Chase Kepford

The council meeting agenda includes several public hearings regarding zoning amendments, property rezoning, and the vacation of public easements. Key discussion topics involve a development agreement with Bluestem Village LLC, approval of block party permits, renewals of various retail alcohol and tobacco licenses, and a fireworks display permit. The council will also review numerous construction contracts, agreements, change orders, payment estimates for public improvement projects, and property purchase agreements. Additionally, the agenda features multiple ordinances related to building codes, residential rental codes, and various utility rate adjustments, along with the review of site plans and plats.

The work session included an update on the Walnut Creek Watershed Management Authority and a discussion regarding amendments to the ordinance for personal transportation devices. The Council reviewed a draft policy for a long-term affordable housing strategy, received an update on the Bluestem Village project, and evaluated a comprehensive grant strategy and framework. Additionally, plans for a K9 Police Service Dog initiative were presented, alongside an IT status update and a discussion on potential beekeeping regulations. Finally, the Council received reports on the Central Iowa Water Works operational status and updates regarding various public improvement projects under construction.

The commission reviewed and approved several site plans, including a proposal for the Legacy Cottages independent living townhome development and two site plan applications for SmartClean, involving an addition to an existing building and the construction of a new warehouse. Additionally, city staff provided updates regarding the hiring of a new City Planner, the volume of ongoing commercial projects, progress on strategic planning, and the status of the Comprehensive Plan.

The council engaged in goal setting and strategic planning for FY2027, focusing on the selection of top and high priority goals.

The board discussed several items, including the establishment of a regular meeting time and a recap of the recent Easter Egg Hunt. Updates were provided regarding the spring and summer program guide, registration challenges caused by a website outage, and the status of the Waukee Canopy tree program. The director's report covered the placement of a new Droppett container, the development of a Master Comp Plan with a period for citizen feedback, attendance at the Tree City USA Conference, and ongoing considerations regarding the installation of security cameras to mitigate frequent vandalism in the community.