December 16, 2024 Committee of the Whole

The City of Bettendorf, Iowa Committee of the Whole meeting on December 16, 2024, focused heavily on procurement and contracting matters related to major capital projects and city operations. Key discussions included the proposed use of a Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) contract for a new police station and City Hall renovations, with the selection of Estus as the preferred construction manager following a qualifications-based selection process. The contract discussed is a master services agreement that will later be amended with a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) once project costs are finalized and approved by referendum. The council also reviewed consent agenda items involving procurement of a new emergency backup generator for City Hall, awarded to Tri City Electric for installation, funded through the city's Capital Improvement Program. Additionally, contracts related to golf course operations were extended, including a three-year agreement with Food Drink Friends for grill operations and a four-year golf cart lease with Eminem Golf Cars LLC, both involving revenue-sharing arrangements. The meeting also touched on tax increment financing (TIF) district establishment to support local development agreements. Discussions included detailed contract terms, fee structures, insurance costs, and contingencies related to inflation and referendum outcomes. The council addressed policy considerations for the police chief job description and reporting structure but deferred final decisions. Overall, the meeting emphasized careful contract negotiation, budget alignment, and strategic procurement to support city infrastructure and services.