Ryan J. Waller - City Manager

Holiday Hours

Non-emergency City offices will be closed on December 24 (Thursday) and 25 (Friday) in observance of the Christmas holiday, as well as on January 1 (Friday) in observance of the New Year holiday.    

New Parking Restrictions

The City received concerns from residents regarding traffic safety in the vicinity of the High School, Emerson Elementary School, and on the 1300 block of North 6th Street. In response to these concerns, City Staff studied the areas and determined it is necessary to extend the on-street parking restrictions near the intersection of North 9th Street/Ashland Avenue, North 9th Street/Salem Avenue (near the High School) and North 9th Street/Euclid Avenue (near the Elementary School). Staff also determined it best to switch the parking restriction from the westside to the eastside along North 6th Street, from Kentucky Avenue to the dead-end north of Norwood Avenue.  These decisions were made to improve safety and to avoid traffic bottlenecks, which are caused by the narrow widths of the roadways and on-street parking near the intersections and/or driveways.  Linked below are exhibits illustrating the new restrictions.  Notification about these changes have been sent to property owners directly impacted by these changes.  Signs designating the new restrictions will also be installed within the next few weeks.  

• Parking Restrictions (PDF)

Quail Meadows Lift Station

Earlier this month, the City’s contractors completed construction on a new lift station in the north east quadrant of town (near Theisen’s).  Lift stations are vital to the City’s sanitary sewer system as they help move wastewater from lower to higher elevations.  This new lift station replaces an older facility that was not large enough to provide necessary service to current and proposed residential developments in that area of Indianola.  While the new lift station is operational, there are minor items the contractor must complete before the project can be accepted by the City. 

Study Session Presentations

Linked below are the two presentations reviewed during the City Council’s Study Session on Monday, December 21.  The first presentation provided: 

1. An overview of a proposal for the City to adopt a set of design and specification standards for infrastructure (commonly referred to as SUDAS); and
2. Follow-up information and sought direction regarding the City’s pavement indexing data.

The second presentation provided an update regarding the status of the fiscal year 2021-22 budget process.  

• SUDAS/Pavement Indexing (PDF)

• Budget Process Update (PDF)

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update (PDF)

  • Of the 12 projects listed, two are awaiting a submittal from the developer, two are in review and eight have been approved and are in construction.  

• 2020 Building Permits (PDF)

  • This week, two building permit applications were submitted and four were issued. There are currently eight building permit applications in review and 197 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement (PDF)

  • There are currently 20 open code enforcement cases (109 code enforcement cases have been opened for the year). 

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Below please find links to the documents containing anticipated agenda items for upcoming City Council meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – January 4, 2021 (PDF)

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – January 19, 2021 (PDF)

Ryan J. Waller - City Manager

December 21 City Council Meetings

The City Council will meet on Monday, December 21 for its regular meeting and study session (immediately follows regular meeting).  The agendas and comprehensive meeting materials are available on the City’s website (linked below).  The meetings are aired live via the City’s YouTube Channel and a Zoom Webinar (links and login information may be found in the meeting packet).

• Agenda Center (LINK)

Additional Grant Funding Awarded

On Wednesday, the City was notified by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources that an additional $706,000 of funding was awarded to the City for the Streetscape project.  This is outstanding news!  As you may recall, the City was previously awarded $1 million for various water quality aspects of the Streetscape project.  The additional funding brings the total grant award to more than $1.7 million. 

Streetscape Project Updates

City Staff attended the County Board of Supervisors meeting this week to present right-of-way information involving the County property on the Square.  Staff has been working with Bolton and Menk to better determine where the right-of-way lines should be in relation to the County Justice Center project and the Square Streetscape project.  This is required because following extensive research as part of the Streetscape project no evidence was found of a change in right-of-way from the original Square plat, which was created and recorded in the mid-1800’s that has different boundaries for the County property (an octogen parcel instead of a square parcel – an image may be found on page 262 of the City Council packet). The County Board of Supervisors agreed to a conceptual proposal, which will be reviewed with the City Council at its meeting on December 21.  If/when the County and City officially approve the proposed concept, Staff will work with Bolton and Menk to create necessary legal documents to formalize the concept.  

Ward Meetings

Thank you to all who attended the Mayor and City Council ward meetings.  Linked below, please find the list of questions and answers from the meetings, as well as the presentation that was reviewed.

• Ward Meetings Q&A (PDF)

• Ward Meetings Presentation (PDF)

Snow Removal Operations

Last week’s snow event required 132 hours of labor, 20 tons of salt-sand mix (8 tons of salt and 12 tons of sand), six plow trucks, one road grader, one snowblower mounted on a front-end loader, and one pickup truck.  As a result of our crew’s efforts, 309 lane miles of road were plowed, and 50 truckloads of snow were hauled off/away from the Square.  Additionally, the City’s Police Department impounded seven vehicles, issued 62 tickets, and responded to one weather-related accident.

Economic Development District

City Staff participated in a meeting with other Warren County communities hosted by the Des Moines Metropolitan Planning Organization regarding the formation of an Economic Development District (EDD) for Central Iowa.  An EDD is a designation by the U.S. Economic Development Administration given to regions that have experienced economic distress.  These regions form multi-jurisdictional entities to plan for the economic resiliency of a region and provide support for member communities.  Central Iowa is the State’s only region without an EDD designation from U.S. EDA and has now qualified for an EDD designation due to national emergency declaration for the COVID-19 pandemic.  This is the first time the region has qualified since the 2008 floods.  A presentation on this topic is scheduled for the January 4 City Council meeting.

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update (PDF)

  • This week, the final subdivision plat for Williams Terrace was submitted.  Of the 12 projects listed, two are awaiting a submittal from the developer, two are in review and eight have been approved and are in construction.  

• 2020 Building Permits (PDF)

  • There are currently eight building permit applications in review and 192 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement (PDF)

  • There are currently 20 open code enforcement cases (109 code enforcement cases have been opened for the year). 

• Des Moines Home Builders Association (PDF)

  • The Des Moines Home Builders Association issued their November 2020 building permit report.  The Des Moines Metro area reported 215 more permits for dwellings, and 79 more permits for single-family dwellings, in November 2020 compared to November 2019.   Indianola issued 2 more building permits for dwellings in November 2020 compared to November 2019 and has issued 20 more year to date compared to 2019.

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Below please find links to the documents containing anticipated agenda items for upcoming City Council meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – January 4, 2021 (PDF)

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – January 19, 2021 (PDF) 

Ryan J. Waller - City Manager

Forecasted Snow

The City’s Snow Ordinance is effective beginning at 6:00 p.m. tonight (December 11) due to the forecasted snow amounts.  Streets Division Staff and equipment are prepared and will commence snow and ice removal operations around 2:00 a.m.  Below, please find a few winter season reminders:

• On-street parking will be prohibited from 6:00 p.m. until 48 hours after it has stopped snowing or until the streets are plowed.
• Snow should not be shoveled onto the streets from driveways, sidewalks and other private property.
• All sidewalks adjacent to private property are the responsibility of the property owner.  Sidewalks must be cleared of snow within 48 hours after a snowfall.

Ward Meetings

Linked below, please find the agendas for the remaining Ward meetings that are scheduled for next week, a list of questions and answers from the first two meetings, and the presentation that was reviewed.  

• Monday, December 14 - Ward 2 (LINK)

• Wednesday, December 16 - Ward 3 (LINK)

• Ward Meetings Q&A (PDF)

• Ward Meetings Presentation (PDF)

Helping Hand Information

The Food Box Giveaway has moved to Wednesday afternoons instead of Saturdays.  Please note the following upcoming schedule:

• December 16 (2:30 pm) Warren County Holiday Food Giveaway at Dollar General Parking Lot - Helping Hand is open for regular food and clothing pantry 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. 
• December 23 (3:30 pm) Food Box Giveaway at Helping Hand 109 East Clinton Avenue - also open for regular food and clothing pantry 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. 
• December 30 (3:30 pm) Food Box Giveaway at Helping Hand 109 East Clinton Avenue - also open for regular food and clothing pantry 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. 

Infrastructure Improvements

The Streets Division Staff finished grading unpaved gravel roadways and alleys to remove the potholes and ruts from the driving surface.  Aside from improving the rideability of the roadways and alleys, this maintenance work is important for anticipated snow and ice removal operations.  There are approximately 13 miles of gravel roadways and alleys within the City limits. This week, Staff graded a total of seven miles of roadways and alleys, which required 110 tons of rock and 32 hours of labor.  In addition to the grading operations, Staff also crack-sealed North 15th Street, north of W. 2nd Avenue, which required 32 hours of labor and 360 pounds of material. Crack sealing is a preventative measure meant to prolong the life of pavement and is generally performed during fall (in October-December) and/or spring (in March-April) when temperatures are within acceptable ranges.

Indianola Traffic Volume

Once every four years, the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) collects traffic volume data on most of the major corridors throughout the State.  The four-year cycle that includes the major corridors in Indianola (State Highways 65/69 and 92) was to have been completed in 2020. While Iowa DOT completed the traffic data collection during this calendar year, they found the traffic data to be extremely inconsistent due to the ongoing pandemic.  Accordingly, Iowa DOT informed City Staff that it will be collecting the traffic volume data again in 2021 and expects the updated counts to be published in summer of 2022.  The historical traffic volume data for Indianola can be found on Iowa DOT’s website, which is linked below.

• Traffic Counts (LINK)

Indianola Chamber 

City Staff joined the Chamber Board during its strategic planning session earlier this week.  During the meeting City Staff reviewed recommendations contained within Elevate Indianola (the City’s Comprehensive Plan that was adopted in May) and how the Chamber, as part of its strategic planning efforts, can assist with implementation of recommendations involving the Chamber.  Staff will continue to partner with the Chamber and provide updates on this effort.

Square Streetscape 

Design documents, which are at the 60% completion mark, for the Square Streetscape Project were submitted to the Iowa DNR for review earlier this week.  This is a requirement of the $1 million grant the City received.  Also, as previously reported, an additional $700,000 of grant funding was recommended for the City’s project.  The additional funding recommendation will be formally considered next week.  A follow-up will be provided once a final determination is made.  

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update (PDF)

  • Of the 11 projects listed, three are awaiting a submittal from the developer, and eight have been approved and are in construction.

• 2020 Building Permits (PDF)

  • This week six building permit applications were submitted.  There are currently nine building permit applications in review and 192 building permits that have been issued year to date

• Code Enforcement (PDF)

  • There are currently 19 open code enforcement cases (108 code enforcement cases have been opened for the year).  

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Below please find links to the documents containing anticipated agenda items for upcoming City Council meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – December 21, 2020 (PDF)

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – January 4, 2021 (PDF)

Ryan J. Waller - City Manager

Brush Facility

The City’s Brush Facility is re-opening for one more day to provide residents the opportunity to dispose of any remaining piles of leaves, free of charge.  The Facility will be re-open on Saturday, December 5, 2020 from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.  

December 7 City Council Meeting

The City Council will meet on Monday, December 7 for its regular meeting.  The agenda and comprehensive meeting materials are available on the City’s website (linked below).  The meetings are aired live via the City’s YouTube Channel and a Zoom Webinar (links and login information may be found in the meeting packet).

• Agenda Center (LINK)

Ward Meetings

The first two Ward meetings (for Wards 1 and 4) were held this week.  Thank you to all who attended these meetings.  Linked below, please find a list of questions and answers from the meetings, as well as the presentation that was reviewed.  The remaining Ward meetings are scheduled as follows:

• Monday, December 14 - Ward 2 (LINK)

• Wednesday, December 16 - Ward 3 (LINK)

Agendas for these meetings are available on the City’s website, which is also linked below.

• Ward Meetings Q&A (PDF)

• Ward Meetings Presentation (PDF)

• Agenda Center (LINK)

Streetscape Project Update

The Square Streetscape Steering Committee met this week to receive an update on the project and to provide feedback on various proposed design elements, including signage, benches, planters and pavers.  The provided input will assist in the drafting of necessary construction documents.  A presentation on the status of this project is scheduled for the January 19 City Council Study Session.

Infrastructure Maintenance

The Streets Division Staff has been grading gravel roadways and alleys to remove the potholes and ruts from the driving surface.  Aside from improving the rideability of the roadways and alleys, this maintenance work is important for anticipated snow and ice removal operations.  There are approximately 13 miles of gravel roadways and alleys within the City limits. This week, Staff graded a total of five miles of roadways and alleys, which required 30 tons of rock and 36 hours of labor.  In addition to the grading operations, Staff also patched potholes at various locations within the City limits, which required more than one ton of cold mix asphalt and 32 hours of labor.

Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting

The next regularly scheduled Planning and Zoning Commission meeting will take place on December 8.  The agenda and supporting materials for the meeting are linked below.

• Planning and Zoning Meeting Packet (PDF) 

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update (PDF)

  • Of the 11 projects listed, three are awaiting a submittal from the developer, and eight have been approved and are in construction.

• 2020 Building Permits (PDF)

  • This week four building permit applications were submitted, all for new dwellings.  There are currently 12 building permit applications in review and 183 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement (PDF)

  • The house that was damaged by a fire at 411 West 1st Avenue was demolished this week closing that case.  There are currently 16 open code enforcement cases (105 code enforcement cases have been opened for the year). 

• Monthly Building Permit Report (PDF)

  • The Community Development Department released its November 2020 building permit report this week.  The City issued 14 permits in November, 2 of which were for new homes.  In comparing 2020 to 2019 (through November) there have been 26 more permits (183 vs 157) issued this year with 76 of the issued permits for new homes, compared to 62 new home permits in 2019.   

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Below please find links to the documents containing anticipated agenda items for upcoming City Council meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – December 21, 2020 (PDF)

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – January 4, 2021 (PDF) 

Ryan J. Waller - City Manager

Four and Counting!!!

The City of Indianola was just awarded its FOURTH consecutive Distinguished Budget Award for the FY2021 Budget Document. This is awarded by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) and only a handful of Iowa communities have achieved this award (13 in the State of Iowa for FY2020).  Achievement of this award was made possible by many, especially the hard work on the part of department heads developing their budget, the graphical and organizational wizardry of MyLisa Thompson in the IT Department, and the everyday hard work and perseverance of the Clerk/Finance Department.

As noted in the press release linked below, “The award represents a significant achievement by the entity. It reflects the commitment of the governing body and staff to meeting the highest principles of governmental budgeting. In order to receive the budget award, the entity had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation. These guidelines are designed to assess how well an entity's budget serves as a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide, and a communications device.” 

The Distinguished Budget Award comes on the heels of the City receiving an extremely favorable credit rating of ‘Aa2’ by Moodys.  In its assessment of the City, Moodys assigned a ‘AAA’ rating (highest possible) to all categories within the control of the City Council and staff.  This exceptional rating allows the City to fund vital infrastructure projects at extremely low interest rates.  Just recently, the City secured an interest rate below 1% on financing to construct the award-winning Square streetscape project.

• Budget Award Materials (PDF)

Thanksgiving Holiday Hours

A friendly reminder that non-public safety offices will be closed Thursday and Friday in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.

Ward Meetings

The first of a series of Ward meetings, beginning with Ward 4, will take place Monday, November 30 at 6:00 p.m. via Zoom.  The agenda, which provides the Zoom link, is provided below.  Residents wishing to submit questions for the meeting should use the public comment form contained with the agenda.  The remaining Ward meetings are scheduled as follows:

• Wednesday, December 2 - Ward 1

• Monday, December 14 - Ward 2

• Wednesday, December 16 - Ward 3

These meetings are a great way to get in-depth information about our community and to learn more about the City’s projects, programs, services, and key issues affecting residents. 

• Agenda Center (LINK)

COVID Update

As of Wednesday, November 25, the number of confirmed COVID-19 numbers for the City and the City’s Fire Protection District (an area beyond the City’s corporate boundaries that our Fire Department services) are 561 and 157 respectively.  

Board of Adjustment Meeting

The next regularly scheduled Board of Adjustment meeting will take place on December 2.  The agenda and supporting materials for the meeting are linked below.

• Board of Adjustment Meeting Packet (LINK) 

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• 2020 Building Permits (PDF)

  • This week, three building permit applications were submitted.  There are currently 10 building permit applications in review and 181 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement (PDF)

  • This week, two cases were closed.  There are currently 17 open code enforcement cases (105 code enforcement cases have been opened for the year). 

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Below please find links to the documents containing anticipated agenda items for upcoming City Council meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – December 7, 2020 (PDF)

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – December 21, 2020 (PDF)

Ryan J. Waller - City Manager

Thanksgiving Holiday Hours

Non-public safety offices will be closed next week Thursday (November 26) and Friday (November 27) in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.

COVID Updates

Your City team is here to serve you even if facilities are temporarily closed to the public.  City facilities were closed effective November 17 due to rising COVID rates for our community.  If you have questions, please visit our website or call: 

• City Hall – 961-9410

• Community Development – 961-9430

• Library – 961-9418

• Activity Center – 961-9420

As of Friday, November 20, the number of confirmed COVID-19 numbers for the City and the City’s Fire Protection District (an area beyond the City’s corporate boundaries that our Fire Department services) are 512 and 142 respectively.  

Ward Meetings

The Mayor and City Council are hosting a series of Ward Meetings for our community.  The meetings will be hosted via Zoom and are scheduled as follows:

• Monday, November 30 - Ward 4

• Wednesday, December 2 - Ward 1

• Monday, December 14 - Ward 2

• Wednesday, December 16 - Ward 3

Agendas containing login information are available on the City’s website (linked below).  These meetings are a great way to get in-depth information about our community and to learn more about the City’s projects, programs, services, and key issues affecting residents. 

• Agenda Center (LINK)

Special Election Information

A special election will be held on March 2, 2021. Filing information may be found on the City’s website (linked below).  The election is projected to cost at least $10,000 and will be for a term of approximately mid-March 2021 through December 31, 2021. The position of mayor will be on the November 2021 ballot. 

• Filing Information (LINK)

Local Option Sales Tax Reconciliation

Annually, in November, the Iowa Department of Revenue (IDOR) sends a reconciliation statement to cities collecting Local Option Sales and Service Tax (LOSST).  This is done to reconcile payments the IDOR made to individual cities for the previous fiscal year and can be positive or negative based on whether the IDOR underpaid or overpaid the individual city. The City of Indianola received its FY20 reconciliation statement this week, which included a payment of $534,698. The FY21 budgeted revenue was $1.2 million, but with the monthly payments from IDOR, which total close $1.7 million, and the reconciliation payment, the total for FY21 will be close to $2.25 million. This is very positive news as the LOSST is used for the construction of the City’s new Water Resource Recovery Facility.  Staff continues to closely monitor revenue sources, especially with the unknowns caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.  

Indianola Eats Program

The last Indianola Eats event will take place on Monday, November 23.  The event will be held at the Indianola Country Club (details in PDF below).  Thank you to participating restaurants and volunteers who have helped serve over 7,900 meals.   This program, which is a collaborative effort with the City, Helping Hand, the Indianola Chamber and Central Iowa Shelter Services, was funded by a $62,700 grant meant to not only support restaurants impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, but also assist members of our community who are in need of warm meals.

• Indianola Eats Flier (PDF)

City Council Presentations

Linked below are the presentations reviewed with the City Council during its Regular and Study Session meetings on November 16.  

The first presentation is from the City’s Financial Advisor regarding the refinancing of existing debt and the issuance of new debt to finance the Streetscape project.  Due to the City’s excellent credit score and the existing interest rate market, interest to be paid on the debt is under 1% (this is exceptional).  As noted in the presentation, even with the issuance of bonds to finance the Streetscape project, the amount of City debt remains very low and is well below legal limits. 

The second presentation is the Library’s Annual Report and the third provides an overview of the City’s updated Trail Plan.  

Residents interested in watching the video from the November 16 meetings, or other prior meetings, may do so via the City’s website or YouTube channel.  

• Financial Advisor Presentation (PDF) 

• Library Annual Report (LINK)

• Updated Trail Plan (LINK)

Community Development Reports

Linked below are the reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update (PDF)

  • This week the Vice Construction site plan was approved.  Of the 13 projects listed, three are awaiting a submittal from the developer, one is in review, seven have been approved and are in construction, and two were recently completed.   

• 2020 Building Permits (PDF)

  • This week, one building permit application was submitted and issued.  There are currently 8 building permit applications in review and 179 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Des Moines Home Builders Association (PDF)

  • The Des Moines Home Builders Association issued their October 2020 building permit report.  The Des Moines Metro area reported 480 less permits for dwellings, but 90 more permits for single-family dwellings, in October 2020 compared to October 2019.  The overall decrease is due to less multi-family permits being issued.  650 less permits for dwellings, but 484 more for single-family dwellings, have been issued for dwellings year-to-date in 2020 compared to 2019.  Indianola issued 2 more building permits for dwellings in October 2020 compared to October 2019 and has issued 18 more year to date compared to 2019.

• Code Enforcement (PDF)

  • There are currently 19 open code enforcement cases (105 code enforcement cases have been opened for the year). 

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Below please find links to the documents containing anticipated agenda items for upcoming City Council meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – December 7, 2020 (PDF)

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – December 21, 2020 (PDF)

Ryan J. Waller - City Manager

COVID Updates

Beginning Monday, November 16, visitors to City facilities (i.e. Library, Activity Center and City Hall) are required to wear masks.  Masks are available at all locations for visitors that do not have one.  This is in response to rising COVID-19 rates in our community and for the protection of our customers and staff.

As of Friday, November 13, the number of confirmed COVID-19 numbers for the City and the City’s Fire Protection District (an area beyond the City’s corporate boundaries that our Fire Department services) are 443 and 124 respectively.  A map illustrating these areas is linked below.  

• City and Fire Protection Areas (PDF)

Ward Meetings

The Mayor and City Council will host a series of Ward Meetings for our community.  The meetings will be hosted via Zoom and are scheduled as follows:

• Monday, November 30 - Ward 4
• Wednesday, December 2 - Ward 1
• Monday, December 14 - Ward 2
• Wednesday, December 16 - Ward 3

Links for these meetings will be published on the City’s website by Monday, November 23.  All meetings will begin at 6:00 p.m.  These meetings are a great way to get in-depth information about our community and to learn more about the City’s projects, programs, services, and key issues affecting residents. 

November 16 City Council Meetings

The City Council will meet on Monday, November 16 for its regular meeting and study session (immediately follows regular meeting).  The agendas and comprehensive meeting materials are available on the City’s website (linked below).  The meetings are aired live via the City’s YouTube Channel and a Zoom Webinar (links and login information may be found in the meeting packet).

