Author: City of Muscatine

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Presentations on McKee Building, Love’s Project on Council agenda

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine City Council will hear a presentation on the future of the McKee Building and a presentation on the Love’s Project on Thursday (March 10) when the Council convenes for their in-depth session. 

 

A virtual meeting will be held in conjunction with the in-person meeting for those who want to view the proceedings or make a comment but do not feel comfortable in attending in person. Details for joining that meeting are listed below.

 

The Kent Corporation recently acquired the McKee Button Factory, 1000 Hershey Avenue, and are proposing renovating the existing building into office space that will ultimately house a significant number of employees. Tax increment financing (TIF), consisting of a 50 percent rebate for 10 years, is being requested for this project.

 

The parcel upon which the building sits is not large enough to construct a parking lot of the size necessary to accommodate the size of the proposed workforce. For this reason, Kent is proposing to acquire a 1.14-acre portion of the City owned parcel that directly adjoins their property.

 

A special regular meeting of the Muscatine City Council will be held five minutes after the conclusion of the in-depth session to set a public hearing on March 17 on declaring a portion of City owned property located at 1030 Hershey Avenue as surplus and directing for its disposal.

 

The second presentation will be on a new Love’s Travel Stop is being proposed at the northeast corner of the Grandview Avenue/U.S. 61 intersection. A Love’s Country Store, underground fuel tanks, fueling canopies for both passenger vehicles and trucks, and separate parking areas for both passenger vehicles and trucks in part of the proposal. 

 

Thursday’s City Council meeting is open to the public. Citizens who do not want to attend the in-person meeting can watch and/or participate through the GoToMeeting virtual meeting portal. Information on joining the session and how to make a comment during the meeting is listed below. The session will also be broadcast live on the City of Muscatine YouTube channel and on Muscatine Power & Water Cable Channel 2.

 

Information on the presentations and other agenda items can be found by clicking AGENDA to download the March 3, 2022, City Council agenda and/or attachments.

 

The best way for the public to participate is to dial in to the GoToMeeting session, mute your device, watch the session on YouTube or Cable Channel 2, and, at the appropriate time, unmute your device to ask a question or make a comment. The public can also use the “chat” feature on the GoToMeeting virtual meeting to pose a question to the Mayor, Council, or staff member.

 

Muscatine City Council In Depth Meeting | Thu, Mar. 10, 2022 | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (CDT) 
 
 Join the meeting from your computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone by clicking the following link: https://www.gotomeet.me/CityofMuscatine/city-council-meeting


 You can also use your phone by dialing +1 (669) 224-3412, follow the prompts, and type in Access Code 970-499-597 when prompted.
 
 New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts: https://global.gotomeeting.com/install/970499597

 

Please mute your computer or phone while listening to the proceedings (press *6 when using phone or mute button on computer). A chat window is available when you use your computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone. Those wishing to speak or to ask a question are asked to use the chat box to post a message that will be seen by the Mayor who will address the questions or call on the speaker in turn. Those using their phones must wait until the Mayor asks for additional comments. The Mayor will recognize you prior to you addressing the Council.

 

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

MUSCOM to participate in statewide tornado drill March 23

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine County Joint Communications Center (MUSCOM) will start the yearly testing of the Outdoor Sirens on Monday, April 4, 2022.  The sirens are tested on the first Monday of every month at 11 a.m. during non-freezing months, however, if there is severe weather forecast for a testing day, the sirens will not be tested.      

 

The county will also be participating in the Statewide Tornado Drill to be held in conjunction with Severe Weather Awareness Week.  The Drill will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 23.  The sirens will also be activated in conjunction with this drill.    For more information you can visit the National Weather Service Site at https://www.weather.gov/dvn/.

 

“The Statewide Drill gives businesses, schools, daycares and other facilities the chance to practice their severe weather procedures as we move into storm season.  I encourage all facilities in the county to participate in the drill” said Chris Jasper, Director – Emergency Management/911.

 

Just as a reminder to all citizens, during a severe weather event, the sirens are activated by MUSCOM when one of the following criteria is met:

  • Tornado Warning issued by the National Weather Service
  • Tornado or funnel cloud reported by a trained weather spotter
  • Severe thunderstorm Warning issued by the National Weather Service or a report from a trained weather spotter that includes:
    1. Wind 70mph or greater and/or
    2. Golf ball sized hail or larger

 

According to information from the NWS most fatalities during tornadoes or severe thunderstorms occur due to falling trees or large branches.  70 mph wind is the typical threshold at which large branches and small trees break.   Hail also begins to break windows when it reaches or exceeds golf ball sized hail. 

 

“Muscatine County follows the guidelines that are set out by the National Weather Service.  Due to the possibility of extreme danger from falling trees and branches we will continue to activate the siren system for Severe Thunderstorm Warnings that meet that threshold,” said Jasper.

 

Sirens are designed to alert citizens who are outdoors of an imminent hazard and prompt them to go indoors and seek further information.

 

“We encourage the public to tune into local media outlets or listen to a weather radio during severe weather and ask that they limit the use of 911 to emergencies only,” Jasper said.

 

Anyone that believes a siren is not working or malfunctioning can reach out to the Office of Emergency Management at 563-264-7142.

 

Outdoor Siren Locations

 

In cooperation with the Muscatine Area Geographic Information Consortium (MAGIC), a link has been created for Muscatine County residents to pinpoint where the outdoor warning sirens are located. Click on the following link to view the locations: OUTDOOR SIRENS. 

 

Free National Weather Service Storm Spotter Training

 

For those interested in becoming storm spotters, the National Weather Service will be conducting both an in-person and virtual (on-line) training. Storm spotter training will be held at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 15, at Calvary Church in Muscatine. Classes cover severe weather hazards including thunderstorms and tornadoes, the general structure and movement of severe thunderstorms, identification of important storm features, and safety concerns. 

