Category: City of Muscatine Press Releases

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City Administrator’s May 2022 report of City activity available

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 22, 2022

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 May.

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

Tags Administrator, Citizens, City, Council, Iowa –, monthly, Muscatine, Report

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Being called to public service? The City has an opportunity for you!

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 21, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The City of Muscatine has a variety of full-time, part-time, and seasonal employment opportunities available and is actively seeking applications from individuals who have the desire and interest to work for an organization that takes pride in their community, pride in community service, and pride in their employees.

The City of Muscatine is seeking individuals within a 30-mile radius of the Muscatine city limits (including Iowa and Illinois residents) who would like to join the team as we work to make Muscatine a better place to live, work, and raise a family.

Police Officer

If you are called to public service and want to make a positive contribution, the City of Muscatine invites you to join the professional, accredited, and dedicated Muscatine Police Department. Work involves responsibility for community protection of life and property, crime prevention, law enforcement and arrest, assigned patrol, traffic control and supervision, investigation, records and reporting processing, community outreach, and other special police related assignments. Deadline for applications is 5 p.m. on June 24, 2022. Click POLICE OFFICER for details on how to apply today.

Engineer

The Department of Public Works (DPW) has an opening for an engineer who would assist with city/civil engineering studies, project design, review, and inspections relating to City infrastructure related projects. The position has responsibility to oversee and perform design for Capital Improvements as assigned. Other responsibilities include reviewing easement documents, design and construction projects in accordance with state laws and engineering standards. Click ENGINEER for more details.

Community Services Officer – Code Enforcement

The City of Muscatine is seeking a Community Services Officer (Code Enforcement) who will perform specialized technical and professional inspection work related to enforcement of adopted housing regulations and City Code. Work consists of inspections of businesses and residential properties to assure compliance with applicable regulations; communication of inspection results and required corrective actions to property owners; and, coordination of abatement activities. Deadline for applications is 5:00 p.m. on July 15, 2022. Click CODE for more details on how to apply today.

Other opportunities for employment with the City of Muscatine include:

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.
Seasonal Employment – The Muscatine Parks and Recreation Department is 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 these positions a great opportunity for individuals, including high school and college students, seeking work through the spring and summer.

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.

Tags City, employment, fulltime, Iowa –, Muscatine, Opportunities, parttime, seasonal, variety

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Story Time and a Swim for infants, toddlers, and caregivers

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 21, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine Parks and Recreation Department offers an Infant and Toddler Swim Tuesday mornings at the Muscatine Aquatic Center, and for the past two years the Musser Public Library and HNI Community Center has joined the fun with a pre-swim story time session.

Children’s Librarian Betty Collins was joined this week by Junior Miss River City Peyton Jansen as the two led the children and adults in a rhyming game and a swimming song. Jansen read a short story to the children.

“This is a fun program and something different that we offer,” Collins said. “The Parks and Recreation Department invited us out last year to do a little mini story time before the swim and we said ‘sure’.”

The Musser Public Library offers the story time session at 8:45 a.m. each Tuesday at the entrance to the Aquatic Center in Weed Park. The Aquatic Center opens the gate for the infants, toddlers, and caregivers at 9 a.m. so that they may enjoy the cool waters and fountains of the pool in a less crowded atmosphere.

Everyone is welcome to come to the story time session whether they are going on into the Aquatic Center or not.

“The infant and toddler swim are a great program because it gives little children the opportunity to be in the Aquatic Center without the noise, and the hustle and bustle during regular hours,” Collins said.

The infant and toddler swim and story time is held every Tuesday morning, weather permitting. Contact the Muscatine Parks and Recreation Department at (563) 263-0241 for more information.

Photo Gallery

YouTube Video

#ReadBeyondtheBeatenPath

#MPLsummerreading

#MuscatineParksandRec

#muscatineaquaticcenter

Tags Department, Infant, Iowa –, Muscatine, offers, Parks, Recreation, swim, Toddler

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Police seek public’s help in armed robbery investigation

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 21, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine Police Department is asking for the public’s help following an armed robbery that occurred Monday evening.

The Muscatine Police Department (MPD) responded at 9:33 p.m. Monday (June 20) to a report of an armed robbery at Pearl City Tobacco and Liquor, 200 Green Street, Muscatine. Witnesses reported that the offender entered the store, displayed a handgun, and left with an undisclosed amount of money and merchandise.

No injuries were reported.

