City of Stanwood

Key discussions included visitor comments regarding Cedar County economic development organizations (ECIA and CCEDCO) and a property excavation proposal that included using excess dirt to finish an adjacent street for highway access. The Council reviewed reports from various departments, noting staff updates from the Clerk, Sheriff's calls, Fire Department activities like planning a raffle and dinner, and the Library's summer reading program theme. New business involved the approval of changing agents for Wellmark insurance, approval of liquor license for Buddas One Stop, and the setting of dates for the upcoming budget workshop, property tax levy public hearing, and budget adoption hearing. Old business covered a current court case and nuisance letters.

The special session consisted primarily of a budget workshop where budgets for each department were reviewed. Key discussions included the Tower bypass project, which might involve a $10 per home charge for funding. Additionally, proposed utility rate increases were reviewed, specifically a 5% increase for water, a 3% increase for sewer, and a 4.65% increase for garbage. No formal action was taken on these budgetary items.

The January 13, 2025 regular session meeting included approval of the agenda, prior minutes, claims, and finance report via consent agenda. Department reports covered EMS meeting attendance, audit progress, budget worksheet distribution, seal coat quotes, wastewater inspection results, interim 911/EMA director status, contract work, park rentals, upcoming fire department trainings, budget preparation, and a discussion regarding a community engagement group and Fun Fest logo voting. New business involved a public hearing and subsequent approval of Resolution 2025-01 concerning committees and appointments, Resolution 2025-02 for a budget amendment, and a liquor license for Dollar General. Old business focused on nuisance properties, with the clerk ordered to send notices and follow up with the City attorney on several cases.

The City Council meeting included updates on departmental matters. The Clerk reported that budget worksheets were distributed, and vacation dates were set, along with a change to the utility bill penalty deadline. The Public Works Director provided updates on street cleaning, generator maintenance, and spring street work quotes. The Sheriff's Deputy reviewed the incident report. The Library reported on recent programs and pending design bids for the summer reading program, and requested the setup of a debit card for the food pantry account. Council members announced the date for Fun Fest 2026 and a fundraising soup supper, and discussed a Behavioral Health Presentation. New business featured public hearings and subsequent approvals for the second reading of Ordinance 248, amending the City Code by adding Chapter 157 (Property Maintenance), and the first reading of Ordinance 249, amending section 92.07 regarding written notice. Additionally, the council approved Resolution 2026-01 (Committees and Appointments), Resolution 2026-02 (Loan Transfers for FY 25-26), and a liquor license for Dollar General Corp. Old business involved a discussion of a current court case.

The Stanwood City Council convened for a special session. The primary recorded activity was a budget workshop, for which no formal action was taken. The next regular meeting was scheduled for the following Monday.