Mitch Bartleson

The commission approved amendments to the security and IT policies, emergency procedures, and communication protocols. Key updates included discussions on the Civic Plaza sculpture selection, preparations for an artist reception, progress on the Olde Town Plaza entryway, and status reports on grant applications and the 1st Ave corridor study. Members also discussed design details for the Olde Town water tower, planning for the Altoona Trifecta event, and revisions to the policy manual regarding elections and nominations. Additionally, the commission reviewed compliance and legal requirements and discussed future project ideas.

The board received updates on various park projects, including lighting and call box installations at Sam Wise, the seasonal opening of restrooms, and restoration progress at Sam Wise and Townsend fields. Discussion topics included staff preparations for spring work, maintenance of trails, erosion control measures, future plans for park and trail development near new residential areas, potential adjustments to meeting start times, and regulatory considerations for e-bikes and e-motorcycles on public trails and streets. Additionally, the board addressed concerns regarding construction-related debris.

The commission reviewed several development proposals, including a site plan addition for Summit Products and a final plat for Brook Ridge Plat 6. Significant focus was placed on the Townhomes at Scenic Ridge project, where the commission considered and recommended approval for its preliminary plat, final plat, and site plan, with discussions regarding parking, unit configuration, and site connectivity. Other business included a discussion on a potential special meeting for the Prairie Crossing Power Center submittal and updates on upcoming Planning Study meetings and new business developments in the area.

The council conducted public hearings and passed resolutions regarding the Water System Improvements 2024 (Well #5 and NE 80th Street WTM Project) and the 34th Avenue NW Sanitary Sewer Lift Station Project, including awarding contracts for both. Additionally, the council approved a site plan for the Summit Products Phase III expansion. The consent agenda covered a variety of administrative and operational items, including the approval of bills and pay applications, setting public hearings for future infrastructure projects, authorizing property right grants, approving a re-addressing, establishing various sports facility lease agreements, and reviewing liquor permit applications.

Key discussions and actions included the presentation of Life Saving Awards to an officer and a deputy. A public hearing was held regarding an amendment to Chapter 167, Zoning Code, to provide standards for Accessory Dwelling Units, mandated by Iowa Senate File 592. The council passed an ordinance on its first, second, and third readings related to modifying Zoning Code District Regulations. Another public hearing addressed the FY2026 Budget Amendment, noting a planned decrease in the ending fund balance but allocating up to $5 million for infrastructure improvements in the Altoona North Industrial Area. A resolution was adopted for the amended FY2026 budget. A public hearing also took place concerning the rezoning of 15 acres from A-1 (Agricultural District) to conditional M-1 (Limited Industrial) for a planned data center. Further actions included approving the granting of City property rights, approving various payment applications and change orders for projects such as Fire Station No. 26 and the Townsend Park Watershed Improvements, and authorizing a loan agreement and the issuance of General Obligation Urban Renewal Refunding Bonds. The council also set public hearings for a new sanitary sewer lift station project and the Maximum Property Tax Levy.