Neal Stapelkamp

The Cresco City Council meeting included staff reports covering public works, police, and administration. Public works discussed the completion of the sewer department project and leaf pickups, as well as preparations for winter and the leveling of the airport dirt pile. The administration reported on budget training and a predicted decrease in local option sales tax. Committee updates included a library meeting with a report on a successful trunk or treat event and a clip and chip event in partnership with the Northeast Iowa Humane Society. The council also discussed the fiscal year 2025 auditor's report and the fitness center project.

The meeting included discussions on various topics such as public works updates including storm sewer manhole, water line, sewer project, chip sealing, bike trail, and train tie replacement. The council also discussed the siren status, August financials, Iowa League of Cities presentation, open meetings requirement webinar, nomination papers, union negotiations, and committee updates. A public hearing was held on budget amendment number one for the fiscal year ending June 30th, 2026, followed by a resolution amending the current budget. The first reading of proposed ordinance number 526 pertaining to speed regulations was conducted, and a resolution converting portions of Canterbury Street to no parking was discussed. Additionally, there was a discussion and approval of change order number three for the scene shop project.

The Cresco City Council meeting included discussions and actions on several topics. The council approved the consent agenda, which included approval of the agenda, claims, minutes from October 20th, 2025, and a street closing permit for the United Methodist Church fall dinner on November 24th, 2025. Staff reports covered the installation of a storm siren, completion of work on 12th Avenue, salt and sand delivery for the winter, leveling of a dirt pile at the airport, and expansion of the airport parking lot. There was also an ad in the paper for water meter head replacement. The customer portal for the new software is up and running, and customers will receive a PDF of their bill in the email. The council also discussed health insurance renewal, budget paperwork, and CIP ranking. Additionally, the council discussed putting more parking at the airport, the possibility of Claire building his own hanger, and the park board's meeting for funding of the fitness center. The Howard County Economic Development meeting was also discussed, including the opening of a Leroy clinic with midwives. The Chamber of Commerce meeting was also discussed, including the annual CIC banquet, Jingle in Your Pocket, Smalltown Christmas, and Small Business Saturday.

The council discussed and acted on a consent agenda that included approval of the agenda, claims, minutes from previous meetings and work sessions in September 2025, a retail alcohol license, a street closing for a spooky sprint 5K, an application for tax abatement, and pay requests for construction projects. Staff reports covered public works, including street sign updates, county ditch cleaning, chip sealing, and sewer project progress, as well as leaf and stick pickup schedules. The police reported on animal calls and heightened traffic enforcement through the STEP program. Administration updates included the community foundation grant cycle, theater repairs, upcoming performances, accounts payable processing, changes to the Service Line Warranties of America marketing campaign, and hydrant flushing. Committee updates were given on the airport lean and park board work session. A resident raised concerns about water drainage issues related to the bicycle trail and truck traffic on Second Avenue.

The council discussed and acted on the consent agenda, including approval of the agenda, claims, and minutes from previous sessions. They also addressed retail alcohol license approval and pay requests for various construction projects. Staff reports covered sewer projects, storm sewer issues, and a request for handicap parking. The police department reported on July activities and promoted the upcoming National Night Out event. Additionally, there were discussions regarding the theater commission's successful play and public comments on permit aspects.