Tag: Thursday

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Busy night for Muscatine City Council Thursday

MUSCATINE, Iowa – It will be a busy night for the Muscatine City Council Thursday (April 20) with four public hearings, two special presentations, and a long list of action items for the Council to consider.

The City Council will meet at 6 p.m. Thursday in the Council Chambers at Muscatine City Hall. The public is welcome, and encouraged, to attend the meeting in person. A virtual option is available for citizens who do not want to attend in-person. Information on joining the virtual session through the GoToMeeting portal is listed below. 

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

Muscatine Mayor Brad Bark will begin the meeting with a proclamation declaring May 7-13, 2023, as Drinking Water Week. Bark will also introduce and recognize the Manta Rays Swim Team for their accomplishments.

The City Council will conduct four public hearings starting with a hearing on a request to approve the Consolidated Funding Application for Federal Fiscal Year 2024 and the Public Transit Infrastructure Grant (PTIG) Application. The City of Muscatine Transit Division (MuscaBus) annually applies for State and Federal Transit funds through the Consolidated Funding Application. The funds are applied to transit operating and capital expenses. The PTIG application will apply to the automatic drive-through wash bay expenses. 

A public hearing on Amendment #1 to the FY 2022-2023 city budget will follow along with a public hearing on the FY 2023-2024 city budget. The final public hearing is on declaring Tom Bruner Field as surplus and authorizing the sale of the property to the Muscatine School District.

During the budget review process for the FY 2023-2024 city budget, revised revenue and expenditure amounts for the FY 2022-2023 city budget were reviewed. These revised estimates become Amendment #1 to the current city budget, and require a public hearing and resolution to adopt the revised estimates.

The public hearing, and subsequent resolution to adopt, on the FY 2023-2024 city budget is the culmination over almost six months of work by city staff and City ­Council to develop and review the proposed budget. The proposed budget for 2023/2024 totals $67,398,621. This includes $37,719,031 in governmental funds expenditures and $29,679,590 in business-type/enterprise funds expenditures. Of the total proposed budget, $12,789,900 is for capital projects in both governmental and business-type funds.

Among the action items to be considered Thursday is awarding Phase 1 of the Fulliam Avenue Reconstruction Project to Heuer Construction.

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, April 20, 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

Continue reading “Busy night for Muscatine City Council Thursday”
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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Two public hearings set for April 6 Council meeting

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine City Council will conduct two public hearings Thursday, the first on the next two phases of the West Hill Sanitary and Storm Sewer Separation Project, and the second on setting the maximum tax dollars for certain tax levies for the Fiscal Year 2023/2024 Budget.

The City Council will meet at 6 p.m. Thursday (April 6) in the Council Chambers at Muscatine City Hall. The public is welcomed, and encouraged, to attend the meeting in person. A virtual option is available for citizens who do not want to attend in-person. Information on joining the virtual session through the GoToMeeting portal is listed below. 

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

Two proclamations will be made by Muscatine Mayor Brad Bark including declaring April 6, 2023, as Junior Achievement Day, and the week of April 9-15, 2023, as Telecommunicators Week.

Phase 6 of the West Hill Sewer Separation Project will include sanitary and storm sewer installation with separation of sanitary sewer from the Papoose Creek tunnel. Work will be on Sycamore Street from 8th Street to Fulliam Avenue, Iowa Avenue from 10th Street to Fulliam Avenue, and Fulliam Avenue from Iowa Avenue to Sycamore Street. New water mains will also be a part of the project with repaving of the streets to follow the completion of the underground work.

A resolution approving the plans and specifications for Phase 6A and Phase 6B will be voted on later in Thursday’s meeting. If approved, the bid documents will be released on April 7 with bids opened on May 9 and the project awarded on June 1. A construction schedule will be determined during a pre-construction meeting with the contractor later in June.

All cities in Iowa are required by the State of Iowa to pass a resolution establishing their maximum property tax dollars for certain levies prior to adoption and certification of the final budget. The second public hearing Thursday is on the proposed maximum tax levy for 2023/2024. This maximum levy only includes the General, Transit, Tort Liability/Insurance, Emergency, and employee benefits levies. The tax dollars from those levies are $13,934,443 in the FY 23-24 budget compared to $12,992,776 in the FY 22-23 budget.

