Michael Martens

The Council reviewed and approved various city bills and payments. A representative from the Washington County Sheriff's Office provided a report on recent calls for service. The meeting included the approval of a native wine retail license renewal for the Kalona Historical Village, the authorization to purchase a new mower for public works utilizing Local Option Sales Tax funds, and the conditional approval of a fireworks application for an upcoming community festival. Additionally, the Council addressed a request from a local organization regarding the use of shed space and reviewed proposed design layouts for upcoming tennis and pickleball court renovations.

The Council reviewed and approved various financial obligations and payments. Key actions included the approval of temporary street closures for the 100k Horseshoe Gravel Bike Race, discussions regarding preliminary developer site work for Incline Grove Phase-3, and the approval of a facility use agreement with the American Red Cross for the Kalona Community Center. Additionally, the Council authorized engagement with PFM for financial advisory services and approved a professional services agreement with MSA Engineering for the Kalona Trails Feasibility Study.

The City Council agenda approval was carried unanimously. Key discussions included the allowance of numerous bills for payment, covering various entities such as construction, utilities, insurance, and other services. Ordinance No. 2026-368, amending the Code of Ordinance regarding Golf Cart Permits, was advanced through its second and third readings and ultimately approved. The Council also approved entering into a professional services agreement, not to exceed $45,700, with Shive-Hattery for preliminary architectural work on a potential Emergency Management Center involving the Fire Department, First Responders, and County Ambulance/Sheriff's Office. Furthermore, the council approved participation in a Federally Funded Regional Comprehensive Action Plan aimed at identifying and prioritizing roadway safety, pedestrian, and bicycling corridor improvements. The renewal of an Iowa Alcoholic Beverage Division License for Los Amigos Taqueria LLC was also approved.

The agenda for the City Council meeting includes administrative items such as the review of Minutes and Bills. Old Business features a second reading, with the option for a final reading, of an Ordinance Amending the Code of Ordinances concerning Golf Cart Permits. New Business items include consideration of participation in the Regional Comprehensive Action Plan (ECICOG), a presentation from Shive-Hattery regarding preliminary architectural services for a potential Emergency Management Center, and the approval of Iowa Alcoholic Beverage Division license renewals for Los Amigos Taqueria LLC.

The meeting began with the approval of the agenda, followed by the allowance of numerous bills spanning various funds including General, Road Use, Water, and Sewer. Key actions included approving a motion to reschedule the March 2, 2026, council meeting to March 4, 2026. The council also approved the sale of a Sharon Hill Cemetery Plot to Kenton Jones. The first reading of Ordinance No. 2026-368, concerning Golf Cart Permits, was approved. Furthermore, a public hearing for the Proposed 2026-2027 Budget Tax Levy was set for April 6, 2026, and Resolution No. 2026-C, waiving the right to review a plat of survey for Larry Plecker, was authorized.