• Agenda Center (LINK)

Special Election Petition

A petition for a special election for a Mayor was submitted on October 30, 2020 and included 32 pages with a total of 547 signatures.  A minimum of 335 signatures is required by State law in order to call for a special election.  Based on data from the Assessor’s Office and Warren County’s GIS system, as well as utility billing information, 413 signatures were verified.  Signatures were not verified if they were illegible, the provided address was out of City limits, or the provided name was not found on County or City databases.  Necessary action for the petition is on the November 16th City Council agenda.  According to the County Auditor, the special election can be held on March 2, 2021. The election is projected to cost at least $10,000. The elected mayor will serve following certification of the special election through the remaining term, which ends on December 31, 2021. The position for mayor will be on the November 2021 ballot. 

Rollback Percentages

The rollback numbers were issued earlier this month by the State. Rollback is a term and calculation used by the State and County Assessors to assign taxable value of residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural properties. The rollback percentage is determined by the State of Iowa on a yearly basis. The two main changes issued by the State involved single family and multi-family percentages. Single family taxable valuation went from 55.0742 percent (FY2021) to 56.4094 percent (FY2022), so an increase in taxable valuation.  Multi-family taxable valuation went from 71.25 percent (FY2021) to 67.5 percent (FY2022), so an expected decrease in taxable valuation as multi-family continues to decrease to match the single family rollback.  Commercial and industrial remain the same at 90 percent and there is not much ag land in Indianola to cause concern over any change in the ag land rollback.  This data plays an important role in factoring the property tax rates for all taxing districts (i.e. City, School District, Country).

Traffic Signal Repair

The new replacement traffic signal controller has been installed at the intersection of State Highways 65/69 and 92.  This new controller replaced a temporary controller that was required after it was damaged from a fatal car accident in August.  The controller is now fully functional and synchronizes with other traffic signals.  This synchronization helps to not only improve travel time, but also to reduce carbon emissions due to idling.

East Iowa Extension Project

A pre-construction meeting was held this week with the contractors for this project.  Construction is expected to begin early Spring of 2021. The scope of this project includes pavement and stormwater improvements on East Iowa Avenue, from 15th Street to approximately 0.25 miles east of 15th Street. This project will cost $914,143.50 but will be offset by $448,272.75 because of a grant received by the City. Completion is expected by September 30, 2021 and must be substantially completed before July 27, 2021 to ensure the roadway can be used for visitors to the National Balloon Classic.

Streetscape Project

A second coordinating meeting regarding the Streetscape project was held this week with Warren County, as well as the contractor and design team on the Justice Center project.  Items discussed included an update on anticipated phasing and scheduling, existing right-of-way discrepancies, various design elements, and utility coordination.  The Engineer on the project, Bolton and Menk, continues to work towards the 60% design benchmark and estimates bid letting by February. 

Community Development Reports

Linked below are the reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update (PDF)

  • This week, a building permit was issued for Cabin Coffee.  Of the 13 projects listed, three are awaiting a submittal from the developer, one is in review, seven have been approved and are in construction, and two were recently completed.   

• 2020 Building Permits (PDF)

  • This week, two building permit applications were submitted and five permits issued.  There are currently eight building permit applications in review and 178 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement (PDF)

  • There were two code cases that were abated this week.  There are currently 19 open code enforcement cases (105 code enforcement cases have been opened for the year). 

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Below please find links to the documents containing anticipated agenda items for upcoming City Council meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – December 7, 2020 (PDF)

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – December 21, 2020 (PDF)

Ryan J. Waller - City Manager

COVID Information

As of Friday, November 6th, the number of confirmed COVID-19 numbers for the City and the City’s Fire Protection District (this is an area beyond the City’s corporate boundaries that our Fire Department provides service to) are 357 and 106 respectively.  A map illustrating these areas is linked below.  The data is a running total of cases since the pandemic first reached our community and is the same information we provide local reporters.  The City continues to monitor these rates and will make necessary updates to our re-opening plans (also linked below) as needed.  

• City and Fire Protection Areas (PDF)

• Re-opening Matrix (LINK)

Highway 65/69 Median Maintenance

The inside lanes on State Highway 65/69 will be closed from 6:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Monday, November 9th.  These lane closures are required to allow for fall maintenance of the landscaping in the northern medians.  Please be sure to allow additional time for travel and use caution when in these work zones.  Thank you for your patience and understanding. 

Another Grant Awarded!

The City has received another grant to help fund necessary work for the Streetscape project.  This recent grant is from IDOT and will cover costs to conduct a traffic study at the intersection of West 2nd Avenue and South Buxton Street.  The study, which will begin immediately, is necessary as part of the one-way to two-way street traffic pattern conversion on Buxton Street as part of the Streetscape project.  To ensure pedestrian safety, the study will also evaluate the need for bike and pedestrian improvements.  The study is expected to be completed in early 2021.  To date, the City has been awarded over $1.7 million in grants towards this project.  Just recently, as a result of our community’s Iowa Great Places designation, the City’s Hometown Pride Committee applied for approximately $400,000 in grant funding for various aspects of the Streetscape project.  

November 9th City Council Meeting

The City Council will meet on Monday, November 9th for a special meeting.   The agenda and comprehensive meeting materials are available on the City’s website, which is linked below.  Included in the meeting materials are instructions for submitting public comments.  The meeting will be aired via the City’s YouTube Channel and a Zoom Webinar (relevant links and login information may be found in the meeting packet).  As noted in previous weekly update materials, as well as at the October 5th and October 19th City Council meetings, the purpose of the special meeting is to refinance existing debt, which will save the City approximately $50,000 in interest payments, as well as authorize the sale of bonds to finance the construction of the streetscape project and acquisition of a fire truck.  

• Agenda Center (LINK)

East Iowa Construction Project

The pre-construction meeting for this major road project is scheduled for November 12th.  This important economic development project will not only serve the new technical training facility being built but will also open development opportunities in the City’s Industrial Park.  Earlier this year, the project was awarded a $627,000 dollar grant to fund half the cost of construction.  The grant award was reduced to $457,000 after bids came in extremely favorable to the City at approximately $361,636 under what was anticipated.  Information on the start date will be shared once a date is set.       

Kading Properties, LLC v. City of Indianola 

The plaintiff in Kading Properties, LLC v. City of Indianola, Iowa submitted a petition withdrawing their first suit against the City.  The second case, which was brought forth against the City following the denial of a proposed residential development, remains with an initial hearing date scheduled for January 15, 2021.

Special Election Petition

A petition seeking a special election was received by the City on Friday, October 30, 2020.  Staff began the review process on Sunday afternoon and will have the review completed soon.  Once the review is completed, the matter will be included on a future City Council agenda.  The earliest a special election may occur is March 9, 2021 and is estimated to cost the City $10,000.   The current term of Mayor ends December 31, 2021 and will be on the ballot for the November 2021 election.  

Infrastructure Maintenance 

This week, Streets Division Staff completed crack sealing on East Iowa Avenue, between 8th Street and 15th Street, which required 80 hours of labor and 400 pounds of material.  Crack sealing is generally performed during fall (in October) or spring (in March) as a preventative maintenance process to help prolong the pavement life.  Staff also painted the stop bars and the crosswalk at the intersection of 2nd Avenue and Jefferson Way, which required 40 hours of labor and 12 gallons of paint.  Although the Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT) is responsible for majority of the pavement marking on the State highways, because of an agreement between the City and IDOT, the City is responsible for the crosswalks and the stop bars.

November 10th Planning & Zoning Meeting

The Planning & Zoning Commission will meet on Tuesday, November 10th for its regular meeting.  The agenda and meeting materials are available on the City’s website (see link below).

• Agenda Center (LINK)

Community Development Reports

Linked below are the reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update (PDF)

  • This week, building permits were applied for the Vice Construction storage building and Cabin Coffee.  Of the 13 projects listed, three are awaiting a submittal from the developer, two are in review, six have been approved and are in construction, and two were recently completed.   

• 2020 Building Permits (PDF)

  • This week, three building permit applications were submitted and four permits issued.  Of the three applications submitted, two were for commercial structures totaling $900,000 in valuation.  There are currently 11 building permit applications in review and 173 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement (PDF)

  • There are currently 21 open code enforcement cases (105 code enforcement cases have been opened for the year). 

• Building Permit Report (PDF)

  • The Community Development Department released its October 2020 building permit report this week.  The City issued 12 permits in October, 4 of which were for new homes.  In comparing 2020 to 2019 (through October) there have been 19 more permits (169 vs 150) this year with 74 of the issued permits for new homes (62 new home permits in 2019).  The total value of permitted construction is $20,754,103 compared to $13,850,906 in 2019.  

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Below please find links to the documents containing anticipated agenda items for upcoming City Council meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – November 16, 2020 (PDF)

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – December 7, 2020 (PDF)

Ryan J. Waller - City Manager

Mayor Appointment Press Release

Linked below is the press release announcing the appointment of Pam Pepper as the City of Indianola’s next Mayor.  The appointment took place in accordance with State Law, which required the City Council to fill the vacancy either by appointment or special election (earliest one can occur is March 9, 2021).  Similar to what was done in 2010 following a vacancy on the Indianola City Council, an application process was established for residents interested in filling the vacancy of Mayor that concluded at a Special City Council meeting on October 29th.  The current term of Mayor ends December 31, 2021 and will be on the ballot for the November 2021 election.

• Press Release (PDF)

Special Election Petition

A petition seeking a special election was received by the City on Friday, October 30, 2020 and will be reviewed according to law.  In accordance with State Law, if a valid petition requesting a special election to fill the vacancy is received, the appointment to fill the vacancy shall still take place but is temporary until the special election occurs and fills the remaining term. The earliest a special election may occur is March 9, 2021 and is estimated to cost the City $10,000.   The current term of Mayor ends December 31, 2021 and will be on the ballot for the November 2021 election.  

November 2nd City Council Meeting

The City Council will meet on Monday, November 2nd for its regular meeting.  The agenda and comprehensive meeting materials are available on the City’s website, which is linked below.  The meetings are aired live via the City’s YouTube Channel and a Zoom Webinar (relevant links and login information may be found in the meeting packet).

• Agenda Center (LINK)

Beggar’s Night

Beggar’s Night is designated for 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on October 30th.  Those wishing to participate in activities during this time are encouraged to be aware of the information and guidance provided by the IDPH & CDC (linked below).  Residences wishing to participate in activities should have exterior lights, such as garage and/or front door lights on. 

• Halloween Information & Guidance (LINK)

Code Updates

A key recommendation of Elevate Indianola, our community’s new Master Plan, was to review and update various outdated land use and development related codes (i.e. zoning, subdivision, site plan and sign).  This week, the consultant assisting the City in this process held virtual one-on-one meetings with residents, developers and other key community stakeholders.  The purpose of these meetings was to obtain feedback which will be incorporated during the code update process.  Thank you to those who took the time to share their input and experiences.

Indianola Eats Program

The Indianola Eats Program will continue Monday, November 2nd and 9th.  These two events will complete the grant funding for this program.  Since the start of this program on August 10th, close to 6,000 meals have been distributed.  Thank you to participating restaurants and volunteers who have helped serve the meals.  This program, which is a collaborative effort with the City, Helping Hand, the Indianola Chamber and Central Iowa Shelter Services, is funded by a $62,700 grant meant to not only support restaurants impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, but also assist members of our community who are in need of warm meals.

Indianola Represented on Regional Panel

Andrew J. Lent, the City’s Finance Director/City Clerk, served as a panelist for a training seminar on the impact from the current pandemic to City finances that was hosted by the Iowa City/County Management Association (IaCMA).  In the words of an attendee, “I really enjoyed your presentation today at the IaCMA webinar. I was wondering if you would share it with me - I promise not to steal it, but you had some really good points in there that I had not taken into account. I would really like to give my Council a presentation on the topic in the near future.”  Thank you to Andy for representing our organization and community in a positive way.

Community Development Reports

Linked below are the reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update (PDF)

  • This week, various items were submitted for the Vice Construction site plan, and the Missouri Valley JATC building was given a Certificate of Occupancy.  Of the 14 projects listed, 4 are awaiting a submittal from the developer, 1 is in review, 6 have been approved and are in construction, and 3 were recently completed.  

• 2020 Building Permits (PDF)

  • Three building permit applications were submitted this week.  There are currently 12 building permit applications in review and 169 building permits have been issued to date.

• Code Enforcement (PDF)

  • One case was closed this week.  There are currently 21 open code enforcement cases (104 code enforcement cases have been opened for the year).  

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Below please find links to the documents containing anticipated agenda items for upcoming City Council meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.

• Anticipated Draft Agenda - November 9, 2020 (PDF)

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – November 16, 2020 (PDF)

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – December 7, 2020 (PDF)

Ryan J. Waller - City Manager

Additional Grant Funding Recommended

On Thursday, the City was notified by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources that an additional $706,000 of funding is being recommended for award to the City.  This is outstanding news!  As you may recall, the City was previously awarded $1 million for various water quality aspects of the Streetscape project.  The additional funding, if approved in December, will bring the total grant award to $1.7 million. 

October 29th City Council Meeting

The City Council will meet on Thursday, October 29th for its special meeting.  The agenda and comprehensive meeting materials are available on the City’s website.  The meetings are aired live via the City’s YouTube Channel and a Zoom Webinar (relevant links and login information may be found in the meeting packet).

• Agenda Center (LINK)

COVID Expenses Reimbursement

The City received notice this week that full reimbursement (which equals $380,621.54) of our organization’s COVID related expenses has been tentatively approved.  Thank you to the outstanding work of our Departments for their diligence in tracking these expenses.  Special recognition is due to our Finance Team for their preparation and organization in this matter.  This is very positive news!

CIP Presentation

Linked below is the presentation that was reviewed during Monday’s City Council Study Session.  This presentation is part of the City’s annual budget process that spans several months in preparation to meet the required filing deadline with the State of Iowa in March 2021.

• CIP Budget Presentation (LINK)

Bulk Salt Storage Facility

Thank you to the Public Works staff for their work to install a permanent covering over the road salt storage area.  This covering is new and will help protect the City’s investment in road salt.  This commodity is an important aspect of the City’s snow and ice removal operations.  This is another example of the City Team working to better improve service delivery to our community. 

Fall Drop-off Event

The 2020 Fall Drop Off event was a tremendous success.  Thank you to the Public Works Staff for finding a way to ensure aspects of this event took place even after one of our contractors canceled due to the current pandemic.  As a result, approximately 11 large roll-off dumpsters (nearly 23 tons) containing various items were hauled off.  Approximately 547 vehicles visited the Brush Facility during the seven-hour event.  This required 112 hours of labor and 4 pieces of equipment to complete the job.  Thank you to our teammates from Fire, Parks, Water Pollution Control, and Public Works who all helped during the event.

Helping Hand Event

Helping Hand will be hosting a sale this Saturday (October 24th) from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.   The event will be at the Helping Hand Facility, located at 109 East Clinton Ave.  Proceeds from the event will go towards facility maintenance and stocking the food pantry. 

Community Development Reports

Linked below are the reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update (PDF)

  • This week, the City Council approved Quail Meadows Plat 3.  Of the 15 projects listed, four are awaiting a submittal from the developer, one is in review, seven have been approved and are in construction, and three were recently completed.  

• 2020 Building Permits (PDF)

  • Four building permit applications were submitted this week.  There are currently nine building permit applications in review and 169 building permits have been issued to date.

• Code Enforcement (PDF)

  • Two cases were opened, and two cases were closed this week.  There are currently 22 open code enforcement cases (104 code enforcement cases have been opened for the year).  

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Below please find links to the documents containing anticipated agenda items for the November 2nd, 9th and 16th upcoming meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.

• Anticipated Draft Agenda - November 2, 2020 (PDF)

• Anticipated Draft Agenda - November 9, 2020 (PDF)

• Anticipated Draft Agenda – November 16, 2020 (PDF)

Ryan J. Waller - City Manager

Comp Plan Award

Congratulations, Indianola!  Our community was awarded the Daniel Burnham Award for a Comprehensive Plan by the American Planning Association-Iowa Chapter.  This award was made possible because of your significant involvement during the extensive 21-month review process.  This was a remarkable community effort!  Work has already begun on implementing identified recommendations as the City is now conducting a thorough review of various codes to ensure alignment with the plan.  You may read the press release and other relevant information on the City’s website (see link below). 

• Award and Comp Plan Information (PDF)

October 19th City Council Meetings

The City Council will meet on Monday, October 19th for its regular meeting and study session that immediately follows the regular meeting.  The agendas and comprehensive meeting materials are available on the City’s website.  The meetings are aired live via the City’s YouTube Channel and a Zoom Webinar (relevant links and login information may be found in the meeting packet).

• Agenda Center (LINK)

Mayor Vacancy

In accordance with State Code, the City Council has taken the necessary action to fill the vacancy of the mayor.  The remaining term for the position ends on December 31, 2021.  Residents interested in serving the community in this position are encouraged to visit the City’s website (see link below) for additional information.  Completed applications, with all required attachments, must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 21, 2020.

• Mayor Vacancy (LINK)

Fall Drop-off Event

The 2020 Fall Drop Off event is scheduled for Saturday, October 17th at the Indianola Brush Facility.  Details may be found on the City’s website (see link below). 

• Seasonal Cleanup (LINK)

Streetscape

Earlier this week, the City was notified that the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) approved the design concept for the Square Streetscape project.  DNR review was required as part of the $1 million grant that was awarded to the City for this project.  

Gubernatorial Visit

Governor Reynolds visited Indianola today and made stops at the Des Moines Metro Opera building and the Square.  Members of our Hometown Pride Committee served as tour guides.  Linked below is the one-page handout of a few major City projects involving the State.  

• Governor Visit Handout (PDF)

Briefing Schedule

The briefing schedule and hearing date have been set for Kading Properties, LLC v. City of Indianola, Iowa.  The court hearing date is scheduled for January 15, 2021.  

Community Development Reports

Linked below are the reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update (PDF)

  • A final walk through of Missouri Valley occurred this week.  Of the 15 projects listed, four are awaiting a submittal from the Developer, one is in review, eight have been approved and are in construction, and two were recently completed.    

• 2020 Building Permits (PDF)

  • Nine building permits were issued this week.  There are currently five building permit applications in review and 169 building permits have been issued to date.

• Code Enforcement (PDF)

  • There are currently 22 open code enforcement cases (102 code enforcement cases have been opened for the year).  

• Des Moines Home Builders Association (PDF)

  • The Des Moines Home Builders Association issued their September 2020 building permit report this week.  The Des Moines Metro area reported 138 more permits for dwellings in September 2020 compared to September 2019 and has seen 292 more permits for dwellings year-to-date in 2020 compared to 2019.  Indianola issued 13 more building permits for dwellings in September 2020 compared to September 2019 and has issued 20 more year to date compared to 2019.

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Below please find links to the documents containing anticipated agenda items for the October 29th, November 2nd, 9th and 16th upcoming meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.

• Anticipated Draft Agenda - October 29, 2020 (PDF)
• Anticipated Draft Agenda - November 2, 2020 (PDF)
• Anticipated Draft Agenda - November 9, 2020 (PDF)
• Anticipated Draft Agenda – November 16, 2020 (PDF)

Ryan J. Waller - City Manager

City’s Credit Score

In preparation for the City’s Streetscape Project financing, the City had to be reviewed by Moody’s Investors Service, one of the major credit rating agencies.  On Thursday, October 8th, Moody’s announced it has assigned the City’s financing a credit score of ‘Aa2’, affirming the City’s currently outstanding bond ratings.  This is one of the best ratings available for municipalities (behind just ‘Aa1’ and ‘Aaa’) and, according to Moody’s, is due to strong growth over the past five years and strong reserves that will remain so “because of the city’s good budget management.”  It is also important to highlight that the City was rated as ‘Aaa’ (the best rating possible) on those criteria within the control of City leadership (i.e. budgeting, reserves, planning and implementation of the budget).  According to the City’s Financial Advisor, this means “the City’s management is being maximized from the rating agency’s scoring standpoint.”  While this is something the community should be extremely proud of, it also helps lower the City’s borrowing costs.  Thank you to the efforts of the City’s finance team, led by Andrew J. Lent, City departments, and the City Council for their commitment to fiscal stewardship.  A graphic is attached illustrating the various ratings.   

• Bond Rating Chart (PDF)

Mayor Vacancy

In accordance with State Code, the City Council has taken the necessary action to fill the vacancy of the mayor.  The remaining term for the position ends on December 31, 2021.  Residents interested in serving the community in this position are encouraged to visit the City’s website (see link below) for additional information.

• Mayor Vacancy (LINK)

Fall Drop-off Event

The 2020 Fall Drop Off event is scheduled for Saturday, October 17th at the Indianola Brush Facility.  Details may be found on the City’s website (see link below). 

• Seasonal Cleanup (LINK)

Square Streetscape

On Thursday, staff met with the City’s engineers for the Square Streetscape project (Bolton and Menk) to discuss various aspects of the project.  Topics discussed, included: additional grant opportunities, trees, as well as other landscaping and plantings that will be incorporated into the project.  Bolton and Menk continues to develop plans and specifications needed for the bidding of the project later this year.

• Square Streetscape (LINK)

October 13th Planning & Zoning Meeting

The Planning & Zoning Commission will meet on Tuesday, October 13th for its regular meeting.  The agenda and meeting materials are available on the City’s website (see link below).

• Agenda Center (LINK)

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update (PDF)

  • The site plan for Cabin Coffee was approved.  Of the 15 projects listed, four are awaiting a submittal from the Developer, one is in review, eight have been approved and are in construction, and two were recently completed.    

• 2020 Building Permits (PDF)

  • Three building permit applications were submitted and two building permits were issued.  There are currently 13 building permit applications in review and 160 building permits have been issued to date.

• Code Enforcement (PDF)

  • There are currently 23 open code enforcement cases (102 code enforcement cases have been opened for the year).  

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Attached, please find documents containing anticipated agenda items for the October 19th, October 29th, November 2nd and November 9th upcoming meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.

• Anticipated Draft Agenda - October 19, 2020 (PDF)
• Anticipated Draft Agenda - October 29, 2020 (PDF)
• Anticipated Draft Agenda - November 2, 2020 (PDF)
• Anticipated Draft Agenda - November 9, 2020 (PDF)

Ryan J. Waller - City Manager

East Iowa Avenue

Bids were opened yesterday for the paving extension of Iowa Avenue to the east.  Congratulations to our development team on their hard work as the apparent low bidder came in $361,636 under what was anticipated.  This important economic development project, which was awarded a $627,000 dollar grant earlier this year, will not only serve the new technical training facility being built, but will also open development opportunities in the City’s Industrial Park.  Our team is reviewing the materials and preparing for City Council consideration at an upcoming meeting.   

