| | 
The
Official Newspaper of Anamosa, located in Jones County, Iowa
Anamosa News
Since 1855
 Thursday,
June 7, 2007 |
City Installs Pilot Plant for Radium Filtration
by Michelle Phillips |
The City of Anamosa has again notified residents of high Radium levels in the city’s drinking water. The city is, however, moving forward on its plan to install a reverse osmosis system at the water treatment plant and a pilot plant has been installed to test the effectiveness of the $2 million filtration system.
“Radium is naturally found in the ground,” said Anamosa City Administrator Pat Callahan. “The risks are the same as they were before.”
Radium is cancer causing, but exposure must take place for a long period of time, approximately 30 years, to be a viable risk.
Results of a test in mid-May showed levels of Radium to be at 5.7 pCi/L (pico Curies per liter, one pico Curie equals .000000000001), and the Department of Natural Resources allows a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 5.0 pCi/L of the carcinogen.
Anamosa Public Works Director Larry Driscoll said the city is working to rectify the problem, and has installed a pilot plant that will mimic the effect of a full-scale reverse osmosis filtration system.
|
Anamosa Public Works Director Larry Driscoll drains some permeate water from the city’s pilot plant at the water treatment plant. Permeate water is water that has been filtered through the system. The pilot plant is required to determine if a large-scale system will work before it is installed. |
“The DNR requires the pilot plant because, I didn’t know this, but all water is different,” included Callahan.
“This filtration system removes everything,” said Driscoll. “It’s going to give you almost pure water.”
The system takes the water through a series of fiber filters. Descaler is added and attaches to these membranes. The contaminants are then backwashed out and sent through the sewage system to the wastewater treatment plant.
“For every 20 gallons of water produced there’s one gallon of waste,” added Driscoll, who said the system is only filtering well number four, the source of the problem.
The pilot system will be in operation for three months, and if a large-scale system is approved by the state, it will take about two years to install.
The last filtration upgrade took place in 2000 with the installation of a $1.7 million sand system to remove iron and sulfites.
“The city chose to do the upgrade to get rid of the sulfur smell in the water,” he recalled.
Driscoll said ideally the city would combine the water from both filtration systems, reducing the Radium content by half. By doing this, the city would be able to bring its water production up to 1.25 million gallons a day. Right now the DNR has capped production at 750,000 gallons a day.
The cap is based on a town’s size. Each year a permit is filed with the state and the cap is based on the previous six years of use.
“It (the reverse osmosis filtration system) will take us out past 40 years of growth,” he commented.
Tests are constantly being conducted on drinking water to ensure its quality. The city tests for fluoride, hydrogen sulfide, turbidity, pH and water temperature each week at the facility. Tests for calcium, magnesium, NH4-ammonia and radionuclides are sent out once a week. Sodium, potassium, barium, strontium, C03-carbonate, HC03-bicarbonate, So4-sulfate, chloride, N03-nitrate, Si02-silica, Fe-iron (total), Fe-iron (dissolved), Mn-manganese, TDS- total dissolved solids, TOC-total organic carbon and HPC-heterotrophic plate count are conducted six times over a three month period. |
School Chooses Architect for New High School
By Susan Yario |
The Anamosa Community School District Board of Directors unanimously approved DLR as the architect for the proposed new high school. Several members of the board visited work sites of OPN and DLR Architects last week. Pictures were taken for those board members that could not attend. There was an open discussion on the subject.
Board members Julie Fall, Sharon Weideman and Connie McKean spoke highly of both companies and were impressed with the use of natural lighting at both sites; one in Mt. Vernon and another in Ames.
School Board President Jim Mitchel and Superintendent Dr. Dale Monroe were also present at the site visits and participated in the discussion. Both contenders for the contract were equal in qualifications and have excellent track records. DLR’s estimate is 2% less than the other architects, and that, coupled with the company’s efforts to include district staff in designing issues, made them a good match.
McKean made motion to negotiate a contract with DLR and to use legal counsel to ensure the best interest of the district. The motion was approved with a unanimous vote.
Megan Lacey, student member of CADRE reported to the board on six priorities for improvement in the coming year. The group met monthly this year and finalized the priorities in May 2007.
1. Develop and implement programs that improve student respect and responsibility. We need to recognize bullying behavior and harassment as adults, students and community members.
2. Develop a process that implements data driven decision making at the classroom level to focus on improving student activities in every classroom.
3. Continue to develop co-teaching strategies at every level and every subject area.
4. Continue to improve PK-12 curriculum articulation by utilizing curriculum mapping and the curriculum process.
5. Design professional development activities for teachers that focus on improving differentiated instruction, teaching in the block, and co-teaching.