The MPD is asking that anyone with information regarding the robbery call Detective Adam Raisbeck at 563-263-9922, extension 665, or by submitting an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers of the Quad cities at www.qccrimestoppers.com.

PD RELEASE

Tags armed, asking, Department, following, help, Iowa –, Muscatine, Police, public’s

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Police investigating stabbing incident that injured one person

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 21, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine Police Department is investigating a stabbing incident that occurred Monday (June 20) night sending one individual to the hospital.

MPD officers responded at 10:40 p.m. Monday to the report of a stabbing victim laying in the yard at 808 East 8th St. When officers arrived on scene, they discovered Jeramy Hindlebaugh, 45 (dob 10/23/76), lying in the front yard with a stab wound to his leg. Officers immediately began rendering first aid to Hindlebaugh, who was subsequently transported by ambulance to Trinity Hospital of Muscatine.

As the investigation into the incident continued, officers discovered that Hindlebaugh had been involved in a previous disturbance that had taken place in the 2400 block of Park Ave, and it was during this disturbance that Hindlebaugh received his stab wound. Hindlebaugh then drove himself to the East 8th Street location.

This was an isolated incident and there is no threat to the public.

A suspect has been identified; however, no charges have been filed, and the investigation into the incident is ongoing. Anyone who believes they may have information related to this incident is encouraged to call Detective Jeff DeVrieze at (563) 263-9922.

PD RELEASE

Tags Department, incident, investigating, Iowa –, Muscatine, occurred, Police, stabbing, that

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Plan Ahead … Grandview intersection to be closed starting June 20

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 17, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Grandview Avenue intersection with Houser and Sampson will be closed to traffic starting Monday (June 20) according to the Department of Public Works. This is the final major intersection of the Grandview Avenue Reconstruction Project with Heuer Construction, Inc., anticipating that two-way traffic on Grandview will be restored by August 1, weather permitting.

The full closure of the intersection will be implemented on Sampson east of the Canadian Pacific Railroad crossing, Houser north of the Mittman intersection, Mittman just south of the intersection with Houser, Grandview 200 feet south of the intersection with Houser-Sampson, and Grandview from the Cheri Top south.

Access to all Grandview Avenue businesses south of the Musser intersection to the Houser-Sampson intersection will be from the intersection with Musser.

Through traffic coming from the south will be detoured west onto the Highway 61 by-pass to the Hershey exit and then to Mississippi Drive, or east on Dick Drake Way to Stewart Road/Oregon and back to Grandview.

Pavement removal and underground work will begin Monday. Once completed, the section of Grandview will be rocked and prepped for paving. Tentative plans are to have Grandview Avenue completely open for two-way traffic once the new pavement cures, but the Sampson and Houser legs of the intersection will remain closed as they will be reconstructed after Grandview is opened.

The Grandview Avenue Reconstruction Project remains on schedule. Once the roadway is completed, Heuer will complete sidewalks, driveways, and landscaping in each of the two phases. The project is tentatively scheduled to wrap up November 2022.

FULL DEPTH PATCHING BEGINS ON ISETT

Work on the final segment of the 2021-2022 Full Depth Patching program began Friday (June 17) as Heuer Construction, Inc., crews saw cut marked areas of the Isett Avenue pavement from the Heinz pedestrian crossing to Clay Street.

Removal and replacement of sections of the Isett pavement will begin Monday with traffic reduced to two lanes through the construction area. Drivers are urged to slow down, obey traffic control devices, watch out for construction workers, and plan for extra time when driving through the construction zone.

Please find alternate routes of travel if possible.

The 2021-2022 Full-Depth Patching Project had a late start due to funding concerns that pushed the bid process into the fall. The $440,800 contract was awarded to Heuer Construction on October 5, 2021, but actual work was delayed until April due to weather and logistic concerns. All work is to be completed by the end of June.

Heuer completed two emergency repairs, on Hershey Avenue and on Liberty Street, and then completed the first section on the 2021-2022 list, 1600 block of Cedar Street before moving to Houser Street and the Frontage Road.

WEST HILL PHASE V

Work continues on Phase 5A and Phase 5B of the West Hill Sanitary and Storm Sewer Separation Project with 5A work concentrated on Climer street and 5B on the Lucas and West 8th Street intersection.

Haggerty Earthworks anticipates the Lucas and West 8th Street intersection to remain closed for at least four more weeks as underground work is completed, and Muscatine Power & Water is able to complete electric, communication, and water relocations.