 

All in-person and virtual classes to be conducted by the NWS Quad Cities office, and all classes last about 2 hours. Classes are free and open to the public. Pre-registration is required for virtual classes. Classes are appropriate for all ages, but ages 10 and up will likely get the most out of the training.

 

Click QUAD CITIES STORM WATCHERS for more information or visit the Storm Spotter Training event notification on Facebook.

 

Testing and Activation of the Muscatine County-Wide Outdoor Warning System

 

The Muscatine County Emergency Management Agency has established a Guidance policy for Testing and Activation of the Muscatine County-Wide Outdoor Warning System. As a reminder, sirens are used to alert those who are outdoors of an imminent hazard and prompt them to go indoors and seek further information. The information will be available to the general public through the county and other municipalities’ websites.

 

For more information, visit the Emergency Management website, and follow them on Facebook.

 

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Improved wetlands area to help mitigate flooding issues

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The wetlands area surrounding the Muscatine Slough received a face lift of sorts recently with the clearing of trees and removal of some sediment that had accumulated causing flooding problems.

 

Problems with flooding and ponding in the area around the Kent Stein Park Lift Station prompted the City of Muscatine to reach out to an engineer specializing in wetlands to examine the area between Houser Street and the Pollinator Park area, and from the Soccer West Complex to the Muscatine Transfer Station.

 

“We had significant issues maintaining the equipment at the Kent Stein Park lift station after flooding events,” Jon Koch, Water Resource and Recovery Facility director, said. “We eventually had to relocate most of the equipment from the underground facility to a new above ground facility.”

 

The wetlands area is a gathering point for storm water running down ditches and creeks from Muscatine’s higher elevations in the southern end of town, and that created a dam of sediment that prevented water from flowing down the slough. The build up of sediment needed to be removed to allow the water to flow and not back up into Kent Stein Park, Soccer West, or businesses located nearby.

 

“This was a great opportunity to restore the wetlands area and assist with mitigating flooding of low-lying areas near this location,” Koch said.

 

The wetlands engineer identified what trees could be cut down to open the area up along with brush that could be cleared.

 

“You have to leave the stumps but just removing some of the trees and cleaning up the sediment deposits has already improved the wetlands area,” Koch said. “It will be a great addition to the Pollinator Park area.”

 

The Pollinator Park trail is a one-mile loop that runs from the Kent Stein Park trailhead around the Pollinator Park and follows the slough around the Muscatine Transfer Station back towards the trailhead.

 

“The additional wetlands will create an even better experience for those who walk the trail,” Koch said. “There will be plenty of wildlife and flowering plants for people to see and appreciate. Our pollinators will also love the improved wetland area.”

 

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Seasonal job fair Saturday at Muscatine Municipal Golf Course

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Opportunities for seasonal employment take center stage this weekend as the City of Muscatine Parks and Recreation Department hosts a seasonal job fair from 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Saturday (March 12) in the clubhouse at the Muscatine Municipal Golf Course. 

 

The Parks and Recreation Department is actively recruiting dependable, hardworking individuals to fill seasonal positions for the spring and summer of 2022. The Muscatine City Council recently passed an increase in the hourly rate for seasonal workers making this a great opportunity for individuals, including high school and college students, seeking seasonal work.

 

A variety of opportunities are available including Aquatic Center Manager, lifeguards, slide attendants, cashiers, equipment operators, office clerk, Golf Clubhouse supervisors, gas dock attendants, recreation program leaders, seasonal maintenance laborers, groundskeepers and College Search Kickoff program assistants. A complete list of opportunities are  available on the City of Muscatine website at SUMMER POSITIONS. 

 

Make plans to come out to the Muscatine Municipal Golf Course to talk with current staff, review open positions, and fill out an application. Interested persons may also fill out an application ahead of time by downloading a copy from the City of Muscatine website (Seasonal Job Application). 

 

For more information, please contact the Muscatine Parks and Recreation Department at (563) 263-0241.

 

Other opportunities for employment with the City of Muscatine include:

 

  • Maintenance Repairperson – Performs a variety of tasks of skilled and semi-skilled nature requiring the manual use of tools. Click on the link for a complete job description and how to apply. Applications are due by March 18, 2022.
  • Fire Fighter – The Muscatine Fire Department is compiling a list of prospective candidates for the position of firefighter. If you are interested in joining our premier team of firefighter-paramedics, please submit your application to be placed on the current selection list by the May 18 deadline. Click here to view our recruitment video.
  • Substitute Refuse Collector – The Muscatine Transfer Station is accepting applications for individuals to serve as a substitute refuse collector on an as needed basis.  Hours will vary depending on need. Individuals applying should be reliable, physically able to lift 75 pounds and be able to work flexible and early morning hours. The position will remain open until filled.
  • Transit Driver – The Transit Division of the Department of Public Works is looking for a few people who love driving and providing excellent customer service to the community. Click on the link for more information on hours and qualifications. The position will remain open until filled and all applicants are welcomed.

 

For more information, visit the Employment Opportunities section on the City of Muscatine web site. The City of Muscatine is an equal employment affirmative action employer.

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Outdoor Warning Sirens just one part of notification system

MUSCATINE Iowa – The outdoor warning sirens were activated in Muscatine County Friday night when radar indicated circulation indicative of a funnel cloud in the northern part of Muscatine County as a line of severe weather moved through the county. Although two tornadoes were reported in Scott County, none were reported to have touched down in Muscatine County.

 

The outdoor warning sirens are a system intended to notify residents outside of their homes or places of business that severe weather is imminent. It is just one part of a multi-layered system to alert residents of potential life-threatening storms. Other parts include the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Weather Radio (NWR), broadcast radio, television, and cable providers that use the Emergency Alert System (EAS), Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) systems, telephonic notification services, and digital message boards along highways.

