Scott Atzen

The meeting addressed the review and approval of the January 6th, 2026 meeting minutes. The primary agenda item involved a public hearing concerning a request for a 15' 10" rear yard setback variance for the property at 252 Cottonwood Drive SW to cover an existing deck. After discussion regarding the extent of the encroachment, potential precedent, and neighborhood support, the variance request was approved. Additionally, the Board formally expressed appreciation for the work done by Claire Habel, who will be unavailable for the next meeting.

The meeting included the election of officers for 2026, resulting in Dan Dove being elected Chairperson and Steve Chase elected Vice Chairperson. A public hearing was held regarding a rezoning request for 15 acres to M-1 zoning, which was recommended for approval subject to deficiencies. The Commission also considered and recommended for approval, subject to deficiencies, a site plan for a two-story addition to the Lutheran Church of the Cross and a preliminary plat for Prairie Crossing Plat 10. Finally, the Commission considered and recommended for approval drafted language for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to align with State of Iowa legislation.

The meeting included the introduction of new Board Members, Lisa Moressi and Miranda Ervin, and the subsequent election of Chris Pudenz as Chairperson and Matt Millard as Vice-Chairperson for the 2026 year. The Board reviewed and accepted staff's recommended park assignments for all members, noting that any member can report concerns about any park. The Consent Agenda, which included five proposed upcoming events such as an Easter Egg Scramble and various community festivals, was approved. Park updates provided by the Parks Supervisor detailed the status of numerous projects, including stream projects, restroom installations, and staff efforts in placing fish habitats and maintaining equipment. Councilperson Duer also presented an overview of approximately $1.6 million in budgeted projects for 2026 and 2027, highlighting proposed improvements for the adult softball fields at Lions Park.

The meeting agenda included the perfection and approval of the agenda, and citizen requests to address the council. Key items involved a Public Hearing regarding a proposal to enter into a Water Revenue Loan and Disbursement Agreement for up to $66,000,000, and subsequent resolution taking additional action on this agreement. The council considered approvals for a Preliminary Plat (Prairie Crossing Plat 10) and a site plan for the Lutheran Church of the Cross. Other actions included considering a request to refund late fees and credit a minimum bill for specific residents, approving various Consent Agenda items such as bills, payment applications for Tuscany Pond Improvements and 8th Street SW Reconstruction-Phase 2, and the appointment of a member to the Altoona Library Board. Furthermore, the council addressed an Amended Development Agreement with TAP Holdings, LLC, several Professional Services Agreements with Bolton & Menk, Inc., and a Task Order Amendment with McClure Engineering Co. for Water System Improvements. Several resolutions regarding the acceptance of various easements were on the agenda. The council also set multiple Public Hearings for February 16, 2026, concerning the FY2026 Budget Amendment, a rezoning request, standards for Accessory Dwelling Units, and easements for road widening projects. Finally, event requests and applications for beer and liquor permits were considered.

The meeting commenced with the swearing-in of a new councilmember. Key discussions included passing a resolution to appoint a temporary councilmember due to military service. Public hearings were held regarding the Water System Improvements 2024, Jordan Well #5 Project, including the approval of plans, specifications, contract, and award of the contract to Gingerich Well & Pump Service LLC for a total of $5,687,610.00. Another public hearing addressed granting an electrical easement to MidAmerican Energy for the new public works building. The council also held a public hearing and subsequently passed an ordinance amending wastewater service charges, resulting in rate increases for both water and sanitary sewer utilities. Additional business involved approving the Final Plat for Spring Creek Ridge West Plat 2, approving a Site Plan for a Meta Main Distribution Frame, confirming various Mayoral and Council appointments to boards and commissions, and considering consent agenda items, including paying bills, approving payments, an agreement with McClure Engineering Co., and approving an application to the Trees Please! Grant Program and several beer and liquor permits.