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Muscatine woman charged after hit and run incident

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date January 26, 2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa – A Muscatine woman has been charged following a hit and run investigation by the Muscatine Police Department.

The Muscatine Police & Fire Departments were called to the 300 block of Broadway Street on January 13, 2023, for a female who had been run over by a vehicle. The initial investigation revealed that the collision had been the result of a larger disturbance where two groups of people came together for a mutual fight.

Through the course of the investigation, it was determined that Cora Lynn Reed, 18 (DOB 06/21/04), of 214 Park Avenue, voluntarily arrived with a passenger in the 300 block of Broadway Street, for the purpose of participating in a physical confrontation.

As Reed tried to leave the area, she struck a 17-year-old female who was also partaking in the disturbance. The 17-year-old was run over by the front tire of Reed’s vehicle. Reed then reversed the vehicle, running over the 17-year-old a second time. Reed then left the scene with her passenger.

Cora Lynn Reed was arrested Thursday (Jan. 26, 2023) and charged with serious injury by vehicle, a Class D felony, and reckless driving, a misdemeanor. Reed is considered to be innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Tags been, charged, following, investigation, Iowa –, Muscatine, Police, woman

City of Muscatine Press Releases

BUdget season for Muscatine Council, City staff

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date January 25, 2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The final pieces to the puzzle of the City of Muscatine Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Budget were being put together Wednesday (Jan. 25, 2023) afternoon in preparation for the start of “Budget Season” Thursday.

City Administrator Carol Webb and Finance Director Nancy Lueck have worked with department heads and members of each department’s staff over the past several months preparing the proposed budget for City Council’s consideration.

Webb will present an overview of the proposed FY 23-24 budget to the City Council during a special Council session at 6:00 p.m. Thursday (Jan. 26). This is the first of a series of budget sessions that will be held in the City Council chambers over the next several weeks.

Council members, Webb, and City staff members will be present in the City Council chambers for each session. All sessions are open to the public.

Public comment during the budget sessions will not be permitted. The public is urged to make notes of any questions or concerns they may have and bring up those questions and concerns during the Public Hearing for the proposed budget that will be held in March.

Thursday’s meeting will be followed by several weeks of presentations to the City Council by the various departments and outside agencies supported by the City of Muscatine. The first session will start at 8 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 28. Sessions will also be held on Jan. 31, Feb. 1, Feb. 2, Feb. 4, Feb. 7, Feb. 8, and Feb. 11. The February 11 meeting will be held only if discussions are not completed at the February 8 session.

A significant change, approved by the Iowa Legislature in 2019, to the annual city budget adoption process is that municipalities are required to hold an additional public hearing to identify “a total maximum property tax dollars to be derived from certain levies in the budget for the next fiscal year”.

The public hearing and the passage of a resolution on the proposed maximum property tax dollars must proceed setting a public hearing on the adoption of the budget.

To help cities meet the requirements of holding two public hearings, the State of Iowa moved back the deadline to file an approved budget with the county auditor for certification to March 31. The previous deadline was March 15.

A complete schedule of the meetings along with additional information can be found at 2023/2024 Proposed Budget on the Finance & Records page of the City of Muscatine website.

CITY OF MUSCATINE FY 2023-2024 BUDGET SESSIONS

Date Location Time Department/Agency

Thursday City Council 6:00 p.m. General Fund Overview

January 26, 2023 Chambers -7:00 p.m. to City Council

*Can be seen on MPW Civic TV Channel 2, City of Muscatine YouTube Page, and by following the GoToMeeting link on your computer, laptop, or smart phone.

Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
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Date Location Time Department/Agency

Saturday City Council 8:00 a.m. City Council Budget Review

January 28, 2022 Chambers -3:00 p.m. Legal Services

City Administrator

Human Resources

Risk Management

Finance

Information Technology

Community Development

Airport/Airport Subsidy

Police Operations

Animal Control

Library Operations

Cablevision

Art Center

Fire Operations

Ambulance

Housing

Date Location Time Department/Agency

Tuesday City Council 6:00 p.m. Parks Administration

January 31, 2023 Chambers -9:00 p.m. Park Maintenance

Aquatic Center

Recreation

Soccer

Kent Stein

Wellness

Cemetery

Golf Course

Boat Harbor

Marina

Soccer Events

Date Location Time Department/Agency

Wednesday City Council 6:00 p.m. Public Works Administration

February 1, 2023 Chambers -9:00 p.m. Engineering

Roadway Maintenance

Traffic Control

Snow and Ice

Street Cleaning

Building & Grounds

Collection & Drainage

Equipment Services

Equipment Replacement

Date Location Time Department/Agency

Thursday City Council 7:00 p.m. Chamber of Commerce

February 2, 2023 Chambers -9:00 p.m. Marketing & Tourism

Senior Resources

Session to be held following the City Council Regular Meeting Humane Society

MCSA

*Can be seen on MPW Civic TV Channel 2, City of Muscatine YouTube Page, and by following the GoToMeeting link on your computer, laptop, or smart phone.

