Justina M. Cullen

The council proclaimed November 2025 as Giving Month, supporting local food pantries and blessing boxes. They approved the amended "Parking Restrictions and Restricted Areas" listing, removing parking on 24th Street from Avenue H to Avenue L, following discussions on traffic statistics and bicycle lane connectivity. Updates to the Municipal Code concerning sidewalks, multi-use trails, and bicycle lanes were discussed. The council also addressed the Fort Madison Fire Station project, reviewed a purchase agreement for properties on 21st Street, and discussed the Woodland Heights Urban Renewal Plan. Additionally, they considered a subdivision waiver for the First United Pentecostal Church and approved a Three-Year Urban Revitalization Tax Exemption. Appointments were made to the Construction Board of Appeals and the Library Board. Reports covered tourism, planning and zoning, infrastructure projects, fire prevention, library activities, and airport matters. Budget discussions for FY 2025-2026 were announced.

The council received a presentation on the FY2024-2025 audit and a presentation regarding the proposed Safe Haven Home. An update was provided by Old Fort Preservation, Inc. The council held a public hearing concerning updates to the "Parking Restrictions and Restricted Areas" listing, specifically regarding parking on 24th Street. A resolution to amend the parking restrictions was subsequently tabled. The council adopted resolutions setting public hearings and bid letting dates for the Fort Madison Fire Station project and updates to the chapter on sidewalks. Appointments were approved for the Southeast Iowa Regional Riverboat Commission (SIRRC) and the Airport Commission. Reports were given on the James Block Project, upcoming reports for council approval, the asphalt overlay project, a Governors Traffic Safety Grant received by the Fire Department, and a fall escape room at the library.

The council meeting included discussions and actions on several topics. Proclamations were made for Fire Prevention Week and Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The council received a community update on recent activities and assistance provided to residents. Special event permits for the River & Rail Weekend and a Lee County Crime Stoppers Pickleball Tournament Fundraiser were approved. A public hearing was held concerning a Public Works Building project, followed by resolutions approving plans and awarding a construction contract. An ordinance concerning updates to the City Code for zoning was approved, while another ordinance regarding vacating city right-of-way was not. A resolution was adopted to approve a Purchase Agreement for property to facilitate Public Works consolidation. Reappointments were made to the Airport Commission, Board of Adjustment & Appeals, and Construction Board of Appeals. A proposal to add a bike lane on 24th Street was discussed, and updates were provided on the Fort Madison Rental & Vacant Program Policies. Reports were given by the City Manager and various departments, and council members shared updates on their activities.

The council discussed various topics including repairs to the Community Services Food Pantry, Neighborhood Watch updates, and the situation of the Eichacker Center. They also discussed a REAP grant application, acceptance of a plat of survey, setting a public hearing for a Public Improvement Project, and a 28E renewal for a School Resource Officer. Other items included a lease with Sanchez Boxing, appointments to the Library Board and Planning and Zoning Commission, sealcoat and asphalt bids, inspection of a pedestrian bridge, a tourism video, Avenue I Bridge presentation, the Idol Rashid Building, and UTVs/Golf Carts on city streets.

The council meeting included a proclamation for Manufacturing Month, highlighting the strength of industry in Lee County. Officer Nathan Parker was recognized for his exceptional handling of a mental health crisis. The Fort Madison Public Library's annual report was presented, showcasing program participation and expanded online access. The council set a public hearing for an amendment to parking restrictions and approved a development agreement amendment with MM Real Estate, LLC, addressing the construction of new homes. Additionally, applications for Urban Revitalization Tax Exemptions were approved. Discussion focused on the deterioration of the Levi Trailer Courts and efforts to address the situation.