Councilmember Folch addresses concerns

I think that there should be, personally, a separation between who's doing the design and then competitively getting bids because inherent references that Apex will determine who are qualified vendors. There's lots of qualified vendors, in particular, when it comes to roofing systems, and it depends what kind of roofing system it is that you're going to put down.”

Councilmember Tina Folch

Hastings City Administrator Dan Wietecha reviewed the plan for needed upgrades to the refrigeration system and roof at the Hastings Civic Arena. This request approved at the June 26 Hastings City Council meeting, was to enter into a Guaranteed Energy Savings Agreement with Apex Facility Solutions, LLC for the refrigeration plant replacement, West Rink roof replacement, and solar system installation projects of which the council committed to complete in 2024.

Wietecha indicated that partnering with Apex allows them to act as the general contractor for the projects and allows for planning, accommodating extended lead times, and in ordering equipment and products. The entire project cost is estimated at $4.5 million, with the refrigeration portion costing between $1.5 to $2 million.

Councilmember Tina Folch expressed concerns about entering into this type of energy savings agreement as well as how much control they would have over vendor selection.

“Okay, first of all, my own personal bias is that I'm always a little skeptical of these kinds of arrangements for these energy savings and these types of contracts,” she said. “I'm disappointed that none of the exhibits that were mentioned that are referred to in the actual contract were included, particularly Exhibit D, which is the operating parameters and the utility savings calculation methods that show with a breakdown of guaranteed savings which were supposed to be included in there. I think that's really an important piece, if you're asking for this kind of contract to move forward. And then what my greatest concern is, how it would work with the roofing systems. I've never seen an energy savings agreement like this brought forward for a roofing project.

“I think that there should be, personally, a separation between who's doing the design and then competitively getting bids because inherent references that Apex will determine who are qualified vendors. There's lots of qualified vendors, in particular, when it comes to roofing systems, and it depends what kind of roofing system it is that you're going to put down.”

There were questions as to how the projects would be presented to the council for approval.

“The initial is the design for the refrigeration, the design work of it, the next phase would actually be the master control unit. Part of the refrigeration. A subsequent phase would be the West green roof. So yes, it's phased, but it's not the specific phases that I thought I heard you say. But yes, it is phased. And this initial one is the design of the refrigeration unit,” Wietecha said.

Wietecha stated that moving forward, each project phase will be brought in under the award of contracts for discussion and approval.

Parkland fee increase

The council approved the first reading of an amendment to the parkland dedication fee schedule and ordering a public hearing. The update would set a schedule of fee increases to reflect the changes in market value. Parkland dedication is required to be paid upon subdivision of property and the fees have not been amended since 2004. The goal is to reach a fee of $3,600 per unit and the ordinance language calls for revaluation every three years. Community Development Director John Hinzman explained the rationale behind the amendment, saying the last time the council raised them was 2004.

“We have recognized that there's a need to raise those fees,” Hinzman said. “When we take a look at the needs that we have established for park dedication and also taking a look at what our neighbors are charging for park dedication, we found that what we're charging is certainly below what others are charging in here. The other thing that we're cognizant of is that parkland dedication fees are resilient, receiving a lot more notice and discretion.”

Other business

After offering public hearings, the council approved the application for a new massage therapy license to Vue Beauty Studios located at 112 Second St. E.

The council also approved the vacating of a 10-foot-wide drainage and utility easement centered upon the common lot line between Lots 3 and 4, Block 1, Wallin 14^th Addition. The properties are jointly owned and a single-family home is intended to be constructed over the two lots. Standard perimeter easements on the remainder of the lot would remain.

Before adjourning for the night, Mayor Mary Fasbender reminded everyone of the following upcoming events:

• Thursday, July 6: Music in the Park with “String Showdown - Variety.”
• Tuesday, July 11: Party in the Park to celebrate National Parks & Recreation Month with Salsa music, food trucks, activity booths, caricature artist, inflatables, balloon artist, climbing wall, face painting, and more.
• Wednesday, July 12: Storytime in the Park is “food” recommended for ages 7 and under. A partnership with Pleasant Hill Library. The Rec + Art + Police will be at Sunny Acres Park, featuring nature weaving and relay games. Recommended for elementary and middle schoolers.
• Thursday, July 13: Music in the Park with “Revved Up! – Hits from the 90’s to today.” Makers Alley Market will be in Levee Park. Support area makers and artisans within the historic downtown and riverfront park by shopping at the markets.
• Friday, July 14: Movies in the Park with “Onward.” Please bring a non-perishable food donation.
• Saturday, July 15: Bike with a Ranger the 10-mile loop and learn history and wildlife fun facts. Recommended for teens and adults. A partnership with the National Park Service. Registration is required.