6. Continue to measure the impact and improvement in PK-12 literacy, math, and science proficiency.
The board accepted the CADRE report as presented.
High school Reading Specialist, Carol Reilly generated a detailed presentation of a reading intervention program titled Reading 180. This program is distributed by Scholastic. It was designed by Ted Hasselbring and members of Cognition and Technology Group at Vanderbilt University.
Read 180 is an intervention program designed for students reading two or more grade levels below their current grade placement. It is a data driven program, that measures every keystroke of the student. The program is geared to adjust to the needs of the individual student.
The cost of the innovative program is approximately $40,000 for 60 license seats. Most of that cost is up-front dollars with annual maintenance after the first year, running at $2,800 and additional costs for new books.
The advantages if the program include:
• Comprehensive program including all areas of literacy-reading, writing, speaking and listening.
• Inclusion of both fiction and non-fiction text..
• Reading level of high school material extends from grade levels 1.5 to 12.0. Regardless of the reading level, the student is reading about topics applicable to high school students.
• High interest, high quality material to build motivation
• Immediate feedback provided to students-encourages goal setting and self-confidence with reading and writing.
• Provides reports for many uses-instructional planning, performance and growth of students and parents.
• Scholastic Reading Inventory (SRI) is an assessment tool that provides initial placement level in the program as well as a flexile level for each student.
Reilly strongly urged the board to consider bringing a pilot program in for this fall for 50 minutes.
One out of three students in the district cannot read the grade level textbooks.
She stated “We’ve got lots of smart kids who just can’t read”.
She included that the reading issue is a societal issue and will not go away. As we all watch more television, DVD’s and other media, the kids are coming into the classrooms ill prepared.
The high school economics team placed third in the nation at competition in New York. The four-member team of Adam Andreesen, Kun Lee, Kathleen McNamara, Joanna Payton were sponsored by AHS teacher, Gary Heier. All team members will receive a certificate of appreciation from the District. Mitchel handed one out to Kathleen McNamara who was present at the meeting.
A Daycare draft proposal between the Anamosa School District and Anamosa Community
Hospital (ACH) was discussed. Board members brought up questions regarding long term lease agreements, and the administrative concerns; staff, supervision, etc. Monroe remarked that is a large task but it makes sense to at least explore it.
Strawberry Hill Principal, Reona Ewald shared “I really see it as a continuation of services to the community.” There was no action on the item.
Curriculum director, Mary Bendixen shared information with the board on requests for the next year in the areas of curriculum, technology, professional development and the Read 180 program.
Board members showed interest in comparing the requests with the 06-07 budget.
The information gathered also includes computer replacements for all schools where the computers are older than five years.
Monroe made mention of financial goals plan that will be coming up for address at the June 18 regular school board meeting at 6 p.m. These goals include adjusting the undesignated balances to meet the district goals because the district may be too dependent on dedicated reserves.
Personnel Appointments and Adjustments approved are as follows:
Hirings:
Certified Staff
Teresa Hermanstorfer, WMS Summer Reading teacher for 15 total hours; Wes Wilson, HS Summer school teacher June 4—29; Julie Frankfurt, HS Special Education for 2007-2008 school year; Angeline Rinaldi, HS Spanish for 2007-2008 school year; Barb Mineart, WMS Reading Specialist for 2007-2008 school year; Alisa Oliver, WMS Special Education Level I for 2007-2008 school year; Richard Ginn, Driver Education/4th Session beginning July 9.
Classified Staff
Lori Sams, S. H. Elem. Paraeducator for Summer School June 4-22, 2007; Joann Hinz, S. H. Elem. Paraeducator for Summer School June 4-22, 2007.
Coaching/Extra-Curricular
Ron Timp, Co-Head Softball Coach pro-rated for remainder of season; Rick Delagardelle, Co-Head Softball Coach pro-rated for remainder of season.
Reginations:
Peg Gutta Martens, Food Service Director retiring as of June 8; Suzy Scheef, Head Softball Coach effective immediately (personal); Barbara Rohlena, HS guidance Secretary effective end of 06-07 contract (personal).
The first reading of board policy changes and new policies were approved. 202.3 Secretary, 202.4 Treasurer, 202.5 Conflict of Interest, 204.8 Order of Business at Regular Meeting, 402.15 Market Factor Pay, 502.9 Student Bullying & Harassment, 605.1 Student Progress Reports, 803.10 Use of District Cell Phones and 902.6 Tobacco-Free Environment (re-wording to include smokeless tobacco…). (402.15 and 803.10 are new)
Strawberry Hill Principal Reona Ewald made request to the school board for a letter of intent and asking for approval to apply for grant dollars for four year-old preschool. The preschool law will require four year olds to be enrolled in a Preschool Program by the year 2011. The grant application is due by July 2, with approval on July 16 and notification to the recipients on the next day. This item will be on the June 18 agenda and public hearing may be forthcoming.
