, Burger, Althoff, Jasper, Scherrman and Leonard

Absent: None

Visitors: Ed Schmidt, Kelly McManus, AJ Peters, Dan Reyner, Larry Aschbrenner and Randy Rattenborg

Staebell asked for a motion to approve the meeting agenda. A motion was made by Burger, seconded by Leonard. Motion carried.

An election of officers was held. Burger motion to elect Herman as President, Staebell seconded the motion. Motion carried. Burger motion to elect Althoff as Vice-President, Herman seconded the motion. Motion carried. Staebell motioned to elect Burger as Secretary/Treasurer. Scherrman seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Motion to approve the minutes of the previous meeting was made by Scherrman, second by Althoff. Motion carried.

Claims were presented for payment in the amount of $7,710.68 from the General Fund for electricity, internet services, beach maintenance, dam operation services, copier expense, clerical expense and election expense. A motion was made by Staebell to accept the claims as presented. Seconded by Burger. Motion carried.

July financial reports were presented. The General Fund had revenues of $1,919.99 from Delaware County. Expenditures for July were $9,830.53 ending July at $1,973,174.48. The Debt Service Fund had revenues of $15.22 from Delaware County and no expenditures ending July at $39,590.89. The Dam Improvement Fund had no new revenues and no expenditures ending July with a $40,000.00 balance. A motion was made by Leonard to receive and file the July financial report. Scherrman seconded the motion. Motion carried.

The Board discussed a proposed contract with their current lobbyists, L & L Consulting. After much discussion, as motion was made by Leonard, seconded by Burger to approve a contract that would pay a monthly rate of $500.00 for July through December and a monthly rate of $2,000.00 for the months of January through June when the legislature is in session.   It was also requested that the lobbyists report more frequently to the board and that the contract would be subject to a 60 day notice of cancellation by either party. A roll call vote was taken. All ayes except for Herman and Staebell who voted no. Motion carried.

A proposal was presented by AJ Peters requesting permission to put a mobile mini-storage shed on Lost Beach during the summer months when he is selling merchandise such as t-shirts, koozies, etc. Because of the amount of inventory he carries a shed would allow him to leave the merchandise in the shed during the summer months and also allow him to increase his inventory.   He noted that he gives a percentage of his profit to the LDRA. Leonard suggested to the board that before any decision is made he would like to meet with other members of the LDRA to develop a strategy in place for dealing with other potential vendors and discuss issues surrounding allowing structures on district property. Jasper suggested that there should be discussion on how many vendors should be allowed on the beach. Staebell made a motion to table any action and wait for a report from the LDRA. Leonard seconded the motion. Motion carried.

The next agenda item was regarding repairs to the Scada (old LDRA) Office. The trustees have been notified by the Maquoketa Valley School District that they will be renting the current office used by the trustees to the Keystone AEA. Because of this, the need to relocate to the Scada office will be necessary. Several trustees reviewed the property and noted that some repairs will be needed before the building could be used to hold meetings. Staebell and Herman have worked on seeking contractors for flooring and inside/outside construction work. Staebell made a motion to defer until the next meeting.   Leonard seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Dan Reyner and Kelly McManus from the LDRA were present to discuss concerns regarding beach maintenance and a request for a dredge loan review. First on the list were concerns about Lost Beach. Reyner stated that an LDRA member is willing to bring in sand for Lost Beach and that there’s a guy from Maquoketa that has a screen machine that can filter out the rock on the beach. The cost is $500/day with an expectation of two days work. The LDRA is willing to kick in $1,000 and October would be the timeframe for the project. He also stated that he thinks North Beach might also benefit from using the equipment. The idea would be to go down 18” to remove rock and then sand would be brought in. He has people who are willing to volunteer their service and equipment.

Reyner also noted that the maintenance on Lost beach has not been good. Weeds have not been knocked down. Pickup of material is spotty. Burger said there had been a misunderstanding of what work was going to be done between Rich Hughes and Stender Landscaping and things should improve.   It was noted that there are lots of weeds at the Scada office as well as steel posts that were left from fencing that need to be pulled.