Date Location Time Department/Agency

Saturday City Council 8:00 a.m. Iowa Legislatures

February 4, 2023 Chambers -3:00 p.m. Transit

Parking

Refuse Collection

Landfill

Transfer Station

WPCP

Storm Water

Review & Discussion Begin

General Fund

Date Location Time Department/Agency

Tuesday City Council 6:00 p.m. Capital/Dept/TIF/RUT

February 7, 2023 Chambers -9:00 p.m. Local Option Review

Date Location Time Department/Agency

Wednesday City Council 6:00 p.m. Review & Discussion

February 8, 2023 Chambers -9:00 p.m. Decisions for Public Hearing

(session may continue on 2/11)

Date Location Time Department/Agency

Saturday City Council 8:00 a.m. Final Decision for Public Hearing

February 11, 2022 Chambers -10:00 a.m. (extra meeting if not work is not

concluded on February 8)

CITY OF MUSCATINE CITY COUNCIL SESSIONS

Virtual Meeting Information:

Date Location Time Department/Agency

Thursday, Regular Council 6:00 p.m. Council Orders Notice of

February 16, 2023 Meeting -8:00 p.m. Maximum Property Tax

And Set Public hearing #1

Date Location Time Department/Agency

Thursday Regular Council 6:00 p.m. Public Hearing #1 on Maximum

March 2, 2023 Meeting -8:00 p.m. Property Tax and approve

Related resolution

Set Public Hearing #2 for

Adoption of Budget

Date Location Time Department/Agency

Thursday Regular Council 6:00 p.m. Hold Public Hearing #2

March 16, 2023 Meeting -8:00 p.m. and Adoption of Budget

March 31, 2022 (Latest Day) for approved Budget filed with County Auditor

Tags 20232024, City, final, Fiscal, Iowa –, Muscatine, pieces, puzzle, year

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Muscatine Fire Department renews prevention efforts

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date January 20, 2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa – It may surprise you that the main mission of the Muscatine Fire Department (MFD) is not just to fight fires, but also to educate the public on preventing fires from occurring in homes and businesses.

“An important part of our mission is to put out fires,” Battalion Chief Ted Hillard said. “But another important part, and perhaps the most important part, is the prevention of fires through public education and building inspections.”

The week of January 16-22, 2023, was designated as Community Risk Reduction Week with the goal to build healthy, safe, and resilient communities by raising awareness to reduce the occurrence and impact of emergency events to the community and to first responders, thus making the community safer.

“We want to prevent fires from happening,” Hillard said. “By hosting educational events for residents of all ages, especially young children, and by conducting building inspections of businesses, we hope to prevent fires from occurring.”

When the COVID pandemic first started, protocols were instituted that prevented the fire department from going out into the community to do fire inspections and sponsor educational programs.

“We have now resumed those operations,” Hillard noted.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, a division of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), fire departments are uniquely positioned to know their communities better than most other organizations. Firefighters and emergency medical services responders see firsthand, whether through medical calls, inspections, or simply driving through the community, how people live and the needs they have.

The primary goal of fire safety efforts is to protect building occupants from injury and to prevent loss of life. The secondary goal of fire safety is to prevent property damage. By preventing fires and limiting damage we can assure that work operations will continue.

This past December Muscatine Fire completed 19 fire inspections (176 in 2022), six fire re-inspections (128 in 2022), and eight educational events (52 in 2022) while also conducting four plan reviews/site visits (236 in 2022).

“When we inspect buildings, we are not only looking for potential fire code violations, we are also observing the layout for potential safety issues should we be called to a fire in the building,” Hillard said. “The safety of the building occupants (owners, staff, customers, and/or residents), has a high priority as well as the safety of our fire firefighters.”

The Public Safety Open House, held each October, has been a good venue for children and their caregivers to visit the firehouse, learn what a firefighter does, and learn about fire prevention. MFD also hosts school groups in the firehouse for interactive learning with Freddy, a remotely controlled child sized fire engine.