Phase 5A work is making progress toward High Street as Haggerty Earthworks works in short sections to minimize disruption of accessibility to resident homes in the work area.

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

Click on CONSTRUCTION to visit the Department of Public Works Construction Projects page where more information can be found on City of Muscatine construction projects. An interactive map is available showing current street closures and street work.

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

Tags – Grandview, Avenue, closed, Houser, intersection, Iowa –, Muscatine, Sampson, will, with

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Council to conduct public hearing on Community Cats ordinance

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 15, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine City Council will conduct a public hearing on a proposed revisions to a City of Muscatine ordinance regarding “Community Cats” on Thursday (June 16) in the Council Chambers at Muscatine City Hall, 215 Sycamore Street, Muscatine, Iowa.

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.

During the past year discussions relating to allowing the Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) of free-roaming cats have been held. The purpose of the TNR program is to limit the growth and/or reduce the population of feral/free-roaming cats in the community. Revisions to City Code are needed to allow an outside professional organization to conduct a TNR program. The proposed revisions would provide new code language to enable a TNR program including new definitions and Community Cat requirements.

The first reading of the proposed ordinance is tentatively scheduled for July 7. That date may change depending on the direction Council would prefer once comments from the public, staff, and council members are heard.

The second reading of an ordinance establishing a TIF District for the proposed Development Agreements with Kent Corporation (for redevelopment of the former McKee Button Factory) and Merge, LLC (for development of a mixed-use project) will be heard by the Council Thursday.

The Council will also be asked to set two public hearings on July 7, the first for the proposed 67th Avenue Sidewalk Improvement Project and the second regarding an application for Community Development Block Grant Funds that will support the Mulberry Neighborhood Revitalization Pilot Project.

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 City Council agenda and/or attachments.

The best way for the public to participate virtually is to log on or dial in to the GoToMeeting session, mute your device, watch the session on YouTube or Cable Channel 2. At the appropriate time, you will be able to 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.

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.

Muscatine City Council Meeting | Thursday, June 16, 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.

The link, phone number, and access code are the same for both meetings. You can remain logged on between meetings or exit and re-enter at the appropriate time.

New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts: https://global.gotomeeting.com/install/970499597

Tags City, conduct, Council, hearing, Iowa –, Muscatine, proposed, public, will

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Muscatine Harbor slip rentals available; gas dock open

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 15, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine Boat Harbor and Marina and the Municipal Gas Dock, located in the upriver portion of Riverside Park on the Mississippi River, are open and available for public use. Both are operated by the Muscatine Parks and Recreation Department.

The Municipal Boat Harbor and Marina has a variety of slips available for rent including 18 for houseboats and 64 for smaller, pleasure, and speed boats. Slips are non-covered and each one is equipped with electricity and water. The docking season began on May 1 and continues until October 1. (See below for contract, rates, and rules for the Boat Harbor).

The Municipal Gas Dock, located on the Muscatine riverfront in the channel just upriver from the Muscatine Boat Harbor and Marina, has gas and diesel available along with pump out service for boaters. Pump out is free with fuel purchase or $5.00 without a fuel purchase.

The Gas Dock is open 5-7 p.m. on Fridays, and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting. Fuel is also available during the weekdays by calling the Parks and Recreation office at (563) 263-0241 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.

The Parks and Recreation Department would like to remind boat owners that slip rentals are currently being taken with plenty of slips still available to rent for the season. The Muscatine Municipal Boat Harbor and Marina is the perfect place to store your boat for the season, allowing you more time on the water and less time launching and retrieving your craft. Contact the Parks and Recreation Department office to reserve your slip over the phone at (563) 263-0241 or via email at parksoffice@muscatineiowa.gov.

The 2022 Summer Docking Contract and Boat Harbor Rules are available in the Boat Harbor/Marina section on the Parks and Recreation Department page on the City of Muscatine website.

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

Tags Boat, Dock, Harbor, Iowa –, located, Marina, Municipal, Muscatine, upriver

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Ambulances For Ukraine – Two Muscatine units on their way

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 9, 2022

PHOTO ALBUM

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Two Muscatine ambulances are on their way to serve in Ukraine, a nation that is losing an average of seven ambulances per day in their war with Russia.