While the total property tax rate has been reduced 1.87 percent (to $15,67219 per $1,000 of valuation), an 8.36 percent increase in taxable valuations will result in a 6.65 percent increase ($1,009, 751) in property tax dollars. The maximum tax dollars for the tax levies considered in the public hearing will be a 7.65 percent increase ($941,667) over the FY 22-23 budget.

A resolution approving the maximum tax dollars for certain tax levies for the FY 23-24 budget will be voted on later in Thursday’s meeting.

Also on the agenda are resolutions setting public hearings on April 20 for the FY 23-24 budget, Amendment #1 to the FY 22-23 budget, and on declaring Tom Bruner Field as surplus and authorizing the sale to the Muscatine Community School District.

The Council will also be asked to accept a $1.738 million grant from the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) for the Mulberry Neighborhood Project. This pilot project was developed to focus on revitalizing an area that is near downtown, has a high visibility impact, and can be replicated by other communities. 

The Muscatine Neighborhood Project will be completed over a three-to-five-year period with a $22 million budget.  Items to be funded include living street improvements, street lighting, sidewalks, bikeway trail, trees, pocket park, expanding internet access, commercial façade improvements, exterior housing repairs, acquisition and clearance of nuisance properties, and Community Development Block Grant administration.

Another project that is awaiting City Council approval on Thursday is the installation of a sidewalk connector from Sunset Housing to the back side of the Muscatine Soccer Complex, across the Muscatine Slough, and connecting with the Kent Stein Trail Kent Stein Park.

The Kent Stein trail connector is part of the Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine South End Improvement Fund Projects. If approved, The Henley Group will complete the installation of an asphalt trail connector from Kent Stein Park to the Muscatine Soccer Complex, and CR Landscape will complete the sidewalk connector from Sunset Housing to the Kent Stein Connector. 

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, April 6, 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

Final discussion of FY23-24 budget set for Thursday

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine City Council will conduct two sessions on Thursday (March 9) beginning with a special meeting at 4:30 p.m. concerning the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 budget. The second meeting is the regular March In-Depth meeting that will begin at approximately 6 p.m. Both meetings will be held in the Council Chambers at Muscatine City Hall.

Budget discussions were delayed while the Iowa state legislature worked to correct their original calculation of the “rollback” rate that is used to adjust actual valuations to table valuations, and limiting the annual growth of property assessment. Residential property was used along with multi-residential property to calculate the rollback and that would have increased the amount of property taxes residential property owners would pay. The adjustment removed multi-residential from the calculations, which lowered the rollback rate from 56.49 to 54.65 percent.

The changes lowered the amount of property tax that school districts along with city and county governments would receive for FY 23-24, and thus created budget headaches for those charged with creating budgets for each entity. 

Once the revised estimate of property taxes was calculated by county auditors, each entity had to review their budgets and see what, if any, cuts would have to be made. Fortunately, the City of Muscatine anticipates asking the Council for a 1.87 percent reduction in the City’s property tax rate. The City rate was 15.97054 (per $1,000 valuation) for FY 22-23 but is proposed to be 15.67169 for FY23-24. That rate is nearly the same as the 15.67209 rate the City had for 10 straight years through the FY 21-22 budget.

City Administrator Carol Webb and Finance Director Nancy Lueck will provide updated general information schedules to City Council members Thursday along with conducting discussions on budgets not yet reviewed by City Council including Debt Service and a number of Special Revenue Funds.

The meeting will wrap up with the presentation of an updated General Fund Budget Fund statement and discussions on budget issues identified prior to Thursday’s meeting. 

Once the discussions are wrapped up, the City Council will be asked on March 16 to set a public hearing for April 6 on the proposed property tax levy. Once that hearing is held and a resolution approving the maximum property tax is adopted on April 6, the Council will then set a public hearing for April 20 on the proposed budget. The Council will also be asked on April 6 to set an April 20 public hearing on Amendment #1 to the FY22/23 budget.