Next, Reyner noted there are several areas on the lake that need dredging and that is a concern because the LDRA still has a dredge payment. Burger stated that he and Herman plan to meet with the bank regarding the dredge loan. He is hoping to negotiate a lower interest rate and possible pay off some of the debt. Paying off the entire debt is not an option at this time. McManus expressed concern about areas where siltation has come in to the lake. She noted that the Delhi Fire Department did sonar mapping after the ice jam of 2019 and suggested that information could be used going forward to note where siltation is coming in. Leonard noted the trustees did a complete lidar mapping of the lake right before the lake was filled in 2016.

Reyner stated the LDRA would like to help develop a 2-3 page document with lake practices that would be provided to new homeowners and those not familiar with lake practices. The thought was that it could be provided as a hard document or published on the Trustee website. It was also suggested that the document be provided at road association meetings. Jasper noted that years back there was a document that was provided to homeowners with a list of rules for operating on the lake. Reyner stated the LDRA would be interested in leading the efforts to develop the document.

Reyner expressed concern about the lack of enforcement on the lake by the DNR and the Delaware Co. Sheriff’s Department. He noted that while driving the judges for Christmas on the Lake there were lots of violations including no lights, boats passing on the right and left, jet skiers going way to fast for that time of day, etc. Herman and Leonard stated that the best source for enforcement is Delaware County. Leonard stated he would reach out to the sheriff’s office to see about getting more enforcement.

Reyner said he had gotten feedback after the August 15^th fireworks that the fireworks at Hickory Hollow on July 4^th were better. He asked the person who provided those fireworks to come to the meeting to discuss giving him the opportunity to provide lake fireworks in the future but he was unable to make it to the meeting. Reyner expressed concern because with the current vendor we know their license and insurance is up-to-date and we know they put on a good show. The general thought of the trustees is that they are happy with the current vendor and the quality of their work. McManus asked why both the LDRA and the trustees are involved in the fireworks contract. Herman stated that the trustees provide the liability insurance for the fireworks and that’s why they sign the contract. That’s their only involvement.

Reyner gave an update on the fundraising. Next year’s events are already covered by business donations, personal donations and tumbler sales. He also noted that the LDRA is also giving back to local clubs.

Reyner gave an update on Christmas on the Lake and possible changes for next year.

The LDRA reached to the Hunt family about ideas to honor their son, Teige, would passed away from a lake accident. More information will be coming.

Reyner suggested that it would be good to have some place on the lake where there could be a message board to promote lake events. The thought was to have it on the Hartwick Bridge knowing permission would need to come from the county supervisors. Other options were discussed.

Herman handed out committee assignments for 2020/2021. A motion was made by Leonard, second by Staeball to accept assignments. Motion carried.

Committee Updates:

Water Quality – Herman stated that water testing will be starting in 2021.

Community Quality of Life – Leonard gave an update on the Wall of Recognition. Several factors have caused a delay in building the wall. Culvers out of Cedar Rapids is the contractor. Between Covid-19 and the derecho that struck Cedar Rapids on August 10^th has caused multiple problems. Leonard stated he will be working with them throughout the fall and winter in hopes of getting construction started next year.

Property, Assets & Dam – Herman noted an agreement was reach with FEMA for 2008. The District will give an easement to over part of the grounds of the dredge site. Because the MOA was approved, the District received a check for about $11,000 for a settlement. Staebell brought a concern by a resident regarding the negative affect of high waves. Herman stated he would respond to the concerns. Staebell also noted that he received an email from Jeff Domeyer and Chad Moorman who recently purchased property across from Hickory Hollow and includes Injun Joe. Domeyer asked if the District would be interested in taking the portion of property that includes Injun Joe. Staebell suggested this be put on next month’s agenda.

Public Comment: Aschbrenner asked who owned the Injun Joe property prior to the sale. It was noted that a family from Cedar Rapids owned it for years.

Aschbrenner noted that Marty Pottebaum did an excellent job of clearing out the spillway.

Burger stated that he had had conversations with members of the Delhi Fire Department on getting better access from the north side of the dam after the recent drowning. Different options are being explored.