 

“When you hear the outdoor warning sirens, it is time to move indoors and check local media for further information,” Jerry Ewers, Muscatine Fire Chief, said. “The sirens are just one part of a larger notification system.”

 

One device, just as important to safety in the home as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, is a NOAA All Hazards alert radio that can notify residents INSIDE their home to severe weather watches and warnings, civil emergencies, and amber alerts. These units, especially battery powered ones, are vital whether residents are in various locations inside the home or have moved to a place of safety within the home.

 

According to the Iowa Emergency Management Association (IEMA) the sole purpose of outdoor warning sirens is for the protection of life. Hearing an outdoor warning siren is a call to take immediate life-saving action and the most desired individual action is to take shelter.

 

“Get inside and then get information” is the recommendation of emergency management professionals.

 

Muscatine County offers alert notification through ALERT IOWA, a mass notification and emergency messaging system hosted by the Iowa Homeland Security & Emergency Management Department. Residents can sign up for the types of alerts they would like to receive and select the best way to receive those messages. 

 

The Muscatine County Emergency Management Association highly recommends that residents keep a weather radio with a battery backup in their homes for use during times of inclement weather.

 

The standard operating procedure for activation of the outdoor sirens includes:

 

  • The sirens are activated for severe thunderstorms when the NWS issues a severe thunderstorm warning or a trained spotter reports winds of 70 mph or greater and/or golf ball size hail or larger. Hail begins to break windows when it reaches or exceeds golf ball size and winds of 70 mph or greater are enough to break large branches and small trees.
  • The sirens are activated for tornadoes when the NWS issues a tornado warning and/or a trained spotter reports a tornado or funnel cloud.
  • The sirens can also be activated for non-weather emergencies (hazmat incident, terrorism, nuclear emergency, etc.) that pose a threat to those who are outdoors and require action to protect life.

 

When the NWS issues a severe thunderstorm watch or a tornado watch, it is a notification to residents that conditions exist that severe weather is possible and residents should be prepared if a warning is issued. If the sirens sound … get inside and get informed.

 

“We have a county wide warning system so although the weather may be fine in one area, it could be quite the opposite in another,” Ewers said. “Never dismiss the sirens and always seek information of where the storms are.”

 

A severe thunderstorm watch means “Be Prepared” as conditions are favorable for a severe thunderstorm to form, so tune in to forecast updates, monitor sky conditions, and know where to take shelter if needed. 

 

A severe thunderstorm warning means “Take Action!” and take shelter immediately as a severe thunderstorm is happening or about to happen.

 

Severe thunderstorms produce damaging wind and/or large hail. If a warning is issued, take shelter in a sturdy structure away from windows (a basement or cellar would be best). Being inside a hard-topped vehicle is safer than being outside. Thunderstorms also produce lightning that kill an average of 30 people every year.

 

A tornado watch means “Be Prepared” as a tornado is possible. Know your safe place (storm shelter, basement, interior hall away from windows), and be sure to act quickly if a warning is issued.

 

A tornado warning means “Take Action!” as a tornado is happening or about to happen. Immediately take shelter in your safe place. Do not dismiss radar indicated tornado warnings, especially at dusk or at night. Dangerous conditions exist for the warning to be issued.

 

Winds from tornadoes can exceed 200 mph with flying debris very dangerous and most often the cause of death and injuries. Seek a study shelter in a basement, storm shelter, or interior room away from windows on the lowest floor and cover your head. Every tornado should be seen as life-threatening.

 

More information about the warning system can be found on the SEVERE WEATHER page on the City of Muscatine web site including when are the sirens sounded and what to do when you hear the sirens.

 

FAQ – Outdoor Weather Sirens

 

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Muscatine Compost Facility to open for season on March 19

MUSCATINE – Iowa – The Compost Facility at the Muscatine Transfer Station, 1000 S. Houser St., Muscatine, will open for the season on Saturday, March 19, according to David Popp, Solid Waste Manager for the City of Muscatine. Regular hours for the Compost Facility are 12-6 p.m. Sunday through Friday and from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturdays.

 

Muscatine and Fruitland residents can take yard waste (grass clippings, leaves, plants) from their property to the facility along with brush and branches less than 10 inches in diameter and 10 feet in length. Larger trees and logs can also be taken to the location but tree stumps or roots are not accepted.

 

Non-residents and commercial users of the Compost Facility will be charged a fee for yard waste brought to the site. The fee schedule for non-resident and for commercial users is available on the Compost Site page on the City of Muscatine web site. 

 

 

City of Muscatine resident window sticker (JPG)Residents of Muscatine and Fruitland can visit the Muscatine Transfer Station, Muscatine City Hall Finance Department, or the Muscatine Public Works Department to receive a window sticker to verify that they are a resident and will not be charged a fee at the Compost Facility by the attendant. A driver’s license with current address will be needed to verify residency. Each resident will receive a sticker for up to two vehicles which should be placed in the lower right hand corner of the windshield. 

 

An attendant will be on site to verify residency and secure payment from non-residents and commercial users (cash or check only with no bills larger than $20.00) during Compost Site operating hours.

 

The facility does not have compost available at the present time. Please call (563) 263-9689 in advance to find out when compost is available and at what times compost can be picked up.

 

Help loading compost will be offered on weekdays from 12-3:30 p.m. but limited to the availability of staff. Loading of mulch on Saturday and Sunday will be up to the individual as staff will not be available to help.

 

If you do not want to pick up compost at the facility, the Transfer Station will be offering a delivery service, but deliveries of shredded mulch, wood chips, and compost (when available) would need to be prescheduled by calling the Transfer Station. Deliveries would be limited to Muscatine and Fruitland residents on their trash collection day and limited to time available. A full one-ton truck load would cost $25.00.