Equality Initiatives

Earlier this week, our organization joined other companies, organizations and public entities in signing a commitment to racial equality.  This is part of an initiative unveiled by the Greater Des Moines Partnership, of which the City is a member.  You may read more at https://www.dsmpartnership.com/ceo-commitment.  In addition to this, as previously reported, the City is joining many of our Metro community peers, Simpson College and countless other organizations throughout Central Iowa in supporting and participating in the 21-Day Equity Challenge.  This initiative, which is meant to foster a deeper understanding of how inequity and racism affect our lives and community, runs from October 5th through November 2nd.  Participation is free.  Additional information may be found at www.EquityChallenge.org.

October 5th City Council Meeting

The City Council will meet on Monday, October 5th for its regular meeting.  The agenda and meeting materials are available on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter.  The meeting will be aired live via the City’s YouTube Channel (Link) and a Zoom Webinar (login information may be found in the meeting packet).

Beggar’s Night

Beggar’s Night is designated for 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on October 30th.  Those wishing to participate in activities during this time are encouraged to be aware of the information and guidance provided by the IDPH & CDC (found at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html#halloween).  Residences wishing to participate in activities should have exterior lights, such as garage and/or front door lights on. 

Special City Council Presentation

At its meeting on September 29th, the City Council directed staff to prepare necessary documents to provide notification about the intent to fill the vacant mayor position by appointment.  An application process, like the one the community followed during previous vacancies on the Council, is being finalized and will be available by October 5th on the City’s website.  The current term of the vacant mayor position ends on December 31, 2021.  The presentation providing information regarding the responsibilities, legal authority for the position according to City and State Code and options to fill the vacancy that were reviewed at the September 29th Special City Council meeting may be found here. 

IMU Sewer Billing (PDF)

Attached, please find a letter IMU will be including for non-residential customers regarding the sewer rate billing error that was reported on in last week’s update.  City and IMU staff continue to meet and review this issue.  This item will be brought back to a future City Council meeting once additional information is obtained.

Indianola Eats Program

Since the start of this program on August 10th, 3,380 meals have been distributed.  Thank you to the volunteers who have helped serve the meals.  This program, which is a collaborative effort with the City, Helping Hand, the Indianola Chamber and Central Iowa Shelter Services, is funded by a $62,700 grant and is meant to not only support restaurants impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, but also assist members of our community who are in need of warm meals.

Infrastructure Maintenance

Streets Division staff completed crack sealing on Spruce Street (north of West 2nd Avenue), and the westbound lane on West Iowa Avenue (between 1st Street and D Street).  This required the use of 1,400 pounds of crack sealing material and 102 hours of labor. Pavement crack sealing is generally performed during fall (in October) or spring (in March) as a preventative maintenance process to help extend the pavement life.  Staff also repaired a storm sewer intake and pipe to control erosion next to a parking lot at the aquatic center. This work required 25 feet of storm pipe, 150 tons of clay dirt, 50 tons of black dirt, 15 tons of rip-rap stone for erosion control, 2.75 cubic yards of concrete and 86 hours of labor.

Winterization Efforts

It is that time of year again when City Staff begin the winterization of the park system, which includes closing restrooms and removing flower beds and hanging baskets.  With the assistance of IMU, the hanging flower baskets are scheduled to be removed on Tuesday, October 6th.  Park restrooms will be closing the week of October 15th unless cold temperatures occur earlier. The removal of flowers in Buxton Park and other city flower beds will begin the week of October 19th. Maintenance for the medians in State highway 65/69 is tentatively scheduled for November 10th.  This is being done in accordance with IDOT regulations that requires all plants be removed or cut down to ground level.  The median work will require the closure of both inside lanes of the highway.   In addition to informational posts on the City’s social media outlets, electronic signs providing notice will be posted the week prior. 

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update (PDF)

  • This week, a site plan was submitted for a storage garage being built at 2500 West 2nd Avenue.  Staff did a final inspection of the Quail Meadows 3rd Plat, and a final inspection of the Missouri Valley facility has been scheduled.  Of the 15 projects listed, three are awaiting a submittal from the Developer, two are in review, eight have been approved and are in construction, and two were recently completed.   

• 2020 Building Permits (PDF)

  • This week, five building permit applications were submitted and six permits issued.  Of the six issued, five were for new residential dwellings.  These are marked as footing/foundation only.  The builder is only proceeding with the footing and foundation at this point, a practice that is typical the closer we get to colder temperatures/frozen ground.  There are currently 12 building permit applications in review and 158 building permits that have been issued to date.

• Code Enforcement (PDF)

  • There are currently 20 open code enforcement cases (99 code enforcement cases have been opened for the year).

• Building Permit Report (PDF)

  • The Community Development Department released its September 2020 building permit report this week.  The City issued 20 permits in September, 15 of which were for new homes.  In comparing 2020 to 2019 there have been 22 more permits (157 vs 135) this year with 70 of the issued permits for new homes (55 new home permits in 2019).  The total value of permitted construction is $19,957,713 compared to $12,419,306 in 2019.  If you are interested in being placed on the emailing list for these reports, please contact Community Development at 961-9430.

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Attached, please find documents containing anticipated agenda items for the October 19th, October 29th and November 2nd upcoming meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.

• Anticipated Draft Agenda - October 19, 2020 (PDF) 
• Anticipated Draft Agenda - October 29, 2020 (PDF)
• Anticipated Draft Agenda - November 2, 2020 (PDF)

Ryan J. Waller - City Manager

September 29th Special City Council Meeting

The City Council will meet on Tuesday, September 29th for a special meeting regarding the vacancy at mayor.  The agenda and meeting materials are available on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter.  The meetings will be aired live via the City’s YouTube Channel and a Zoom Webinar (login information may be found in the meeting packet).

Congratulations

Congratulations to the following City employees for successfully (and all with honors) completing their paramedic curriculum:

• Jeremy Cross – Certificate Highest Honors
• Alissa Furry – Certificate Highest Honors, Outstanding Student Award
• Josh Mamanos – Certificate Highest Honors
• Ted Neller – Certificate High Honors, Peer Mentor Award
• Aaron Payette – Certificate Highest Honors

These officers were hired as part of a staffing plan adopted by the City Council to ensure proper public safety levels for our community.  We are fortunate to have such highly trained professionals who are dedicated to serving our community. 

Infrastructure Repairs

Streets Division staff repaired a failed pavement section on the north-south alley near East 3rd Avenue, between Jefferson Way and 1st Street, which required 18 hours of labor and 3.5 cubic yards of concrete.  Staff also repaired a six-foot storm sewer pipe section and rebuilt two failed stormwater intakes on the 900 block of North 9th Street and 1000 block of Henderson Place.  This work required 28 hours of labor and 3.5 cubic yards of concrete.

IMU Sewer Billing

At its meeting on September 21st, the City Council was briefed on an issue regarding the City’s sewer rates that were adjusted in April 2020.  During a review of a utility bill for a City Department, it was discovered that the new rates were not properly applied.  IMU, which performs billing services for the City, acknowledged the error and has begun working to correct the issue.  A meeting is scheduled between City and IMU on Monday, September 28th to review this issue.  This item will be brought back to a future City Council meeting once additional is obtained.

Study Session Presentation

In line with its strategic plan goals for infrastructure, the City has been conducting a multi-year study of the community’s stormwater system.  The results of this study allow the City to better identify and prioritize projects.  As part of the study, an audit of the stormwater utility is also underway to ensure accurate billing and revenue collection.  The revenue collected for the utility partially funds various stormwater infrastructure projects meant to convey rainwater away from roadways and properties.  The presentation from the September 21st City Council Study Session may be found on the City’s website linked below.

•  Stormwater Master Plan Presentation September 2020 (PDF)

2020 Census

September 30th (Wednesday) is the last day to respond to the 2020 Census.  If you have not done so, please respond online (https://2020census.gov/en/ways-to-respond/responding-online.html) or by phone (844-330-2020) to ensure our community doesn’t lose out on critical funding for roads, schools and other vital services. 

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update (PDF)

  • This week, the City Council approved an alternative method of site plan for Cabin Coffee and approved the final plat of Treeline Plat 1.  Of the 15 projects listed, three are awaiting a submittal from the Developer, two are in review, seven have been approved and are in construction, and three were recently completed.   

• 2020 Building Permits (PDF)

  • This week, six building permit applications were submitted, including four for new dwellings. There are currently 14 building permit applications in review and 152 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement (PDF)

  • This week, two code enforcement cases were opened, and one was closed. There are currently 26 open code enforcement cases (96 code enforcement cases have been opened for the year).

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Attached, please find documents containing anticipated agenda items for the October 5th and October 19th upcoming meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.

• Anticipated Draft Agenda - October 5, 2020 (PDF)
• Anticipated Draft Agenda - October 19, 2020 (PDF)

Ryan J. Waller - City Manager

September 21st City Council Meetings

The City Council will meet on Monday, September 21st for its regular meeting and study session that immediately follows the regular meeting.  The agendas and comprehensive meeting materials are available on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter.  Please note the packet was re-published this afternoon to update an event application (agenda item 5.F.3) and include the proper credit owed to the City for a pay application (agenda item 5.G.2).  The meetings will be aired live via the City’s YouTube Channel and a Zoom Webinar (login information may be found in the meeting packet).

Road Use Tax

The City’s road budget is funded by revenues collected by and distributed from the State of Iowa.  The revenue is generated from fees and taxes established by the State on vehicle registrations, as well as fuel and vehicle purchases.  The City recently received the latest disbursement from the State and is approximately $36,000 ahead of budget for the same period last year.  While this is positive news, there are many factors that may yet impact this funding.  City staff continues to monitor this funding to ensure the City may respond quickly and responsibly to changes.  

Infrastructure Repairs

Streets Division staff repaired a failed pavement section near the intersection of North N Street and West Euclid Avenue. This work required 40 hours of labor and 18.5 cubic yards of concrete.  Staff also rebuilt a failed stormwater intake in the 1200 block of Ann Parkway that required 32 hours of labor and 9.5 cubic yards of concrete.

Trail Crossing Signage

Streets Division staff installed 32 additional warning signs for recreational trail crossings that required 16 hours of labor. These warning signs inform motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians of proper yielding.

Hillcrest Traffic Signal

The City recently discovered a programming flaw on the signal controller at the intersection of Jefferson Way and Hillcrest Avenue.  City representatives implemented a temporary fix and are working with the manufacturer of the signal controller to ensure the programing flaw is resolved.

South K Street

The City’s contractor, Jerico Services, completed the third and final application of dust control for this year on South K Street, between 2nd Avenue and 17th Street.  This annual program, which helps control fugitive dust caused by traffic, consists of applying liquid calcium chloride to this gravel road.  This annual program will continue until South K Street is paved, which is programmed in the City’s Capital Improvement Program for Fiscal Year 2021-2022 (July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2022). 

Warren County Justice Center Update

This week, the project manager for the construction site reported that they are moving to the south side of the building and that deliveries will be unloaded on the southeast corner of the site.

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update

  • Of the 15 projects listed, four are awaiting a submittal from the Developer, four are in review, six have been approved and are in construction, and one was recently completed.    

• 2020 Building Permits

  • This week, four building permit applications were submitted, including three for new dwellings, and two building permits were issued. There are currently eight building permit applications in review and 151 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement

  • This week, seven code enforcement cases were opened, and two were closed. There are currently 29 open code enforcement cases (96 code enforcement cases have been opened for the year).

• Des Moines Home Builders Association

  • The Des Moines Home Builders Association issued their August 2020 building permit report.  The Des Moines Metro area reported 143 less permits for dwellings in August 2020 compared to August 2019 and has seen 174 more permits for dwellings year-to-date in 2020 compared to 2019.  Indianola issued two more building permits for dwellings in August 2020 compared to August 2019 and has issued seven more year to date compared to 2019.

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Attached, please find documents containing anticipated agenda items for the October 5th and October 19th upcoming meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.

• Anticipated Draft Agenda - October 5, 2020

• Anticipated Draft Agenda - October 19, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Square Streetscape

A meeting was hosted on September 10, 2020 that involved City Staff, the Indianola Chamber and Square businesses to review the current status of the Square Streetscape project (also includes the one-way to two-way conversion around the Square and along N Howard Street and N Buxton Street).  City staff and representatives from the City’s engineer on this project also attended an initiation meeting with the Iowa DNR regarding the $1 million grant awarded to the City for this project.  During the meeting, the preliminary schedule of the project was discussed, as well as the submittals required by the DNR. 

Square Parking

At its meeting on September 8th the City Council passed the final reading of an ordinance removing the three-hour parking restriction around the Square.  This action was recommended as part of a collaborative effort with the City, Chamber of Commerce and various Square businesses.  It is anticipated that another review of the parking regulations for the Square will be conducted following the completion of the County courthouse/jail project and the City’s Square Streetscape project when new parking habits and patterns can be observed and studied.  

Severe Weather Siren

Included in the City’s current budget is funding for the replacement of a severe weather warning siren located in the vicinity of W 17th Avenue.  The new siren will be installed next week by September 17th.  During this time, tests of the siren may be required to ensure it is functioning properly.  Please know that the City of Indianola is responsible for the maintenance of the sirens and Warren County Emergency Management is responsible for the activation of the sirens during severe weather events. 

Library Curbside Pickup Expanded

In response to public feedback, the Library will expand its curbside pickup to include Sunday hours.  The Library’s no-contact curbside pickup service began in April when the building was closed and has continued to grow in popularity after the Library reopened.  Initially offered two days a week, it expanded to all open hours Monday - Saturday and in October will grow to include Sunday afternoon hours.  For now, curbside pickup will be the only service offered on Sundays.

Library Chat Service

The Library is launching a new live chat service on the website.  The live chat will allow Library staff to assist patrons with inquiries while reducing the health risks associated with face-to-face interactions.  It is made possible through funding from the State Library of Iowa.

Indianola Eats Program

The next Indianola Eats Program event is scheduled for Monday, September 14th.  The event is hosted in the parking lot located at 1801 West Second Avenue (across from Sports Page).  This program is funded by a $62,700 grant. 

Beggars’ Night

As of the writing of this update, a decision regarding the annual Beggars’ Night has not been made.  The City continues to monitor the current events and will be reviewing available options.  Information will be provided via the City’s communication tools (i.e. social media, website, and weekly updates) as details are available.  Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Pavement Crack Sealing

Streets Division staff began preparations for the pavement crack sealing process.  Crack sealing is generally performed during the fall (in October) or spring (in March) to help prolong the life and integrity of pavement life. Streets Division staff plans to seal approximately 14,000’ of pavement on North 15th Street (between 2nd Avenue and Iowa Avenue), North 14th Street (between Iowa Avenue and Hillcrest Avenue), Spruce Street (between 2nd Avenue and the dead-end), East Iowa Avenue (between 8th Street and 15th Street), and West Iowa Avenue (between 1st Street and D Street).

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department: 

• Current Projects Update

  • This week, the site plan for Crow’s Nest RV park was approved, as well as the construction documents for Ashton Park Plat 7.  Of the 15 projects listed, three are awaiting a submittal from the Developer, two are in review, eight have been approved and are in construction, and two were recently completed.   

• 2020 Building Permits

  • This week, one building permit application was submitted and six permits (all new dwellings) were issued. There are currently seven building permit applications in review and 149 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement

  • This week, four code enforcement cases were opened. There are currently 23 open code enforcement cases (88 cases have been opened for the year).

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Attached, please find documents containing anticipated agenda items for the September 21st and October 5th upcoming meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.
Anticipated Draft Agenda - September 21, 2020
Anticipated Draft Agenda -  October 5, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Labor Day Observed

Please note all non-emergency offices will be closed Monday, September 7th in observation of Labor Day. Normal operational schedules resume on Tuesday, September 8th.

September 8th (Tuesday) City Council Meeting

The City Council will meet on Tuesday, September 8th for its regular meeting.  Please note the meeting is on Tuesday due to Labor Day.  The agenda and comprehensive meeting materials are available on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter.  The meetings will be aired live via the City’s YouTube Channel and a Zoom Webinar (login information may be found in the meeting packet).

Indianola Eats Program

The next Indianola Eats Program event is scheduled for Monday, September 14th.  There will be no event on September 7th due to Labor Day.  Thank you to the volunteers who have helped serve the meals.  This program is funded by a $62,700 grant. 

Street & Stormwater Repairs

Streets Division Staff repaired a deteriorated curb and gutter section on W Euclid Avenue and a failed concrete pavement section on West Detroit Avenue, near the intersection with N E Street.  These repairs required the use of 27 hours of labor and 8.25 cubic yards of concrete.  Staff also repaired a failed stormwater intake on Ann Parkway and Caroline Terrace.  This work required 16 hours of labor and 1.5 cubic yards of concrete. 

Kenwood Manhole Repairs

Streets Division Staff repaired two failed sanitary sewer manholes on N Kenwood Drive, near the intersection of W Salem Avenue.  This work required 16 hours of labor and 0.75 cubic yards of concrete.   

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update (PDF)

  • Site work has begun for the new Dollar Tree building at 1508 North Jefferson Way.  Of the 15 projects listed, three are awaiting a submittal from the Developer, four are in review, six have been approved and are in construction, and two were recently completed.   

• 2020 Building Permits (PDF)

  • Five building permit applications were submitted, which included four for new dwellings and one for a commercial site. There are currently 10 building permit applications in review and 143 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement (PDF)

  • Three code enforcement cases were opened and four were closed. There are currently 19 open code enforcement cases (84 cases have been opened for the year).

• Monthly Permit Reports (PDF)

  • The August 2020 building permit report was released this week.  Seven dwelling permits and one permit for a new commercial structure was issued last month. 

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Attached, please find documents containing anticipated agenda items for the September 21st and October 5th upcoming meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.
Anticipated Draft Agenda - September 21, 2020 (PDF)
Anticipated Draft Agenda - October 5, 2020 (PDF)

Ryan Waller - City Manager

City-wide Clean-up

A friendly reminder that the rescheduled city-wide clean-up service begins Monday, August 31st.  Additional information may be found on the City’s website here (link).  The City greatly appreciates the community’s patience and understanding while we worked with Waste Management to reschedule this service.

Iowa Great Place

Those of us who live, work and play here knew this already, but Indianola has been named an "Iowa Great Place" by the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs.  This designation will allow us to take our implementation of impactful community projects to the next level.  A copy of the press release may be found here (PDF).  Preliminary discussions on an upcoming grant application have already begun and will be coming before the City Council at an upcoming meeting.  Thank you to all who helped make this a reality!

Equity Challenge

The United Way of Central Iowa is coordinating an initiative meant to foster a deeper understanding of how inequity and racism affect our lives and community.  This initiative, which is referred to as the 21-Day Equity Challenge, will run from October 5th through November 2nd.  During this timeframe, the City team will be joining many of our Metro community peers, Simpson College and countless other organizations throughout Central Iowa in supporting this important initiative. Participation is free.  Additional information may be found at www.EquityChallenge.org.

Indianola Eats Program

As previously reported, the City, Helping Hand, the Indianola Chamber and Central Iowa Shelter Services have partnered together to not only support restaurants impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, but also assist members of our community who are in need of warm meals.  Since the start of this grant program on August 10th, over 1,000 meals have been distributed.  The next scheduled time is August 31st (there will be no scheduled event on Labor Day).  Thank you to the volunteers who have helped serve the meals.  This program is funded by a $62,700 grant. 

Brush Facility

Please remember to bring a valid ID showing your Indianola address when visiting the Brush Facility. As reported in last week’s update, this new measure is being implemented in response to concerns with non-residents utilizing the City Brush Facility. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) Estimate

The City received the Local Option Sales Tax estimated monthly distributions from the Iowa Department of Revenue.  The total estimated LOST for Fiscal Year 2021 is a little more than $1.6 million.  A reconciliation will take place in November so this total amount may change.  It is important to note that this projection is significantly higher than initial estimates provided by the State at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic (estimated at ~$1 million), as well as the pre-COIVD budgeted amount of $1.2 million.  The LOST collected is used to fund the construction of the City’s new Water Resource Recovery Facility and helps keep sewer rates lower.

Traffic Signal Repair

The intersection of 2nd Avenue and Jefferson Way was temporarily operating with stop signs after the signal controller was damaged by a multi-vehicle accident. The replacement traffic signal controller has been installed and the traffic signal for this major intersection is operational.

West Salem Avenue Pavement Repairs

This week, Streets Division Staff repaired failed pavement sections on W. Salem Avenue, between M and P Streets. These repairs required more than five days and 102 hours of labor to repair 1,615 square feet of pavement (41 cubic yards of concrete).

Apple Drive Pavement Repairs

This week, Streets Division Staff repaired failed pavement sections on Apple Drive, in the vicinity of Phillip Place. These repairs required more than three days and 81 hours of labor to repair 1,050 square feet of pavement (27 cubic yards of concrete).

Square Streetscape

An update meeting regarding the Square Streetscape project has been scheduled with Square businesses.  The meeting is being hosted by the Indianola Chamber of Commerce and is scheduled for Thursday, September 10th. 

Census

Indianola’s Census response rate is currently at 72.6% and continues to outpace response rates for the Nation and the State.  For those who have not yet responded, please be aware that census takers have started to visit neighborhoods.  All census takers have completed health and safety training related to COVID-19 and will wear masks and follow local public health guidelines when they visit. If someone visits your home to collect information for the 2020 Census, please be sure to ask for them to show their ID badge that will include their photograph, a U.S. Department of Commerce watermark, and an expiration date.  If you respond online (https://2020census.gov/en/ways-to-respond/responding-online.html) or by phone (844-330-2020), a census taker is less likely to have to visit your home to collect your response.

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update (PDF)

  • A building permit for Dollar Tree was issued, as was the certificate of occupancy for Scooters.  A site plan for Cabin Coffee was also submitted.  Of the 15 projects listed, three are awaiting a submittal from the Developer, four are in review, six have been approved and are in construction, and two were recently completed.   

• 2020 Building Permits (PDF)

  • Three building permit applications were submitted and nine building permits were issued.  Of the nine issued, seven were for new residential dwellings and one was for a new commercial business. There are currently 11 building permit applications in review and 137 building permits that have been issued to date.

• Code Enforcement (PDF)

  • Two code enforcement cases were opened and three closed. There are currently 19 open code enforcement cases (80 cases have been opened for the year).

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Attached, please find documents containing anticipated agenda items for the September 8th and September 21st upcoming meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.
Anticipated Draft Agenda - September 8, 2020 (PDF)
Anticipated Draft Agenda - September 21, 2020 (PDF)

Ryan Waller - City Manager

FY20 Audit

This week, the City’s auditor (Denman and Company) conducted fieldwork for the FY2020 audit. This is an annual process required for municipalities.  Earlier today, staff met with our auditor to review the preliminary observations and findings.  The results were (again) very positive with two items likely to be identified - segregation of duties and procurement cards.  Both are common items found in city audits, especially for communities of Indianola’s size.  The City’s finance team is to be commended for their outstanding work on this excellent report especially with two of our newer team members quickly learning their new roles and the complexities brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.  