Althoff noted that the Scada computer has been updated. Randy Rattenborg gave an update on the new proposed security camera and noted there are some issues because of lack of lighting in some areas. Althoff suggested the Board put out an RFP for release noting the cost is based on the number of cameras to be purchased. After some discussion Herman said he would be will to work with Rattenborg to develop an RFP that would go out and then those bids would be available for the next board meeting.

Rattenborg also requested that the Board get some sort of rack system for the computers at the Scada Office since it will soon be used for board meetings. This would provide a more secure environment for the system.

A motion to adjourn was made by Burger, second by Scherrman. Motion carried.

Meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m.

The Combined Lake Delhi Recreational Facility and Water Quality District

Thursday, July 16, 2020

6:30 pm

210 South St.

Delhi, IA 52223

The regular meeting of the Combined Lake Delhi Recreational Facility and Water Quality District was called to order at 6:31 pm by President Dan Staebell.

Present: Staebell, Herman, Burger, Althoff, Davidson, Scherrman and Leonard

Absent: None

Visitors: Gordy and Pat Anderson, Alex Linderwell, Ed Schmidt and Larry Aschbrenner

Staebell asked for a motion to approve the meeting agenda. A motion was made by Scherrman, second by Herman. Motion carried.

Motion to approve the minutes of previous meetings was made by Burger, second by Davidson. Motion carried.

Claims were presented for payment in the amount of $9,830.53from the General Fund for electricity, internet services, beach port-a-potties, dam operation services, fire extinguisher service, copier expense, lobbyist expense, clerical expense, bond fee and beach maintenance. A motion was made by Leonard to accept the claims as presented. Seconded by Althoff. Motion carried.

June financial reports were presented. The General Fund had revenues of $7,227.07 from Delaware County. Expenditures for June were $7,421.15 ending June at $1,981,085.02. The Debt Service Fund had revenues of $7,135.95 from Delaware County and no expenditures ending June at $39,575.67. The Dam Improvement Fund had no new revenues and no expenditures ending June with a $40,000.00 balance. A motion was made by Leonard to receive and file the June financial report. Herman seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Alex Linderwell, Delaware County’s new Water & Sanitation Department administrator, was present to give an update on wells and sewers in the area. He reviewed services that his department offers and noted there haven’t been too many issues of concern in the lake area.   Alex fielded several questions by the Board regarding water testing, transfers, etc. It was noted that all property owners need to have their septic/well systems up to code by 2023 per the DNR. Currently there are 50 lake properties that still need to update their systems. A question was asked if there is a rebate for having a septic cleaned out and the answer was no.

The next agenda item was the consideration of adding sand to North Beach. Scherrmann said he’d been in discussion with several individuals who wondered if it would be possible to dredge the current beach area and run it through a sander to get the small rocks and other material sorted out. The thought was that the rocky material could be used on the road leading down to the beach. It was also suggested that maybe a few docks could be put in for older people to get on to the beach. Staebell noted that the road to the beach is not in good shape so bringing in equipment would be difficult. Leonard stated that the Corp. of Engineers has already done studies so that’s not an issue. But he also stated that he’s had comments from people regarding adding sand to the beach and the response was about 50/50. Herman said the general rule from the Corp. of Engineer is if you dredge material you can’t put it back into the flood plain. Herman’s other concern is that flooding would be an issue. Staebell suggested maybe putting sand in a small area of the beach to see how it reacts to flooding.   Davidson noted there’s sand in the back of the beach area that could be used. No action was taken.

The Board considered approving an agreement with Delhi Boats allowing them to use the boat ramp on the south side of the dam. Leonard addressed the board regarding a possible agreement. To further discussion, Leonard made a motion to approve a one-year contract that the Board deems acceptable to allow usage of four areas: the boat ramp, the boat slip area, the flat concrete area and the area on the fenced in area on the east side of the road. He suggested an amount of $5,000+the cost of property tax. Davidson seconded the motion. Herman said he is working on finding an answer to the property tax question. Leonard noted that we have a written agreement with Curtis Martin that he would be able to add a dock in the district area at a cost to be shared by him and the District. At this point he has not asked for a dock. Burger stated he would want to see a document and the coverage of insurance from Delhi Boats. He also asked if we needed to have a public hearing on the issue. Herman stated he understood that a lease of less than three years does not require a public hearing. After more discussion, Leonard revised his motion to table any action until the next meeting noting more information was needed before entering into an agreement with Delhi Boats. Herman stated he would be able to provide a draft on a lease agreement. Herman seconded the motion. Motion carried.