 

The Compost Site also has firewood available for area residents. However, those wanting firewood are asked to check in with the attendant at the Compost Site and sign a waiver before cutting and/or loading firewood. 

 

Popp reminds residents wanting to bring material to the compost site that all loads need to be secured during transportation to or from the compost site as loose material may fall onto city streets causing traffic hazards or damage to vehicles. 

 

Compost Site Fee Schedule 2022

Non-Resident Fee Schedule

 

Commercial Users Fee Schedule

Per 

Bag

 

$1.00

 

Pickup

 

$30.00

Car/Van/

SUV

 

$5.00

Trailer

Up to 10-feet

 

$50.00

Small 

Pickup

 

$10.00

Trailer

10-16 feet

 

$100.00

Full Size 

Pickup

 

$12.00

One Ton

Dump Truck

 

$50.00

1 Ton Small 

Dump Truck

 

$15.00

Single Axle

Dump Truck

 

$75.00

Single Axle 

Trailer

 

$15.00

Tandem Axle

Dump Truck

 

$100.00

Tandem Axle 

Trailer

 

$30.00

Semi

Dump

 

$150.00

Single Axle 

Dump Truck

 

$40.00

 

 

Tandem Axle 

Dump Truck

 

$60.00

 

 

Semi 

Dump

 

$100.00

 

 

 

Pickup of shredded mulch, wood chips, and compost (when available)

Load Out Fee

$5.00 per cubic yard

 

Load Out Fee

$5.00 per cubic yard

Delivery of shredded mulch, wood chips, and compost (when available)

Muscatine and Fruitland Residents Only

$25.00 for a full one ton load

 

 

 

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Annual Greenwood Cemetery cleanup is underway

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The annual spring cleanup of Muscatine Greenwood Cemetery is underway. All grave decorations were to be removed by Monday, March 14, 2022, according to cemetery staff. Remaining grave decorations will be removed and discarded by cemetery staff after that date.

 

Grave decorations include, but are not limited to, wreaths, silk flowers, grave blankets, wooden crosses, toys, cobblestones, and potted plants. Undecorated metal shepherd’s hooks and Remembrance Vigil Candles and Solar Lights will not be removed.

 

New grave decorations may be brought in after Monday, April 4, 2022, with no more than two decorations per grave site.

 

Please call (563) 263-7051 if you have any questions or require more information. You may also email cemetery staff at greenwoodcemetery@muscatineiowa.gov.

 

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Local firefighters to participate in AHA Heart Walk May 7

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Firefighters from the Muscatine Fire Department will be participating in the 2022 Corridor Heart Walk, part of the American Heart Association (AHA) national heart walk events, on May 7 in Kinnick Stadium on the campus of the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa.

 

The firefighters are being led by this year’s captain Firefighter/Paramedic Colton Pauls who noted that in 2020 almost two-thirds of firefighter deaths were related to heart disease and complications. 

 

Firefighters will be asking the public for help in raising money in support of the AHA Heart Walk and to support the American Heart Association staff, volunteers, and researchers who continuously supply research, statistics, and promote heart and vascular health.

 

For more information or to donate, visit MFD WALK or visit the Muscatine Fire Department Facebook page.

 

AHA Heart Walk MFD 2022

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Four public hearings on City Council agenda for March 3

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Four public hearings will be held during the first Muscatine City Council meeting of March on Thursday (March 3) including three tied to the City’s next bond issue in May 2022. 

 

A virtual meeting will be held in conjunction with the in-person meeting for those who want to view the proceedings or make a comment but do not feel comfortable in attending in person. Details for joining that meeting are listed below.

 

The City’s next bond issue, scheduled for May 2022, will provide funding for a number of City projects that have recently been completed, are currently underway, or will be underway in calendar years 2022 and 2023. These projects and the proposed bond issue were reviewed with the City Council as part of the recent budget sessions. 

 

The bond issue is estimated at $6,200,000 with $6,090,000 for project costs and $110,000 for estimated bond issuance costs. The projects include those classified as Essential Corporate Purposes including the Park Avenue improvements, the Grandview Avenue Reconstruction project, Park improvements, Building Demolition projects, Flood Damage repairs, Transfer Station Tipping Floor Restoration, the Public Safety Telephone System upgrade, and purchases of a new fire engine and two ambulances for the Fire Department. 

 

General Corporate Purpose projects include the purchase of the former Kum and Go property, Aquatic Center repairs, Deferred Building Maintenance projects, and the City portion of the new Vehicle Wash Bay. 

 

The public hearings will be held prior to the City Council taking action on the attached resolution.

 

The first public hearing will be on the maximum tax levy for the Fiscal Year 2022/2023 budget. Only the General, Transit, Tort Liability/Insurance, Emergency, and Employee benefits levies are included. The FY 22/23 budget will see an increase of $395,583 from these levies (3.95%) but actual tax bills will be lower due to an increase in taxable valuations and state rollbacks.

 

The Council will also set a public hearing for the FY 2022/2023 budget. That hearing is tentatively scheduled for March 17 with the City budget due in the hands of the Muscatine County auditor by March 31.

 

Thursday’s City Council meeting is open to the public. Citizens who do not want to attend the in-person meeting can watch and/or participate through the GoToMeeting virtual meeting portal. Information on joining the session and how to make a comment during the meeting is listed below. The session will also be broadcast live on the City of Muscatine YouTube channel and on Muscatine Power & Water Cable Channel 2.

 

Information on the presentations and other agenda items can be found by clicking AGENDA to download the March 3, 2022, City Council agenda and/or attachments.