Census

Indianola’s current Census response rate is 72.3%.  For those who have not yet responded, please be aware that census takers have started to visit neighborhoods.  All census takers have completed health and safety training related to COVID-19 and will wear masks and follow local public health guidelines when they visit. If someone visits your home to collect information for the 2020 Census, please be sure to ask for them to show their ID badge that will include their photograph, a U.S. Department of Commerce watermark, and an expiration date.  If you respond online (https://2020census.gov/en/ways-to-respond/responding-online.html) or by phone (844-330-2020) today, a census taker is less likely to have to visit your home to collect your response.  A video from the US Census Bureau about this process may be viewed at https://youtu.be/kxmDW-9XUc4.

Square Streetscape Presentation

During its Study Session on Monday (August 17th), the City Council received an update on the Square Streetscape project and gave direction regarding traffic direction on the Public Square, Howard Street and Buxton Street.  The direction included converting those streets from one-way traffic to two-way traffic and adding shared-use bike lanes on Buxton Street, from Buxton Park/Jerry Kelly Trail/Franklin Avenue south through the Public Square.  Staff is working on timelines for this aspect of the project and will provide a follow-up report at a future City Council meeting.  A copy of the presentation from Monday is attached.
Square Streetscape Presentation (PDF)

Spruce Street Storm Sewer Repairs

Streets Division Staff completed repairs to two failed stormwater intakes on Spruce Street, located north of Highway 92.  A total of 48 hours of labor and 16.5 cubic yards of concrete were required to repair these two intakes.

West Salem Avenue Pavement Repairs

Streets Division Staff commenced repair work on failed pavement on West Salem Avenue, between M Street & P Street. The work began during the early part of this week and is expected to end by next week. To date 1,275 square feet of pavement has been replaced which has required 82 hours of labor and 32 cubic yards of concrete.

Dust Control

Streets Division Staff regraded all the gravel roads under the City’s responsibility in preparation for the second application of the dust control.  This work did not include South K Street as work on this roadway took place last month.  Jerico Services, a local company, will apply dust control on these gravel roads, which consists of applying liquid calcium chloride to the gravel roads.  Grading work must be completed prior to the application of the dust control chemicals.  

Brush Facility

In response to concerns with non-residents utilizing the City Brush Facility, staff will begin requiring identification that shows a valid City of Indianola address.  This extra measure will begin Thursday, August 27, 2020.  Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update (PDF)

  • The City Council approved the Prairie Glynn Plat 2 Subdivision.  Of the 15 projects listed, four are awaiting a submittal from the Developer, four are in review, six have been approved and are in construction, and one was recently completed.    

• 2020 Building Permits (PDF)

  • Four building permit applications were submitted, including two for new dwellings, and three building permits were issued. There are currently 16 building permit applications in review and 127 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement (PDF)

  • This week, one code enforcement case was opened, and two were closed. There are currently 21 open code enforcement cases and year to date, 78 code enforcement cases have been opened.

• Des Moines Home Builders Association (PDF)

  • The Des Moines Home Builders Association issued their July 2020 Building permit report.  The Des Moines Metro area reported 200 more permits for dwellings in July 2020 compared to July 2019 and has seen 324 more permits for dwellings year-to-date in 2020 compared to 2019.  Indianola issued six more building permits for dwellings in July 2020 compared to July 2019 and has issued five more year to date compared to 2019.

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Attached, please find documents containing anticipated agenda items for the September 8th and September 21st upcoming meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.
Anticipated Draft Agenda - September 8, 2020 (PDF)
Anticipated Draft Agenda - September 21, 2020 (PDF)

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Brush Facility

As a result of the recent storm event, residents will not be charged to dispose yard waste and brush at the Indianola Brush Facility on Thursday, August 13, 2020.  Staff will monitor turn-out at the brush facility to determine if this service needs to be extended at no charge.  If an extra day is required, it will be announced via the City’s social media and website on Friday, August 14, 2020.

August 17th City Council Meetings

The City Council will meet on Monday, August 17th for its regular meeting and study session that immediately follows the regular meeting.  The agendas and comprehensive meeting materials will be available later today on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter.  The meetings will be aired live via the City’s YouTube Channel and a Zoom Webinar (login information may be found in the meeting packet).

Square Streetscape Project

Last year, a committee of community stakeholders presented a recommendation to the City Council on the overall design and layout of the Square Streetscape.  This design, which was approved by the City Council in 2019 and ultimately received an award from the American Planning Association (Iowa Chapter), included the recommendation for two-way traffic around the Square.  As the City’s engineers on this project (Bolton and Menk) work towards the 30% design mark, confirmation on prior direction from the City Council regarding the traffic pattern around the Square, and on Howard and Buxton Streets, is needed.  At its Study Session on August 17th, the City Council will receive a presentation on various components of a conversion to two-way traffic.  While a formal decision on one-way vs two-way will not be made on August 17th, the direction received will begin the process of completing necessary studies, preparing necessary ordinance changes, and will give direction to the design team on the Square Streetscape Project.    

Re-open Plan

The City Team continues to monitor and prepare appropriate plans in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.  The current status may be found on the City’s website at http://www.indianolaiowa.gov/903/Re-Open-Plan-Matrix.  As a reminder, this is a fluid document meant to guide the decision-making process, as well as communicate out the updated status of impacted programs, services and facilities (Green = current status, in effect or open; Red = closed, not in effect, postponed).  All are asked to remain vigilant in social distancing, washing of hands, sanitizing efforts and monitoring of your health.  

Storm Clean-up

Streets Division Staff used 12 hours of labor to clean up debris from the recent storm event.  This work included the removal of two trees blocking the traffic and assistance to IMU to temporarily close Iowa Avenue, between Howard and Buxton, to remove a tree branch from an electric line.  Thankfully there has not been much reported damage in our community.

Parking Lot Maintenance

Streets Division Staff completed cleaning and painting four different municipal parking lots in the vicinity of the town Square.  Work started on Tuesday, August 4th and was completed on August 12th. Staff used a total of 12 hours of labor and 6 gallons of paint to clean and paint these parking lots.

Kenwood Drive Repairs

Staff from the Streets Division and Water Pollution Control teamed up to repair failed sanitary sewer manholes and pavement sections on Kenwood Drive. They used a total of 153 hours of labor and 30 cubic yards of concrete to repair two manholes and 1,175 square feet of pavement. 

Spruce Street Sewer Repairs

Streets Division Staff began repair work on two storm water intakes on Spruce Street, located north of Highway 92. It is anticipated that this will cause some impact to vehicular traffic. Although the intake repair is expected to be completed by early next week, work may continue to repair failed storm sewer pipes under the pavement.  Staff is currently investigating the extent of the failed sewer pipes.

City Council Anticipated Agendas

Attached, please find documents containing anticipated agenda items for the September 8th and September 21st upcoming meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.
Anticipated Draft Agenda - September 8, 2020
Anticipated Draft Agenda - September 21, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

State Highways 65/69 and 92

If you have driven along State Highways 65/69 or 92 lately the City Team hopes you noticed the improved synchronization of the traffic signals.  The new timing for these traffic signals was completed last week as part of the City’s project to reconstruct a portion of Iowa Avenue.  This work, which was partially funded by a grant, is expected to be completed by the first week of September when seeding of the disturbed area is performed.  Thank you to the community for the patience during this important project!

Grant Awarded

As previously reported, the City, Helping Hand, the Indianola Chamber and Central Iowa Shelter Services began exploring a possible partnership to compete for Federal grant dollars available to support restaurants impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.  Thank you to Councilwoman Schroder who made this connection after initially being contacted by a representative from the Central Iowa Shelter Services about this opportunity.  The City Council endorsed this partnership (July 6th council meeting) and authorized the submission of a grant application seeking $62,700 (July 20th council meeting).  On Thursday, August 6th notification was received announcing the application was successful, and the City was awarded the full request.  The program is expected to begin on Monday, August 10th.  Details will be advertised on the City’s website and social media outlets. 

Code Updates

Following the adoption of the updated Comprehensive Master Plan (Elevate Indianola), at its meeting on July 20th the City Council appointed an advisory committee to begin work on an overall review and updating process of outdated City Codes.  This is being done to ensure the City’s regulations align with and promote the community’s vision established by Elevate Indianola.  The kick-off meeting with the advisory committee took place earlier this week with a focus on the City’s Zoning Code, Plantings in Parking Code (street trees), Sign Code, Site Planning Code, and Subdivision Code.  At this meeting, the committee discussed the purpose, scope and timeline of the updates, as well as issues with the current codes, goals of the updates, and they formulated a list of community stakeholders that should be consulted as part of the update process.  Updates will be provided as this major project continues to progress.

Square Streetscape Project

Last year, a committee of community stakeholders presented a recommendation to the City Council on the overall design and layout of the Square Streetscape.  This design, which was approved by the City Council in 2019 and ultimately received an award from the American Planning Association (Iowa Chapter), included the recommendation for two-way traffic around the Square.  As the City’s engineers on this project (Bolton and Menk) work towards the 30% design mark, confirmation on prior direction from the City Council regarding the traffic pattern around the Square, and on Howard and Buxton Streets, is needed.    At its Study Session on August 17th, the City Council will receive a presentation on various components of a conversion to two-way traffic.  While a formal decision on one-way vs two-way will not be made on August 17th, the direction received will begin the process of completing necessary studies, preparing necessary ordinance changes, and will give direction to the design team on the Square Streetscape Project.    

Industrial Park Street/Drainage Work

Streets Division Staff completed the street and drainage improvements on North 14th Street in the City’s Industrial Park.  Work began on Monday, August 3rd and was completed within two days.  The project required 123 hours of labor and 80 tons of rock for the pavement edge shoulders. The drainage ditches in the vicinity were also reshaped to improve the storm water run-off, which should address some of the concerns regarding standing water in the area. 

Parking Lot Maintenance

Streets Division Staff will continue cleaning and/or painting of various municipal parking lots in the vicinity of the town Square.  Work began earlier this week and will continue until August 12th (weather permitting).  Additional details may be found on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1641 and on our social media outlets. 

South Kenwood Drive Repairs

Crews from the Streets Division and Water Pollution Control began repair work on failing sanitary sewer manholes and pavement sections on the 300-400 block of South Kenwood Drive.  To date crews have used a total of 16 hours of labor and 9 cubic yards of concrete to repair the 350 square feet of pavement.  Information regarding this work may be found on the City’s social media outlets. 

COVID Expenses

Earlier this week, Governor Reynolds announced that communities would be eligible for certain expense incurred as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.  While staff continue to monitor the necessary requirements to submit for reimbursement, much of the necessary work has already been completed.  This is all thanks to foresight of the City’s finance team and cooperation of our operating departments.  As we learn more, additional updates and possible City Council agenda items will be planned and provided accordingly.

Census

Indianola’s Census response rate is currently at 71.8% and continues to outpace the same for the Nation and the State.  Reminder postcards have been sent to households who had not yet responded.  This will be the final mailing before census takers begin visiting non-responding households in the next few weeks. If you have not already responded to the Census, and to avoid a visit to your home by a census taker, please respond online (https://2020census.gov/en/ways-to-respond/responding-online.html) or by phone (844-330-2020) to ensure our community doesn’t lose out on critical funding for roads, schools and other vital services. 

Meeting Presentation

Information contained in the presentation provided during the August 3rd City Council meeting regarding the City’s 28 E agreement with the YMCA may be found on the City’s website here.  As noted in the presentation there are no tax dollars that support the operations of the YMCA and none of the rent paid to the City is used to make bond payments for the building.

Building Permit Report

The Community Development Department released its July 2020 building permit report this week.  The City issued 24 permits in July, 11 of which were for new homes.  In comparing 2020 to 2019 there have been 12 more permits (124 vs 112) this year with 58 of the issued permits for new homes (48 new home permits in 2019).  The total value of permitted construction is $14,171,787 compared to $9,514,218 in 2019.  If you are interested in being placed on the emailing list for these reports, please contact Community Development at 961-9430.

Upcoming City Council Agendas

Attached, please find documents containing anticipated agenda items for the August 17th and September 8th upcoming meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.
Anticipated Draft Agenda - August 17, 2020
Anticipated Draft Agenda -  September 8, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

August 3rd City Council Meeting

The City Council will meet on Monday, August 3rd for its regular meeting.  The agenda and comprehensive meeting materials are available on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter.  The meeting will be aired live via the City’s YouTube Channel and a Zoom Webinar (login information may be found in the meeting packet).

Parking Lot Maintenance

Streets Division Staff will be cleaning and/or painting various municipal parking lots in the vicinity of the town Square.  Work is scheduled to begin Tuesday, August 4th and will continue until August 12th (weather permitting).  Additional details may be found on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1641 and on our social media outlets.  

Industrial Park Street/Drainage Work

Streets Division Staff will be performing street and drainage improvements on North 14th Street in the City’s Industrial Park.  The work is scheduled to begin the week of August 3rd and is expected to be completed within three to five days (weather permitting).  Information on this work has been mailed to impacted businesses and posted on the City’s website and social media outlets.

Traffic Signal Timing

The new timing for the traffic signals along State highways 65/69 and 92 is expected to be completed by the end of this week.  This work will improve traffic flow along these corridors and will have a positive environmental impact through the reduction of vehicle idling.  Seeding of the area disturbed as a result of the reconstruction of Iowa Avenue will be completed by the first week of September.

Budget Presentation Document

The budget presentation document has been submitted to the Government Finance Officers Association for consideration of the Distinguished Budget Award.  This award program, which began in 1984, was established to recognize budget documents that adhere to established best practices on fiscal stewardship and transparency.  The City has received this award for the last three consecutive years (the only three times in the City’s history)! Thank you to our team for their hard work on this important document.  The budget presentation document may be viewed on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/11474/Indianola-FY2021-Budget-Presentation-Document.

Upcoming City Council Agendas

Attached, please find documents containing anticipated agenda items for the August 17th and September 8th upcoming meetings.  These are working drafts.  Agendas are published on the City’s website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting.
Anticipated Draft Agenda - August 17, 2020
Anticipated Draft Agenda - September 8, 2020

Andy Lent - City Clerk/Finance Director

Police Logo Inquiries

The City has received inquiries regarding the estimated costs (prepared by City Staff) for the removal of the Indian Head logo on police department vehicles and equipment. The document is attached. Also, please know that while implementation of these action items will take some time, the removal of the logos on the police car was done immediately in-house by staff. An alternative design for our officers’ patches and badges will be designed by a committee of police department personnel. The City’s official logo will remain as the one found on the website.
Police Logo estimated costs

City-wide Clean-up Rescheduled

The week of August 30th was approved as the rescheduled timeframe for the city-wide clean-up service.  Additional information will be advertised via the City’s website, social media outlets and other communication tools. The City greatly appreciates the community’s patience and understanding while we worked with Waste Management to reschedule this service.  

Traffic Signal Timing & Iowa Avenue Project Update

The contractor (Sternquist Construction) completed paving of Iowa Avenue.  The road is scheduled to be reopened to traffic on Friday, July 24, 2020.  The synchronization of the traffic signals along the two state highways is expected to be completed by the end of August and the seeding is expected to be completed before the 1st week of September.  City Staff will review punch list items and review the contract to determine remedies since the project will extend beyond the contractual completion date. 

Census

Indianola’s Census response rate is currently at 71.2%.  This week, the US Census Bureau sent reminder postcards to households who have not yet responded to the 2020 Census.  This will be the final mailing before census takers begin visiting non-responding households in mid-August. If you have not already responded to the Census, and to avoid a visit to your home by a census taker, please respond online (https://2020census.gov/en/ways-to-respond/responding-online.html) or by phone (844-330-2020) today and ensure our community doesn’t lose out on critical funding for roads, schools and other vital services.  

Square Parking Meeting

Another collaborative meeting took place on July 23, 2020 with City Staff, the Indianola Chamber and Square businesses to review proposed amendments to the regulations on Square parking.  The draft that was reviewed was developed from input from a previous meeting with the same group.  At the conclusion of the meeting, it was the consensus to have the Chamber get the proposed changes out to those who were not able to attend the meeting for comment, and then move the recommended changes to the City Council.

Warren County Justice Center (WCJC) Update

DCI reports that several upcoming deliveries that will add some congestion around the Square.  This week, a crane needed for steel erection was delivered, and steel deliveries will start the week of August 3rd.  Deliveries will be unloaded on-site, but the tractor-trailers will have to be backed into the site. 

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update

  • The site plan for a new retail building at 1508 North Jefferson way was approved and construction documents for Ashton Park Plat 7 were submitted for review.      

• 2020 Building Permits

  • Since the last update, 10 building permit applications were submitted, including six for new single-family dwellings. There are currently four building permit applications in review and 115 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement

  • This week, four code enforcement cases were opened. There are currently 29 open code enforcement cases.

• Des Moines Home Builders Association

  • The Des Moines Home Builders Association issued their June 2020 Building permit report.  The Des Moines Metro area reported 14 less permits for single-family in June 2020 compared to June 2019 and has seen 124 more permits for single-family year-to-date in 2020 compared to 2019.  Indianola issued two less building permits in June 2020 compared to June 2019 and has issued six more year to date compared to 2019.

Email Issues

As has been communicated, the City experienced significant issues with its email server following an update recommended by Microsoft.  Since learning of this issue, City Staff and technicians from Microsoft have worked around the clock to resolve the issue.  As of the writing of this update, the server is back in operation with City Staff and Microsoft technicians focusing on remaining action items. 

Fire Protection and EMS Grant

The Fire and EMS Department was just notified today that they were the recipient of a $2,079.55 state grant (notification attached) from the Iowa State Fire Marshall Office to purchase two Surface Pro tablets and accessories.  The grant application was prepared and submitted by Firefighter/Paramedic Eric Wallace. Congratulations to the Department for this award!
Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Services Grant approval letter

Public Safety/Library/City Hall Building Assessment

As you may recall, a major project identified in the City’s Strategic Plan is to review and develop plans for replacement facilities for Public Safety, the Library and City Hall.  This project began in 2018 and has been underway since.  Based on direction from the City Council last year, the plan being pursued is a combined Library and City Hall facility and a new Public Safety facility at the existing sites.  This week, City Staff met with the City’s consultant to begin the next phase of this project.  It is anticipated an update will be provided to the City Council in the next month or two.  For reference, previous presentations on this project may be found at:

• 2018 presentation

  • http://indianolaiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/8926/

• 2019 presentation

  • http://indianolaiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9945/

Sidewalk Repairs on South Jefferson Way

Street Department staff have completed repairing failed sidewalk sections at three different locations on South Jefferson Way, by using a total of 25 hours of labor and 3.75 cubic yards of concrete to repair 10 panels of sidewalk sections.  These failed sidewalk panels were located adjacent to public alleys and on sidewalk ramps at street intersections.

Emergency Utility Repair and Pavement Patching

Street Department staff assisted the Water Department to make an emergency water main repair by patching a pavement utility cut at the intersection of South Jefferson Way & Detroit Avenue, by using a total of 12 hours of labor and 5 cubic yards of concrete.  

Sign Maintenance

Street Department staff replaced a broken sign and straightened signposts that were leaning at ten different locations in the southwest quadrant of the city, by using a total of 10 hours of labor.  Traffic signs require frequent repair or replacement for various reasons including vandalism, damage by vehicles, weather or other natural factors, or when they reach the end of their useful life.

Upcoming City Council Agendas

Attached, please find the anticipated agendas for the August 3rd and August 17th upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Anticipated Draft Agenda - August 3, 2020
Anticipated Draft Agenda - August 17, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

July 20, 2020 City Council Meeting

The City Council will meet for its regular meeting and a study session on Monday, July 20, 2020.  Please note that a revised agenda was recently published in response to a request from members of the City Council to add an agenda item regarding the Indian logo.  A copy of the request is attached.  The agendas and meeting materials are available on the City’s website at https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter.   The meetings will be aired live via the City’s YouTube Channel and a Zoom Webinar.  
City Council Agenda Request for July 20, 2020 Meeting

Spring Clean-up Rescheduled Dates

Working with representatives from Waste Management, the vendor responsible for the city-wide Spring Clean-up event, the week of August 30th has been identified as the recommended rescheduled timeframe for this service.  As many may recall, the original event was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  The recommendation is being presented to the City Council for consideration at its meeting on Monday, July 20, 2020.  Once confirmed, information will be advertised via City’s website, social media outlets and other communication tools. The City greatly appreciates the community’s patience and understanding while we worked with Waste Management to reschedule this service.  

Traffic Signal Timing & Iowa Avenue Project Update

The contractor (Sternquist Construction) completed paving of Iowa Avenue.  The contractor must now complete the paving of driveway access points.  This is anticipated next week and the road will then reopen to traffic.  The project experienced some delays that were caused by sandy soil and MidAmerican.  Once completed, City Staff will review punch list items and review the contract to determine remedies since the project will extend beyond the contractual completion date of July 17th.  

Temporary Road Closure (800 block of East Iowa Avenue)

A private construction contractor, Peterson Construction, has temporarily closed the 800 block of East Iowa Avenue for sanitary sewer connection to a new subdivision.  The contractor is expecting to complete the necessary work and anticipates the road will reopen early next week.

Streetscape

This week, City Staff and Bolton and Menk held their first coordination meetings with Warren County, its contractors and design team on the Warren County Justice Center Project, as well as with City and IMU utility regarding the Square Streetscape Project.  These meetings were meant to gather some baseline data regarding the Warren County Justice Center and current utilities that are in the ground.  During the coordination meetings discussions on timing of the Streetscape project and the importance of coordination took place.  As surveying for the Streetscape project wraps up, the next steps are to move into the engineering design of the Streetscape.  There will continue to be coordinating meeting with both the County and utilities through the design process to assure the City’s team is creating plans that do not conflict with the Justice Center construction or utilities.  

West Highway 92 Trees

City Staff has been working with Iowa DOT on replacing trees that were removed several years ago as part of the highway widening project.  The City has received preliminary approval to replant 21 trees along the west Highway 92 corridor.  Similar to the Highway 65/69 northern median plantings project, the City will issue a request for proposals for tree planting, select the vendor and IDOT will reimburse for the cost of the trees, planting and initial watering.  The City will ultimately be required to take on responsibility for the watering and maintenance of the trees along this corridor.  

Iowa Great Places Designation Visit

Members of the Iowa Great Places Board and Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs visited Indianola on Wednesday, July 15, 2020 as part of the next step in the application process for our community’s designation as an Iowa Great Place.  Members of the Hometown Pride Committee, Chamber, City, Simpson College, Des Moines Metro Opera and community members presented highlights about what makes Indianola great.  This presentation was held in the Lauridsen Opera Center, followed by a tour around The Square, Simpson College, Buxton Park and finally an exhibition from Indianola balloonists.  The primary themes of the visit were Indianola as a destination for high-quality education, a thriving business economy, enriching amenities, small town character, and making connections; all derived from the City’s Vision Statement that may be found in the newly adopted Comprehensive Plan – Elevate Indianola.  The possible designation as an Iowa Great Place would open opportunities for adding quality of life amenities through grants.  A special “thank you” goes out to our dear friends at the Des Moines Metro Opera for hosting the presentation in such a “Great” setting.  