There was consideration and possible action on the District’s contract with L & L Consulting. Herman noted there had been discussion on possibly reducing the current contract with L & L Consulting over the past few years. He noted he has no complaints with the work that has been provided from them and that they were very important to the recovery of Lake Delhi. He did state, however, that currently there’s nothing for them to be working on in behalf of the lake. He also stated that he did some comparisons of what other public entities are paying for lobbyists and we are at the upper end of what most others pay. Herman said his personal opinion is that we could do without paying for lobbyists at this time. Burger said he talked with Larry Murphy about a reduced fee. Murphy indicated he would be willing to sit down and talk over a new contract. Burger suggested tabling this item and have a committee meeting prior to next month’s meeting to gather more information. Leonard seconded the motion. Only nay vote was Herman. Motion carried.

The Board considered contracting with the Delaware County Auditor to conduct district elections using hand counted ballots vs. machine counted ballots beginning in 2021. The concern is that machine counted ballots is much more expensive. Leonard made a motion to ask for a hand count ballot going forward. Herman seconded the motion.   Motion carried.

Staebell noted that the trustee election is Tuesday, July 21, 2020. There are three positions open.

Committee Updates:

Water Quality – Herman is working with volunteers on water monitoring.

Quality of Life – Leonard noted that Culver’s is working with a new engraver. They are hoping to start work in September. Leonard said he is still getting follow-up calls from a family wanting to donate to a sail area near the Wall of Recognition.

Property Assets/Dam – Davidson noted that everything is working like it should. Staebell noted that Marty Pottebaum contacted him regarding putting a road in the ditch area near his property. Staebell said he is looking for more information to go forward. He asked that the operations committee look into the possibility of what can be done and bring suggestions to the next meeting in August.

Althoff noted that a temporary camera was installed at the Scada office to test the system.

Public Comment:

Aschbrenner stated he felt a ramp at the north side is necessary for emergency vehicles. A note was made regarding the appreciation for the response from the Delaware County Sheriff’s team for responding to the recent drowning event.

A motion to adjourn was made by Burger, second by Davidson. Motion carried.

Meeting adjourned at 7:33 p.m.

The Combined Lake Delhi Recreational Facility and Water Quality District

Thursday, June 18, 2020

6:30 pm

210 South St.

Delhi, IA 52223

The regular meeting of the Combined Lake Delhi Recreational Facility and Water Quality District was called to order at 6:30 pm by President Dan Staebell.

Present: Staebell, Herman, Burger, Althoff and Davidson. Scherrman and Leonard present via Zoom

Absent: None

Visitors: Larry Aschbrenner, Ed Schmidt, Wanda Davidson and Pat & Chloe Colgan. Laurie Kramer, Randy Rattenborg, Gary Grant and Larry Murphy via Zoom

Staebell asked for a motion to approve the meeting agenda. A motion was made by Herman, second by Davidson. Motion carried.

Motion to approve the minutes of previous meetings was made by Burger, second by Althoff. Motion carried.

Claims were presented for payment in the amount of $7,545.19 from the General Fund for electricity, internet services, auditor expense, beach port-a-potties, dam operation services, copier expense, lobbyist expense, clerical expense, and beach maintenance. A motion was made by Burger to accept the claims as presented. Seconded by Davidson. Motion carried.

May financial reports were presented. The General Fund had revenues of $6,084.27 from Delaware County. Expenditures for May were $113,112.58 ending May at $1,951,279.10. The Debt Service Fund had revenues of $5,618.54 from Delaware County and no expenditures ending May at $32,439.72. The Dam Improvement Fund had a transfer from the General Fund of $10,000.00 and no expenditures ending May with a $40,000.00 balance. A motion was made by Herman to receive and file the May financial report. Althoff seconded the motion. Motion carried.