“These two units were declared surplus after we took delivery of new units,” Gary Ronzheimer, Battalion Chief for the Muscatine Fire Department, said. “They may not have additional life in this country as ambulances but they still can serve to assist the sick and injured, and are badly needed in Ukraine.”

Ronzheimer had been looking for ways that the Muscatine Fire Department could help the citizens of Ukraine and ran across a story about OSF HealthCare, headquartered in Peoria, Ill., who was working to send medical supplies and ambulances to Ukraine in response to the Russian invasion.

“I discussed donating our two older ambulances to the effort once they were declared surplus with Chief (Jerry) Ewers and he agreed that this would be a great way for Muscatine to support Ukrainian Medical Services.”

While the paperwork was being completed to declare the two ambulances surplus, Ronzheimer contacted Chris Manson, Vice-President of Government Relations with OSF Healthcare System, to determine just how Muscatine could donate the ambulances.

Working with the Consulate General of Ukraine in Chicago and the Ukrainian Medical Association of North America (UMANA), Manson has been able to ship five ambulances and medical supplies in three flights from Chicago since March 29.

Once the donation was approved by UMANA, the ambulances were scheduled to be shipped to Baltimore where they were to be loaded onto a ship in last half of June, taken across the Atlantic Ocean, and arrive in Ukraine in early July. The opportunity to speed up the delivery process presented itself earlier this week, with the contingency that the Muscatine ambulances needed to be in Chicago by noon on Thursday (June 9).

Manson informed Ewers and Ronzheimer that an aircraft large enough to handle both ambulances would be available on Monday out of an east coast city but the ambulances had to be at the airport by Sunday. If the ambulances make the plane, they will likely be in Ukraine by Wednesday and transporting injured, sick, and wounded by the end of next week.

“We were excited to learn of the opportunity to put the ambulances on a cargo plane and see them in service to the Ukrainian people sooner than transporting them by ship,” Ewers said. “Once we received word about the opportunity, we prepared the ambulances and made arrangements to take them to the staging area in Chicago.”

The two ambulances left Muscatine Thursday morning with Ronzheimer and Firefighter John Peters driving the two ambulances and Ewers following in his SUV to bring the pair back. They were greeted by Manson when they arrived at the Chicago warehouse staging area just after noon.

The Muscatine ambulances are the sixth and seventh to be sent to Ukraine as part of the OSF HealthCare project.

“This is an ongoing effort as, unfortunately, the need continues to grow,” Manson said in an OSF HealthCare press release. “Everyday ambulances are being destroyed in Ukraine. As soon as our ambulances arrive, they are immediately put to use across the country.”

Two surplus ambulances from the Muscatine Fire Department completed the first leg of their journey for service in Ukraine Thursday morning, arriving at the staging area in Chicago just afternoon. The ambulances were outfitted with stretchers and loaded with additional provisions and loaded onto the truck that transported them to an east coast city Thursday afternoon. Pictured are, left to right: Muscatine Firefighter John Peters, Muscatine Fire Chief Jerry Ewers, OSF HealthCare Vice President Government Relations Chris Manson, and Muscatine Fire Battalion Chief Gary Ronzheimer.

Tags ALBUMMUSCATINE, ambulances, Iowa –, Muscatine, nation, PHOTO, serve, that, their, Ukraine

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Mayor to Mayor – message of introduction filmed by Calvary Church

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 8, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – An upcoming Calvary Church mission trip to Marbella, Spain, created an opportunity for Muscatine to reach across the ocean and extend the hand of friendship in hopes of creating opportunities for cooperation between the two municipalities.

Executive Pastor Josué Villatoro and Visual Art Pastor Johan Umaña visited Muscatine City Hall Wednesday morning to shoot a short video featuring Muscatine Mayor Brad Bark sending a personal greeting to the Mayor of Marbella.

“The goal is to use the footage to introduce and establish a connection between our city leaders to perhaps develop an exchange or ‘sister-city’ relationship in the future,” Villatoro said. “We are looking forward to discovering new opportunities between Muscatine, Iowa, and Marbella, Spain.”

Mayor Bark was excited about the opportunity to work with Calvary Church and create a message of introduction and greetings to his counterpart in Spain.

“We have nine sister-cities and Marbella could become the 10th,” Bark said. “Anytime we can foster good relations, and develop opportunities to exchange ideas or even student exchanges demonstrate our willingness to be a part of the global community and develop friendships.”

The video will be presented to the Mayor of Marbella when the mission arrives in Spain.

