Red Oak councilman criticizes library work

A short-handed Red Oak City Council split on a contractor’s request for additional work on the library’s ongoing remodeling project.

Councilman Kevin Gregg voted against the $1,386 request, part of which would help the library meet requirements for the American Disability Act and fire safety codes.

“$500 to put in an ADA parking sign seems a little steep to me,” Gregg said. “I would think we could it for a lot cheaper than that.”

The parking sign, which actually is estimated at $510, includes $350 for material and $160 for labor. Other items added to the proposal by the contractor, Oakview Construction, include a $626 fireproof door, and a $124 light fixture.

The Council was informed the extra costs were contained in the contingency fee built-in to the overall remodeling proposal.

While Gregg voted against the motion, Ivan Craig and Tom Pratt voted yes. Councilmen Larry Brandstetter and Roger Waggener and mayor Ted Schoonover did not attend the meeting.

Also at the meeting, the council:

— Approved the purchase of a 2010 Ford Crown Victoria from Hawkeye Ford for the police department. The vehicle cost $24,502, and was one of two bids received. Red Oak Chrysler submitted a bid of $25,382 for a 2010 Dodge Charger.

— Approved a resolution entering into a contract with the Iowa Department of Economic Development and Nishna Productions. The resolution allows the city to direct grant funds to Nishna for an upcoming construction project.

— Discussed revising an agreement with K&D properties. The council agreed to allow the city administrator to draft an agreement eliminating the requirement the developer construct five new units, while also extending tax benefits from 10 to 15 years.