The FY23-24 budget needs to be filed with the County auditor by April 30.

The City Council in-depth meeting will begin at 6 p.m. or shortly thereafter depending on the length of the budget meeting. The public is welcomed to attend the both meetings in person but public comments on the proposed budget will not be heard until the April 6 public hearing.

Citizens who do not want to attend the in-depth meeting in person 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 budget discussion will not be televised or held virtually.

On the in-depth agenda:

  • A presentation by Assistant Fire Chief Mike Hartman on proposed International Fire Code updates that will are a part of the City Code of Muscatine;
  • A presentation by Captain of Patrol Jeff Jirak on the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Program; and,
  • A presentation by Director of the Water Resource & Recovery Facility Jon Koch on participation by the City of Muscatine in the Choose Green Business program.

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 9, 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

City of Muscatine declares Snow Emergency Feb. 16-17

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The City of Muscatine has declared a Snow Emergency starting at 8 a.m. Thursday (Feb. 16) through 8 a.m. Friday (Feb. 17). Muscatine is under a Winter Storm Warning and is expected to receive 4-7 inches of snow starting Wednesday night.

“Our trucks are out right now spraying areas of our streets with brine (a salt-water mixture that helps melt snow),” Brian Stineman, Public Works Director, said. “The snow plows will be out early Thursday morning and will work as long as needed to move snow off the streets.”

This is the first time that a Snow Emergency has been declared under the revised Snow Emergency Ordinance. 

Muscatine’s Snow Emergency Ordinance limits on-street parking during a declared Snow Emergency to allow plows to access and clear streets during extreme winter storms. 

According to the revised code, when weather conditions warrant the declaration of a snow emergency, motor traffic will be expedited and parking on City of Muscatine streets will be prohibited or restricted for snow plowing and other purposes.

During a declared snow emergency, no person shall park, or allow to remain parked, any vehicle on any portion of a Snow Emergency route. Here is a MAP of the Snow Emergency routes. Signage marking the designated Snow Emergency routes were installed by the City of Muscatine late last year.

Once a Snow Emergency ends there is still the possibility of parking restrictions as Department of Public Works crews push back the snow to the curb. 

The Snow Push Back policy would be implemented, if needed, once snow removal operations are complete to the appropriate levels of service on all Class I, Class II, and Class III roadways. See SNOW AND ICE CONTROL POLICY for the classifications of different roadways. 

Residents will be provided 24-hour notice prior to the implementation of the Snow Push Back policy’s odd-even parking plan. See SNOW PUSH BACK POLICY for more information on parking restrictions.

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Short agenda for City Council on Thursday

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

Continue reading “Short agenda for City Council on Thursday”
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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Muscatine teen charged in residential burglary

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. 

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Thanksgiving schedule for City of Muscatine services

MUSCATINE, Iowa – City of Muscatine offices will be closed on Thursday (Nov. 24) and Friday (Nov. 25) for the Thanksgiving holiday. All offices will reopen for regular hours on Monday (Nov. 28).

Thanksgiving is the most traveled holiday and the City of Muscatine urges everyone to use extra caution and plan enough travel time to avoid becoming anxious about arriving late and to accommodate any delays due to road conditions. Also view these Fire Safety Tips from the National Fire Protection Association for a safe holiday.

Muscatine Transit (MuscaBus) will not be in service on Thursday (Nov. 24) or Friday (Nov. 25). Red and Blue Routes will operate from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday (Nov. 26) with regular service resuming Monday (Nov. 28).

For more information visit the TRANSIT page on the City of Muscatine website or call 563-263-8152.

The Musser Public Library and HNI Community Center will be closed on Thursday (Nov. 24) for Thanksgiving Day, and will resume normal hours on Friday (Nov. 25). Normal hours of operation are Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m-2 p.m.; Sunday 12-4 p.m.). 

For more information visit the LIBRARY website or call 563-263-3065

The Muscatine Art Center will be closed on Thursday (Nov. 24) and Friday (Nov. 25). The Art Center will resume normal hours of operation on Saturday (Nov. 26). Normal hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thursday 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 1-5 p.m. The Art Center is normally closed to the public on Mondays. 