The Board considered possible action on a payment option to Project Aware.   Staebell explained that last year the Board approved sponsoring their organization by paying them $15,000 for a five year sponsorship. Because they had to cancel this year’s cleanup due to COVID-19 that asked the Board wanted them to return the $3,000 annual amount or extend the sponsorship for another year out. Davidson made a motion to roll over the $3,000 to extend our sponsorship another year out. Scherrman seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Staebell asked Leonard to give an overview of the fireworks contract. J & M Displays has offered two contracts. One is for this year to be held Saturday, August 15, 2020. The cost of $10,000 has been funded by the LDRA. He noted that the contract includes insurance coverage. Leonard also noted that with a multi-year contract there would be a savings of 15% on the contract and an additional 8% savings if they are paid 70 days prior to the event. Leonard proposed having a rain date for the following Saturday, August 22, 2020.

Burger made a motion to approve the contract for this year’s fireworks at a cost of $10,000 and a rain date of Saturday, August 22, 2020. Herman seconded the motion. Burger asked Leonard how the discount works. Leonard said instead of a reduced cost we will get more fireworks. Motion carried.

Leonard reviewed the multi-year contract for fireworks with the Board. He explained that in order to get the maximum discounts it’s important to do a multi-year contract with this firm. The benefit to doing this is knowing we have them under contract for the dates we want. If we would need to cancel the fireworks, that would not be an issue. There is also no obligation to a fixed amount in the event the LDRA does not raise the $10,000 every year. It was noted that J & M Displays is a well-respected firm and they provide all the insurance coverage and licensure that is required by the county. A motion was made by Herman, second by Burger to approve the multi-year contract. Herman asked if the LDRA is recommending a multi-year agreement. Leonard said the LDRA is in favor of signing a multi-year contract with J & M Displays. Davidson asked Schmidt his opinion after dealing with the company. Schmidt said he is aware of other people who do firework displays. He asked if maybe there should be opportunities for other vendors to provide pricing for fireworks. Staebell said he feels that it is the LDRA’s decision on who to have provide the fireworks. Burger noted J & M Displays has vast experience providing fireworks for other organizations such as the Iowa Hawkeyes and Kansas City Chiefs and they provide excellent insurance coverage. In 2016, when the fireworks started back up again there was cost comparisons with other companies and J & M Displays was the cheapest as well. Schmidt asked that the additional insured include Ed Schmidt, Pat Dede and Achinbeck Farms. With no further discussion, motion was approved.

Davidson reported on the need to repair and/or replace the concrete at the upstream portage site on the south side of the dam. There have been two estimates to replace the concrete that was damaged during the construction of the dam. There’s also a wall that is owned by the District near the Kristine Nation property that has damage. The reason to replace the contract is that is part of the portage area and is currently not safe. It’s also being used as a boat ramp and that also is not safe. Davidson said the Trustees need to make a decision either to replace the area or block it off so no one gets hurt because the liability would be on the District. Davidson made a motion to replace the concrete. Herman asked if we know for sure that the wall belongs to the District. Randy Rattenborg stated he feels the wall on the lake side of Nation’s house belongs to the District. Staebell stated the first estimate from Welcher Concrete was $14,390 which included the wall. The estimate from Neuhaus Construction was for $13,328 which also include the wall.   Both companies said there could be additional excavation to add additional rock but that would not be known until they got into the work. Davidson said he would add to his motion to approve amount not to exceed $16,500 for replacement of the boat ramp and repair/replacement of the retaining wall subject to final inspection by Burrington Group. Staebell said regardless of whether part of the wall belongs to the District, once repair work starts on the ramp the wall will in all likelihood collapse. Leonard seconded the motion. Leonard asked if there could be funding available for this project. Davidson said time is of the essence and he would like to proceed with the project in lieu of writing a grant and waiting for approval. Leonard asked how soon we could get a contractor down to do the project. Staebell said it would be within three to six weeks. Herman stated that getting grant money after paying for a project usually never works. He also expressed concern about the repairing the wall and if, after identifying the property lines, it might be a good idea to push the wall back so it’s within the District’s property lines. Davidson said moving the wall could add to the cost. Herman asked to amend the motion to change the amount not to exceed $20,000 for any additional costs regarding the replacing the wall.   With no additional comments, motion carried.