Monroe touched on several issues in his reports: IASB membership, Superintendent evaluations from the board need to be completed by June 8. Monroe is also exploring/researching two food service plans where students and staff would be encouraged to choose more healthy choices.
The next regular district board meeting is scheduled for June 18 at 6 p.m. |
Alcohol Ordinance Sent to Parks and Rec Board for Review
By Susan Yario |
The second reading of Ordinance 47.07 regarding the consumption of alcohol in the city parks and at Monroe Field, drew 16 people opposed to allowing alcohol in the dugouts to the May 29 Anamosa City Council meeting. Of the group, three people represented their feelings to the council.
Troy Titus, Youth Pastor for Martelle Christian Church was first up to voice his thoughts on how important our students are to the community and that adults need to set an example for the students.
Jennifer Husmann of the Jones County Alcohol Reduction Project wondered if the liability to the city had been fully considered and thanked the council for hearing all the comments.
Anamosa resident Ben Barkalow remarked that it would be a step in the right direction to set the right example for the youth by not allowing alcohol in the dugouts. He reflected on his past and the ease of acquiring alcohol when he was underage. Barkalow spoke to the council asking if each member was voting for his personal view or how the community felt.
The issue ended up being tabled as Brain Harmon made motion for the item to be sent to the Board of Parks and Recreation for review. Harmon made mention that the board has not seen the proposed new ordinance for evaluation before making a final decision. Danny Young seconded the motion. The tabling motion passed with four Yes votes vs. two No votes.
Council members each had a chance to remark on the issue: Dan Young does not see the difference between the stands and the dugout.
Dennis Hansen stated that he has received calls concerning this matter, but remained resolute in his “yes” vote.
Bill Feldmann remarked that we should look at other items in the ordinance before bringing it back for action. Specifically glass bottles, limitations on how far away from a shelter one can be with the alcohol and if the dugout drinking passes, whether or not beer should only be allowed with a sanctioned game in the park.
Bob George spoke about liability issues and feels that it is a terrible mistake to allow beer in the dugout.
Finally, Mayor Jon Hatcher commented that we are all responsible for our actions and he is not for or against alcohol in the dugout.
After the council meeting, Anamosa Hatcher and City Administrator Pat Callahan spoke about the council’s decision to get input from the Parks and Recreation Board.
Callahan explained, “Brian (Harmon) and Tom (Swisher) are the liaisons for Parks and Rec. Brian was asked by a member why they had not been asked to give input.”
Hatcher said he felt it was fair to give the Parks and Recreation Board a chance to give their recommendation. “The council doesn’t have to abide by those recommendations, but it gives Parks and Rec. a chance to give input on the matter,” he reminded.
Hatcher said he would like to see the ordinance include abolishing glass bottles at Anamosa Parks.
The Anamosa City Council approved the preliminary plat of Meadow Ridge Addition filed by Bryce Ricklefs. Council also recommended to extend Brecca Ridge to the new development and split the cost with the developer 50/50. This would offer two ways of egress for the new addition.
A public hearing was held regarding proposed amendments to sections of Chapter 165 zoning regulations about fences & hedges in front yards, off premise signs in residential districts, communication towers, rear yard setbacks in C-1 district and side yard setbacks in M-1 Industrial. No written or verbal comments were received. The first reading of the ordinance was approved with the second and third readings to be held at the special council session on June 4 at 6 p.m.
Council will also address the development agreement with Bryce Ricklefs for the Meadow Ridge residential development at that session. Two additional items to be addressed at the special session will be the existing sidewalk inspection program regarding sidewalk repairs and sidewalks in and around city parks along with the City of Anamosa applying for grants to provide recreational trails.
Additional Items approved on Monday night are as follows:
• Second reading of ordinance by adding a new chapter 144 entitled Addressing. The third reading was waived.
• Second reading of Ordinance amending section 106.07 and 106.08 of the Anamosa City Code requiring that solid waste generated in Anamosa be deposited at the Jones County Solid Waste Facility.
• Resolution authorizing execution and delivery of supplemental deed to Dallas and Marlene Paustian.
• First Reading of ordinance amending Chapter 165-zoning regulations pertaining to setback for fences and hedges, off-premise signs in residential areas, communication towers, rear yard setbacks in downtown areas and side yard setbacks in light industrial district.
• Agreement between the City of Anamosa and the Anamosa Community School District for the extension of water main and sanitary sewer line north of Highway 64.
