City of Ely

The council discussed various operational updates, including the implementation of a new signage system for the Cedar Valley Nature Trail and progress on the Well 3 project. Departmental reports highlighted the upcoming limb chipping service, participation in the Rural Iowa Summit, and the recognition of an emerging leader award. Additionally, community members presented a water testing program for local streams, and a representative from Timber Ridge Partners provided an update on the PCB cleanup and site closure process for the property at 295 Japa Road.

The City Council meeting included a review of bills payable and reports from the City Administrator regarding staff updates, public works, and the GIS application. A presentation was held regarding the establishment of a farmers market in the city, with the council expressing support and directing staff to assist with the process. Additionally, the council approved a resolution for the purchase of a stand-on mower and approved both a change order and a pay request for the Well #3 construction project.

The council discussed various operational updates, including successful snow removal efforts by public works staff and changes to the waste management collection schedule due to weather. The city administrator provided updates on the sidewalk inspection program and upcoming tax levy hearings. Additionally, the council addressed a proposal from a resident regarding the establishment of a new local farmer's market, discussing potential logistics, parking, food truck inclusion, and signage requirements.

The council discussed enforcement procedures for city codes, including snow removal, lawn height, and vehicle towing during snowstorms, clarifying that enforcement relies on a combination of city observation and citizen reporting, with a designated code enforcement officer handling citations. Discussions also covered amending language regarding billing for services, specifically concerning a proposed utility credit resolution offering up to a fifteen-dollar credit for residents who register for auto bill pay, e-billing, and account information updates. Furthermore, the council reviewed specifications for the potential purchase of a used skid steer, including an option for a snow blower attachment, with the goal of using city funds judiciously for snow removal and vegetation work.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the approval of the agenda and the consent agenda, which included the approval of a hiring decision for a Public Works Maintenance position. Key discussions included an update on the Banner Valley water main break repair, noting that the line was awaiting final inspection before being reopened to service, and confirming no boil advisory was required. Updates were provided on the skating rink setup and the final community meeting for the library expansion project. Significant business involved two public hearings: one concerning the environmental review for a trunk sewer project, and another regarding the annexation of Excellent Acres (which required re-holding the hearing due to a notification error). The Council also passed a resolution approving the Excellent Acres annexation, which inadvertently included an additional out-lot. Furthermore, the Council approved the second reading and waived the third reading for an ordinance amending the city code to adopt Linn County's building code for inspection services. Finally, a resolution was approved to formally accept the reduction of the interest rate on the city's Water Revenue Capital Loan from the State of Iowa. The agenda concluded with discussions related to a 28E agreement with Linn County for building inspection services starting January 1, 2021.