Dennis Dokter

The council received a presentation on the activities of the Fire Department and approved a 7% electric rate increase for 2026 and 2027. Public hearings were held regarding the sale of city-owned real estate for residential development and the authorization of Sewer Revenue Capital Loan Notes for the East Interceptor project. The council also authorized a development agreement for the Harvest Heights Commercial Development and approved construction contracts and bonds for the 19th Street SW Water Main and the South Elevated Tank Project.

The council addressed several items, including the approval of a plat and zoning change from Agriculture to R-1 for the Country View Heights North Fourth Addition, and the adoption of an amendment to the Multi-Residential Urban Revitalization Plan. Additional resolutions included the approval of FY 26-27 wage and salary adjustments, the second reading of an ordinance establishing rates for the municipal electric utility, and the ratification of an agreement for additional natural gas transportation capacity. The council also authorized an audit services agreement with Williams and Company P.C. and approved municipal advisory services with The Piper Sandler Company. Other business included updates on the former White Oak gas station, downtown traffic camera capabilities, and the Downtown Steering Committee's plan for the 300 block.

The council addressed several infrastructure projects, including approving plans, specifications, and construction contracts for the 19th Street Water Main and the south elevated water tank. Legislative actions included the first reading of an ordinance to update electricity rates and the final reading of an ordinance permitting angle parking on specific avenues. Financial and administrative approvals involved appointing bond counsel for the East Interceptor wastewater project, setting a date for a public hearing on sewer revenue capital loan notes, amending a natural gas service agreement, and authorizing the purchase of a new department vehicle. Additionally, the council conducted executive sessions regarding employee conditions and annual staff performance reviews.

The council discussed various municipal projects and policy updates. Key actions included scheduling a public hearing for a new water tower, approving the relocation of two historic buildings to Heritage Village, and passing an amendment to the fiscal year 2025-2026 budget. Additionally, the council approved an ordinance for angle parking on specific streets, renewed a maintenance agreement with the Iowa Department of Transportation for Highway 75, and passed an ordinance adjusting the permissible dates and times for fireworks use. The council also authorized bond financing for the Electric Generation project, supported a local workforce housing tax credit application for Ridge Creek LLC, and initiated the amendment process for the Multi-Residential Urban Revitalization Plan. A closed executive session was held to discuss pending litigation.

The council held a public hearing regarding the proposed budget tax levy for the upcoming fiscal year. Additionally, the council scheduled a future public hearing to consider the adoption of the 2026-27 budget.