Public Parking Lot Repairs

Streets Division Staff is repairing several sections of failed/deteriorated curb and road surfaces along N 1st Street (between Salem and Ashland) and in the City Hall parking lot. During this process crews identified a failing storm sewer intake on the Fire Department’s parking lot area, which is also being repaired during this week. To date, crews have used a total of 32 hours of labor and 9.75 cubic yards of concrete to repair the parking lot area.  

Intersection Visibility

Streets Division Staff have worked to improve the intersection visibility by trimming trees at the intersection of Hwy 92 and K Street, as well as at the intersection of Hillcrest Avenue and 14th Street.  This work was accomplished by using five hours of labor.

Erosion Control and Ditch Repair

Due to the recent rainfall, there were a few sections of the drainage ditch on K Street that exhibited signs of significant erosion.  To address this safety hazard, Streets Division Staff spent nine hours repairing the section, which involved installing 25 tons of erosion control rock.

Upcoming City Council Agendas

Attached, please find the anticipated agendas for the August 3rd and August 17th upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Anticipated Draft Agenda - August 3, 2020
Anticipated Draft Agenda - August 17, 2020

Andy Lent - City Clerk/Finance Director

HR Director Position

This week, we said good-bye to our Director of Human Resources, Melissa McCoy, who left the City to take a health services HR position in Clive. Through her hard work right up to her last day, she arranged for candidates to apply and set up interviews next week for us with three very promising candidates. 

Traffic Signal Timing & Iowa Avenue Project Update

The construction contractor, Sternquist Construction, has continued pavement reconstruction activity.  Rock subbase was placed and is ready to be trimmed to final grade in preparation for the paving of Iowa Avenue.  Iowa Avenue will be paved in two parts (north and south halves) beginning Saturday, 7/11 as weather allows. Driveways will be paved back once the roadway is complete, followed by backfill and seeding.  The current contract for this project with Sternquist Construction is for a total amount of $264,701.85 with a late completion date of July 17, 2020.  This project, which is partially funded by a grant, will improve the synchronization of the traffic signals on Jefferson Way (US highway 65/69) and 2nd Ave (IA 92) and will involve the reconstruction of Iowa Avenue from 1st Street to Jefferson Way.  

Pavement and Intake Repairs

Streets division staff helped the Water Department with patching a pavement utility cut at the intersection of 12th Street & Franklin Avenue, by using a total of 106 hours of labor and 43 cubic yards of concrete to repair the pavement and sidewalk ramp area of 1,345 square feet.  

Dust Control on K Street

Public Works Department has contracted with Jerico to apply dust control on K Street, between 2nd Avenue and 17th Avenue.  The program consists of applying liquid calcium chloride to gravel roads typically to reduce dust created by vehicles. This will be the second application of dust control, on K Street, during this calendar year.  The first application of dust control was completed during mid-May.  The council approved capital improvement plan includes a strategy for new pavement on K Street. Until then the city has committed towards applying dust control, three times a year, on this gravel road.

IDOT Memo

Attached is an email from the Iowa Department of Transportation highlighting an act by the Iowa Legislature to take actions listed below that will add about $8 million to the Road Use Tax Fund. It is uncertain how much this will increase the amount to individual cities, but the Iowa League of Cities is reviewing and working on an estimate. 

• Ethanol blended at a rate of 10 percent (E10) is now taxed at the same rate as gasoline. E10 sales make up over 80 percent of all gasoline sold in Iowa.
• E15+ blends have a lower tax rate (24.0 cents per gallon) but E15+ makes up less than 5 percent of all gasoline sold in Iowa. 
• B11+ is now charged 0.6 cpg more per gallon than prior to July 1, 2020 and that applies to over 50 percent of all diesel sold in Iowa.

IDOT Legislative Update email

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the anticipated agendas for the July 20th and August 3rd upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Anticipated Draft Agenda - July 20, 2020
Anticipated Draft Agenda - August 3, 2020

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission will hold its monthly meeting next Tuesday, July 14.  The agenda is attached and includes a plat of survey, a final plat, site plan approval and two code amendments.
P&Z July 14, 2020 Agenda

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update

  • This week, the City Council approved various items at its Monday meeting.  A Certificate of Occupancy was issued for Ace Hardware, and the first round of site plan comments were returned for a new retail building located at 1508 North Jefferson Way.    

• 2020 Building Permits

  • This week, five building permit applications were submitted and three building permits were issued.  There are currently four building permit applications in review and 104 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement

  • This week, five code enforcement cases were opened, and one case was closed.  There are currently 25 open code enforcement cases.

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Independence Day Hours

Please note all non-emergency offices, including Library and Brush Facility, will be closed Friday, July 3rd through Sunday, July 5th in observation of Independence Day. Normal operational schedules resume on Monday, July 6th.

Re-Open Plan Matrix

The City Team continues to monitor and prepare appropriate plans in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.  As a reminder, this is a fluid document meant to guide the decision-making process, as well as communicate out the updated status of impacted programs, services and facilities (Green = current status, in effect or open; Red = closed, not in effect, postponed).  All are asked to remain vigilant in social distancing, washing of hands, sanitizing efforts and monitoring of your health.
Re-Open Plan Matrix - Update 07-01-2020

July 6th City Council Meeting

The City Council will meet on Monday, July 6th for its regular meeting.  The agenda and meeting materials are available on the City’s website at https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter.   The meeting will be aired live via the City’s YouTube Channel and a Zoom Webinar.

Traffic Signal Timing & Iowa Avenue Project Update

The contractor (Sternquist Construction) continued pavement reconstruction activity, which involved removing sandy soil and replacing it with good quality dirt from various locations of this project.  This is important as it will provide better support thereby helping extend the life of the new concrete surface.  As noted previously, the work to remove the sandy soil requires a change order, in the amount of $3,296, which will be presented for City Council consideration at its July 6th meeting.  Once subgrade preparation is completed, paving will commence.  This is expected to begin within a week or two.  The current contract for this project has a late completion date of July 17, 2020.  

Pavement & Intake Repairs

Streets Division staff completed repairs on a failed pavement section and a failed intake near the dead-end on Trail Ridge Road.  This work required 45 hours of labor and 14 cubic yards of concrete to repair a pavement area of 550 square feet.  Crews also completed repairs on a failed intake at the intersection of Lundahl Court and Orchard Avenue.  This work required a total of 42 hours of labor and 10 cubic yards of concrete to repair a pavement area of 350 square feet.

Grow Solar

Earlier this year, the City Council approved participation in a collaborative program that is designed to make it easier from community members to pursue high-quality renewable energy solar installations.  Over the next few months, the program will provide free, one-hour long educational sessions for members of the public. Given the COVID-19 pandemic, these “Solar Power Hours” are scheduled virtually and will provide prospective participants with information about how solar energy works. MREA representatives will also be on hand to answer questions. The program’s website, www.WarrenCounty.GrowSolar.org, features a sign-up form on which area residents and business owners can elect to receive an estimate or general program updates and Solar Power Hour announcements.
Warren County Grow Solar Press Release

Census

Indianola’s response rate to the 2020 U.S. Census (70.7%) continues to outpace that of the State of Iowa (67.9%) and the Nation (61.9%).  Thank you all who have submitted their responses to date. If you have not yet submitted your response, please help us reach 100% and ensure our community doesn’t lose out on critical funding for roads, schools and other vital services.  

Warren County Justice Center (WCJC) Weekly Update

DCI reports that next week work will include foundation, masonry, underground electrical, and underground plumbing.  DCI also reports they will discontinue providing weekly updates, but will revisit if the need arises.

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the anticipated agendas for the July 20th and August 3rd upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Anticipated Draft Agenda - July 20, 2020
Anticipated Draft Agenda - August 3, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Indianola Magazine

Attached, please find a letter that will be mailed to residents regarding the upcoming edition of the Indianola magazine.  With the cost to publish and mail a magazine ranging between $12,000 and $15,000, staff determined it was best to publish a digital version only in the event future programs and activities need to be rescheduled or canceled.  Staff anticipates the digital version to be live on the City’s website by July 1st.
Indianola Magazine Summer Issue 2020 - Letter

Square Parking Meeting

On Wednesday, June 24th, the City and Chamber co-hosted a meeting with businesses to discuss parking regulations on the Square.  During the meeting, businesses shared their thoughts and preferences which will be used to help guide the development of a draft ordinance amending current regulations.  A follow-up meeting will be scheduled to share progress of this draft with Square businesses.  In the interim, staff are working to complete the required documents for City Council’s consideration to effectuate the direction to temporarily suspend enforcement of the current three-hour weekday parking restrictions.  Staff anticipates having this come before the City Council at its July 6th meeting.

Central Iowa Shelter Services Meeting

Earlier this week, Sue Wilson (Helping Hand), Brenda Easter (Indianola Chamber) and I met with Melissa O’Neil of Central Iowa Shelter Services.  The purpose of the meeting was to explore a possible partnership among the entities.  The intended goal is to compete for Federal grant dollars available to support restaurants impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.  These dollars would be used to pay participating restaurants to provide hot meals for those in need.  City Staff is waiting on additional information from these partners and will provide additional information at an upcoming City Council meeting.

Road Use Tax Fund Revenue

Attached, please find a memorandum from the Iowa Department of Transportation regarding the shift in Road Use Tax Fund (RUTF) Revenue from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a reminder, this is the sole funding source for the City’s Streets Division.  The projections only go to September 2020, so it is still not clear how the revenues will be impacted later this year. Much depends on how well the economy is sustained and many other factors pertaining to the virus. Below is a table staff put together to summarize the information in the memorandum. Up until the September projection, the shortfall in the FY2021 revenue is covered by the revenue received in FY2020 that wasn’t budgeted.

Iowa Department of Transportation - COVID-19 Memo

Traffic Signal Timing & Iowa Avenue Project Update

The reconstruction activity on Iowa Avenue has slowed down this week because some of the underground utilities need to be relocated.  The relocation is dependent on the specific utility companies.  In addition, during the excavation contractors discovered varying depths of sand under the old pavement.  This sandy soil must be removed and replaced with better quality backfill material to ensure the long-term integrity of the new pavement.  A change order for this work will be forthcoming to the City Council’s July 6th meeting.  

Hillcrest Avenue Maintenance

Streets Division staff completed repairs on a failed section of Hillcrest Avenue, located just west of 14th Street.  This full-depth street repair was completed on Tuesday, June 23rd and required a total of 80 hours of labor and 31 cubic yards of concrete.  This repair work required a temporary road closure on Hillcrest Avenue, between 9th Street and 14th Street.  

Stormwater Intake Repairs

Streets Division staff is working towards repairs to the storm sewer intakes at the intersections of W 2nd Ave and South G Street and Jefferson Way and Plainview Avenue.  These intakes have deteriorated due to heavy traffic on the state highways. The objective of the repairs is to preserve the intake structure and to restrict ground water infiltration.

Pavement Markings

Streets Division staff continued progress on the annual pavement markings program.  The recently completed work included school crossings near the intersection of West 2nd Avenue and South 15th Street, as well as at the intersection of West 2nd Avenue and South 12th Street. Crews have also been painting yellow curb markings on West Iowa Avenue and double yellow lines at East Trail Ridge Avenue and East Willow Creek Avenue.  The double yellow line serves to separate lanes of traffic travelling in opposite directions and the yellow curb designates no parking areas on the streets.

Sewer Plant Notice

The City received a letter of non-compliance relating to effluent limits for the current 40-plus year-old wastewater treatment plant.  Water Pollution Control Staff have been working collaboratively with DNR representatives on required follow-ups and documentation.  Virtually all the items noted in the letter are the result of the age of the current plant and will be completely addressed once the new Water Resource Recovery Facility is completed.     

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update

  • A site plan for a new retail building located at 1508 North Jefferson Way (old Destiny Bible site) was submitted.  The tenant of the building has not been announced.  Additionally, site work on the Treeline Plat 1 subdivision began this week, and the final plat for Quail Meadows Plat 3 was submitted. 

• 2020 Building Permits

  • One building permit application was submitted and five building permits were issued.  There are currently two building permit applications in review and 100 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement

  • One code enforcement case was opened, and two cases were closed.  There are currently 19 open code enforcement cases.

Warren County Justice Center (WCJC) Weekly Update

In the attached WCJC update, DCI reports there will be an increase in deliveries next week, as well as more workers on site as masonry and electrical work begins.
Warren County Justice Center Weekly Email

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the anticipated agendas for the July 6th and July 20th upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Anticipated Agenda July 6, 2020 Draft
Anticipated Agenda July 20, 2020 Draft

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Special City Council Meeting

The agenda and meeting materials for the Special City Council meeting on Wednesday, June 24th will be published and distributed on Monday.  The primary purpose of the meeting is to review and consider approval of final payments before the close of the City’s fiscal year on June 30, 2020.

East Iowa Closure

Beginning June 23rd until June 26th,  the 400 block of East Iowa Avenue will be closed to all for a sanitary sewer connection.  This is necessary for a new building being constructed at that location.  

East Iowa Avenue Paving Project

The East Iowa Avenue Paving Project, which was anticipated to begin by late summer of 2020 has been pushed back to spring of 2021.  It is anticipated that pushing this project back will result in more favorable bids.  The revised schedule includes City Council consideration of plans, specifications, form of contract and notice to bidders in late summer 2020, with a bid opening and potential award of contract in fall 2020.  The new schedule will have an estimated completion date of summer 2021.

Traffic Signal Timing & Iowa Avenue Project Update

The contractor (Sternquist Construction) continues work on the pavement reconstruction.  New lane closure traffic controls were placed at the northbound left-turn lane of the intersection of Hwy 65/69 and Iowa Avenue to inform motorists of the road closure. The engineering consultant, Snyder & Associates, and the contractor are currently investigating the subgrade soil to find varying depths of sand that may need to be replaced with special back fill, which may necessitate a change order request for the backfill material or base stabilization.

Hillcrest Avenue Repair Work

Beginning next week, Streets Division staff is planning to repair a failed pavement section on Hillcrest Avenue, just west of 14th Street. This work will require a full closure of the road near the work site.  Staff has done some temporary patching with the cold mix asphalt; however, a permanent full depth concrete repair is needed at this location.  Road construction notices (see attached) were mailed out last week to inform all property owners directly impacted by this road closure.
Construction Notice

Road Repairs

This week, Streets Division staff completed repair work on deteriorated concrete pavement sections on West Sunset Circle and in the 400 block of North 1st Street.  This means an investment of materials and labor of 66 cubic yards and nearly 165 hours respectively.

Stormwater Intake

Streets Division staff completed repair work on a storm sewer manhole at the intersection of North 1st Street and East Ashland Avenue. The pipes connecting to this manhole were failing. As a result, staff grouted around the pipes to properly secure the pipes to the manhole.  This will not just preserve the pavement surface around the manhole, but it will also restrict ground water infiltration. Staff also inspected and cleaned all storm sewer intakes on South Y and North Y Streets.

Roadway Safety and Tree Trimming

Streets Division staff recently noticed the trees in the public right-of-way were blocking the visibility of stop signs at the intersection of West Orchard Ave and North C Street.  This presents a safety concern for motorist.  Staff took the initiative to trim the trees near this intersection to improve the visibility of the existing stop signs.  

Signage and Pavement Marking

Streets Division staff continued the annual pavement markings program.  Most recently, the Library parking lot area and the curbs near the fire station were painted. In addition, staff replaced a stop ahead sign on R63 and installed dead-end signs at West 4th Avenue and South E Street.

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update

  • The City Council held second consideration on various requests.  Staff also conducted the first walk through inspection of the improvements that have been installed as part of Autumn Ridge Plat 3.    

• 2020 Building Permits

  • Five building permit applications were submitted, and five building permits were issued.  There are currently six building permit applications in review and 95 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement

  • Four code enforcement cases were opened, and eight cases were abated and closed.  There are currently 22 open code enforcement cases.

• Des Moines Home Builders Association

  • The Des Moines Home Builders Association issued their May 2020 Building permit report.  The Des Moines Metro area reported 39 less permits for single-family in May 2020 compared to May 2019 and has seen 83 more permits for single-family year-to-date in 2020 compared to 2019.  Indianola issued four less building permits in May 2020 compared to May 2019 and has issued the same year to date compared to 2019.

Warren County Justice Center (WCJC) Weekly Update

In the attached WCJC update, DCI reports that water service work that required a weeklong closure of Ashland concluded this past Monday.  The road is back open.  Foundation work continues and the masonry contractor will mobilize in the next few weeks.
Warren County Justice Center Weekly Email

Upcoming City Council Agendas

Attached, please find the anticipated agendas for the July 6th and July 20th upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Anticipated Agenda - July 6, 2020
Anticipated Agenda - July 20, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Statement

Attached, please find an email that was shared with all City employees regarding the tragedy that took place in Minneapolis.  It is not customary to include such emails in the weekly update, however, given the gravity of the situation I felt it important to do so.  I am grateful for our team’s dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the unbiased and equitable treatment of all.
Important Message to City Employees

Police Department

Several Metro police departments have received inquiries about a campaign called “8 Can’t Wait.” Attached, please find a graphic that illustrates how the Indianola Police Department addresses the pillars of the campaign (additional information may be found at https://8cantwait.org/).  Lastly, please know that the process to review and update policies is a regular occurrence at the City.  Within the Police Department, a review of the department’s operating policies commenced a couple of weeks ago.  I am very proud of the women and men of our department and greatly appreciate their dedicated and professional service to our community.

June 15th City Council Meeting

The City Council will meet on Monday, June 15th for its regular meeting (there will not be a study session).  The agenda and meeting materials are available on the City’s website at http://www.indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter/City-Council-5/.   The meetings will be aired live via the City’s YouTube channel (accessed here: City’s YouTube Channel) and a Zoom Webinar.

Library Opens Monday

The Library will re-open Monday with curbside pickup offered during all open hours.  Besides checkout services, public computers will be available on a limited basis.  To accommodate additional cleaning and disinfecting measures, hours will be temporarily reduced by two hours every day.  This information has been updated on the City’s re-opening matrix found at https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/11303/Reopening-Matrix_6102020. 

Activity Center Re-Opening

Staff is working to begin the first phase of re-opening the Activity Center to the public on Monday, June 22nd.  The hours will be reduced to 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. to allow for additional cleaning and modifications will be made to keep the safety of our visitors and staff a high priority.  Visitors will be required to check-in, encouraged to wear masks, lobby seating will be eliminated, activity schedules reduced or modified, some rooms will not be available, and additional safety signage will be posted.  In addition, the Buxton Room will be made available for rentals beginning July 11th with limited seating, adjusted procedures and increased cleaning.  The specific details will be posted on the Parks and Recreation website and emailed to the Senior Center membership list.  

Temporary Road Closure on Hillcrest Avenue

The City’s Street Division is planning to repair a failed pavement section on Hillcrest Avenue, between North 14th Street and 325 feet west of North 14th Street.  Unfortunately, this construction work will require a temporary road closure of both the lanes.  The work is scheduled to start the week of June 22, 2020 and is expected to be completed within one day, weather permitting.  

Street & Stormwater Intake Repairs

Streets Division staff continued repairing deteriorated sections of roadways and upgrading sidewalk ramps to ensure ADA compliance.  This work, which involves full-depth patching to restore the integrity and rideability of the concrete pavement, took place on West Sunset circle.  The upgraded a sidewalk ramp work was at the intersection of West Sunset Circle & G Street (a picture is attached).

Traffic Signal Timing & Iowa Avenue Project Update

The contractor (Sternquist Construction) started the work for pavement reconstruction earlier this week.  Road closure signage was placed accordingly, and the contractor began removing the existing pavement (a picture is attached).  Excavation and subgrade preparation will follow, with new concrete paving expected to begin in roughly two to three weeks afterwards. This project, which is partially funded by a grant, will also improve the synchronization of the traffic signals on Jefferson Way (US highway 65/69) and 2nd Ave (IA 92).  The contract for this project has a late completion date of July 17, 2020.

Pavement Markings

This week, Streets Division staff continued the annual pavement markings that includes the stop lines, crosswalks, turn indicators, on-street parking, bike lanes, and dashed lines down the middle of the roadways.  Rainy weather conditions have caused some delays, but a few good days during this week allowed staff to make some progress.

Staff Training

All staff from the Streets Division completed a four-hour training on Roadway Safety Basics and a one-hour training on ADA Accessible Sidewalks and Curb Ramps.  The training for Roadway Safety Basics was provided by Iowa Local Technical Assistance Program to give an overview of roadside safety, identification of safety concerns and determination of appropriate improvements. The training for ADA Accessible Sidewalks and Curb Ramps was provided by National Concrete Pavement Technology Center.

Comprehensive Master Plan (Elevate Indianola)

Staff has begun distributing hard copies of the recently adopted Comprehensive Plan to key stakeholders in the community, including: Indianola Municipal Utilities, the Indianola School District, Simpson College, Warren County, the Central Iowa Regional Transportation Planning Alliance, the Greater Des Moines Partnership, the Indianola Chamber of Commerce, and the Warren County Economic Development Corporation.  We again would like to thank the citizens, stakeholders, staff, elected and appointed officials who provided their input via the various public engagement events, meetings, and/or online surveys.  

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update

  • The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed various final plats and recommended approval to the City Council.  Additionally, Scooters Coffee and Peoples Bank administration building began site work.    

• 2020 Building Permits

  • Eight building permit applications were submitted, and four building permits were issued.  There are currently six building permit applications in review and 90 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement

  • One code enforcement case was opened and two cases were closed.  There are currently 26 open code enforcement cases.

Warren County Justice Center (WCJC) Weekly Update

In the attached WCJC update, DCI reports that Ashland Avenue should be reopened on Monday.  
Weekly Update Email

Upcoming City Council Agendas

Attached, please find the anticipated agendas for the June 1st and June 15th upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Anticipated Draft June 24, 2020
Anticipated Draft July 6, 2020
Anticipated Draft July 20, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Andy Lent - City Clerk/Finance Director

Water Resource Recovery Facility

Progress continues on the Water Resource Recovery facility. Please visit http://indianolaiowa.gov/632/Wastewater-Treatment-Plant-Updates for the latest photos.

Traffic Signal Timing & Iowa Avenue Project

The contractor (Sternquist Construction) will begin this project on Monday, June 8th.  As a reminder, this project, which is partially funded by a grant, will improve the synchronization of the traffic signals on Jefferson Way (US highway 65/69) and 2nd Ave (IA 92) and will involve the reconstruction of Iowa Avenue from 1st Street to Jefferson Way.  The contract for this project has a late completion date of July 17, 2020.