Tags Calvary, Church, created, Iowa –, Marbella, mission, Muscatine, Spain, trip, upcoming

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Two meetings make busy night for Muscatine City Council Thursday

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 8, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine City Council will hear six presentations during the In-Depth meeting Thursday (June 9) in the Council Chambers at Muscatine City Hall, 215 Sycamore Street, Muscatine, Iowa. A special business meeting will be conducted following the in-depth session.

A virtual meeting will be offered 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 virtual meeting are listed below.

John Dabeet will begin the presentations Thursday with an update on the Sister Cities project. Muscatine currently has eight sister-cities with a ninth in the works. Participating communities include Drohobych, Ukraine, Kislovodsk, Russia, Parana/Crespo, Argentina, Ichikawamisato, Japan, Ramallah, Palestine, Lomza Poland, Ludwigslust, Germany, and Zhengding, China. Current efforts are to establish a sister city in Liberia. To find out more, tune in to the City Council meeting or visit Muscatine Sister Cities.

Sergeant John Hesseling of the Muscatine Police Department will follow with a presentation on the Muscatine Special Operations Response Team (MSORT) that was founded in 2001 in response to the ever-increasing number of encounters with armed resistance.

Public Works Director Brian Stineman will have a presentation regarding the current policies and procedures for sidewalk repairs and installation in Muscatine, and discuss the goals his department is working towards in overcoming the current limitations to the policy.

Assistant Community Development Director Andrew Fangman will provide an overview of the draft version of the Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan, a map-based plan that depicts existing, planned, and needed improvements to bike and pedestrian infrastructure.

Stineman will return to the podium to provide an update on the development of plans for the reconstruction of a portion of Fulliam Avenue.

The in-depth portion of the night will conclude with an overview of fireworks policies and enforcement for consumer sales and usage provided by Assistant Fire Chief and Muscatine Fire Marshall Mike Hartman.

A special business meeting will be held after the in-depth meeting wraps up and includes a public hearing on the proposed amendment to the Consolidated Muscatine Urban Renewal Area. The amendment includes:

A proposed development agreement with Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores, Inc.
A proposed development agreement with Kent Corporation for the redevelopment of the former McKee Button Factory; and,
A proposed development agreement with Merge, LLC, for a mixed use (commercial and multi-residential) building at 1056 Hershey Avenue.

A second public hearing will be held on the development agreement with Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores, Inc., to construct a Love’s Travel Stop and the related public infrastructure at 2417 Grandview Avenue.

A resolution on approving the Urban Renewal Plan Amendment and a resolution approving the development agreement with Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores, Inc., will be considered later in the meeting.

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

Muscatine City Council Meeting | Thursday, June 9, 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.

Tags City, Council, during, hear, InDepth, Iowa –, Muscatine, Presentations, will

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Musser, Taylor Park playgrounds closed; try Franklin School

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 7, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Musser Park playground will continue to be closed to the public through June 20 due to construction work as part of the Southend Improvement Project.

Current activity includes the construction of a trail extension from the levee to Oregon Street.

The contractor and City of Muscatine staff determined that, for the safety of the public and the workers, the playground area would need to be closed due to its proximity to the work area and the potential hazards in the work area for children and adults.

Work on the trail extension and ancillary sidewalks is tentatively scheduled to be completed late next week. However, the current schedule is weather dependent and the temporary reopening of the playground area may be delayed until later in June.

Additional work at Musser Park includes the removal of the old shelter Tuesday (June 7) with the area cleared for a new concrete pad and the installation of a new shelter structure later this summer. Also part of the Southend Improvement Project is the removal and replacement of the playground equipment at Musser Park. The new playground is anticipated to be installed this fall. However, that timeline depends on the delivery of the new playground equipment that is currently delayed due to supply chain issues.

While the playground area at Musser Park and at Taylor Park are currently closed for public use, the playground area at Franklin School is available. Parents and children are reminded that use of these facilities is at your own risk as the areas are unsupervised. The other playground area currently available in the southend is at Sunset Park.

The renovations at Taylor Park, which will include a pickleball court, a splash pad, and a restroom facility, are on schedule with paving of the parking area slated for next week, weather permitting. Once the parking area is completed, work will begin on the splash pad area, pickleball courts, pad for the restroom building, and pad for the new shelter structure. New playground equipment will also be installed as part of the project.

New playground equipment is also expected to be installed at Sunset Park later this year or early next year.