For more information, visit the ART CENTER website or call 563-263-8282.

The Muscatine Transfer Station will be closed on Thursday and Friday (Nov. 24-25). The facility will resume normal hours of operation on Saturday (Nov. 26). Transfer Station hours are Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-3:30 p.m. with the last load on the scale at 3:15 p.m., and Saturday 8 a.m.-12 p.m. with the last load on the scale at 11:45 a.m. 

For more information, visit the SOLID WASTE DIVISION page on the City of Muscatine website or call 563-263-9689.

The Compost Facility will be closed on Thursday (Nov. 24) but will resume normal hours of operation on Friday (Nov. 25). Compost Facility hours are Sunday-Friday 12-5 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 

For more information about the facility, visit COMPOST SITE on the City of Muscatine website.

There will be no refuse or yard waste collections on Thursday (Nov. 24) or Friday (Nov. 25), no Bulky Waste Collection Wednesday-Monday (Nov. 24-28), and no curbside recycling collection on Thursday (Nov. 24).

Visit the CURBSIDE BULK COLLECTION page on the City of Muscatine website to schedule a collection or call 563-264-5865. 

  • REFUSE COLLECTION – There will be no curbside refuse or yard waste collection on Thursday (Nov. 24) or Friday (Nov. 25). Residents on the Thursday route will have their refuse collected on Wednesday (Nov. 23), along with residents on the regular Wednesday route. Residents on the Friday route will have their refuse collected on Monday (Nov. 28), along with residents on the regular Monday route. 
  • RECYCLING COLLECTION – There will be no curbside recycling collection on Thursday (Nov. 24). Residents on the Thursday “B” route will have their recycling collected on Friday (Nov. 25). Residents on the Friday “B” route will have their recycling collected on Saturday (Nov. 26). Regular service will resume on Monday (Nov. 28).

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

The Muscatine Municipal Golf Course will be closed on Thursday (Nov. 24), and will resume regular hours on Friday (Nov. 25), weather permitting. Please call the Clubhouse at 563-263-4735 to book a tee time. You can also visit the GOLF page on the City of Muscatine website.

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

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

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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

Construction Update: Block of Park Avenue remains closed to traffic

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Park Avenue will remain closed to traffic through Thursday (Sept. 1) following a water main break in the 1500 block of Park Avenue, between Washington and Jefferson streets, last Wednesday (August 24). Muscatine Power & Water (MPW) were able to repair the break Wednesday.

The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) and the City of Muscatine requested the block remain closed to traffic as damage to the pavement underlayment is repaired. A detour remains in effect using Grant Street on the east and University Avenue on the west to navigate around the closure.

LUCAS AND MAIN INTERSECTION CLOSED

Underground sewer installation as part of the West Hill Sanitary & Storm Sewer Separation Project Phase 5 has moved through the Lucas and Main streets intersection. Hagerty Earthworks, Inc., the prime contractor for Phase 5, has closed the intersection to traffic and established a detour for traffic coming up Main Street using George Street to Green Street and back to Lucas.

West Hill Phase 5 Road Closure Diagram 08-25-2022 (JPG)Lucas Street remains closed from west of the West 8th Street intersection through the Bush Street intersection. Underground work in that section has been completed and the roadway prepped for paving. The contractor anticipates paving to being on Wednesday depending on the weather. That section of the project could be reopened to traffic the first week of September if the weather cooperates.

Lucas Street also remains closed east of the West 8th Street intersection as underground sewer replacement continues toward Green Street. Limited access is allowed east and south of the Main Street intersection with limited parking.

The 700 block of Climer Street will be closed to all traffic beginning Monday as pavement restoration begins from the alley at 700 Climer to just past the High Street intersection. No parking signs were put out Friday morning ahead of the reconstruction work.

Logan Street is closed from Lucas to the alley in the mid-1100 block with limited access from the alley to Climer Street. Sewer work is proceeding on Logan from Lucas toward Climer. Once completed the block will be prepped for pavement replacement and underground work in the 800 and 900 blocks of Climer will begin.