MFD is also planning to resume educational programs for youth in kindergarten through the fourth grade, as well as educational programs for adults.

“We have had many occasions where what we have taught young children about fire safety has come back to them leading their family to safety during a home fire,” Hillard said. “The more we can educate, the more we can prevent fires from occurring.”

Part of that education is an emphasis on the three P’s of fire prevention … prepare, prevent, and practice. Preparing your home or business by installing smoke alarms, checking electrical wiring, and having fire extinguishers available. Home owners should also have an escape plan should a fire occur that includes having a predetermined spot to meet outside.

“One of the things we talk about is the need to have an identified gathering spot for the family to meet,” Hillard said. “This needs to be practiced so everyone in the house knows what to do. The last thing we want is for someone to go back into a structure that is on fire in search of a family member.”

If you have questions or would like more information about Community Risk Reduction, contact the Muscatine Fire Department 563-263-9233.

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 5,909 calls in 2022. 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.

Tags Department, fire, Iowa –, just, main, mission, Muscatine, surprise, that

City of Muscatine Press Releases

December report of department activity is released

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date January 19, 2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The City Administrator Report to the Muscatine City Council and to the citizens of Muscatine is now available online by clicking MONTHLY REPORT.

The report highlights the many accomplishments of each City of Muscatine department during the month of December 2022, along with providing valuable metrics on the services provided by each department.

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 on projects or services, or with questions or concerns regarding a project or service. Feedback may be provided by sending an email to feedback@muscatineiowa.gov.

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

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Short agenda for City Council on Thursday

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date January 18, 2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa – A short agenda awaits the Muscatine City Council Thursday (Jan. 19) with eight business items including approving the contract and bond for the Transfer Station Tipping Floor Replacement Project. Mayor Brad Bark is scheduled to open the City Council meeting at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers of Muscatine City Hall.

Thursday’s regular 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 Civic-TV (Muscatine Power & Water Cable Channel 2).

A special City Council meeting will be held at 6:00 p.m., Thursday (Jan. 29) in the Council Chambers at Muscatine City Hall. The only agenda item for the meeting is a General Fund Overview by City Administrator Carol Webb and Finance Director Nancy Lueck. The overview normally leads off discussions on the proposed Fiscal Year 2023-2024 budget.

Budget discussions between the City Council and the various City of Muscatine departments will begin at 8 a.m. on January 28 in the City Council Chambers of Muscatine City Hall. Department discussions will continue on January 31, February 1, February 2, February 4, and February 7, with a final review on February 8. A complete timetable for the budget discussions can be found by clicking on BUDGET SCHEDULE.

On the agenda are:

Resolution reaffirming the Mulberry Revitalization District is blighted as defined under the Urban Renewal Plan;
Request to approve the purchase of a power cot for Ambulance Services;
Request to approve two agreements … one with Bolton and Menk for planning, engineering, and construction services at the Muscatine Airport, and the second on supporting the FY 23 Community Grant writer agreement;
Request to approve application for an Older Adult Home Modifications Program Grant; and,
Request to approve Change Order #11 for the Grandview Avenue Reconstruction Project.

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

On-Line Participation

To view or participate virtually, click on the link below or call in to the GoToMeeting. Be sure to mute your computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone (press *6 when using phone or mute button on computer). 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 GoToMeeting to pose a question to the Mayor, Council, or staff member. Those wishing to speak should 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, January 19, 2023 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 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 agenda, awaits, City, Council, Iowa –, Muscatine, short, Thursday, with

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Three arrested after drive-by shooting Tuesday night

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date January 18, 2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Three individuals have been arrested following an investigation by the Muscatine Police Officers of a drive-by shooting in Muscatine Tuesday night.

The Muscatine Police Department responded at approximately 1:02 a.m. Wednesday (Jan. 18) to a report of gunshots fired in the 1300 block of Oak Street. There were no injuries reported but a residence was struck multiple times by gun fire.

The suspect vehicle was stopped as it was leaving the scene.

Three individuals were placed under arrest and charged with Intimidation with a Dangerous Weapon (C Felony) due to their involvement in the incident. Those charged include Christian James, 18 (DOB 11/26/2004), 102 Spencer Avenue, Fruitland, Iowa, a 17-year-old female from Muscatine, Iowa, and a 16-year-old male from Davenport, Iowa.