Please be aware of surroundings when walking in or around construction areas, and avoid these areas if at all possible.

Tags closed, continue, Iowa –, Muscatine, Musser, Park, playground, public, through, will

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Mark your calendars … free drop off weeks are set

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 7, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The dates are set for the two weeks in July that residents can drop off unwanted electronics and tires at the Muscatine Transfer Station according to David Popp, Solid Waste Division Manager for the City of Muscatine. The dates were approved by the Muscatine City Council on June 2.

Residents who have City of Muscatine refuse service will be able to bring unwanted electronics and tires to the Muscatine Transfer Station and drop them off without paying a fee but there are stipulations.

Tires will be accepted for free (up to four tires off the rim per residence) from July 18-23. Electronics will be accepted for free (up to three per residence) from July 25-30. Proof of residency (driver’s license) is required to participate in the free drop off week(s).

Electronics and tires are also accepted for a fee year-round at the Transfer Station (See RATE AND FEE SCHEDULE).

Curbside Collection of Bulky Waste

Electronics and tires are normally not included in the free bulky waste collection program conducted by the City of Muscatine Solid Waste Division. However, they can be included if a fee is paid for in advance of the scheduled collection day.

Residents who are City of Muscatine refuse collection clients also have the opportunity to dispose of unwanted appliances either through a curbside bulky waste collection (two free per year). There is a fee to bring the appliances to the Transfer Station or to have the item(s) picked up curbside after the two free items.

Click here to find out more about CURBSIDE BULKY WASTE COLLECTION, how to schedule a collection, and additional requirements for a curbside collection. Call 563-264-JUNK (563-264-5865) or email bulkywaste@muscatineiowa.gov to submit a scheduling request.

Items that require a payment before curbside collection must be paid for and scheduled prior to the collection. Payments can be made at the Muscatine Transfer Station, 100 S. Houser Street, Muscatine City Hall Finance Department, 215 Sycamore Street, or the Department of Public Works, 1459 Washington Street.

All fees are collected at the Muscatine Transfer Station for items brought to the Muscatine Transfer Station once the items have been taken to the tipping floor.

The Transfer Station is open 7:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. on Saturday.

Items accepted year round for a fee

These items can also be picked up with the curbside bulky waste program if the item/items are prepaid. (See above for special FREE weeks for tires and electronics).

Tires.
Electronics.
Appliances (after two [2] free per year per address)

Items accepted year round at no charge

Please check in at the Transfer Station office when bringing any of the following items to the Transfer Station for proper disposal instructions and locations.

Oil based paint
Batteries
Cleaners
Florescent light bulbs
Garden chemicals
Pesticides
Motor oil
Antifreeze
Pool chemicals
Sharps in an approved container.

Example of items accepted for bulky waste pickup

Furniture – couch, sectional, chair, recliner, table.
Mattresses – must be in a bag (available at Transfer Station for no charge).
Carpet – no longer than four (4) feet, rolled, and secured.
Dismantled swing sets.
Minimal building materials.
Extra trash bags – smaller items must be bagged.
Appliances – two (2) free per year per address.

Example of items NOT accepted for bulky waste pickup

Please contact the Muscatine Transfer Station for more information on the disposal of the following items:

Sheds, garages, and excessive building materials.
Concrete or brick (accepted at Public Works for no charge).
Oil based paint and household hazardous waste (accepted at Transfer Station for no charge)
Camper refrigerators and camper air conditioners.
Car bodies.
Tires
Fencing

Solid Waste Collection Rates

Tags dates, drop, electronics, Iowa –, July, Muscatine, residents, that, unwanted, weeks

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Library offers LENA program to help caregivers help children learn

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 6, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Musser Public Library (MPL) is offering another cohort of LENA (Learning Environmental Analysis) to guide parents and adult caregivers in helping children ages 0-3 develop their minds, particularly in the area of language skills.

The no-cost program still has openings. It will begin around the middle of June and lasts 10 weeks.

During the program – at home and everywhere – participating children wear a small recording device. A shirt with a pocket for the device is provided. The device tracks how many words the people in their lives speak to them and their number of interactions. It does not record what words are being said.

Parents and caregivers meet weekly with the children’s librarians to learn more about how to talk to children up through age three (3) in an engaging and understandable manner. They also receive books for the children. Children are welcome at these sessions, but their attendance is not required.

The local LENA program is funded by a combination of an Early Childhood Iowa – Muscatine County grant and MPL funding.