 

The best way for the public to participate is to dial in to the GoToMeeting session, mute your device, watch the session on YouTube or Cable Channel 2, and, at the appropriate time, unmute your device to ask a question or make a comment. The public can also use the “chat” feature on the GoToMeeting virtual meeting to pose a question to the Mayor, Council, or staff member.

 

Muscatine City Council Regular Meeting | Thu, Mar. 3, 2022 | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (CDT) 
 
Join the meeting from your computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone by clicking the following link: https://www.gotomeet.me/CityofMuscatine/city-council-meeting


You can also use your phone by dialing +1 (669) 224-3412, follow the prompts, and type in Access Code 970-499-597 when prompted.
 
New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts: https://global.gotomeeting.com/install/970499597

 

Please mute your computer or phone while listening to the proceedings (press *6 when using phone or mute button on computer). A chat window is available when you use your computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone. Those wishing to speak or to ask a question are asked to use the chat box to post a message that will be seen by the Mayor who will address the questions or call on the speaker in turn. Those using their phones must wait until the Mayor asks for additional comments. The Mayor will recognize you prior to you addressing the Council.

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Meteorological spring arrives, time to prepare for severe weather

MUSCATINE, Iowa – With Meteorological spring upon us, the Muscatine County Emergency Management Agency wants to remind those in the county to start preparing for severe storms. 

 

On average, Muscatine County residents can experience thunderstorm warnings for storms that are capable of producing damaging winds, lightning, hail, and even tornadoes.

 

The Muscatine County Emergency Management Commission is in the process of updating the outdoor warning system sirens, many of which were the 1960’s civil defense warning devices. Each year, the Commission approves a budget to replace four (4) sirens for the fiscal year.

 

In cooperation with the Muscatine Area Geographic Information Consortium (MAGIC), a link has been created for Muscatine County residents to pinpoint where the outdoor warning sirens are located. Click on the following link to view the locations: OUTDOOR SIRENS. 

 

Free National Weather Service Storm Spotter Training

 

For those interested in becoming storm spotters, the National Weather Service will be conducting both an in-person and virtual (on-line) training. Storm spotter training will be held at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 15, at Calvary Church in Muscatine. Classes cover severe weather hazards including thunderstorms and tornadoes, the general structure and movement of severe thunderstorms, identification of important storm features, and safety concerns. 

 

All in-person and virtual classes to be conducted by the NWS Quad Cities office, and all classes last about 2 hours. Classes are free and open to the public. Pre-registration is required for virtual classes. Classes are appropriate for all ages, but ages 10 and up will likely get the most out of the training.

 

Click QUAD CITIES STORM WATCHERS for more information or visit the Storm Spotter Training event notification on Facebook.

 

Testing and Activation of the Muscatine County-Wide Outdoor Warning System

 

The Muscatine County Emergency Management Agency has established a Guidance policy for Testing and Activation of the Muscatine County-Wide Outdoor Warning System. As a reminder, sirens are used to alert those who are outdoors of an imminent hazard and prompt them to go indoors and seek further information. The information will be available to the general public through the county and other municipalities’ websites.

 

For more information, visit the Emergency Management website, and follow them on Facebook.

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Section of Grandview Avenue closed to traffic starting March 2

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Grandview Avenue will be closed to traffic from Briers Ditch (north of the entrance to the Rose Bowl) to just south of the Musser Street intersection starting Wednesday, March 2. 

 

The closure will allow the replacement of a culvert at Briers Ditch and additional underground work including the installation of sewer and water main. The closure is expected to last at least three weeks depending on the weather.

 

Access to all businesses located within that area will be maintained, if possible, from either the Musser Street intersection or the Houser Street intersection. Traffic will be detoured at Houser onto Sampson Street to Steward Road/Oregon Street and back to Grandview Avenue. (See DETOUR map).

 

The second year of the two-year Grandview Avenue Reconstruction Project opened on Monday with milling of Grandview Avenue from Houser Street to Musser Street. Drivers are reminded that the milled pavement will be rough. Drivers are urged to slow down and use caution when travelling through the construction zone, and find alternate routes when possible. 

 

Additional information on the project can be found on the City of Muscatine web site at Grandview Avenue Revitalization. 

 

Project Update (JPG)Drivers are reminded to slow down and use caution when travelling through the construction zone, obey traffic control devices, and be aware of workers. Use an alternate route if possible.

 

For more information on City of Muscatine construction projects click on CONSTRUCTION to visit the Department of Public Works Construction Projects page.

 

If you have a comment or concern, please email feedback@muscatineiowa.gov or pwrequest@muscatineiowa.gov. A staff member will respond within 24 hours.

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Grandview Avenue Reconstruction work resumes on February 28

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Construction activity will return to the Grandview Avenue corridor Monday (Feb. 28) as Heuer Construction begins milling the pavement from Houser to Musser streets, weather permitting.

 

Two-way traffic will be maintained during the milling process, and the roadway will be rough with drivers urged to slow down, use caution when travelling through the construction zone, and find alternate routes when possible. 

 

One of the major construction events for Phase II of the project will be the replacement of a culvert at Briar’s Ditch that will necessitate a full closure of Grandview Avenue from Briar’s Ditch to Musser Street. Traffic will be detoured at Houser to Musser and back to Grandview, or Sampson to Stewart Road/Oregon and back to Grandview during the full closure.

 

The full closure is tentatively planned to begin Wednesday (March 2) and last for approximately three weeks. 

 

AProject Update (JPG)ccess to all businesses in the construction zone will be maintained either from Musser or from Houser.

 

Additional information on the project can be found on the City of Muscatine web site at Grandview Avenue Revitalization. 

 

Drivers are reminded to slow down and use caution when travelling through the construction zone, obey traffic control devices, and be aware of workers. Use an alternate route if possible.

 

For more information on City of Muscatine construction projects click on CONSTRUCTION to visit the Department of Public Works Construction Projects page.