Pavement replacement is wrapping up in the 700 block of Climer and the High Street intersection. Both will be opened to local traffic only once all driveways and sidewalks are completed.

GRANDVIEW WORK CONTINUES

The Houser Street leg of the Grandview Avenue intersection has been reopened to traffic but the intersection will be a three-way stop through the remainder of the Grandview Avenue project. Work on prepping the Sampson leg of the intersection is currently underway.

Heuer Construction plans to continue work on sidewalks and driveways from Franklin Street south toward Houser in addition to completing the Sampson leg of the Grandview Avenue intersection.

Grandview Avenue is now open to two-way traffic. Drivers are reminded that Grandview from Main Street through the Houser intersection remains active construction zone with some lane restrictions as work continues. Please proceed with caution, slow down, and watch for construction workers. Speed limit is 25-mph and fines are doubled in construction zones.

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The City of Muscatine and the Iowa DOT reminds motorists to drive with caution, obey the posted speed limit and other signs in the work area, and be aware that traffic fines for moving violations are at least double in work zones. As in all work zones, drivers should stay alert, allow ample space between vehicles, wear seat belts, 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.

Continue reading “Construction Update: Block of Park Avenue remains closed to traffic”
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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Two injured in morning accident in Muscatine

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Two individuals were critically injured following a two-vehicle accident Thursday morning in Muscatine. 

The Muscatine Police Department and Muscatine Fire Department responded after the Muscatine County Joint Communication Center (MUSCOM) received a report of a two-vehicle accident at 8:46 a.m. Thursday (July 28), at the intersection of US Highway 61 and University Avenue.

The preliminary investigation determined that a northbound passenger car driven by Mikayla Healy, 23, Saint Cloud, Minn., was struck by a southbound pickup truck driven by Joseph Gadzik, 48, Davenport, Iowa, as Healy’s car attempted a left turn onto University Drive.

Healy and her passenger, Allison Magnison, 22, Muscatine, Iowa, were critically injured in the accident. Both Healy and Magnison were flown to the University of Iowa Hospitals for treatment. The driver of the pickup was treated and released at the scene. 

No charges have been filed and the accident remains under investigation. Members of the Iowa State Patrol are assisting with the investigation.

PD RELEASE

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Final reading on three proposed ordinances on May 19 Council agenda

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The final readings of three proposed ordinances are on the agenda for the Thursday (May 19) Muscatine City Council meeting along with a resolution approving the issuance of General Obligation Bonds. 

The in-person meeting will be held in the Council Chambers at Muscatine City Hall, 215 Sycamore Street, Muscatine, Iowa. A virtual meeting is also offered for those who want to view the proceedings or make a comment but cannot attend in person. Details for joining that meeting are listed below.

The final readings of an ordinance adopting Cargo Container Regulations, an ordinance amending the Weeds and Vegetation Management section of City Code, and an ordinance regarding zoning changes to the 1900 block of Stewart Road are on the May 19 agenda. The Cargo container and the Weeds and Vegetation Management ordinances have been revised following comments by City Council members during the May 5 Council meeting.

Once approved by Council, the ordinances will be published, implemented, and added to the current City Code.

Susan Gerlach of Public Financial Management, the City’s Financial Advisor for the May 2022 bond issue, will report to City Council on the bids received, the recommended successful bidder, and the bond rating Moody’s Investors Service has assigned to the City for the bond issue. The Council will be asked to approve awarding the bid on the bonds.

The estimated total bond issue is for $6.2 million with $2.5 million earmarked for the Grandview Avenue Reconstruction Project. Other projects that are part of the bond issuance including $1.08 million for a new fire engine, ambulance, and “demo” ambulance, $200,000 for the vehicle wash bay at Public Works, $200,000 for building demolition projects $338,500 for playground and Aquatic Center repairs, $450,000 to replace the tipping floor at the Muscatine Transfer Station, $725,000 for the local share of the Park Avenue 4-to-3 Lane Conversion Project, $195,000 for flood damage improvements, and $274,000 for deferred building maintenance projects.