Children’s Librarian Betty Collins encourages anyone interested to sign up for the next cohort by sending an email to her at bcollins@muscatineiowa.gov or calling her at (563) 263-3065.

For more information, visit the Musser Public Library and HNI Community Center website, visit the Musser Public Library Facebook site, or call 563-263-3065.

Tags another, cohort, Iowa –, Learning, LENA, Library, Muscatine, Musser, offering, public

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Cedar and East 2nd intersection to be closed June 6-10

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 3, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The intersection of East 2nd and Cedar streets will be closed for approximately one week according to the Muscatine Department of Public Works. The closure is expected to begin at 7 a.m. Monday (June 6) and continue through the end of the day on Friday (June 10), weather permitting.

Two crosswalks will be removed and replaced as part of the punch list for the recent 2nd Street Streetscape Project. One of the crosswalks cuts across the 300 block of East 2nd Street while the other crosswalk cuts across the 200 block of Cedar.

KE Flatwork, Inc., will be removing the pavers from the two crosswalks on Monday with Eastern Iowa Landscaping replacing the brick pavers starting Tuesday.

Access to all businesses in the affected blocks will be maintained. However, through traffic should detour to either Mississippi Drive or 3rd Street using either Sycamore or Walnut streets.

Tags approximately, Cedar, closed, East, intersection, Iowa –, Muscatine, streets, week, will

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Musser Skate Park closed to public June 8-9

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 3, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa –The Musser Park Skate Park will be closed for two days next week as the Parks and Recreation Department completes maintenance repairs. The Skate Park will be closed Wednesday (June 8) and Thursday (June (9), and will reopen for use on Friday (June 10), weather permitting.

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

Tags closed, days, Iowa – The, Muscatine, Musser, next, Park, Skate, will

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Free family events are planned this June at the Art Center

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 2, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The winter months are gone, the weather is changing, and it is almost summer. The Muscatine Art Center is delighted to invite families for a couple of FREE outdoor family events to celebrate spring’s awakening of nature and the promise of a summer filled with fun in the great outdoors.

“We are really excited to host these family events coming up in June,” Katy Loos, Muscatine Art Center Program Coordinator, said. “The Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre has always been a great partner, and we are excited to have them back for this bilingual performance. We are also happy to offer another family picnic on our beautiful grounds. It is always a pleasure to see Muscatine families come out for a visit.”

To open the June festivities, the Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre Company from West Liberty will perform Uncle Rabbit’s Adventures (Las Aventuras de Tio Conejo) at 12:30 p.m. on June 10. Uncle Rabbit’s Adventures combines two trickster tales into one delightful story celebrating the victory of the small but clever rabbit over his larger, wealthier, and more powerful adversary. This story is presented bilingually and features live music.

This free performance will be held in the Brad Burns Performing Arts Park (on Mulberry Avenue on the north side of the Muscatine Art Center). Attendees are encouraged to bring their lunch to enjoy before the performance. In case of inclement weather, the performance will be held in the Music Room. Registration is not required. The performance is part of a multi-cultural series funded by a grant from the Mary Jo and Richard Stanley Human Conditions Fund.

Returning this year to the grounds of the Muscatine Art Center is a family favorite … the Family Picnic. The picnic will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on June 24. Families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and a picnic lunch, and spread out on the Muscatine Art Center lawn. Free ice cream, sponsored by Kent Corporation, will be available.

Families will also experience the sights and sounds of the historic Tangley calliope, and kids are invited to paint the windows of the outdoor courtyard. “Take & Make” kits will be available to complete at home.

In the studio, attendees can participate in creating parts of the “Tree of Acknowledgement”, a community-based sculpture from artist Nancy Judd, commissioned by the Stanley Center for Peace and Security. Read more about the project at www.muscatineartcenter.org/happenings/events/family-picnic. Registration is not required.

For a full schedule of events, programs, and classes for the month of June and beyond, visit www.muscatineartcenter.org or visit the Muscatine Art Center Facebook page.

The Muscatine Art Center is located at 1314 Mulberry Avenue in Muscatine, Iowa. Hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Admission is free. Donations are appreciated. Visit muscatineartcenter.org for more information about programs and events. Please contact Katy Loos, Program Coordinator, with any questions about our upcoming programs at 563-263-8282 or by email at kloos@muscatineiowa.gov.