The Board considered a proposal on updating the Scada computer and security system. Althoff gave an overview of discussions regarding the updates. He noted that there are two components to the proposal. One is for a computer update and the other for an updated security system. The price to update the computer, which doesn’t include the software upgrade that isn’t due until October, is $8,766.00 which includes a new monitor, keyboard, etc.   He indicated some of these are not necessary upgrades. Althoff recommended approving no more than the $8,766 to replace the computer. He noted the other quote is for updating the firewall renewal contract which recently expired. Althoff made a motion to approve a three-year contract with SonicWall for the firewall renewal at a cost of $1,155 and also replace the Scada computer at a cost not to exceed $8,766. Herman seconded the motion. After some additional discussion, the motion carried.

Gary Grant and Larry Murphy from L & L Consulting were present via Zoom to give the Board a legislative update. Gary outlined the three objectives that they were assigned by the Board at the beginning of the legislative session.

Direct funding – funding of the Impoundment Fund

Identify and support indirect funding streams (example – grant programs)

Stop any harmful actions such as additional regulations that might adversely affect the lake

He addressed the Impoundment Fund which was established that is specifically for the maintenance of lakes created by dams that are public lakes. Because of COVID-19 there has been a shortfall of revenue at the State. Due to that there was no new money for the Impoundment Fund this year. However, there will be a variety of grants funded next year that will be at the level they would have been funded this past year.   The DNR does have a grant program called the Water Recreation Access program which provides grants for boat ramps, etc. There’s another program for water trails for canoes and kayaks. He said he wasn’t sure what the cost share would be but would look for more information if the Board is interested. He noted there have been no new regulations by the DNR which is good news. Some grants may need to have projects developed in order to get those monies. With regard to the Impoundment Fund there was no new funding even though the Senate was willing to put some monies into it, the House did not agree. Larry Murphy reiterated what Gary Grant said about the Senate being willing to fund money for the Impoundment Fund and that it was the House that stopped the funding. He urged the Board to be thinking about how to be strategic when the elections come up to position the District to have the best representation possible. With COVID-19, he feels that between now and November there will be infrastructure monies out there for the District to take advantage of.   Staebell asked about the 3/8^th cent funding stream that would have provided money for the Impoundment Fund. Grant said that right now the 3/8^th could have provided monies but now it’s a combination of General Fund monies and gambling revenue which is why right now the House was not excited about spending additional money since the casinos have been shut down for months. A big chunk of money that now funds outdoor recreation comes from the Rebuild Iowa Infrastructure Fund. That money is now off the table. Murphy said that the District needs to work take advantage of those monies but it will have to happen next year.

Committee Updates:

Water Quality – Herman stated he will be getting back to people who have volunteered to help with water quality testing as he’s had several people come forward.

Quality of Life – Leonard stated that all of the approvals for the Wall of Recognition project are in place. He mentioned that the employee from Culver’s who oversaw the project is no longer there so he is in the process of working with a new project manager to bring them up to date and hopes to have more information for the July meeting. He also noted that there is have a family donation for an additional project that he will provide more information at the July meeting. He noted that this project is subject to approval by the Board.

Staebell noted that the ten-year anniversary of the dam is this year. KMCH is doing coverage in case if any of the Board are interested in being interviewed. He also noted that the Trustee Election is in July. Staebell also noted he reached out to folks in Michigan who just went through a dam failure to let them know if they needed anything from the Lake Delhi Trustees we would be happy to talk with them.

Property Assets/Dam – Davidson noted that the dam has been functioning very well. There was a rain event in the past week and the dam performed as it should. Pat Colgan also provided additional information on how the dam works and that there’s always a need for to keep the residents informed so they understand how the water events affect the river.   Randy Rattenborg mentioned that there’s document that was developed several years ago that would be helpful for residents of the lake because it shows the difference of the impact at various areas of the lake.

Water Recreation Access Grant – Herman said we’d be eligible 75/25 cost share. It’s due 9/30 available in March. It needs both access to the public. Davidson said it is not safe for to put boats in. Colgan agreed. Staebell said this would be a discussion item for July.

Public Comment:

Schmidt asked if there a concern that the DNR needs to approve the improvements to the portage area. The consensus was that there are no concerns from the DNR.