This is believed to be a targeted incident and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

The Investigation into the incident is ongoing. Please contact Detective Jeff DeVrieze of the Muscatine Police Investigative Unit at 563-263-9922 (extension 611) if you have any information relevant to the case. Callers may remain anonymous.

All suspects should be considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Tags – Have, arrested, been, following, individuals, investigation, Iowa –, Muscatine, Three

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Muscatine Police K9 Dexter receives body armor

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date January 17, 2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Muscatine Police K9 Dexter has received a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 Dexter’s vest was sponsored by Don and Misty Fike of Galesburg, Ill., and is embroidered with the sentiment “Born to Love-Trained to Serve-Loyal Always”.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and NIJ certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 4,845 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations.

The program is open to U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old and actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $960 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1,744-$2,283, weighs an average of 4-5 lb., and comes with a five-year warranty.

For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.

Tags bullet, Dexter, Iowa –, Muscatine, Police, protective, received, stab, vest

City of Muscatine Press Releases

No injuries as Muscatine Fire battles two fires Monday night

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date January 16, 2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine Joint Communications Center (MUSCOM) received a 911 call at approximately 6:30 p.m. Monday (Jan. 16) for a possible electrical fire in a room at Addington Place, 3515 Diana Queen Drive. This is a nursing facility in Muscatine.

“All of our first responders did a great job,” Battalion Chief Ted Hillard said. “I just cannot say enough about them along with the great support we received from the Fruitland firefighters especially since we had to break off some of our crew to answer other calls.”

Upon arrival at Addington Place, fire crews found smoke in a resident’s room with smoke starting to fill up the hallway. The fire sprinkler system activated when fire crews entered the room and the fire was extinguished. The resident was checked for any injuries and the firefighters on scene ensured that the fire was completely out.

All residents were evacuated and accounted for during the fire suppression effort.

The sprinkler system for that hallway of the facility was shut down until the sprinkler company was able to respond and make needed repairs to the system. A recovery company was on scene to mitigate water damage.

The fire was contained to a heating unit and the area directly above.

Because the sprinkler system responded exactly as designed there were no injuries and the damage was limited to that one residential unit.

The on scene investigation is complete. A final cause has yet to be determined but it does appear to be an accidental fire. The initial fire loss estimate is $10,000. The resident in that room was moved to another room in the facility and was not externally displaced.

The Muscatine Police Department and Muscatine County EMA responded with the initial call. The Muscatine Fire Department was also assisted by fire crews from the Fruitland Fire Department. Approximately 20 firefighters responded to the fire. There were no injuries to any of the responders.

It was a busy evening for the fire department starting with a medical call before the response to Addington Place. Just 20 minutes after arriving at the fire scene, the Muscatine Station Two engine and firefighters were cut loose from Addington Place to a vehicle fire in the 2100 block of Hershey Avenue.

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 5,027 calls in 2018. 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.

Tags approximately, call, Center, Communications, Iowa –, Joint, Muscatine, MUSCOM, received

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Concession lease proposals sought by City of Muscatine

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date January 16, 2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The City of Muscatine and the Muscatine Parks and Recreation Department are requesting proposals from individuals and/or organizations who would be interested in providing concession services at either or all of the following facilities: the Muscatine Soccer Complex; Kent Stein Park; and, the Muscatine Aquatic Center.

Information regarding the request for proposal is available on the City of Muscatine website under CONCESSION LEASE PROPOSAL. Those wishing to submit a proposal are asked to complete the form and return it to the Muscatine Finance Department by 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023.

Proposals are not a bid and will be evaluated on concession food service experience, ability to provide concession equipment as needed, completeness of proposal, highest percentage of gross sales proposed to the City, ability to provide staff as needed, and experience in working with the public.

Please contact the Muscatine Parks and Recreation Department at (563) 263-0241 for more information or to schedule a tour of the concession stands.

Tags City, Department, Iowa –, Muscatine, Parks, proposals, Recreation, requesting

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Lane restriction begins Monday on section of Lucas

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date January 6, 2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Lucas Street will be reduced to one lane of traffic from Newell to Logan starting Monday, Jan. 9, 2023, as Phase 5 work on the West Hill Sanitary and Storm Sewer Separation Project (WHSSSP) resumes.

Underground sewer replacement work resumes next week with the westbound lane closed at Logan and at Newell. Westbound traffic will be detoured onto Logan, to Newell, and back to Lucas. Eastbound traffic will not be affected by the lane closure.

