Kelly Murtaugh

The council recognized Make Music Day with a proclamation, swearing in new police department personnel, including a commander and a sergeant. Additionally, several new employees were welcomed to the Parks Department, Engineering Department, and Community Development division. The council approved the addition of a Fourth of July parade and fireworks to the agenda and received a presentation on the 2025 comprehensive financial report, noting an unmodified audit opinion.

The council meeting included a proclamation honoring a retiring fire marshal for forty-one years of service, the presentation of the 2026 Historic Preservation Awards to recognize homeowners for their efforts in maintaining local historic properties, and an update regarding recruitment for the Flint Hills Community Advisory Council.

The City Council meeting included a proclamation recognizing Arbor Day, the swearing-in ceremony for a new police chief and two new police officers, and the recognition of other new city employees. The council also conducted a public hearing and approved a massage therapy establishment license, and awarded contracts for a stormwater basin project and a mill and overlay program.

The Commission conducted a public hearing regarding a proposal for the rezoning and development of a property located between 15th and 14th Streets. The discussion covered the proposed subdivision of land into single-family villa lots, the zoning classification, and future development phases. Residents raised concerns regarding traffic impact, water pressure, housing density, park availability, and the potential impact on public services such as police and fire departments. The developer provided clarifications on the villa housing style, pricing expectations, and the phased development timeline.

The meeting commenced with the Mayor for the Day presentation by Vivian Swanson, who read an essay proposing initiatives such as a 'Hastings Kindness Day' and advocating for continuous training and 24-hour access to a free dance facility for emergency personnel. Following procedural approvals, a public hearing was held regarding a new sidewalk cafe license for Hugafo located at 214 2nd Street East. Council members expressed enthusiasm for the new license, hoping it signals the business's opening soon. Subsequently, the council discussed and approved a contract quote for corrective asphalt materials for the 2026 pavement preservation project, focusing on using a new product called Reclamate over traditional chip seals due to perceived benefits in longevity and application time. Finally, a presentation was given regarding the adoption of the County State Aid Highway 42 corridor improvements, focusing on traffic calming measures due to increased pedestrian and bicycle traffic associated with the Mississippi River Greenway.