 

If you have a comment or concern, please email feedback@muscatineiowa.gov or pwrequest@muscatineiowa.gov. A staff member will respond within 24 hours.

 

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Muscatine Community Survey available for citizen participation

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The City of Muscatine is excited to announce the launch of a comprehensive quality of life survey through March 11. The survey is currently available online for randomly selected residents and will be available to all residents starting Friday (Feb. 25). 

 

If a resident received a survey invitation in the mail, it is very important that the resident completes that version (accessing the survey using the URL provided in the mailed material). The community-wide open participation survey is available by clicking the following link: https://polco.us/sr4w8x. An email address and zip code are required to register for the survey that ensures that Polco receives only one response per person.

 

“We’re very excited to be conducting this survey,” Kevin Jenison, City of Muscatine Communications Manager, said. “This survey will help City staff and Council identify priorities for the community and improve the quality of life in Muscatine.”

 

Muscatine Mayor Brad Bark hopes all residents will participate in this survey.

 

“Muscatine is a great community and the results will help to create a better community for individuals and families to come live in, work in, and raise a family in,” Bark said. “I encourage everyone living in Muscatine to take the survey and help us chart our community’s future.”

 

City Administrator Carol Webb and Jenison have been working with independent consultant Polco to develop the survey over the past few months. The instrument, known as The National Community Survey™, allows City staff and Council to compare results and benchmark residents’ opinions against other communities across the country. The survey includes questions about quality of life, important characteristics of community, services provided by the City of Muscatine and priorities for the future. The survey is available online in English and Spanish.

 

Polco is an innovative online engagement platform that lets residents provide direct input to the local government decision-making process. By using Polco, the City of Muscatine is making public participation easier for residents. 

 

The survey questions in the open participation survey are the same as in the sampled survey, but with two small updates including a map at the beginning that asks where the respondent lives, and a question at the end that asks where they heard about the survey.

 

Both versions of the survey are scheduled to close on March 11. If a resident received a survey invitation in the mail, it is very important that they complete that version (accessing the survey using the URL provided in the mailed material). An email address and zip code is required to register for the survey that ensures that Polco receives only one response per person.

 

Residents with questions about the survey may contact the City of Muscatine by phone at 563-264-1550, by email at kjenison@muscatineiowa.gov or by visiting the City of Muscatine website.

 

About The National Community Survey™ (The NCS™): The NCS was among the first scientific surveys developed to gather resident opinion on a range of community issues, and has been used in more than 350 jurisdictions across 46 states. The NCS is a cost-effective survey of resident opinion and an important benchmarking tool that allows for comparison among communities. Communities using The NCS have reported that the tool improved service delivery, strengthened communications with community stakeholders and helped leaders identify clear priorities for use in strategic planning and budget setting. The NCS is the only resident survey endorsed by the International City/County Management Association and the National League of Cities.

 

About Polco: (www.polco.us) Polco was developed to quickly deploy and analyze surveys online, providing the agility to gather critical information from community stakeholders throughout the nation. We have created tools for governments, economic development organizations and nonprofits to measure community livability. Respondents to The NCS are asked to join the City’s Polco panel to see the survey results and continue to engage with the city on future research. 

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Monthly Report for January 2022 available for review

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The monthly City Administrator Report to the City Council and Citizens of Muscatine is now available highlighting the many accomplishments by the departments of the City of Muscatine during the month of January. 

 

The City Administrator’s Monthly Report is intended to provide a brief summary of City activities, with links to additional information where possible. Due to the variety and complexity of City functions, however, the report is not all-encompassing. 

 

Please always feel free to contact the City of Muscatine for more information or with questions or concerns. Any feedback can be provided to the City Administrator’s office by sending an email to feedback@muscatineiowa.gov.

 

You can also view past and upcoming events on the City’s calendar.

MONTHLY REPORT

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Fruitland couple faces 42 charges of animal neglect

MUSCATINE, Iowa – A Fruitland couple was arrested Thursday (Feb. 24) and charged with 42 counts of animal neglect following a two-week investigation that began after 42 dogs were rescued from the couples’ mobile home in Fruitland on Feb. 10.

 

Muscatine Police Department (MPD) charged both Douglas Elshoff, 65, and Karen Elshoff, 61, 150 Main Street, Fruitland, Iowa, with 42 counts of animal neglect in accordance with Iowa Code Section 717B.3.

 

Douglas and Karen Elshoff were released on a promise to appear in court, and both are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

 

The Elshoff’s had previously signed over custody of all 42 dogs to the Muscatine Humane Society voluntarily. All dogs continue to be housed and treated at the Muscatine Humane Society, 920 South Houser Street, Muscatine, Iowa.

 

MPD received an anonymous tip on February 10, 2022, regarding allegations of animal neglect occurring at 150 Main Street, Fruitland, Iowa. The tip alleged that a couple were living in a mobile home with an excessive number of dogs. The overcrowded conditions in the mobile home were suspected of causing severe health issues for the dogs. 

 

Muscatine Animal Control Officer Courtney Patel investigated the anonymous tip, and discovered that an excessive number of dogs were housed in the mobile home, and concerns of overcrowding and unsanitary conditions were identified. 

 

In conjunction with the Muscatine Police Department, a search warrant was obtained for removal of the animals.

 

The Muscatine Police Department, with assistance from Muscatine Animal Control and the Muscatine Humane Society, accessed the residence and were able to rescue the animals. A total of 42 dogs were rescued from inside the mobile home. The conditions of the mobile home were considered unsafe for the animals due to the excessive amount of animal waste present, as well as a lack of access to adequate food and medical care. 

 

In accordance with Iowa Code 717B.5, which outlines the rescue of threatened animals, the Muscatine Police Department worked with the Muscatine Humane Society to take over possession, care, and maintenance of the animals while the investigation continues. The animals will remain with the Muscatine Humane Society until dispositional proceedings can be held. 