While work resumes on Phase 5, Department of Public Works staff and Stanley Consultants are wrapping up preparation for Phase 6. A public meeting will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 10, to introduce Phase 6A of the WHSSSP. The meeting will be an open house format and held from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 10, in the City Council Chambers at Muscatine City Hall.

The meeting is specifically for residents directly affected by the project and to answer any questions they may have regarding their easement agreements. The general public is also welcomed to attend.

Residents on Sycamore Street from East 8th Street to West Fulliam and those on West Fulliam from Sycamore Street to just west of Nelson Drive will be mostly affected by Phase 6A along with some residents on 9th, 10th, and 11th streets between Sycamore Street and Iowa Avenue.

If you have a question, comment, or request, visit Muscatine Connect, or download the app from the AppStore or GooglePlay.

Tags from, Iowa –, lane, Lucas, Muscatine, Newell, reduced, Street, traffic, will

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Block of Lucas to remain closed through January 13

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date January 6, 2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Lucas Street will remain closed to through traffic from North Houser Street to Westwood through January 13, 2023, weather permitting. Needham Excavating has completed installation of sewer and water connections for the Muscatine Community School District Centralized Kitchen that is currently under construction, and is now preparing the section for repaving.

The current forecast indicates that the next available day to pour concrete will be January 9, which means that the section could be reopened to traffic at the end of the day on January 13. That schedule is depending on the weather, however.

Westbound traffic on Lucas is currently detoured north on Houser and then west on Cedar. Eastbound traffic on Lucas is detoured south on the U.S. 61 Bypass to Hershey then east to Houser.

If you have a question, comment, or request, visit Muscatine Connect, or download the app from the AppStore or GooglePlay.

Tags closed, from, Iowa –, Lucas, Muscatine, remain, Street, through, traffic, will

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Muscatine resident honors firefighters for saving his life

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date January 5, 2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Ben Eversmeyer is happy to be alive, and he knows just who to thank for that.

Eversmeyer was walking across his living room just over a year ago (Jan. 2, 2022) when he fell to his knees and then dropped to his side.

“My wife noticed my eyes were rolled back in my head,” Eversmeyer said. “I had apparently gone into cardiac arrest.”

His wife called 911 and started CPR. The paramedics arrived just a mere 90 seconds after they were dispatched but it seemed a lifetime to the Eversmeyers. The paramedics took over CPR and used an automated external defibrillator (AED) to shock his heart.

“I had a pulse and was alert when they loaded me into the ambulance,” Eversmeyer said.

Eversmeyer was taken to the University of Iowa Hospital Emergency Room and talked with the paramedics as they unloaded him at the hospital. Three days later, Eversmeyer received an ICD (implantable cardioverter defibrillator) and was released from the hospital the next day.

Ambulance Operations Chief Gary Ronzheimer along with Fire Captain Joe Timmsen, and firefighters Mike E. Collins and Josh Rudolph were on the crew that responded to and saved the life of Eversmeyer.

The odds of surviving a cardiac arrest are not good with 70 percent of adult cardiac arrests occurring at home. Only 11.4 percent of patients survive through discharge from a hospital. Everysmeyer was one of the lucky ones and the odds of his survival began when his wife began CPR, and increased higher with the quick response of Muscatine paramedics.

Eversmeyer’s recognition of the Muscatine paramedics highlight the skill and care provided by the Muscatine Fire Department during a sudden cardiac arrest event.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

The collapse of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin from a cardiac arrest during an NFL game with the Cincinnati Bengals Monday night brings home the swift change from living life to fighting for life that occurs with a cardiac arrest. The Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation states that out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survival rates are low, an average of 10 percent. That increases to 30 percent when a bystander begins CPR, and increases to 50 percent when that bystander can use both CPR and an AED. The foundation urges the public to learn CPR and how to use an AED, to encourage CPR-AED education in schools, and to promote widespread deployment of AEDs in their community.

Eastern Iowa Community Colleges will be holding a Heartsaver class in Muscatine on March 23. The Heartsaver CPR/AED/First Aid class is open to everyone and instructs participants on how to handle basic first aid, medical, injury, and environmental emergencies. Heartsaver CPR for the adult, child, and infant including how to handle choking situations are covered based on the American Heart Association 2015 guides. Click HERE to learn more about this class.

Tags Alive”, Eversmeyer, happy, Iowa –, just, knows, Muscatine, thank, that Eversmeyer, Walking

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Muscatine teen charged in residential burglary

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date January 5, 2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa – At approximately 11:08 a.m. Thursday (Jan. 5, 2023), the Muscatine Police Department responded to 614 Monroe Street for a report of a residential burglary in progress.