Tags almost, changing, gone, Iowa –, months, Muscatine, summer The, weather, winter

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Two public hearings on June 2 Council agenda

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date June 1, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine City Council will conduct two public hearings on the vacation of utility easements Thursday (June 2) in the Council Chambers at Muscatine City Hall, 215 Sycamore Street, Muscatine, Iowa.

Muscatine Mayor Brad Bark will open the meeting by swearing in Firefighter Dan Deckert to service with the Muscatine Fire Department, and will ask the Council to approve a lengthy list of appointments to the various boards of commissions authorized by the City of Muscatine.

A public hearing on vacating utility easements located at Lots 2 and 3 of Beau Bien Subdivision, will be followed by a public hearing on vacating utility easements at 2923 Mulberry Avenue on property owned by the First Baptist Church. Resolutions to approve the vacation will be acted on by Council later in the meeting.

The second and final reading of an ordinance updating Appendix A of the Code of the City of Muscatine to reflect current City Code and Iowa Code related to civil penalties, fines, and violations. If approved, the ordinances will be submitted for publication before becoming official.

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

Muscatine City Council Meeting | Thursday, June 2, 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.

Tags City, conduct, Council, hearings, Iowa –, Muscatine, public, vacation, will

City of Muscatine Press Releases

GMCCI Job Fair set for June 2 at MHS Van Heck Center

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date May 31, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Second Annual Muscatine Area Job Fair, sponsored by the Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GMCCI), will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday (June 2) in the Van Heck Center on the Muscatine High School campus, 2705 Cedar Street, Muscatine.

Permanent, temporary, and summer jobs for all skill levels, ages 14-years-old and up, are available in Muscatine. Stop by and learn more about local businesses and the career opportunities available. In addition, multiple employers will also be providing information on training programs, certificates, and educational opportunities.

The City of Muscatine will be among the 30-plus businesses on hand with representatives from Muscatine Parks & Recreation, Muscatine Fire, and Muscatine Police.

The Job Fair is cosponsored by IowaWORKS and in partnership with the Mississippi Valley Workforce Development Board.

GMCCI 2022 Job Fair Flyer

#MakeItMuscatine #Muscatine #MuscatineJobs

Tags annual, area, Fair, Greater, Iowa –, Muscatine, Second, sponsored

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Historic Preservation seeking applicants for board member

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date May 26, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Historic Preservation Commission is looking for a resident of the City of Muscatine to fulfill the term of a member who has resigned and help safeguard Muscatine’s historical features. All candidates will be considered equally based on their qualifications to serve on the commission.

The Commission meets at 5:15 p.m. on the third Wednesday of the month in the City Council Chambers at City Hall. The commission safeguards the city’s historic, aesthetic, and cultural heritage by preserving sites and districts of history and cultural significance. Members serve five-year terms with a maximum of two full terms.

Those interested are asked to fill out an application and return the form to Boards & Commissions, Muscatine City Hall, 215 Sycamore Street, Muscatine, IA, 52761, by 5 p.m. on Friday, June 17. A Nominating Committee meeting will be scheduled to select the nominees for presentation to City Council.

The City of Muscatine has 12 different boards and commissions that support and advise different departments and different aspects of life within Muscatine, and applications are available by clicking on the following link: Board/Committee/Commission Application.

How can I apply to volunteer my time?

Those interested in becoming a member of a board or commission can complete an application and either email the form to the administrative secretary or mail the form to Boards & Commissions, c/o Administrative Secretary, Muscatine City Hall, 215 Sycamore, Muscatine, IA 52761. The City keeps applications on file in case vacancies occur. If you are interested and available in volunteering your time, please submit your application for a future term of office.

All applications are reviewed by the Nominating Committee to ensure applicants meet the qualifications to serve on a specific board or commission, to ensure there is no potential conflicts of interests, and to ensure that each board or commission has a gender balance as prescribed by Iowa Code. Those that meet the requirements are submitted to the full Council for approval. The nominating committee includes the Mayor, two Council representatives, and the City Administrator or a representative from city staff.

The City of Muscatine welcomes all residents to submit their names and resumes for a specific board or commission or a general submission for any board or commission. Most boards or commissions require some knowledge of the subject matter and the responsibilities for the specific board of commission.

Details on the various Boards, Commissions, and Committees of the City of Muscatine is available by clicking HERE.

Tags City, Commission, fulfill, historic, Iowa –, looking, Muscatine, Preservation, resident