Pavement Markings

During this week, the Streets staff has resumed the annual pavement markings that includes the stop lines, crosswalks, turn indicators, on-street parking, bike lanes, and dashed lines down the middle of the lanes.  Rainy weather conditions have continued to be a challenge to apply paint on the roadways, but a few good days early this week allowed staff to get some progress on the pavement markings on various locations throughout the city.

Street & Stormwater Intake Repairs

Staff continued repairing deteriorated concrete pavement sections and upgrading ADA compatible sidewalk ramps on the cul-de-sac of Sunset Circle.  They performed full-depth patching to restore the integrity and rideability of the concrete pavement.  This full-depth patching process involves full-depth saw cuts to remove the deteriorated concrete down to the base, repairing the disturbed base, and refilling the excavated area with new concrete.  They have also repaired a failed stormwater intake on North U Street that created a void underneath the concrete pavement.  See attached document for pictures.

Re-Open Plan Matrix

During the June 1st City Council meeting, Staff provided an update on the plans for various programs and facilities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.  The major items discussed were the opening of the Library, which will be discussed further at the next Library Board Meeting, and the closure of the swimming pool.  The updated matrix providing the status of impacted programs, services and facilities may be found at {https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/11268/Reopening-Matrix_622020}.  (Green = current status, in effect or open; Red = closed, not in effect, postponed).

FY2021 Budget Document

Finance staff and MyLisa from IT have been working to complete the FY2021 Budget Presentation Document. The main purpose of this document is to provide the public with a hand reference for the FY2021 City budget from July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021. The secondary purpose is submittal to the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for an award program where the document is judged on specific criteria that GFOA has determined to best present the budget to the public. Final document should be completed in early July.

Special City Council Meeting

As the current fiscal year nears an end (June 30, 2020), the City Council will be holding a special meeting at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 24th to ensure remaining bills from this fiscal year are paid, as well as end of year transfers between funds.

West Ashland Avenue Closure

Beginning next Monday, West Ashland Avenue will be closed at mid-block between North Buxton and North Howard as part of the Warren County Justice Center Construction Project.  The closure is necessary to extend a new water service line into the site for both domestic and fire protection service.  The closure is anticipated to last through the weekend, reopening on Monday morning, June 15.  Attached is a map showing the area that will be closed.  There will still be parking available on the north side of Ashland for businesses, but with the closure occurring at mid-block, traffic will have enter and exit from both sides.

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update

  • This week, the City Council reviewed various development applications at its June 1 meeting, including the Peterson Annexation, which was approved, the Crow’s Nest Campground rezoning, which was approved, The Summercrest Subdivision rezoning/PRD plan, which will have its second consideration at the Council’s June 15th meeting and the Williams Terrace rezoning, which will have its second consideration at the Council’s June 15th meeting. 

• 2020 Building Permits

  • This week, one (1) building permit applications was submitted and four (4) building permits were issued.  There are currently two (2) building permit applications in review and 86 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement

  • This week, seven (7) code enforcement cases were opened and 11 cases were closed.  There are currently 27 open code enforcement cases.

Planning and Zoning Commission

Next week, the Planning and Zoning Commission will hold its scheduled monthly meeting.  The agenda for the meeting is attached, which includes three (3) final subdivision plats.
Planning and Zoning June 9, 2020 Agenda

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the anticipated agendas for the June 15th and July 6th upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Anticipated Agenda June 15, 2020
Anticipated Agenda July 6, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

June 1st City Council Meetings

The City Council will meet on Monday, June 1st for its regular meeting.  The agenda and meeting material are available on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter.  The meeting will be aired live via the City’s YouTube channel (accessed here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw) and a Zoom Webinar.

Norwalk Letter

Attached is a letter from the City of Norwalk providing notification they will be charging an additional fee for ambulance services if called to Indianola as part of our mutual aid agreement.  City staff are reviewing alternatives.  As you may recall, following staff studies of the Police and Fire Departments, a staffing plan was developed to correct the staffing deficiencies in these departments.  The approved plan calls for three additional Fire/EMS staff in the Fiscal Year that begins July 1, 2021 to help address the increasing calls for service from the Fire Department.
Letter from Norwalk Fire Chief Ryan Coburn

Yard Waste

Following the recent rain events, the City received a few calls about flooding in streets.  In response, crews from the Streets and Water Pollution Control departments worked together to televise and clear storm sewer lines.  In these cases, yard waste debris was the contributing factor.  In one area, a sewer had to be cleaned twice in three days due to additional yard waste blocking the sewer.  As such, the City would like to provide a friendly reminder that regulations prohibit placing debris on roadways. This is to prevent the blocking of the storm sewer drains (as seen in this picture) so that proper drainage can occur. The public’s assistance is greatly appreciated.

Spring Clean-up

The City has recently received inquiries on the status of spring clean-up.  This service is provided by a private company (Waste Management).  At the onset of the COVID pandemic, Waste Management notified the City it was canceling the originally scheduled service.  Waste Management has indicated it continues to evaluate the possibility of rescheduling. City staff does follow-up regularly to inquire of reschedule dates, but at the present no new information has been received.  If larger collections are needed in the interim, residents may contact their local refuse hauler as some do provide extra pickups for a fee.  If/when information is received, it will be communicated via the City’s website and social media outlets. 

Small Business Grant Program

The deadline for the Small Business Grant Program has been extended to May 31st.  Thank you to Peoples Bank, TruBank, WCEDC and the Greater Des Moines Partnership for their financial support to the Small Business Recovery Grant program to aid small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Information about the grant program and the application may be found at www.DSMpartnership.com/smallbusinessgrant.

Traffic Signal Timing & Iowa Avenue Project

The contractor (Sternquist Construction) anticipates this project to commence the week of June 8th.  As a reminder, this project, which is partially funded by a grant, will improve the synchronization of the traffic signals on Jefferson Way (US highway 65/69) and 2nd Ave (IA 92) and will involve the reconstruction of Iowa Avenue from 1st Street to Jefferson Way.  The contract for this project has a late completion date of July 17, 2020.

Square Streetscape

This week, staff held a kickoff meeting with Bolton and Menk regarding the implementation of the design process for the Square Streetscape Plan.  Next week, the initial phase of the project will begin that consists of gathering existing information and surveying the project area.  Surveying work was scheduled for this past week; however, progress was delayed due to weather. 

Board of Adjustments

The Board of Adjustments is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, June 3rd.  The agenda is published on the City’s website and may be found here: http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06032020-1003.

Warren County Justice Center (WCJC) Weekly Update

This week, DCI notes they will likely work on Saturday due to being rained out a few times this week. Concrete foundation work will continue into next week.  Waterline work (on Ashland) will follow the second week of June.

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update

  • The final plat for Autumn Ridge Plat 3 was submitted.  Coming up next week, the City Council will review various development applications at its June 1st meeting. 

• 2020 Building Permits

  • Six building permits applications were submitted, which includes two for single family dwellings.  Five building permits were issued this week.  There are currently five building permit applications in review and 82 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement

  • Three code enforcement cases were opened.  There are currently 30 open code enforcement cases.

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the anticipated agendas for the June 15th and July 6th upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Anticipated Agenda - June 15, 2020
Anticipated Agenda - July 6, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Small Business Grant Program

The deadline for the Small Business Grant Program has been extended to May 31^st. Thank you to Peoples Bank, TruBank, WCEDC and the Greater Des Moines Partnership for their financial support to the Small Business Recovery Grant program to aid small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Information about the grant program and the application may be found at www.DSMpartnership.com/smallbusinessgrant.

Streetscape Project

At its meeting on May 18^th, the City Council approved an engineering contract with Bolton & Menk for the Square Streetscape Plan. The initial phase of the project will consist of gathering existing information and surveying the project area, including the street and areas in the front yard of properties. Property pins may also be located as part of the surveying. This work will begin next week. Bolton & Menk vehicles are clearly marked with the firm’s logo. Attached is a doorhanger that the consultants will be handing out to businesses on the Square.
Streetscape Project Doorhanger

Traffic Signal Timing & Iowa Avenue Project

The contractor (Sternquist Construction) anticipates this project to commence the week of June 8^th. As a reminder, this project, which is partially funded by a grant, will improve the synchronization of the traffic signals on Jefferson Way (US highway 65/69) and 2nd Ave (IA 92) and will involve the reconstruction of Iowa Avenue from 1st Street to Jefferson Way. Attached is a notice that is being provided to impacted properties. The contract for this project has a late completion date of July 17, 2020
Traffic Signal Timing Project & Iowa Avenue Construction Notice

Veteran’s Memorial Aquatic Center

The City continues to monitor the events of the COVID pandemic. In light of the Governor’s recent proclamation regarding aquatic centers, Staff is in the process of evaluating guidelines, procedures and available options. Staff anticipates providing an overview and recommendation to the City Council at its upcoming meeting on June 1^st.

Honor Roll Award

Congratulations to Jackie Raffety, Deputy City Clerk, for earning a well-deserved spot on the 2020 Municipal Clerks Honor Roll.

Fire Safety Regulations

The Indianola Fire Department received information that some businesses have adopted procedures to lock egress doors in an attempt to limit occupants in their businesses during daily operations. Attached is a letter from Greg Chia, Fire Chief, reminding businesses that these actions are a violation of code and asking for compliance. A copy of this letter has been shared with various community partners.
Notice from Fire Chief Chia

Workers Compensation (work comp) Insurance

The City received positive news regarding our work comp insurance renewal. Our current “MOD” factor is .86 and our renewal is now .79. Work comp premiums are calculated using a modification “MOD” rate and is determined by industry classification and claims history. The industry average is 1.0. For example, a company with a MOD rate of 1.25 will pay 25% higher premiums than the average company does and a company with a MOD rate of 0.80 will pay 20% less per dollar than average. This is a direct reflection on our team’s commitment to safety. Congratulations and thank you to the entire team!

South K Street Dust Control

This week, the dust control contractor, Jerico, applied the first application of calcium chloride on the gravel road surface for South K Street. As you know, this gravel road surface creates a lot of dust from the vehicular traffic. Calcium chloride is used as a chemical suppressant to control the dust on the gravel road surface. The City’s short-term plan involves a total of three calcium chloride applications. Engineering for the paving of South K Street will commence later during the upcoming fiscal year (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021).

Pavement Markings

The recent cold and rainy weather has delayed the pavement markings planned by the Streets Division. The Streets Division maintains the pavement markings to help organize the movement of vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic. These include white and yellow lane lines, stop lines, turn symbols, and bike lanes, which are re-painted annually to help ensure the markings are visible and well-maintained following winter snow removal efforts. The striping season traditionally falls between May and October and is heavily dependent on the weather. Optimal painting weather is warm and sunny (ideally 70 degrees with low humidity). Colder temperatures prevent successful paint application.

Community Development Reports

Attached are the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update

  • At its meeting on May 18^th, the City Council approved an extension to the Cabin Coffee Development agreement, as well as the preliminary plat of Ashton Park Plat 7. Additionally, the site plan for New Heights Church was approved, and the site plan for the proposed Crow’s Nest campground on the south side of town was submitted.

• 2020 Building Permits

  • Five building permits applications were submitted. Three of these were for single family dwellings valued at over $1.1 Million. Three building permits were issued. There are currently four building permit applications in review and 77 building permits that have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement

  • Four code enforcement cases were opened and seven were closed. There are currently 27 open code enforcement cases.

• Des Moines Home Builders Association

  • The Des Moines Home Builders Association issued its April 2020 Building permit report. The Des Moines Metro area reported 99 less permits for single-family in March 2020 compared to March 2019 and has seen 114 more permits for single-family year-to-date in 2020 compared to 2019. Indianola issued the same number of building permits (six) in March 2020 compared to March 2019 and has issued five more year to date compared to 2019.

Warren County Justice Center (WCJC) Weekly Update

In the attached WCJC update, DCI reports that footing work will continue. The update also notes that Vanderpool will be submitting a traffic plan for the new water service connection, which will include a closure of Ashland between Howard and Buxton. This work is contemplated for the week of June 1^st.
Warren County Justice Center Weekly Email

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the anticipated agendas for the June 1^st and June 15^th upcoming meetings. As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Anticipated Agenda - June 1, 2020
Anticipated Agenda - June 15, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Small Business Grant Program

Thank you to Peoples Bank, TruBank, WCEDC and the Greater Des Moines Partnership for their financial support to the Small Business Recovery Grant program to aid small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Information about the grant program and the application may be found at www.DSMpartnership.com/smallbusinessgrant.  Applications are due by May 20, 2020.

May 18th City Council Meetings

The City Council will meet on Monday, May 18th for its regular meeting and study session.  The agendas and meeting materials are available on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter.  The meetings will be aired live via the City’s YouTube channel (accessed here: City’s YouTube Channel) and a Zoom Webinar.

Spring Planting Update

As the weather improves, staff continues to beautify our community with the annual spring planting.  Planting was completed in Buxton Park and Sesquicentennial Park on May 11th and 12th.  Additional planting efforts will continue over the next several days focusing on the smaller flower beds around the community.  The Square planters are expected to be completed on Tuesday, May 19th.  Spring maintenance and planting of the medians along the north sections of Highway 65/69 will take place on Wednesday, May 20th.  In accordance with IDOT guidelines, both inside lanes will be closed from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. that day to ensure the safety of our staff. 

Indianola Development Map

Last week, the Indianola School District requested information regarding current developments.  Attached is a map that was prepared in response to this request.  You’ll notice that some developments have only had preliminary plats approved, while some have had final plats approved.  Typically, during the preliminary approval stage grading, as well as road and utility installation occurs.  Final approval is when construction of homes commences. 

PDF version of the map image below

Warren County Justice Center (WCJC) Weekly Update

In the attached WCJC update, DCI reports that footing work will continue.  The update also notes that a notice was distributed to contractors regarding parking.  Late last week, staff received a complaint about workers parking in front of local businesses for an extended period of time.  As City Code only allows for parking in and around the Square for no more than three hours, staff worked with DCI to propose alternatives for the long-term parking.  It was agreed that DCI would encourage workers to utilize the public parking lot located at the southwest corner of South 1st Street and East 1st Avenue, which is about an 800’ walk from the Square.  Additionally, Public Works staff inventoried and added signage in and around the Square this week to make sure the three-hour limit was properly posted.
Warren County Justice Center Weekly Email

Community Development Reports

Attached, please find the following reports provided by the Community Development Department: 

• Current Projects Update

  • The Planning and Zoning Commission met and forwarded two recommendations on submitted preliminary plats to the City Council.

• 2020 Building Permits

  • Four building permit applications were submitted, and three building permits issued.  There are currently two building permit applications in review and 73 building permits have been issued year to date.  

• Code Enforcement 

  • Two new code enforcement cases were opened, and five cases closed.  There are currently 30 open code enforcement cases.

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the anticipated agendas for the June 1st and June 15th upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Anticipated Agenda - June 1, 2020
Anticipated Agenda - June 15, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Brush Facility

The Brush Facility will be open on Saturday (May 9th) and Sunday (May 10th). This weekend will be free for residents.  On Saturday, at no charge, the City will assist residents in need of larger quantities of mulch.  The following link to the City’s website provides an updated map showing the different zones to pick up or drop off yard waste and brush, as well as a list of frequently asked questions:  https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/323/Brush-Facility. The City greatly appreciates the public’s cooperation in following these safety measures. 

Small Business Grant Program

Thank you to Peoples Bank, TruBank, WCEDC and the Greater Des Moines Partnership for their financial support to the Small Business Recovery Grant program to aid small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Information about the grant program and the application may be found at www.DSMpartnership.com/smallbusinessgrant.  Applications are due by May 20, 2020.

Re-Open Plan

Attached is the updated version of the re-open plan for various programs and facilities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.  This version includes the opening of the Pickard Park campground on May 8, 2020 following Governor Reynold’s recent proclamation.  Users will be reminded by staff and with posted signage to continue social distancing in order to make the campground available to the public.  There will be additional guidelines that campers must follow, which will be posted at the entrance.  As a reminder, this document is a very fluid document meant to guide the decision-making process, as well as communicate out the updated status of impacted programs, services and facilities (Green = current status, in effect or open; Red = closed, not in effect, postponed).
Re-Open Plan Matrix

Waste Management

Attached is a letter from Waste Management announcing that they will resume the collection of bulky items effective Monday May 11, 2020.  In the letter Waste Management also provides notice that they are still “not rescheduling Spring cleanup events at this time due to our inability to adhere to social distancing requirements. Our teams are monitoring the latest information and continually evaluating recommendations as information becomes known or advisories are updated.”
Waste Management Letter

Planning and Zoning Commission

The next meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission will take place on Tuesday, May 12, at 6:00 p.m.  The agenda and packet, which includes two preliminary subdivision plats, can be found at:   https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05122020-993.

Community Development Reports

Attached, please find the following reports provided by the Community Development Department: 

• Current Projects Update

  • The final plat for the 10th addition to Heritage Hills was received.  Additionally, the City Council approved the preliminary plat for Treeline Plat 1 and set various public hearings to be conducted at its June 1st meeting.

• 2020 Building Permits

  • Two building permit applications were submitted and four building permits issued.  All the permits submitted and issued this week were for decks.  There are currently two building permit applications in review and 70 building permits have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement

  • Four new code enforcement cases were opened, and one case was closed.  There are currently 32 open code enforcement cases.

Warren County Justice Center (WCJC) Weekly Update

In the attached WCJC update, DCI reports that footing and wall work will continue.
Warren County Justice Center Weekly Email

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the anticipated agenda for the June 1st upcoming meeting.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Anticipated Agenda - June 1, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Brush Facility

The Brush Facility is opening Saturday (May 2nd) and Sunday (May 3rd) with some modifications to keep all safe and compliant with social distancing guidelines. The following link to the City’s website provides a map showing the different zones to pick up or drop off yard waste and brush, as well as a list of frequently asked questions:  https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/323/Brush-Facility. The City greatly appreciates the public’s cooperation in following these safety measures. 

Traffic Signal Timing Project

The pre-construction meeting for this project took place earlier this week.  The contractor (Sternquist Construction) anticipates the project to commence towards the middle of this month.  The contract for this project has a late completion date of July 17, 2020. Sternquist will notify the City one week before construction begins to allow for advertisement of the closure of a portion of Iowa Avenue from 1st Street to Jefferson Way.  As a reminder, this project will improve the synchronization of the traffic signals on Jefferson Way (US highway 65/69) and 2nd Ave (IA 92).  This will help to reduce delays, improve safety along the corridor and help the environment by reducing emissions from idling. As part of this project, which is being partially funded by a grant, the pavement on Iowa Avenue from 1st Street to Jefferson Way will also be replaced. 

Small Business Grant Program

City staff continues to work with our colleagues at the Greater Des Moines Partnership, Chamber of Commerce and Warren County Economic Development Corporation on the rollout of the Small Business Grant program approved by the City Council at its special meeting on April 29th.  A webpage is being developed by the Greater Des Moines Partnership with all the relevant information.  Once finalized, it will be advertised via the City’s website, social media outlets and other available communication outlets.

May 4th City Council Meeting

The regular City Council meeting is scheduled to meet on Monday, May 4, 2020.  The agenda and meeting materials are available on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter.  The meeting will be aired live via the City’s YouTube channel (accessed here) and a Zoom Webinar.

Draft Re-Open Plan Matrix

During the May 4th City Council meeting, Staff will provide a high-level overview of the draft re-open plan regarding various programs and facilities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.  This document is attached and is a very fluid document meant to guide the decision-making process, as well as communicate out the updated status of impacted programs, services and facilities (Green = current status, in effect or open; Red = closed, not in effect, postponed).
Draft Re-Open Plan Matrix

Library Services Resume

In response to Governor Reynold’s proclamation to reopen libraries, the library will begin a no-contact curbside pickup service on Mondays and Thursdays from 2-6 pm.  Library programs have been moved online for the spring and summer, and although the building remains closed, plans are in place for a gradual reopening and resumption of services in accordance with safety protocols.

Funding Award (Police)

Congratulations to our Police Department that has been awarded funding from the Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau in the amount of $15,560. These funds will be used to offset personnel and equipment related costs in the department.

Community Development Reports

Attached, please find the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update

  • This week, the preliminary plat for the 7th addition to Ashton Park was received.  

• 2020 Building Permits

  • This week, five building permit applications were submitted, and six building permits issued.  All the permits submitted and issued this week were for decks.  There are currently four building permit applications in review and 66 building permits have been issued year to date.

• Code Enforcement

  • This week, one new code enforcement case was opened, and one case was closed.  There are currently 28 open code enforcement cases.

Warren County Justice Center (WCJC) Weekly Update

In the attached WCJC update DCI reports that concrete footings and wall placement will continue.  DCI also reports that the busiest access point into the site will be on the west side (Buxton Street) through May.
Warren County Justice Center Weekly Email

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the anticipated agendas for the May 18th and June 1st upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Anticipated Agenda - May 18, 2020
Anticipated Agenda - June 1, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF)

Williams Brothers’ (WB) earthwork subcontractor continues to work on the site excavation and grading.  They’re mostly pulling soil from the areas inside the plant site and moving the excess material to the south side of the tree line to get down to the final grade around the wastewater plant structures and buildings.  As they move the excess earthwork to the south side, they are developing the berm on the south to limit the vision of the plant from Grimes Street.  Site grading will continue through May ending with grading of the temporary access road and moving in the project trailers.  WB continues to submit shop drawings at a heavy pace and HR Green is keeping up with the review process.  MidAmerican Energy is working to bring overhead power to the WRRF plant site from the south.  Power poles have been delivered along the route and will start to be installed in the next few weeks.

Buxton Park Plant Sale

The COVID virus can slow us down, but it won’t prevent us from having our annual plant sale.  Congratulations and thank you to our Parks and Recreation team for their commitment and ingenuity.  It is because of them the community’s beloved annual plant sale was able to still take place.  Not only did it take place, our team sold more items than previous years - over 115 orders received resulting in more than 1,500 plants sold.   We are all excited to see these beautiful plants adorn our community this summer.  Thank you to all who supported this great event.

Spring Clean-up Notice

Please remember the vendor performing the annual Spring Clean-up canceled the event due to COVID. Residents may contact their respective waste haulers for restrictions on curbside pickups. Information will be shared in the future on possible reschedule dates.

Library and Parks & Recreation Programs

Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Library and Parks & Recreation programing and facility rentals will remain canceled through May 31. Customers will be contacted regarding details for refunds of programs and/or rentals.  City staff continues to evaluate and develop plans for resuming and re-opening these vital services.  Once plans are finalized, they will be communicated via the City’s website and social media outlets.