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, May 19, 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

Portion of Bond Street to be closed to traffic May 5-13

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Bond Street will be closed to all traffic starting at 7 a.m. Thursday (May 5) for sewer work in conjunction with the Taylor Park Improvement Project. All-American Concrete, the prime contractor for the work, will close the section of Bond Street between Taylor Park and the Muscatine Slough (from Angle Street to the residences in the 400 block of Bond Street) for approximately eight days. 

 

The underground and pavement restoration work is tentatively scheduled to be completed by the end of the day on Friday, May 13. A detour route around the construction site will be posted using Schiller Street on the north, Taylor/Franklin on the east, and Evans Street on the south. The duration of the closure is weather dependent.

 

Access to Pete’s Tap and to the residences in the 400 block of Bond Street will be maintained. Taylor Park is currently closed to the public as is the recreational trail from Franklin to Bond streets.

 

Drivers are urged to slow down, use caution around construction zones, and find alternate routes if possible.

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Seven public hearings on Thursday’s City Council agenda

MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine City Council has a rather lengthy agenda for Thursday (April 8), an agenda that includes seven public hearings and three proclamations. The Muscatine City Council meeting starts at 7 p.m. Thursday 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. 

 

For those attending in person, a sign-up sheet will be available at the entrance of Council Chambers for those who would like to speak during one of the seven public hearings. Those attending virtually and wishing to speak need to comment in the “chat” section with name, address, and the public hearing you wish to address. Registration for in-person and virtual public comment closes at 7 p.m.

 

Public Hearings will be held on:

  • The plans and specifications for repairs to the tipping floor at the Muscatine Transfer Station; 
  • The submittal of four grant applications to the Iowa Economic Development Association to support the Mulberry Neighborhood Revitalization Project and several MCSA projects; 
  • On a change to City code to eliminate the Iowa residency requirement for civil service employees; 
  • The declaration of property at 1030 Hershey as surplus and authorizing the disposal of the property;
  • On the plans and specifications for the Airport Taxiway Widening Project;
  • On an ordinance establishing maintenance standards for vacant properties that have been vacant for six months or longer, and for non-residential properties both occupied and non-occupied; and,
  • An ordinance striking Title 6, Chapter 9 of Muscatine City Code regarding the keeping of pit bulls.

 

Muscatine Mayor Brad Bark will also issue three proclamations including the celebration of National Volunteer Month, National Public Safety Telecommunications Week, and Drinking Water Week.

 

Mayor Bark will also be recognizing Gabriel Paetz for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout.

 

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 April 7, 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 Meeting | Thursday, Apr. 7, 2022 | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (CDT) 
 
 Join the meeting from your computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone by clicking the following link: https://www.gotomeet.me/CityofMuscatine/city-council-meeting


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

 

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

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Fruitland couple faces 42 charges of animal neglect

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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City of Muscatine Press Releases

Muscatine in Focus to premiere Thursday on Cable Channel 9

MUSCATINE, Iowa – A new show will premiere this Thursday through the cooperation of Muscatine Community College (MCC) and the City of Muscatine.

 

“Muscatine in Focus,” hosted by Muscatine Mayor Brad Bark, will premiere at 5:30 p.m. Thursday (Feb. 3) on Muscatine Access Channel Nine available on the Muscatine Power & Water cable network. The presentation will be available after the live airing on the Muscatine in Focus (formerly Our City) YouTube channel sponsored by the City of Muscatine, and on the Muscatine Access Channel Nine YouTube page. 

 

Producing the show is Chad Bishop of the MCC Video Department who worked with Mayor Bark in the development of the program that is broken down into four segments and each lasting three to four minutes.

 

The first show will feature Hannah Howard from the Muscatine Chamber of Commerce, Tony Tone from the Muscatine Community School District, City Administrator Carol Webb, and City council member Peggy Gordon.

 

The show will air each week with approximately 35-40 episodes planned.

Continue reading “Muscatine in Focus to premiere Thursday on Cable Channel 9”