Police arrived at the residence and the suspect, who was armed with a firearm, escaped through an upstairs window of the house. Police pursued the suspect on foot for a short distance before the suspect was subdued. The suspect was arrested and transported to the Muscatine County Jail by police.

The suspect was identified as 19- year-old Dante Chesmore of 314 Pine Street, Muscatine, Iowa.

Chesmore was charged with Burglary 2nd (C Felony), Possession of a Short Barrel Rifle (D Felony), Carrying Weapons (Aggravated Misdemeanor), Trafficking Stolen Weapons (C Felony), Going Armed with Intent (D Felony), Felon in Possession of a Firearm (D Felony), Possession with Intent to Deliver Marijuana (Class D) and Interference with Official Acts (Class D).

Chesmore is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Anyone who has information relevant to the case may contact Lt. David O’Connor at 563-263-9922 ext. 608.

Tags 1108, 2023, approximately, Department, Iowa –, Muscatine, Police, responded, Thursday

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Public meeting January 10 to discuss West Hill Phase 6A

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date January 4, 2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The City of Muscatine will host a public meeting January 10 to introduce Phase 6A of the West Hill Sanitary and Storm Sewer Separation Project. The meeting will be an open house format and held from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 10, in the City Council Chambers at Muscatine City Hall.

If you have a question, comment, or request, visit Muscatine Connect, or download the app from the AppStore or GooglePlay.

Tags City, host, introduce, Iowa –, January, meeting, Muscatine, public, will

City of Muscatine Press Releases

City Council to conduct two meetings on January 5

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date January 4, 2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine City Council have two meetings scheduled for their first meeting of 2023 starting with a closed session at 5:15 p.m. The City Council is tentatively scheduled to open their regular meeting at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers of Muscatine City Hall, but the start of that meeting may be delayed depending on the length of the closed session.

The session will also be broadcast live on the City of Muscatine YouTube channel and on Civic-TV (Muscatine Power & Water Cable Channel 2).

The special City Council meeting will begin at 5:15 p.m. in the Lower-Level Conference Room at Muscatine City Hall. The only agenda item for the meeting is a request to enter a closed session. The special meeting will be adjourned following the closed session without any action being taken.

A public hearing will be held during the regular session on the plans, specifications, form of contract, and cost estimates for the rehabilitation of underground pipes with a cured-in-place pipe liner. A resolution approving moving forward with the project is scheduled later in the meeting.

With the current state of the economy and with construction costs essentially prohibiting replacement options, Public Works staff has researched alternative and less-expensive rehabilitation options. The cured-in-place option is a cost-effective way to add 50 years to the life of the current sewer system at a fraction of the cost of replacement.

If approved by the City Council, the project would rehabilitate eight sections of aging sewer pipe according to Zack Etzel, Sewer Department Supervisor. Those sections are located in the 1500 block of Washington Street, 100 block of Sherman Street, 1700 block of Meadow Lane, 1200 block of Sunrise Circle, 800 block of Wier Street, 1000 block of Stone Street, and two sections in the 1400 block of Lincoln Boulevard.

Work will be completed by June 2, 2023.

The City Council will also be asked to approve a contract with Corbin Design for the development of a Wayfinding Master Plan, the first step in the development and implementation of a Wayfinding Program in the City of Muscatine. The wayfinding will include monument signs and gateways to the City, direction signage to and between recreation and cultural amenities, and specific business districts and/or neighborhoods.

The Parks and Recreation Department is asking the City Council to approve the purchase of a robotic painter for the soccer complex. The unit will reduce staff hours for laying out fields and would reduce the overall paint that is needed to be purchased. The robotic painter is a three-wheeled unit that can be controlled manually or with GPS and has over 100 different sport templates with thousands of variations.

Water Pollution Control Plant (WPCP) Director Jon Koch is asking the City Council to approve the submission of a Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling (SWIFR) Grant through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The proposed $2 million grant is a 100 percent funded grant with no match required from the City of Muscatine. If awarded, the grant would allow for the installation of new digester equipment and refurbishment of the interior and exterior of the old digester tank.