Grant Award

Thanks to the team effort of our Police, Fire and Finance Departments, the City was notified it received a grant in the amount of $35,648. This grant, which was advertised as part of the COVID pandemic, will be used to purchase vital safety equipment for the Police Department.    

City Information

The City is committed to constant and reliable communication to our community, especially during a global pandemic. Please know that in addition to social media (and their crazy algorithms and ever-changing newsfeeds) all official updates may be found on the City News section of the City’s website (http://www.indianolaiowa.gov). Additionally, the City offers a text alert service to notify residents when updates are added to the website.

Community Development Reports

Attached, please find the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update

  • This week, the Planning and Zoning Commission met and reviewed and recommended approval of seven applications that will all be forwarded onto the City Council.   The site plan and building permit for the new People’s Bank Administration Building were approved.  Lastly, staff continues discussions with the Developer on Cabin Coffee on a possible extension to the approved development agreement. 

• 2020 Building Permits

  • Three building permit applications were submitted, and two building permits issued, including the permit for the new People’s Bank Administration Building.  There are currently five building permit applications in review and 60 building permits have been issued year to date. 

• Code Enforcement

  • Three new code enforcement cases were opened, and one case was closed.  There are currently 28 open code enforcement cases. 

Iowa State University (ISU) Planning and Zoning Workshop

ISU Extension and Outreach has cancelled all remaining in-person workshops and will be doing the remaining workshops as webinars.  The workshops are intended primarily for local officials new to planning and zoning issues, though it also will serve as a refresher for veteran members.  An attachment with remaining dates is attached.  If any elected or appointed officials would like to attend, please let Charlie Dissell know.
ISU Workshop Dates

Warren County Justice Center (WCJC) Weekly Update

In the attached WCJC update DCI reports that concrete footings and wall placement will continue through the month of May.  DCI also reports some work will take place this weekend.
Warren County Justice Center Weekly Email

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the anticipated agendas for the May 4th and 18th upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Anticipated Agenda - May 4, 2020
Anticipated Agenda - May 18, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Sponsored Project Funding Award ($1,000,000)

At its special meeting on February 27, 2020, the City Council adopted a resolution that authorized the City’s application to Iowa’s State Revolving Fund Sponsored Project Program in conjunction with the Water Resource Recovery Project.  This is a program that allows communities to apply for available funding to be used for stormwater projects that will improve water quality.  On Monday, April 13, 2020, the City received notification it was awarded $1,000,000 from this program to be used for water quality aspects featured in the City’s approved streetscape design.

April 20th City Council Meeting

The regular City Council meeting is scheduled to meet on Monday, April 20, 2020.  The agenda and meeting materials are available on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter. 

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, April 21, 2020.  The agenda is a full one that includes continued consideration of the update to the City’s Comprehensive Master Plan, as well as several residential development related petitions. The agenda packet, which includes public comment information, is linked below.  Similar to the City Council meetings, the Commission meeting will be streamed live on the City’s YouTube channel.
Planning and Zoning Commission April 21, 2020 Packet

Meeting Broadcasts

Previously, City meetings were broadcast on a government/public access cable channel that was available to customers of Mediacom and another former community cable provider (MCG).  While some Mediacom customers are still able to access this channel, most community customers that have transitioned to IMU fiber or a satellite provider do not (IMU fiber is expected to have a government channel by winter of 2022).  Aside from the limited availability for residents, the cable broadcast also creates technological challenges during live streams.  Therefore, in order to test the functionality of an alternative electronic meeting platform, the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting will not be broadcast live on the Mediacom cable channel.  The meeting will still be aired live on the City’s YouTube channel.

Iowa Small Business Relief Program

As you may be aware, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Kim Reynolds launched the Iowa Small Business Relief Program to provide financial assistance to small businesses that have been economically impacted. This program offered grants ranging from $5,000-$25,000 in addition to offering Iowa businesses a deferral of sales and use or withholding taxes due and waiver of penalty and interest. A total of five Warren County businesses have been awarded grants, four of which are based in Indianola. 

Presentation

The budget presentation from the City Council’s April 16, 2020 special meeting may be found on the City’s website.
Budget Presentation - April 16, 2020

Community Development Reports

Attached, please find the following reports provided by the Community Development Department:

• Current Projects Update - This week, the Chumbley’s temporary Certificate of Occupancy (CO) was upgraded to a final CO.  Additionally, the Wal-Mart remodel received a final inspection, and an updated site plan and building permit for the Peoples Bank Administration building was also submitted.  Lastly, the Peterson annexation northwest of town was reviewed by the Indianola Municipal Utility’s Board of Trustees. 
• 2020 Building Permits - This week, four building permit applications were submitted and one building permit issued.  There are currently four building permit applications in review and 58 building permits that have been issued year to date. 
• Code Enforcement - This week, two new code enforcement cases were opened.  There are currently 25 open code enforcement cases. 
• Des Moines Home Builders Association - This week, the Des Moines Home Builders Association issued its March 2020 building permit report.  The Des Moines Metro, which includes data from Indianola, reported 95 more permits for single-family in March 2020 compared to March 2019 and has seen 205 more permits for single-family year-to-date in 2020 compared to 2019.   

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the anticipated agendas for the May 4th and 18th upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Anticipated Agenda - May 4, 2020
Anticipated Agenda - May 18, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

COVID-19 Update

As of the writing of this update, there are two confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Indianola. In addition to these confirmed cases, one city employee has tested positive for the virus.  City personnel continue to follow established safety procedures regarding this matter to ensure the safety of the community and the City team.

April 16th Special City Council Meeting

A special City Council meeting is scheduled to meet on Thursday, April 16, 2020.  The agenda and meeting materials are available on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter.

Traffic Signal Timing Project

As you may recall, the City’s budget includes funding of a project to allow the traffic signals on Jefferson Way (US highway 65/69) and 2nd Ave (IA 92) to be better coordinated.  This will help to reduce delays, improve safety along the corridor and help the environment by reducing emissions from idling. As part of this project, which is being partially funded by a grant, the pavement on Iowa Avenue from 1st Street to Jefferson Way will also be replaced.  The City Engineer shared that the pre-construction meeting for this project is expected to take place in the next few weeks.  Once it has taken place we will have a better idea of the scheduling of the project, which will include the closure of a portion of Iowa Avenue from 1st Street to Jefferson Way. 

Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF)

Work on the Indianola WRRF has started. Williams Brothers Construction Inc. is the General Contractor and their subcontractor has started some grading and preliminary earthwork on the project.  The earthwork will continue for the next month or so before the start of the construction of buildings and structures.  HR Green has Resident Observation staff on site during this timeframe of construction.  The Contractor, subcontractors and suppliers are busy submitting the equipment and materials for the project for HR Green to review.  This is an important process to verify the items selected meet all the specification requirements.  MidAmerican Energy has delivered the new power poles along 110th Street in advance of their installation to supply overhead power to the site.  Williams Bros. has requested a 30 day time extension based on the time they lost in March waiting for the IDNR to complete the Environmental Clearance process for the site.  This will be included in a change order for a future City Council agenda.

Warren County Justice Center Weekly Update

Attached is an update from DCI on activity that will take place regarding this project.
Warren County Justice Center Weekly Email

Community Development Updates

Attached please find various updates provided by the Community Development Department.
Code Enforcement
Current Projects Update
Permits

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the draft agendas for the upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Draft - April 20, 2020
Draft - May 4, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

April 6th City Council Meetings

The City Council is scheduled to meet on Monday, April 6, 2020.  The agenda and meeting materials are available on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter. 

Public Participation During City Council Meetings

Arrangements have been established to ensure residents may participate in upcoming City Council meetings.  Details and instructions may be found on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1575. These items are also provided as attachments to this update.  
Public Participation Form
NEW - Online Public Comment Form

Census

Indianola’s response rate to the 2020 U.S. Census (50.1%) continues to outpace that of the State of Iowa (47.4%) and the Nation (41.3%).  Thank you all who have submitted their responses to date.  This is a great trend for our community!

Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF)

Construction on the City’s WRRF officially began Wednesday, April 1, 2020.  Regular updates will be provided on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/632/Wastewater-Treatment-Plant-Updates. 

Waste Management Update

Attached is an email received April 2, 2020 from Ammon Taylor, Public Sector Representative, providing an update on Waste Management’s call center operations.
Waste Management April 2, 2020 Email

Parks

A reminder that use of park equipment is prohibited during the COVID-19 pandemic.  

Warren County Justice Center Weekly Update

Attached is an update from DCI on activity that will take place regarding this project.
Warren County Justice Center Weekly Email

Community Development Updates

Attached please find various updates provided by the Community Development Department.
Code Enforcement
Current Projects Update
Permits

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the draft agendas maintained by the Clerk’s Office for the upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).  If there are items that you would like more information on, please let me know.
Draft - April 20, 2020
Draft - May 4, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

City Budget

The City’s Fiscal Year 21 budget (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021) was approved at the City Council’s March 25 meeting.  The approval concludes the extensive nine-month budget development process.  As has been shared repeatedly in public presentations throughout the process, the approved budget continues implementation of the plan adopted by the City Council in 2018 to correct shortages in the City’s public safety staffing levels and helps address a staffing deficiency in the Library.  As a result of the economic growth of our community (over $173 million in the last four years) and the State’s mandated “rollback” on properties’ valuations, the impact of the City’s portion of the property tax bill ($13.63/$1,000 of assessed value) will remain relatively unchanged unless a home’s value increased (illustrated on slide eight of the presentation).  The presentation may be found at http://indianolaiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10745/City-of-Indianola-FY21-Budget_March-25-2020-Presentation.

Census

Indianola’s response rate to the 2020 U.S. Census (39.8%) continues to outpace that of the State of Iowa (36.4%) and the Nation (30.2%).  Only Ankeny, Clive, Johnston and Urbandale have a higher response rate than our community.  Thank you all who have submitted their responses to date.  This is a great trend for our community!

Quail Meadows Lift Station

The City’s contractor (Vanderpool Construction) has started on the Quail Meadows lift station project.  The scheduled work includes beginning the access road for the lift station (between Theisens and Shottenkirk Ford) and commencing construction on the gravity portion of the sewer from the existing manhole in this area.

Waste Management Letter

Attached is a letter dated March 24 from Ammon Taylor, Public Sector Representative, providing notice of force majeure as a result of COVID-19.
Waste Management March 24th Letter

Alternative Scheduling

Beginning Monday, the Water Pollution Control and Public Works Departments will be transitioning to an alternative staffing schedule. This action is taken to ensure necessary infrastructure work continues while ensuring the safety of our team members.

Parks

The Parks staff continues to prepare the park system for spring and summer.  The restrooms that would normally be opened around April 15 are ready to have the water turned on and barring any major repairs, can be up and running soon after the pandemic clears.  The greenhouse is full of flowers that will be planted in May around parks, the square, the medians and other city properties.  Work also continues to prepare all the flower beds.  As the weather warms up, we anticipate the mowing crews will begin mowing in parks, along trails and other city properties in the next two weeks.  

Pool

At the Aquatic Center, the removal of sealant inside the pool was completed a few weeks ago as the painting project is scheduled to begin the middle of next week.  New coats of paint will be added to both pools as well as replacement of all the caulking of concrete seams.  This work is needed to ensure the safety of the pool users and protect the concrete shell of the pools from the water and elements.  The Water Pollution Control team also installed a new pump for the water slides earlier this month.  Another example of the city departments working together to save in the cost of installation.  Many of the pool staff have been hired and training is scheduled to begin in May.  The American Red Cross has suspended all lifeguard classes, but also extended the certifications for 90 days.  We are working with the Red Cross and area cities to reschedule courses for new staff and plan to begin these in May.  

Recreation Programs

Programs have been cancelled or postponed and facility rentals cancelled through April 16.  Staff has worked to contact customers to notify of changes and process and issue full refunds or credit.  Registration for the summer season begins the week of March 30 and our staff will be available by phone and email for questions during the duration of the office and facility closures.  Online registration continues to be encouraged and will continue as normal.  We are also trying to use our Facebook page to post ideas of things to do while quarantined as well as a few virtual programs to still have people Experience the Fun!

Departmental “Shout Outs”

Attached, please find this week’s “shout outs” to members of the Team.
Shout Out - Fire
Shout Out - Parks

Warren County Justice Center Weekly Update

Attached is an update from DCI on activity that will take place regarding this project.
Warren County Justice Center Weekly Email

Community Development Updates

Attached please find various updates provided by the Community Development Department.
Building Permits
Code Enforcement
Current Projects Update

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the draft agendas maintained by the Clerk’s Office for the upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).  If there are items that you would like more information on, please let me know.
Draft - April 6, 2020
Draft - April 20, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Shout Out

As you know, the Team has been monitoring the events of COVID-19 since February.  It is because of this awareness and preparation that our Team has been able to quickly implement plans to ensure we are able to continue to deliver the very best services to our community.  I am very proud of the Team for their positive outlook, professionalism and unflappable commitment to service of the Indianola community.
Shout Out Email

March 25th City Council Meetings

The City Council is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, March 25, 2020.  The agenda and meeting materials have been available on the City’s website since March 16th and may be found at http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter/City-Council-5.

Public Participation During City Council Meetings

Arrangements have been established to ensure residents may participate in upcoming City Council meetings.  Details and instructions may be found on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1568.  The established protocols are consistent with legal requirements, as well as Governor Reynolds’ recent executive order.

Study Session Item

The presentation and a memorandum summarizing the materials scheduled for the March 25th Study Session are attached.  Staff will be requesting City Council direction on the alternatives provided within the memorandum during the Study Session.  
Building Code Update Memo
Building Code Update Presentation
Code Update Public Comments

Water Resource Recovery Facility

As a condition of the permit for the City’s WRRF project, wetland mitigation credits were required.  The City’s consultant provided notification to the DNR that this condition has been satisfied.  As noted previously, the contractors will not be able to commence with construction until after March 31st.  As of the writing of this update, the contractors are still planning to mobilize consistent with this date. 

Waste Management Letter

Attached is a letter received from Waste Management providing an update regarding their response to COVID-19. Waste Management representatives would like customers to take special note of the information shared regarding call centers, as well as the collection of bulk items.
Waste Management letter re: COVID-19

Warren County Justice Center Weekly Update

Attached is an update from DCI on activity that will take place regarding this project.  
Warren County Justice Center weekly update email

Community Development Updates

Attached please find various updates provided by the Community Development Department.
Building Permits
Code Enforcement
Current Projects Update

COVID-19

The City’s Public Safety Group (PSG) continues to monitor and develop appropriate plans in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Please know the safety of our community and our team members are of the utmost importance. Accordingly, as developments continue to unfold appropriate actions and steps will be implemented.  A recent action is as follows:
Effective today (3.13.2020), as a precautionary effort, visitors to City Hall regarding non-public safety issues are asked to enter the building via the north entrance. This will allow us to better to respond to your requests for service while minimizing movements within a building that houses our community’s public safety personnel. Please continue to refer to the City’s social media outlets and the City’s COVID-19 webpage (http://indianolaiowa.gov/892/COVID-19-Facts) for these guidelines and updated information. Thank you!

City Council Meeting

This is a friendly reminder that the City Council regular meeting and Study Session was rescheduled to Wednesday, March 25th.  The meeting was rescheduled from its original date due to Spring Break.  The meeting materials will be published on Monday, March 16th and will be available on the Agenda Center section of the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter.  
 COVID-19 related preparations, precautions and instructions for residents will be provided at the front of the published agendas. 

Census

Census forms were mailed and will be appearing in mailboxes.  Please participate to ensure an accurate count for our community.  This is an extremely important process and has a tremendous impact on the future of our community.

HIRTA Press Release

Attached, please find a press release from HIRTA regarding its Simplified Scheduling model that they recently implemented.  City staff are meeting with representatives from HIRTA later this month on this topic.
Heart of Iowa Regional Transit Agency (HIRTA) Simplified Scheduling Press Release

Elevate Indianola Update

The Planning and Zoning Commission held its monthly meeting on Tuesday, March 10th and discussed the Comprehensive Plan update.  The Commission narrowed its focus of certain aspects of the plan giving and gave clear direction on certain changes.  The Commission will reconvene in April to continue the review of this important document. 

Summerset Greene Development

A neighborhood meeting was held on Monday, March 9th for a potential development along North 9th Street.  The meeting was attended by approximately 10 residents where the potential developer introduced the project and company.  In response to the feedback from the meeting, the Developer filed a Low-Income Housing Tax Credit application with the Iowa Finance Authority.  The notification of that application is attached.
Notification of Low-Income-Housing-Tax-Credit Application

Warren County Justice Center Weekly Update

Attached, please find an update from DCI on activity that will take place regarding this project in the coming weeks.
Weekly update email

Sustainability Fair

The Sustainability Fair has been canceled.  

Community Development Updates

Attached, please find various updates provided by the Community Development Department.
Permits
Code Enforcement
Current Projects Update

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the draft agendas maintained by the Clerk’s Office for the upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).  If there are items that you would like more information on, please let me know.
Draft - March 25, 2020
Draft - April 6, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Joint Meeting Presentation

Attached is the presentation that City Staff reviewed during the City Council’s joint meeting with the IMU Board of Trustees on March 2, 2020.
Joint Meeting Presentation

Ward Meetings

Beginning in April, the City will begin hosting a series of Ward Meetings.  These meetings are a great way to get in-depth information about our community and to learn more about the City’s projects, programs, services, and key issues affecting residents. The dates and locations may be found on the City’s website - http://indianolaiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10644/2020AprilWard-Meetings?bidId=.

Draft City Council Rules

Attached is a copy of the draft City Council rules that were distributed during the March 2nd City Council meeting.  This is the same draft reviewed by the City Council at its meeting on January 7, 2019, with one addition.  The attached draft incorporates the input received from the City Council over the last few meetings regarding the topic of having speakers sign in prior to speaking.  This change may be found at the top of page 9 and reads as follows, “…complete a public comment card indicating the agenda item on which they wish to comment, or the topic for items not on the agenda”.  
Draft Rules of Procedure for Conduct of City Council Business

Iowa Avenue Letter

The City was notified about a sign on Iowa Avenue, just west of Highway 65/69, asking the City Council to repair the road.  As the City Council is aware, this section will be repaved as part of the Traffic Signal Synchronization project that was accepted at its February 18th meeting.  Attached, please find a letter that was mailed to the property owner providing a status update on the project.
Iowa Avenue - Letter

Departmental “Shout Outs”

Attached, please find this week’s “shout outs” to members of the Team.  
Shout Out - Police
Shout Out - Jackie Raffety & Cassandra Mosher
Shout Out - Team

Summerset Greene Development

As reported in previous weekly updates, a neighborhood meeting has been scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Monday, March 9th  The meeting will take place in the Community Room at the Indianola YMCA.  It was brought to the City’s attention that the letter sent from the proposed developer had an incorrect address.  A letter correcting the inaccuracy was sent to the neighborhood and is attached.  
Woda Cooper Companies - Meeting information update letter

Warren County Justice Center Weekly Update

Attached, please find an update from DCI on activity that will take place regarding this project in the coming weeks.
Weekly Update - Warren County Justice Center

Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF)

The pre-construction meeting for the WRRF took place on Wednesday, March 4th.  Due to a required wait period by the Army Corps of Engineers, earthwork will not commence until after March 31st. Project updates will be posted on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/632/Wastewater-Treatment-Plant-Updates. 

Sustainability Fair

Attached, please find the flyer for the Sustainability Fair on April 4th from 1:00 to 4:30 p.m. at the Blake Fieldhouse.
Sustainability Fair Flyer

Community Development Updates

Attached, please find various updates provided by the Community Development Department.
Building Permits
Code Enforcement
Current Project Updates

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the draft agendas maintained by the Clerk’s Office for the upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).  If there are items that you would like more information on, please let me know.
Draft - March 25, 2020
Draft - April 6, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Census

Attached, please find a joint letter from the School District, Simpson College, Chamber and the City encouraging participation in the upcoming Census.  All entities will be working together to disseminate this letter to ensure our community is aware of the importance of this process.  
Census Joint Letter

Budget Article

Attached, please find an advanced copy of the City Manager’s Report that will be included in the Spring edition of the Indianola Magazine.  The article provides an overview of the General Fund section of the City’s proposed Fiscal Year 21 (July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2021) budget.  The City Council will be hosting two public hearings on March 2nd and March 25th regarding the City’s proposed budget.  Information was shared in last week’s update email regarding the proposed budget (http://indianolaiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10583/Indianola-FY21-Budget_-February-18-2020-Presentation).
City Managers Report - Spring 2020 Indianola Magazine

Warren County Justice Center Weekly Update

Congratulations to Warren County on the recent contract award for the new Justice Center.  There were many who put in a lot of time and effort into this project, including several on this distribution.  Thank you for your leadership!  Now that the project is moving forward, City Staff and representatives from the County’s development team will be resuming our regular communication and coordination efforts.  Attached, please find an update from DCI on activity that will take place regarding this project in the coming weeks.
Warren County Justice Center Weekly Update

Sewer System Maintenance Program

Beginning in March the City will be lining 10 sewer mains totaling 2,380 feet and 50 laterals, as well as repairing 10 manholes.  These projects help reduce the amount of stormwater that enters the collection system (aka Inflow & Infiltration or I&I.  The schedule for this will be available on the City’s website and social media outlets.
http://indianolaiowa.gov/842/Upcoming-Projects

Summerset Greene Development

As reported in previous weekly updates, Staff has been in discussions with Woda Cooper Companies about scheduling a neighborhood meeting to review their plans for a proposed senior living apartment in Indianola (Summerset Greene).  Currently, this company is exploring a piece of ground in the 1600 block of North 9th Street.  A neighborhood meeting has been scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Monday, March 9th.  The meeting will take place in the Community Room at the Indianola YMCA.  Attached is a letter from the developer that has been sent to the neighborhood.  
WODA Cooper Companies Public Discussion Invitation Letter

Waste Management Recycling

Attached, please find a letter from Ammon Taylor, Municipal Marketing Manager with Waste Management of Iowa, providing notice of a rate adjustment for recycling.  As noted in the letter, Waste Management will work on providing notice to residential customers on this adjustment.
Waste Management Recycling Rate Notice

Mediacom

Attached, please find a letter from Lee Grassley, Senior Manager of Government Relations with Mediacom, providing notice of a rate adjustment resulting from a new agreement with a broadcaster station in the area.
Mediacom Rate Change Notification Letter

Tech Tour

Attached, please find a press release announcing “the first-ever Iowa Technology (IT) Roadshow”.  Also attached is a flyer for the Roadshow’s stop in Indianola, which is being coordinated by the Indianola Chamber.
Iowa Technology Roadshow - 2020 Spring Tour News Release
Iowa Technology Roadshow - 2020 Spring Indianola Flyer

DM Metropolitan Planning Briefing

This month’s Metropolitan Planning Briefing can be found at https://dmampo.org/2020/02/27/metropolitan-planning-briefing-february-2020/.  Included is a condition report of all trails in Central Iowa, which includes the Summerset Trail, as well as some upcoming speaker events as part of The Tomorrow Plan Speaker Series.   