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Explorer Post to focus on Fire, EMS career opportunities

MUSCATINE, Iowa – A new Fire/EMS Explorer Post has been formed in Muscatine sponsored by the Muscatine Fire Department, providing a hands-on program for boys and girls 14- to 21-years-old to learn about careers in Fire and EMS.

 

“There was an explorer post a couple of years ago and we are bringing it back,” Benjamin Barrett, Muscatine firefighter, said.

 

An informational night will be held at 7 p.m., Thursday (Feb. 24), at the Public Safety Building, 312 East Fifth Street, Muscatine. 

 

Exploring is about helping young men and women make an informed decision about future careers and determine if a career in the fire services is the right one for them. Typically, a young adult will either:

  1. Get involved, learn about a career, and decide to pursue it;
  2. Decide to pursue the activities as a community volunteer; or
  3. Learn enough about the career to determine it is not the right fit for them.

 

“This is a great opportunity to learn about careers in Fire and EMS,” Barrett said. “Explorers get hands-on experience in a variety of career opportunities. They will also have the opportunity to earn certifications in areas like CPR.”

 

Fire & EMS careers include firefighters, forest firefighters, paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), fire marshals, fire inspector/investigator, disaster responders, emergency managers, search and rescue services, shelter managers, lifeguard, and ski patrol.

 

The program emphasizes five areas including career opportunities with hands-on, interactive experiences and learning how to develop potential contacts that may broaden employment options. Developing life skills is an emphasis to facilitate positive social interactions, citizenship encourages the desire to help others while respecting the basic rights of others. The Explorer program also emphasizes character development which will help members make ethical choices while facilitating service-learning opportunities.

 

The program also helps with a leadership experience, giving youth leaders the opportunity to coordinate program activities while learning leadership skills through the Explorer’s training material.

 

Do you want to get your hands dirty? Do you want to make a positive impact on the lives of members in your community? If so, then this is the program for you. All youth 15- to 20-years-old are welcome to come explore, learn, and join in the fun whether they live in Muscatine or outside the city limits.

 

For more information and to find out how you can join today, contact Assistant Fire Chief Michael Hartman (mhartman@muscatineiowa.gov) or Firefighter Benjamin Barrett (bbarrett@muscatineiowa.gov). You can also call the Public Safety Building at (563) 263-9233 and ask for either one.

 

You can also visit the Exploring website at www.exploring.org

 

About the Muscatine Fire Department: 

 

The Muscatine Fire Department provides fire and emergency medical services, rescues (high angle, rope, water, etc.), building inspections, and public education for the City of Muscatine, and the surrounding unincorporated areas of Muscatine County with a combined population of 43,000 across 145 square miles while also providing HAZMAT for Muscatine, Louisa, Washington, Keokuk, and Henry counties. MFD firefighters and paramedics responded to 5,709 calls in 2021. The Muscatine Fire Department began as a volunteer fire company on January 7, 1875 and was established as a full-time department in January 1916. The Muscatine Fire Department ambulance service received the 2012 Career Ambulance service of the Year Award from Iowa Emergency Medical Services.

 

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Art Center to be closed to public as exhibitions change

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine Art Center will be closed to the public from February 21 through March 8 to facilitate the changing of exhibitions. Art Center staff will be working behind the scenes to pack up the Nature Connects exhibition, deep clean the facility, and install several new exhibitions during this time period.

 

During the closure, appointments must be made in advance by calling 563-263-8282. Appointments are available Monday through Friday.

 

Visitors to the Muscatine Art Center encounter paintings made by artists recognized around the world, fascinating objects connected to Muscatine’s past, beautifully crafted decorative arts, charming period rooms, and a Japanese Garden installed nearly a century ago. Learners of all ages can pique their curiosity through changing exhibitions, classes, and events. For more information, visit Muscatine Art Center, visit the Art Center Page on the City of Muscatine website, or follow the Art Center on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, 

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Anonymous tip leads to rescue of 42 dogs from trailer

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine Police Department received an anonymous tip on February 10, 2022, regarding allegations of animal neglect occurring at 150 Main Street, Fruitland, Iowa. The tip alleged that a couple were living in a mobile home with an excessive number of dogs. The overcrowded conditions in the mobile home were suspected of causing severe health issues for the dogs. 

 

Muscatine Animal Control Officer Courtney Patel investigated the anonymous tip, and discovered that an excessive number of dogs were housed in the mobile home, and concerns of overcrowding and unsanitary conditions were identified. 

 

In conjunction with the Muscatine Police Department, a search warrant was obtained for removal of the animals.

 

The Muscatine Police Department, with assistance from Muscatine Animal Control and the Muscatine Humane Society, accessed the residence and were able to rescue the animals. A total of 42 dogs were rescued from inside the mobile home. The conditions of the mobile home were considered unsafe for the animals due to the excessive amount of animal waste present, as well as a lack of access to adequate food and medical care. 

 

In accordance with Iowa Code 717B.5, which outlines the rescue of threatened animals, the Muscatine Police Department worked with the Muscatine Humane Society to take over possession, care, and maintenance of the animals while the investigation continues. The animals will remain with the Muscatine Humane Society until dispositional proceedings can be held. 

 

The investigation remains ongoing and any criminal charges are pending. 

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Council to discuss revised revisions to animal regulation ordinance

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine City Council will review changes to an amended ordinance revising portions of Title 6, Chapter 8, of the Code of the City of Muscatine during Thursdays’ (Feb. 17) regular meeting in the Council Chambers at Muscatine City Hall.

 

A virtual meeting will be held in conjunction with the in-person meeting for those who want to view the proceedings but do not feel comfortable in attending in person. 