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

On-Line Participation

Muscatine City Council Meeting | Thursday, January 5, 2023 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 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 – Have, City, Council, first, Iowa –, meetings, Muscatine, scheduled, their

City of Muscatine Press Releases

No more fines at Musser Public Library

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date January 3, 2023

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Library fines have become a thing of the past at Musser Public Library effective today (Jan. 3, 2023), as the library stops charging fines for overdue materials and institutes the forgiveness of past fines. These policy changes will have an impact on more than 2,500 Musser Public Library (MPL) patrons.

The RiverShare Library Consortium – Musser Public Library and six other library systems in eastern Iowa – has elected to discontinue applying overdue fines to items returned late. Some of the consortium’s libraries, including Musser, have also decided to waive existing overdue fines. The changes are based on the findings of the American Library Association (ALA), who in January 2019 passed a resolution encouraging libraries to eliminate overdue fines because they are a barrier to equitable access.

“Our vision at Musser Public Library is to be the gateway to learning and information for all ages. By becoming a fine-free library, we go a step further towards attaining this goal,” Musser Public Library Director Bobby Fiedler said.

Studies cited by the ALA indicate that some community members can feel discouraged from checking out library items or even obtaining a library card if there is the potential of racking up fines for overdue materials. The studies also show that overdue fines on library materials have no impact on ensuring materials are returned on time.

In eliminating fines, our local library aims to bring back library users whose accounts are blocked due to unpaid overdue fines and encourage more people to sign up for a library card and use library materials without the fear of incurring overdue fines.

“We are dedicated to making our library as accessible as possible to those who need it most,” Fiedler said.

Two types of fees Musser Public Library will retain are for lost and damaged items and for equipment usage and rentals, such as copying, printing and renting equipment including hotspots and tablets.

Tags – Have, become, fines, Iowa –, Library, Muscatine, Musser, past, public, thing

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Seasonal employment positions open for 2023

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

MUSCATINE, Iowa – A new year arrives and with it comes opportunities to join a staff dedicated to providing the best recreational opportunities for residents of and visitors to Muscatine.

The Muscatine Parks and Recreation Department is recruiting dependable, hard workers to fill 2023 seasonal positions at a variety of locations including the Muscatine Soccer Complex, Kent Stein Park, Greenwood Cemetery, Park Maintenance, Muscatine Municipal Golf Course, and the Muscatine Aquatic Center. Opportunities are also available to lead and/or assist in various recreation programs sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Department.

Current opportunities available include:

Golf Course Clubhouse Supervisor ($13.00/hr)
Seasonal Equipment Operator ($12.00/hr)
Seasonal Groundskeeper ($12.00/hr)
Lead Groundskeeper ($14.00/hr)
On-Site Supervisor ($12.00/hr)
Office Clerk ($11.00/hr)
Lifeguard ($12.00/hr)
Slide Attendant ($11.00/hr)
Cashier ($11.00/hr)
Recreation Program Instructor ($14.00/hr)
Sand Volleyball Supervisor ($12.00/hr)
Recreation Program Aide ($11.00/hr)

To apply for any of these positions complete an application on the City of Muscatine’s Career Center webpage.

Please contact the Muscatine Parks and Recreation Department at (563) 263-0241 for more information.

Tags arrives, comes, dedicated, Iowa –, join, Muscatine, Opportunities, staff, with, year

City of Muscatine Press Releases

Block of Lucas Street closed to traffic January 3-10, 2023

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date December 30, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Lucas Street will be closed to traffic from North Houser Street to Westwood starting January 3, 2023. The closure is expected to last approximately one week. Needham Excavating has requested the street closure to install sewer and water connections for the Muscatine Community School District Centralized Kitchen that is currently under construction.

Westbound traffic on Lucas will be detoured north on Houser and then west on Cedar. Eastbound traffic on Lucas will be detoured south on the U.S. 61 Bypass to Hershey then east to Houser.

If you have a question, comment, or request, visit Muscatine Connect, or download the app from the AppStore or Google Play.

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Celebrate the New Year safely; use caution with fireworks

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date December 29, 2022

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The use of consumer fireworks in the celebration of the New Year is limited in the City of Muscatine to 9 a.m. on Saturday, December 31, 2022, to 12:30 a.m. on Sunday, January 1, 2023. Only the use of first- and second-class fireworks is permitted during this time period.

The City of Muscatine encourages residents to be good neighbors. Please be considerate to any neighbors who may have a sensitivity to fireworks noise, be mindful of pets who may become frightened by the firework explosions, and be mindful of the property lines of others who may not want fireworks on their real property.

