Sara Bendixen

The Estherville Public Library's 2023-2027 Long Range Plan focuses on enhancing community quality of life by providing access to diverse materials, technology, and programming. Key objectives include ensuring access to reliable information and resources for all ages, offering materials and programs catering to a broad range of interests, and providing convenient access to technology and common spaces. Strategies involve regular collection development review, user input, staff training, and program evaluation to meet evolving community needs. The plan also addresses community survey data, indicating a focus on adult and all-ages programming, accommodating working individuals' schedules, and continuing curbside delivery. Efforts to improve services for the Hispanic/Latino community and those of two or more races are also highlighted.

The council meeting covered several key items. Reports from the Finance and Labor Relations Committees were reviewed. Bills for November 2020 were approved, totaling $1,617,063.98. A quarterly rides report and a letter from Mediacom were addressed. A Class C Liquor License and Sunday Sales Privilege were approved for Don Jose Mexican Restaurant. An additional $5,000 was approved for the Neighborhood Façade Grant Program. Resolution No. 2263 increased fire fighter compensation to $15.00/hour, effective July 1, 2021. Resolution No. 2264 set a public hearing for December 21, 2020, at 5:00 p.m., to discuss a proposed budget amendment. The council accepted Corn Belt Power Cooperative's Wholesale Electric Service Agreement Amendment #3, extending it to December 2030. Updates were provided on street improvements, water main breaks, and COVID-19.

The council meeting addressed several key items. A public hearing was held for a sewer revenue loan agreement not exceeding $2,288,000, which was subsequently approved. A contract for the wastewater treatment facility improvements project was awarded to Christiansen Construction for $2,550,000. Ordinance No. 811, reclassifying zoning restrictions on a property, was passed. Steve Fanslau was appointed to the Airport Commission. A resolution tentatively approved the sale of Lot 1 Meadow's Subdivision, with a public hearing scheduled. Two sign permit variances were tabled until the next meeting. The council approved grant awards and additional funding for the Neighborhood Façade Grant Program, and adopted the Goal Setting Report. Finally, updates were provided on Highway 4 road improvements.

The council meeting involved the approval of the financial statement and bank reconciliation for November. A liquor license renewal was approved for Woody's Pizza. A public hearing was held and approval granted for the sale of Lot 1 Meadows Subdivision. A resolution was passed extending a street closure. Two sign permit variances were denied, and the Planning & Zoning Commission was directed to review the sign code. An update was given by the Iowa Lakes Corridor Development Corporation. A resolution was passed to provide notice of a hearing on a proposed budget amendment. An ordinance amendment concerning financial policies was passed. A resolution was adopted for the collection of unpaid nuisance assessments. An amendment to the City's Personnel Operating Policy regarding vacation leave donations was approved. Tentative agreements were ratified for the Estherville Public Works Labor and Estherville Police labor contracts. A resolution was passed establishing employment terms and conditions, including cost of living adjustments for city employees. The oaths of office were administered to the Mayor-Elect and a new Council Member. Appointments were made for City Clerk/Treasurer, Deputy City Clerk, City Attorney, and Fire Chief. Requests for property tax exemptions were approved for several commercial and residential properties. A contract was awarded for trail improvements at Fitzgibbons Park and Thoreson Park. Finally, an update was given on the opening of Highway 4 North.

The council meeting addressed several key items. A change order and pay estimate were approved for the Airport Apron & Taxiway Reconstruction Project. A resolution was adopted to provide notice of a hearing for the Wastewater Treatment Facility Improvements Project, setting dates for bid opening and a public hearing. Another resolution approved the Aquatic Center Policy and Procedures Manual and Fees. A five-year engineering agreement with Bolton & Menk, Inc. for airport projects was approved. The council also approved a trail extension project at Fitzgibbons Park and Thoreson Park. Finally, updates were provided on a water break, highway construction, trick-or-treating, and a Fright Hike event.