 

The first reading of an ordinance amending Title 6, Chapter 8, of the Code of the City of Muscatine regarding Animal Regulations was heard during the Feb. 3 Council meeting with council members requesting several changes to the ordinance language. The second reading containing those changes referenced by council members and members of the public will be heard this Thursday (Feb. 17). 

 

The Council will also consider an ordinance revising Title 1, Chapter 2, Section 14 of the Code of the City of Muscatine regarding standard penalties. The revision will align City Code with Iowa code for penalties.

 

City staff will also be asking the Council to set a Public Hearing for March 3 on the Maximum Tax Levy for the Fiscal Year 2022/2023 Budget. This is the first of two Public Hearings that need to be held prior to the FY 22-23 budget being adopted and filed with Muscatine County in late March.

 

The public is welcomed to attend Thursday’s City Council meeting that will be held in the City Council Chambers on the second floor of Muscatine City Hall, 215 Sycamore St., Muscatine. Meetings are aired live and recorded for re-broadcast on Muscatine Power & Water Civic TV (Cable Channel 2), and broadcast live on the City of Muscatine YouTube channel.

 

Citizens who do not want to attend the in-person meeting can watch and/or participate through the GoToMeeting virtual meeting portal. Information on joining the session is listed below. 

 

Information on the presentations and other agenda items can be found by clicking AGENDA to download the February 17, 2022, City Council agenda and/or attachments.

 

Muscatine City Council Regular Meeting | Thu, Feb. 17, 2022 | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (CDT) 
 
 Join the meeting from your computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone by clicking the following link: https://www.gotomeet.me/CityofMuscatine/city-council-meeting


 You can also use your phone by dialing +1 (669) 224-3412, follow the prompts, and type in Access Code 970-499-597 when prompted.
 
 New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts: https://global.gotomeeting.com/install/970499597

 

Please mute your computer or phone while listening to the proceedings (press *6 when using phone or mute button on computer). A chat window is available when you use your computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone. Those wishing to speak or to ask a question are asked to use the chat box to post a message that will be seen by the Mayor who will address the questions or call on the speaker in turn. Those using their phones must wait until the Mayor asks for additional comments. The Mayor will recognize you prior to you addressing the Council.

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

City offices closed February 21; refuse collection delayed

MUSCATINE, Iowa – City of Muscatine offices will be closed on Monday (Feb. 21, 2022) for the President’s Day holiday. All offices will reopen for regular hours on Tuesday (Feb. 22, 2022).

 

Muscatine Transit (MuscaBus) will not be in service on Monday with regular service resuming Tuesday. Please remember that a mask is required to ride MuscaBus. For more information visit the TRANSIT page on the City of Muscatine website, or call 563-263-8152. Be sure to visit and follow MuscaBus on Facebook.

 

The Transfer Station will be closed on Monday, but will resume regular hours on Tuesday. Transfer Station hours are Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-3:30 p.m. with the last load on the scale at 3:15 p.m., and Saturday 8 a.m.-12 p.m. with the last load on the scale at 11:45 a.m. 

 

There will be no curbside refuse or yard waste collection on Monday. Residents on the Monday route will have their refuse collected on Tuesday, Feb. 22, along with the regular Tuesday route.

 

There will be no change to the curbside recycling collection.

 

There will be no curbside bulky waste collection on Monday or Tuesday. Curbside bulky waste collection is not completed on holidays or on “double” days when two-days of refuse collection are undertaken in one day.

 

Muscatine and Fruitland residents are reminded that they need to call 563-264-JUNK (563-264-5865) to schedule a curbside bulky waste collection by the Solid Waste Division or email bulkywaste@muscatineiowa.gov. 

 

For more information, visit the SOLID WASTE DIVISION page on the City of Muscatine website or call 563-263-9689. Visit the CURBSIDE BULK COLLECTION page on the City of Muscatine website to schedule a collection or call 563-264-5865. 

 

The Compost Facility is currently closed for the season. For more information about the facility, visit COMPOST SITE on the City of Muscatine website.

 

The Musser Public Library and HNI Community Center will be open to the public on Monday. Normal hours of operation are Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m-2 p.m.; Sunday 12-4 p.m.). For more information visit the LIBRARY website or call 563-263-3065

 

The Muscatine Art Center is normally closed to the public on Monday, and staff will have the holiday off. The Art Center normal hours of operation are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thursday 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 1-5 p.m.). The Art Center is normally closed to the public on Mondays. For more information, visit the ART CENTER website or call 563-263-8282.

 

The Muscatine Fire Department and Muscatine Police Department will be staffed, and the Department of Public Works will have staff on-call. For non-emergency issues during City office closures, please call 563-264-1550, Public Safety at 563-263-9922, or Public Works at 563-263-8933. In the case of an emergency, always call 911.

 

The Muscatine Municipal Golf Course is closed for the season. The Clubhouse and Pro Shop are observing winter hours of 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Tuesdays; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; and, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. The Clubhouse and Pro Shop are closed on Sunday and Monday. 

 

Reservations for the Simulator may be made by calling the Pro Shop at (563) 263-4735. You can also visit the GOLF page on the City of Muscatine website. You can also follow the Muni on Facebook.

 

All City of Muscatine parks, including the Muscatine Dog Park, Muscatine Pollinator Park, and the Muscatine Trail System, will be available for the public’s use. The public is urged to use caution while enjoying City of Muscatine recreational opportunities. 

 

For more information about City parks and amenities visit the PARKS & RECREATION page on the City of Muscatine website. You also follow Parks & Rec on Facebook and Twitter. If you have questions concerning Parks and Recreation programming or facility rentals, please call 563-263-0241 and leave a message, or email parksoffice@muscatineiowa.gov. A staff member will respond as quickly as possible.

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