• Renewal of Class C liquor license with Sunday sales privileges for McOttos’ Restaurant.
• Third reading of ordinance amending section 71.06 of the Anamosa City Code by adding a new section restricting the use of engine brakes and compressive brakes.
• The payment of bills for the month of May 2007.
• A long-term disability plan for the twenty-four city Employees.
• Surveying of the Alliant Energy property to be acquired by the city.
• Engineering project with Howard R. Green Co. for the survey of the WWTP Flood wall.
• Engineering contract with Howard R. Green Co. for WWTP Phase II Construction services.
• Change order # 1 with Ricklefs Excavating for the Central Drainage Basin Project for $3,560.00
• Pay estimate # 1 for Ricklefs Excavating for the Central Area Drainage Project for $52,235.75.
• First reading of ordinance amending of section 53.01 of the Anamosa City Code regarding the control of noxious weeds and the mowing of grass. Second and third readings waived.
• First reading of ordinance amending section 69.11 of the city code regarding No Parking zones. Second and third readings waived.
• Resolution hiring a part-time seasonal employee, Taylor Coons for the Public Works Department at $7.50/hour.
• Resolution hiring part-time seasonal employees for the Parks and Recreation Department at $7/hour; Janelle Van Donselar, Mark Walker, and Cody Robinson. Also hiring for the Aquacourt Concession, Cammy Dole at $6.20/hour.
• Public Works Department to post signage regarding parking and loading on Chamber Park alley.
• Temporary waiver to public sidewalk requirement for the property at 1005 W. Main Street by filed by Randy Caspers. At this time, pouring a sidewalk would create a hardship and possible flooding for adjacent property owners.
• Harmon Construction awarded bid of $1,000 for the framing project at City Hall. One other bid was in from A&A Construction, Inc. for $3,860. Council member Brian Harmon did not vote on this action item.
Resident Sam Montgomery came before the council in reference to sidewalks along Highway 64.
Montgomery offered his assistance to get the project completed. He shared his views on how important it is to connect the two sides of town. He pointed out that plans have been made in 1999 and 2006 for connecting sidewalks but that nothing has been done. There have been 17 new places built without sidewalks and there are approximately 80 sidewalks in town that really go anywhere. (not connected).
He remarked “you’re gonna see me a lot asking for it” and suggested that the city council stop making political deals instead of policy deals.
Public Works Director Larry Driscoll updated council on the radium reduction project at the water plant. The pilot plant began in the middle of May and will continue for three months. Driscoll made a request to build a 24’ x 24’ storage shed across from the Waste Water Treatment Plant.
Driscoll’s dollar amount requested is not to exceed $45,000, including the concrete. City Manger Callahan remarked that the water fund cash reserves could be used to for the project. Council approved Driscoll to get price quotes for the construction of the building.
A public hearing date for June 25 at 6 p.m. was set for the plans and specifications, form of contract and the taking of bids for the Sycamore Street Box Culvert project.
The City Administrator tabled the review of City Council goals and objectives for 2007-2008 until the regular session on June 25. |
Have Dinner on the Hale Bridge
By Michelle Phillips |
The Jones County Historic Preservation Commission (JCHPC) is hosting an unusual fundraiser on June 21, Dinner on the Bridge.
The event will feature a fine dining meal on Hale Bridge at Wapsipinicon State Park, complete with table linens, social hour and flute and violin music.
“The dinner is being catered by Daly Creek Winery, and guests have a choice of Angus prime rib or Chicken Marsala,” said Rose Rohr of the JCHPC.
Rohr said the event would benefit all bridges of Jones County, including the Hale Bridge.
“The McKeans (Andy and Connie) and I discussed relaxing on the bridge before it was in place–this event came out of that,” Rohr explained.
She said that this was a perfect example of a 100 year-old plus bridge being refurbished and used for another 100 years.
“Why not put the bridge to use?’ she asked.
The bridge will be set up with seating for 120 diners and volunteers will serve the guests. Tickets are $40 per person and include social hour, which begins at 5 p.m. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. In the event of rain, the dinner will be held on June 28.
To get tickets, mail payment to Jones County Historic Preservation Commission, PO Box 366, Anamosa 52205 or by calling Rohr at 319-480-0221. Reservations must be made by June 13.
“I think this is going to be a fantastic fundraiser. It’ll be fun and unique,” Rohr concluded. |
PO
Box 108, 208 W. Main Street, Anamosa, IA 52205
319-462-3511,
FAX 319-462-4540
Copyright
Anamosa Publications
Anamosa Journal-Eureka / Town Crier 2005
Thede Web
Works - Website
Questions
|