A motion to adjourn was made by Davidson, second by Burger. Motion carried.

Meeting adjourned at 8:08 p.m.

The Combined Lake Delhi Recreational Facility and Water Quality District

Thursday, May 21, 2020

6:30 pm

210 South St.

Delhi, IA 52223

The regular meeting of the Combined Lake Delhi Recreational Facility and Water Quality District was called to order at 6:30 pm by President Dan Staebell.

Present: Staebell, Herman, Burger, Althoff and Davidson. Scherrman present via Zoom

Absent: Leonard

Visitors: Larry Aschbrenner

Staebell asked for a motion to approve the meeting agenda. A motion was made by Davidson, second by Burger. Motion carried.

Motion to approve the minutes of previous meetings was made by Althoff, second by Herman. Motion carried.

Claims were presented for payment in the amount of $9,461.50 from the General Fund for electricity, internet services, audit services, dam operation services, copier expense, lobbyist expense, clerical expense, website expense, beach signage, property insurance renewal and beach maintenance. A motion was made by Davidson to accept the claims as presented. Seconded by Burger. Motion carried.

April financial reports were presented. The General Fund had revenues of $29,199.16 from Delaware County. Expenditures for April were $6,633.17 ending April at $2,068,307.41. The Debt Service Fund had revenues of $36,710.13 from Delaware County and expenditures of $236,897.40, ending April at $26,821.18. The Dam Improvement Fund had no revenues or expenditures ending April with a $30,000.00 balance. A motion was made by Burger to receive and file the April financial report. Herman seconded the motion. Motion carried.

The Board reviewed the annual compilation report for FY19 provided by Hunt and Associates. Burger made a motion to receive and file the report. Seconded by Herman. Motion carried.

Consideration for donating to the LDRA dredge debt was reviewed by the Board.   The requested amount is $130,537.93 for principal and interest due June 1^st. It was noted that there is a balance due prior to this request of $1,259,995.47. A motion was made by Burger, second by Davidson to approve the request. Motion carried.

A motion was made by Herman, second by Scherrman to authorize the Delaware County Auditor’s Office to conduct the upcoming Trustee election to be held on July 23^rd. Motion carried.

Burger made a motion to approve a propane contract with Three Rivers FS for up to 2000 gallons to be purchased between September 1, 2020 and March 31, 2021 at a cost of $.99 per gallon. Althoff seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Consideration and possible action on a resolution to transfer a designated amount into the Dam Improvement Fund as required by the 28E Agreement with the County Supervisors filed in January of 2014.   Burger made a motion to transfer $10,000 into the Dam Improvement Fund. Davidson seconded the motion. Staeball asked for a roll call vote.

Davidson- yes

Burger – yes

Althoff- yes

Staebell – yes

Herman – yes

Scherrman – yes

Leonard – absent

Motion carried.

Herman provided the Trustees with information regarding a resolution to approve an MOA between the Taxing District, FEMA and Homeland Security et.al.in reference to Federal Disaster 1763. The MOA would require an easement from the District for archeological preservation along and around the dredge site. Herman explained that an easement agreement would be approved at a later date. The MOA is the first step in the agreement process. After some discussion, a motion was made by Herman, second by Althoff to approve the resolution. Staebell asked for a roll call vote.

Davidson- yes

Burger – yes

Althoff- yes

Staebell – yes

Herman – yes

Scherrman – yes

Leonard – absent

Motion carried.

The last agenda item was for consideration and possible action on a multi-year contract with J & M Display for fireworks. Herman made a motion, second by Davidson to table until the June meeting.

Public Comment: It was noted that additional port-a-potties will be added to both North and Lost Beach.

Committee Updates:

Water Quality – Herman noted that the Board has previously approved participating with the Watershed Management to do water testing. Delaware County will train anyone interesting in helping with the testing.

Quality of Life – No update

Property Assets/Dam – Davidson stated there are no issues to report. He and Althoff are working on computer updates. Davidson also noted he is in discussion with Jeremy Klima regarding leasing the boat ramp south of the dam.

Finance/Budget – No update

A motion to adjourn was made by Herman, second by Burger. Motion carried.

Meeting adjourned at 7:10p.m.