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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Two public hearings are on City Council March 2 agenda

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Two public hearings will be conducted and three more will be set during the Muscatine City Council meeting Thursday (March 2). Public hearings will be held on the sale of City property and on updating City Code in regards to designated truck routes. Three public hearings will be scheduled for March 16 with Council approval.

The City Council will meet at 6 p.m. Thursday in the Council Chambers of Muscatine City Hall. The public is welcomed to attend the meeting in person. 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 virtual 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).

The first public hearing is in regards to the proposed sale and exchange of property with Stockton Realty Company. The proposed agreement has the City selling the property at Lake 1 of Arrowhead Lake to Stockton Realty and Stockton Realty selling 3.2 acres of land to the City. The purpose of the sale is to address solid waste migration from the Muscatine Couty Landfill.

The second public hearing is on modifications to the ordinance designating truck routes in the City of Muscatine. Specifically, the revisions would remove the truck route designation from Lucas Street and modify the truck route designation of Houser Street so that it only applies to the portion of Houser from Grandview Avenue to Hershey Avenue.

Resolutions on each public hearing topic will be discussed and voted on later in the Council meeting.

Also on the agenda are resolutions setting public hearings on declaring certain City property as surplus and selling that real estate by sealed bid (two lots on Houser just off of Hershey Avenue), the plans and specifications for Phase I of the Fulliam Avenue Reconstruction Project, and the plans and specifications for Phase 6 of the West Hill Sanitary and Storm Sewer Separation Project. 

The Council will be asked to approve a purchase order with Watersmith engineering for the Muscatine Slough Conceptual Design Project. This project is envisioned as making the area between Houser Street and the Muscatine Transfer Station a nature education destination for the community with the added benefit of preventing flooding on both sides of Houser Street.

City Council will also be asked to approve a contract with Pros Consulting for a market analysis, operations plan, and design recommendations for an amphitheater on the Muscatine riverfront. This is another step in the fundraising process of the project.

Information on the 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, March 2, 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.

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

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Thanksgiving letter from the Mayor of Muscatine

Dear Friends,

I want to extend my best wishes to you and your families during this Thanksgiving weekend. Thanksgiving is a cherished American holiday which reminds us of the values and ideas that form the foundation of our great nation. On this special day, we embrace our differences, celebrate our diverse heritage, and come together in gratitude for our blessings of freedom, family, and faith. There is so much to be thankful for as we spend time with our friends and family. 

May this amazing day serve as an opportunity to reflect upon our blessings. Thanksgiving is a day to celebrate and be thankful for the men and women who keep our community, state, and nation safe. I would also like to give thanks to everyone that works in healthcare who keep us safe and in education who teach the future leaders of tomorrow. I am very thankful for our city employees and partners for their outstanding work throughout our community in fulfilling our shared vision of creating a vibrant, safe, and sustainable community.  

I remember during Thanksgiving standing around a circle holding hands and everyone sharing what they were thankful for. My father always reminded us of the importance of family, helping one another, and being there for each other. Muscatine is fortunate in that we are also there for one another. Our residents, staff, businesses are one big family. 

Be thankful for the good times and difficult times, as each situation will allow you to grow. Be generous with gratitude, for it is contagious. Also, be thankful that there is only one Muscatine in the world…WE ARE MUSCATINE!!! 

On this Thanksgiving Day, I am thankful for our community. Take a moment to look your family members and friends in the eye and tell them how thankful you are. May your blessings be multiplied this year and into the next. 

Be the light and Be Your Best!!!

Dr. Brad Bark

Mayor of The City of Muscatine

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Revised all-terrain vehicle ordinance to be considered

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The public is invited to provide comments during a public hearing Thursday as the City Council considers proposed revisions to the All-Terrain Vehicle Ordinance. 

The City Council meets in regular session Thursday (September 1) in the Council Chambers at Muscatine City Hall, 215 Sycamore Street, Muscatine, Iowa. A virtual session 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 attending in person. Instructions for joining the virtual session are listed below.

The City Council directed City staff to prepare changes to the All-Terrain Vehicle Regulations during the May 2022 In-Depth session. Since then, the State of Iowa passed a new code governing All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV) and Off-Road Utility Vehicles (UTV) throughout all 99 counties. The revisions to the City Code of Muscatine being proposed include definitions and requirements related to the use of ATVs and UTVs, and reasonable rules and regulations for the maintenance and operation of ATVs and UTVs on approved roadways within the City of Muscatine.

The first reading of the proposed revised ordinance will be held later in the meeting along with the second reading of the proposed revisions to the snow emergency regulations that include a return to snow emergency route designations.

In other business Thursday, the Council is expected to:

  • Approve the Development Agreement with Kent Corporation in regards to renovations of the former McKee Button Factory;
  • Approve the Development Agreement with Muscatine Downtown Investors LLC to create two upper-story units at 100 West 2nd Street; and, 
  • Approve a Supplemental Agreement with the Iowa Department of Transportation for maintenance of primary roads in municipalities.

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. 

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.

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, September 1, 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

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Two meetings make busy night for Muscatine City Council Thursday

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.

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 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.

 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

Continue reading “Two meetings make busy night for Muscatine City Council Thursday”
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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Four public hearings on City Council agenda for March 3

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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


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

 

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

Continue reading “Four public hearings on City Council agenda for March 3”
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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Kitchen fire damages Muscatine home; MFD urges fire safety awareness

MUSCATINE, Iowa – A Muscatine home was damaged during a kitchen morning fire Tuesday (Jan. 18).

 

The Muscatine County Joint Communications Center (Muscom) received a call at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday of a stove fire at 2810 Broadlawn. Units from the Muscatine Fire Department (MFD) found that the fire had spread throughout the kitchen when they arrived on scene but were able to gain control within five minutes.

 

While on scene, MFD turned off the electric and gas to the residence as they battled the fire, but some of those utilities were restored ahead of the expected frigid temperatures later this week.

 

An inspector from the City of Muscatine worked along with Muscatine Power & Water (MPW) staff to determine what, and how much, of the utilities could be restored to prevent more damage to the home due to the expected low temperatures later this week.

 

One civilian received a minor injury during the fire. There were no injuries to first responders. The Muscatine Police Department assisted at the scene. The Red Cross and 1-800-BoardUp are providing victim assistance.

 

This is the second residential fire in one week resulting from a stove fire. The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) recommends residents should remain alert while cooking (never coo while sleepy or after having consumed alcohol), stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food, and keep anything that can catch fire (oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains) away from the stovetop.

 

With the expected cold temperatures, residents are also reminded that if they use secondary heating sources (fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater) to keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from the heating equipment, plug portable space heaters into a wall outlet, and never use extension cords or power strips that may overheat and cause a fire.

 

Residents are reminded that working smoke detectors save lives, and to call 9-1-1 to report the fire while safely exiting the structure. Please let the first responders do their job and do not waste time or risk your safety trying to put out the fire. 

 

Home Heating Safety Tips

Cooking Safety Tips

 

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 5,238 calls in 2019. The Muscatine Fire Department began as a volunteer fire company on January 7, 1875 and was established as a full-time department in January 1916. The Muscatine Fire Department ambulance service received the 2012 Career Ambulance service of the Year Award from Iowa Emergency Medical Services.

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