Kelly Martin

The Council discussed the update of the multi-jurisdictional Black Hawk County Hazard Mitigation Plan, which is a requirement for eligibility for federal grant funding. Additionally, the Council reviewed an Axon software contract and explored the potential implementation of a Drone First Responder program to improve real-time situational awareness during high-risk incidents.

The committee reviewed various travel requests, pre-authorizations for public works and infrastructure projects including airport maintenance, culture and arts sign repairs, and IT software renewals. Additionally, the committee considered and approved budget amendments for trail replacements and dam gate repairs, as well as several property refund requests. Finally, the committee reviewed and moved to forward significant bill payments to the full council for approval.

The Council meeting involved several legislative and administrative actions. Key discussion topics included tabling resolutions regarding the fiscal year 2027 ambulance fee schedule, the approval of a contract for asbestos abatement services for 54 Lane Street, and the condemnation of property interests for the Kataski Drive/Huntington Road reconstruction project. The Council also approved insurance coverage, an agreement for school resource officers with the Waterloo Community School District, a professional service agreement with Main Street Waterloo, and property acquisition related to Fairway Lane reconstruction. Additionally, the Council addressed a request for funding replacement fencing at 714 West 2nd Street.

This Annual Action Plan for the Waterloo/Cedar Falls HOME Consortium outlines specific projects and activities for the 2026 program year, aimed at addressing high-priority needs identified in the 2024-2028 Consolidated Plan. Key strategic goals include increasing and improving affordable housing options, preventing and supporting homelessness, revitalizing neighborhoods, providing public services to enhance quality of life, ensuring fair housing, and managing program administration. The plan details the allocation of CDBG and HOME funds to achieve these objectives through various housing, community development, and social service initiatives.

The board discussed and decided upon requests for zoning variances, including an addition to an accessory structure at a residential property and a temporary variance for vehicle storage on an industrial property. Additionally, the board deliberated on a special permit request for a religious facility in the central business district, which was denied based on its consistency with city master plans and economic development goals. Other discussions included legislative updates regarding state code changes for appeals and adjustments to the board's document turn-in deadline.