Consumer fireworks may only be used on a residents’ personal property or on the property of a person who has consented to the use of consumer fireworks on his/her property. Fireworks are prohibited on public property including city streets, public parking lots, parks, etc. Persons 17-years-old and under are not permitted to discharge fireworks except under direct adult supervision.

Using fireworks outside the designated dates and times listed below is considered a violation and can result in fines of no less than $250 per violation. Anyone discharging fireworks or allowing the discharge of fireworks on their property assumes responsibility for that discharge and the consequences, if warranted.

To report illegal use of fireworks, call the non-emergency line at the Muscatine Police Department (563-263-9922).

Report any fires in buildings, vehicles, or greenspaces by calling 911 immediately!

More information can be found on the City of Muscatine Firework Safety page.

Highlights from the Muscatine City Code …

Current Muscatine City Code sets the time for the legal discharge of consumer fireworks during the New Year’s Day holiday between 9 a.m. on December 31 and 12:30 a.m. on January 1 on real property that they own or on property where consent has been given by the property owner.
Persons 17 years or younger are not permitted to discharge fireworks except under the supervision of an adult who is within sight and sound of the minor(s) as they discharge fireworks.
It is a violation of City Code for any parent, guardian, or other adult having custody of a minor to allow the minor to discharge fireworks without direct supervision by the parent, guardian, or other adult having custody.
Any person discharging a fireworks device or any person permitting the discharge of a fireworks device on their property assumes the responsibility for and the potential consequences from the discharging of fireworks.
It is a violation of City Code to discharge fireworks in a reckless manner or a manner that is likely to cause death, injury, fire, or property damage, and to discharge fireworks while showing visible signs of, or determined to be, intoxicated or under the influence of a drug or narcotic.
It is against City Code to alter, remove, or discharge components of a fireworks device from its intended method of discharging.
Snakes, sparklers, or caps can be discharged in a public place unless specifically prohibited by the owner of the public space, and as long as all trash, wrappers, and wires are properly disposed of.
Sky lantern open flame devices are not permitted unless the device is tethered by a retrievable rope that provides the individual control over the sky lantern.

Tags celebration, City, consumer, fireworks, Iowa –, limited, Muscatine, Saturday, year

City of Muscatine Press Releases

New Year’s message from the Mayor of Muscatine

Post author By City of Muscatine
Post date December 29, 2022

Dear Friends,

It is the most wonderful time of the year when we share special moments with our family, friends and loved ones, and look forward to brand-new opportunities with optimism and enthusiasm for this coming year.

As I reflect on my first year as your mayor, I have seen great strides of collaboration between public and private entities. I’ve also seen individuals and groups go from ordinary to extraordinary for the betterment of the community. The Norbert F. Becky bridge is symbolic in our community. Not only does it represent two states connecting to each other, but it also represents connections that are being built each day and shining their light to represent something bigger than themselves.

I also express my appreciation to all the City of Muscatine employees for your dedication, commitment, and service to our community. The outstanding work that all the departments perform is why we have a vibrant and forward focused community. Some of the accomplishments include reconstruction of major streets, additions to our Parks and Recreation amenities, being financially responsible, increased construction of housing, improved relationships with all entities that live within our city limits and plans for growing Muscatine.

In the spirit of the season, I commend all those neighbors and employees who have made a special effort to give back to our community. Thank you to the men and women for keeping our community safe this past year and finding time to give back to help others.

We are extremely fortunate to have a wonderful large business and small business representation to help with our economy and growth of our city. There have been awards received by some of the corporations recently and in the past years to show why Muscatine is a great place to work.

Let us not forget 2022, as it has set the foundation for this next year. As the new year approaches, it is truly an exciting time to be in Muscatine. We have been increasing our housing stock and have plans to continue, we are committed to adding amenities for families to take pride in, tourism is on an amazing pace to continue to add events, and we have had increased inquiries on people and businesses wanting to move to Muscatine.

As we look forward to new and exciting opportunities that are before us, we are committed to leaving no part of Muscatine behind and will work cooperatively with all facets of our community to make Muscatine, Iowa the place to live, work, play, visit and raise a family. We will continue to listen, show value, be proactive and work together as a team.

Muscatine, Iowa is officially the longest place my wife, Candice, and I have ever lived, and we are extremely blessed to be part of the community. On behalf of the City of Muscatine, I extend my warmest wishes to you and your loved ones to have a Merry Christmas, a joyous holiday season and with many blessings in the New Year.

Shine your light and Be Your Best!

Dr. Brad Bark

Mayor of The City of Muscatine

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