Community Development Updates

Attached, please find various updates provided by the Community Development Department.
Building Permits
Code Enforcement
Current Projects Update

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the draft agendas maintained by the Clerk’s Office for the upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).  If there are items that you would like more information on, please let me know.
Draft - March 25, 2020
Draft - April 6, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Budget Presentation

Below, please find the link to the City’s website that contains the budget presentation that was provided during the City Council’s February 18th Study Session.  A main point in the draft budget is the continued implementation of prior year’s public safety staffing recommendations.  The budget process continues at the City Council’s next meeting on March 2nd. 

http://indianolaiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10583/Indianola-FY21-Budget_-February-18-2020-Presentation 

Library Strategic Plan

The Library’s Strategic Plan for 2020-25 was approved this week by the State Library of Iowa.  Based on community input through surveys and focus groups, three strategic priorities were identified: Improve Spaces, Increase Access, and Create Awareness.  Community input identified improving the facility as the Library’s biggest need.  Increasing Access, especially by increasing weekend and evening hours, was the second priority.  The process of gathering community input showed that many residents are not aware of the services the Library provides, which leads to Creating Awareness as the third priority.  The Strategic Plan, including selected community comments, is published on the Library’s webpage.
Library Strategic Plan Document

Indianola School District Vote

Attached, please find information regarding the upcoming School District public vote scheduled for March 3rd.  
Indianola Community School District Public Vote March 3, 2020

Emergency Planning

Earlier this week, representatives from the City, School District, Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management met to discuss the planning of a series of safety training exercises for not only public safety personnel, but also teachers and administrators in our community’s school buildings.  

Departmental “Shout Outs”

Attached, please find this week’s “shout outs” to members of the Team.  
Parks & Recreation
Public Works (Street Department)

In addition to the provided “shout outs”, the Team wanted to share some examples of amazing teamwork from this last week:

• The Fire Department purchased batteries for the Police Department’s AEDs resulting in a cost savings to the Police Department.  
• The Finance and Street Departments worked together to identify a long-term supply purchase of work gloves that will save the City about $200.  Staff shared this same information with our colleagues at IMU.
• The Parks and Recreation Department hosted this month’s employee appreciation event at the Activity Center.  
• The IT Department worked with our colleagues at the County to assist with their transition from MCG.  While the County is not a specific department, the County provides valuable services to the City, including Emergency Dispatch and GIS services. 

Iowa State University (ISU) Planning and Zoning Workshop

ISU Extension and Outreach has released the schedule for its Introduction to Planning & Zoning for Local Officials workshop series for Spring 2020.  The Introduction to Planning and Zoning workshop is designed as a “basic training” for local elected and appointed officials on the land use issues facing them today. The workshop is intended primarily for local officials new to planning and zoning issues, though it also will serve as a refresher for veteran members.  A brochure with additional information, including dates and locations, is attached.  The nearest locations to Indianola are on March 24th in Ankeny and April 21st in Oskaloosa.  If you would like to attend, please let Charlie Dissell know by Friday, March 13th.
Intro to Planning and Zoning Workshops

Summerset Greene Development

Staff has been in discussions with Woda Cooper Companies about scheduling a neighborhood meeting.  As was reported in a previous weekly update, this company is looking to locate a senior living apartment in Indianola, known as Summerset Greene.  Currently, this company is exploring a piece of ground in the 1600 block of North 9th Street.  A neighborhood meeting has been scheduled for Monday, March 9th.  Staff is working to secure a location for this meeting and will provide an update once the meeting time and location has been confirmed.  Staff has notified a resident in the neighborhood for advanced notification to their neighbors.  A formal letter will get distributed by the developer to the entire neighborhood once a location and time is set.  

404 North Jefferson Way (Pizza Hut)

As you may be aware, the Pizza Hut building was demolished this last Thursday.  Staff has received quite a few inquiries from the public on the plans for this location since that time.  Staff has been working with the property owners of this location since last fall regarding the future plans/options for the site.  The first step to redeveloping this site was the demolition, however, future plans remain fluid at this time.  

Wade Jurney Homes

This week, staff was informed that Wade Jurney Homes has been re-branded to Century Complete.  As you may be aware, last year, Wade Jurney Homes pulled 16 building permits for new single-family dwellings.  To date, only five of those dwellings have been constructed.  Century Complete has informed staff that the remaining 11 permits will have site plan changes and will now include basements.  Staff is working with Century Complete to cancel the permits for the 11 unbuilt single-family dwellings and re-issue new permits for the new site plans for homes that will include basements.  

Community Development Updates

Attached, please find various updates provided by the Community Development Department.
Building Permits
Code Enforcement
Current Project Updates

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the draft agendas maintained by the Clerk’s Office for the upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).  If there are items that you would like more information on, please let me know.
Draft - March 2, 2020
Draft - March 25, 2020 *Rescheduled due to Spring Break

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Upcoming City Council Meetings

This is a reminder that the City Council retreat is scheduled for 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 15th.  The next regular City Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, February 18th.  As always, the City Council agendas and meeting materials may be accessed on the City’s website at http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter.  

Census

As previously reported, awareness and active participation in the upcoming Census is extremely important and will have a significant impact to our community.  Accordingly, City Staff have been working on a number of activities to ensure an accurate count.  First, City Staff has been in contact with Census officials to connect them to local civic groups and agencies.  As a result, for example, earlier this week Rotary and Kiwanis held a joint program where a Census representative provided a presentation on this topic.  Second, attached please find a letter that was sent out to a number of our community’s residential centers to bring awareness of some of the upcoming Census milestones.  Lastly, a page dedicated to information on the Census was created on the City’s website and may be accessed via http://indianolaiowa.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1546.
Census Information Letter

Iowa Avenue Project

This week, City Staff held multiple meetings on the Iowa Avenue paving project.  The Valuation Committee, which was appointed by the City Council at its meeting on February 4th, met to review and establish the present fair market value of each of the five parcels within the proposed assessment plat boundary.  This draft report will be presented to the City Council at its March 2nd meeting.  Additionally, City Staff has been in contact with each of the property owners to discuss the project and possible use of assessment.  City Staff has committed to remain in contact with each of the owners on a regular basis as the project moves forward.

Summerset Greene Development

City Staff has been contacted by representatives from Woda Cooper Companies.  This is a company looking to locate a senior living apartment complex in Indianola.  Currently, this company is exploring some land in the 1600 block of North 9th Street.  As part of the discussions with the developer, it was recommended the developer host a meeting with the neighborhood group in this area.  City Staff will be assisting with this scheduling and will provide an update once a meeting date and time is confirmed.  The narrative provided by the developer for this proposed project is attached.  Please know the developer has not submitted plans required by code for City Staff to conduct a review.  This is purely exploratory on the part of the developer.
Summerset Green Narrative

West Highway 92 Trees

City Staff met with representatives from IDOT regarding tree plantings along Highway 92 West.  Several trees were removed prior to the widening of the Highway on the west part of Indianola.  The staff with IDOT believe these should have been replanted as a part of the widening project.  City Staff is now working with IDOT and with utility staff to determine a plan for possible tree locations and species, which ultimately must be approved by IDOT.  This project will be handled in a similar fashion as the northern median project from a few years ago. This means the City will seek services to supply and plant the trees and IDOT will reimburse the City.  Additional research is required and more information will be provided later.  

Fun with Facts

Earlier this week, the Team had a little fun with some data we have been collecting regarding the miles driven by the snow removal fleet during the snow events in 2020.  Attached, please find a screen shot of this post.  In case you are wondering, the correct answer is “Diameter of the Moon”.  A big “thank you” to the crews who work so hard to keep our roads safe and passable.

Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP)

Last week Governor Reynolds signed a proclamation making February 12th Iowa’s SHIIP Volunteer Appreciation Day.  The City is proud to provide office space at the Activity Center for our local SHIIP volunteers who help area residents make informed decisions regarding Medicare plans. Our local volunteers, Elodie Opstad, Kathy Fensterman, Lorna Oxenrider, Cynthia Tracy and Don Sandy, helped 622 clients in 2019!  A big “thank you” to these dedicated volunteers for all they do! 

Business Record Article

Earlier this week, the Business Record published an article on the record value of commercial building permits in 2019 for Metro communities.  The article incorrectly documents Indianola’s data.  City Staff contacted the reporter and shared the correct information (six total new commercial building permits issued in 2019 for a total value of $13,456,400).  The reporter indicated a correction will be published next week.  City Staff is contacting the various reporting points to ensure accurate permit data for the City is being shared. 

Comprehensive Plan Update

The Planning and Zoning Commission held its monthly meeting on February 11th and discussed the Comprehensive Plan update.  The Commission, City Staff and the consultant reviewed various aspects of the plan and will be reconvening in March to continue the review of this important document.  

Sustainability Committee

City Staff continues to assist the Sustainability Committee in its efforts to bring awareness to the community.  The Team is currently assisting the committee on planning and coordinating the Sustainability Fair for Saturday, April 4th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.  For additional details, please see the attached flyer.
Sustainability Fair Flyer

Presidents’ Day

Please remember that non-public safety offices will be closed on Monday, February 17th in observance of Presidents’ Day.  

Community Development Updates

Attached please find various updates provided by the Community Development Department.
Building Permits
Code Enforcement
Current Project Update

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the draft agendas for the upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Draft - March 2, 2020
Draft - March 25, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF)

Found below are two links from the City’s website.  The first link is to the press release regarding the City Council’s approval of a construction contract for the WRRF.  This release and accompanying fact sheet were distributed to media outlets throughout the region.  The second link is to the presentation provided at the City Council’s February 4, 2020 meeting by the City’s Financial Advisor on the financing of the WRRF project.

Press Release

http://indianolaiowa.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1541

Presentation (PDF)

https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10535/Water-Resource-Recovery-Facility-Financing-Presentation-4-February-2020

Budget Presentation

During the February 4, 2020 City Council meeting, the City’s Financial Advisor provided a presentation (link provided below) on the possible financing of aspects of the City’s Capital Improvement Plan.  As a reminder, this presentation is a full year in advance of the development process for the Fiscal Year 22 (July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022) City budget.  Staff wanted to ensure this information was provided while the City Council continues the process to develop the Fiscal Year 21 (July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021) budget that will be formally considered in March. 

Presentation (PDF)

https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10536/200207_WW_CapitalImprovementPlanFinancing 

Another Grant

As a result of a recent staff safety initiative, a request was made for a filtered water fountain.  Members of the team researched this matter and submitted a grant application for this request.  We are happy to report staff was notified the City was awarded a $1,000 grant for the purchase of this filtered water fountain.  The new fountain will be installed in the hallway linking the north and south ends of City Hall.

Community Development Updates

Attached please find various updates provided by the Community Development Department.
Building Permits (PDF)
Code Enforcement (PDF)
Current Projects Update (PDF)

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the draft agendas for the upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Draft - February 18, 2020 (PDF)
Draft - March 2, 2020 (PDF)

Ryan Waller - City Manager

City Council Meeting

A friendly reminder that the City Council is on Tuesday, February 4th instead of the original date of Monday, February 3rd.  This reschedule was done to avoid a conflict with the caucuses taking place on Monday.  A copy of the City Council agenda packet was published yesterday (January 30th) on the City’s website, which may be found at http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02042020-953. 

Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF)

The necessary actions for the City Council’s consideration of the WRRF project are on the February 4th City Council agenda.  The following is a link to a in depth radio interview recently conducted on this topic - https://www.kniakrls.com/2020/01/24/in-depth-wastewater-project-knia-and-krls/.  Please feel free to share this link with other as it contains factual and historical information regarding this project.  

U.S. Census

As you are aware, every 10 years the federal government conducts an official count of individuals residing within the United States.  This is an extremely important process for communities to engage in as the results of a census impacts:

• Billions of dollars in federal funds to local communities for schools, roads, and other public services. 
• Preparations to meet transportation and emergency readiness needs. 
• Determines the number of seats each state has in the U.S. House of Representatives and political representation at all levels of government.

While the City had good participation in the 2000 census (84% participation), this rate dropped to 81% in 2010, which negatively impacted funding to the City for 10 years.  Please be aware of (and help share) the following:

• Census mailings will begin in March, with most households receiving these mailings by spring break. 
• April 1 is Census Day (by April 1 everyone should have received the Census mailing) and is the day you report where you live on that date.  
• In April, Census takers will begin visiting college students living on Campus, people in senior centers and other who live amongst large groups of people.  
• Beginning in May, all non-respondents will be visited by a Census taker to have their census information collected.

PLEASE HELP TO SHARE THE IMPORTANCE OF PARTICIPATION IN THIS PROCESS!

 

Alleys Around the Square

A resident recently asked about the plowing in the alleys around the Square.  City crews were dispatched this morning and conducted additional removal efforts of ice that had accumulated.  During these efforts it was discovered that many of the gutters and downspouts from buildings are contributing to the accumulation of ice in the alleys.  Community Development staff will be following up with building owners in an effort to address this issue.

Libraries

The following is a link to an article regarding libraries that was recently shared by KCCI - https://www.kcci.com/article/more-americans-went-to-the-library-last-year-than-to-the-movies-a-new-gallup-poll-finds/30681440

Community Development Updates

Attached please find various updates provided by the Community Development Department.
Building Permits
Code Enforcement
Current Projects Update

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the draft agendas for the upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Draft - February 18, 2020
Draft - March 2, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF)

During its meeting on January 21st, the City Council received and filed the results of the bid opening for the City’s proposed Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF).  Attached, please find a press release and fact sheet regarding this item. Consideration of an award and financing of the project is scheduled for the City Council meeting on Tuesday, February 4, 2020.
Press Release - WRRF
Fact Sheet - WRRF

Traffic Signal Timing Project

As you may recall, the City’s budget includes funding of a project to allow the traffic signals on Jefferson Way (US highway 65/69) and 2nd Ave (IA 92) to be better coordinated.  This will help to reduce delays, improve safety along the corridor and help the environment by reducing emissions from idling. As part of this project, the pavement on Iowa Avenue from 1st Street to Jefferson Way will also be replaced.  The City Engineer was recently notified that Iowa DOT, which is helping to fund a portion of this project, conducted a successful letting for this project.  There were four bids received and the apparent low bidder was Sternquist Construction with a bid amount of $257,606.85.  The City Engineer has not yet received official bid tabulations from Iowa DOT.  The project is anticipated to be completed by mid-July.    

Iowa Avenue Paving Grant

Attached, please see the press release below announcing the award of a $627,237 grant to the City to help build an extension to East Iowa Avenue in front of the new multimillion-dollar Missouri Valley Joint Apprentice Training Center currently under construction in the Industrial Park.  Thank you to Community and Economic Development Director, Charlie Dissell, Finance Director/City Clerk, Andy Lent, and Dave Moeller, City Engineer with Snyder & Associates, for their efforts in securing this significant economic development grant.
Press Release - Grant Award

Mid Iowa Construction Code Committee (MICCC)

As you may be aware, Indianola participates in monthly MICCC meetings. The MICCC is a group of building officials from municipalities around the Des Moines Metro area who gather to discuss various issues relating to building codes, building plan reviews, and building inspections.  Each month, a different jurisdiction leads the topic of discussion.  This Thursday, Indianola led the discussion where Tim Little (Building and Zoning Official) and Sam Hofer (Firefighter/Paramedic) discussed how the City’s Community Development and Fire Departments collaborate on a regular basis when reviewing building permit applications and plans, as well as when conducting building/fire inspections.  Feedback received on the program was extremely positive.

Community Development Updates

Attached please find various updates provided by the Community Development Department.
2019 Building Permits
2020 Building Permits
Code Enforcement
Current Projects Update

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the draft agendas for the upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Draft - February 4, 2020
Draft - February 18, 2020
Draft - March 2, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

City Council Meeting Packet

The agenda packet for the January 21, 2020 City Council meeting has been updated and may be found on the City’s website at:

http://www.indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01212020-944.  

The updates include additional correspondence received for agenda item 8.A.1. (Kading LLC Site Plan) and updated bid information for agenda item 8.B.1. (Indianola Water Resource Recovery Facility Project - WRRF).  As you may recall, the bids for the WRRF were opened on January 16, 2020 at 2:00 p.m.  Thank you to City Staff, as well as the City’s wastewater engineer and financial advisor for their detailed analysis of the bids in such a short period of time.  

Comprehensive Plan Adoption

Thank you to everyone who attended the joint meeting of the City Council and Planning and Zoning Commission regarding the Comprehensive Master Plan Update Project. The following is the link to the presentation from that meeting:

http://www.indianolaiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10458/Present_2020-01-15_ElevateIndianola_FinalJointMtgr. 

As a reminder, this is a community document that helps to set a baseline for policies regarding housing, land use, recreation, transportation and utilities.  The draft document will now head to the Planning and Zoning Commission for further review and discussion.  

Contractors/Developers Breakfast

Earlier this week (Thursday, January 16, 2020), the City hosted its second annual contractors/developers breakfast to discuss the proposed changes and to share other important projects and initiatives being undertaken by the City in 2020.  We had a great turnout with over 50 professionals in attendance.  Staff is in the process of going through the received feedback and following up on raised questions and concerns.  A copy of the presentation from this event is attached.   

Library Painting Project Update

After a two-week closure to paint the interior and install floor outlets, the library will reopen on Monday, January 20, 2020.  The project is a little behind schedule due to the conditions of the walls.  Much of the library was covered in wallpaper installed 37 years ago.  When that was removed, it was discovered that the walls underneath were in worse than expected shape and needed extensive repair.  There was also mold damage, which has been treated.  Library staff will work through the weekend to ensure the library opens as scheduled on Monday.  

Community Development Updates

Attached please find various updates provided by the Community Development Department.
Building Permits
Contractors Meeting
Permits
Code Enforcement
Current Projects Update

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the draft agendas for the upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Draft - February 4, 2020
Draft - February 18, 2020

Ryan Waller - City Manager

Budget Presentation

Attached, please find the presentation provided by Andy Lent (Finance Director/City Clerk) at the January 6, 2020 City Council meeting.  
Budget Presentation

Ambulance Fees

A recent question was asked about the cost for ambulance services provided by our Fire Department and the amount reimbursed from Medicaid, Medicare and private insurance.  The following table contains these figures:

Service	City Cost	Medicaid	Medicare	Private Insurance
Basic Life Support	$607	$114.30	$350.79	$1,045
Advanced Life Support	$720	$127.01	$416.56	$1,320
Advanced Life Support 2	$1,043	$232.84	$602.91	$1,540

The costs and reimbursements included in the table do not include a mileage charge ($13/mile).  As you can see from the table, Medicaid and Medicare do not cover the cost for the City to provide these ambulance services.  The GEMT legislation should help close this funding gap that is filled by property taxes. 

MFPRSI Annual Report

The City’s sworn police officers participate in a state retirement fund called the Municipal Fire and Police Retirement System of Iowa (MFPRSI). Although some municipal fire departments also participate in this, Indianola’s fire department members participate in IPERS. The City contribution rate in FY2021 will rise from the current rate of 24.41 percent to 25.31 percent of the police officer’s salary. This rate paid by municipalities is mandated by the system and has a budgetary impact for our City. The annual report for FY2019 is available and is 14 MB.  If you wish for a copy of the document, please let me know. The report highlights some of the changes MFPRSI has taken to place it on a more financial standing. Other publications (such as the FY2019 audit) can be obtained at: http://www.mfprsi.org/about-mfprsi/publications/. 

Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF)

Below are links to the presentations reviewed during the City Council’s special workshop meeting on January 9, 2020.  As was noted during the meeting, the second presentation (provided by the City’s Financial Advisor) summarizes the recent update of the financial pro forma (with conservative assumptions and estimates) for the wastewater utility.  Once bids are received next week, the Financial Advisor will update the pro forma and present this information at the February 4, 2020 City Council meeting.

Presentation from HR Green (Engineer)

https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10405/pres-010920-Indianola-Council-Workshop 

Presentation from DA Davidson (Financial Advisor)

https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10404/Davidson-Slides-for-01-09-20-WRRF-Council-Worksession

Comprehensive Master Plan Project

As you are aware, the City is in the process of updating the Comprehensive Master Plan.  This document is important as it sets a baseline for policies on how our community will grow with regards to housing, land use, recreation, transportation and utilities.  The next step in the process is for a joint meeting with the City Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission to review and provide input on the draft plan. This joint meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 15, 2020.  The agenda and meeting materials have been published and may be found at http://indianolaiowa.gov/AgendaCenter.  Additional information may also be accessed on the project’s webpage found at www.elevateindianola.com.

Contractors/Developers Breakfast

As part of the building code update, staff will once again be hosting a breakfast meeting with contractors and developers from the region to discuss the proposed changes and to share other important projects and initiatives being undertaken by the City in 2020.  That breakfast is scheduled for 7:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 16, 2020 at the Indianola Activity Center.  A flyer for this event is attached.  Please help us spread the word regarding this meeting.
Contractors / Developers Breakfast Flyer

Community Development Updates

Attached please find various updates provided by the Community Development Department.
2019 Building Permits
2020 Building Permits
Code Enforcement
Current Project Updates

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the draft agendas for the upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments). 

Ryan Waller - City Manager

$1,000,000,000 in Total Valuation

As staff was reviewing data filed by the County last week, it was highlighted that the City’s total valuation surpassed $1 billion for the first time.  This is a very positive accomplishment for the City.  It should be noted that the total valuation is not the taxable valuation.  This is due to Iowa law where a “rollback” is applied.  As noted in the City’s budget book, “Rollback  is a term where a calculation is used to reduce taxable value of residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural properties.  The rollback percentage is determined by the State of Iowa on a yearly basis.  Originally, the purpose of the rollbacks was to keep residential property value consistent with agricultural property to prevent agriculture from assuming too much of the tax burden.”

Comprehensive Plan Adoption

As you are aware, the City is in the process of updating its Comprehensive Plan.  This document is important as it sets a baseline for policies on how the community will grow with regards to housing, land use, recreation, transportation and utilities.  The next step in the process is for a joint meeting with the City Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission to review and provide on the draft plan.  Based on the survey of availability, this joint meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 15th.  Consistent with City practice, the agenda and meeting materials will be published the week prior (on January 10th).  In the interim, a copy of the draft documents may be viewed at www.elevateindianola.com.

Contractors’/Developers’ Breakfast

As part of the building code update, staff will once again be hosting a contractors’/developers’ breakfast this year to discuss the proposed code changes, as well as provide an update on other coming changes in 2020.  That breakfast is scheduled for Thursday, January 16th starting at 7:00 a.m. at the Indianola Activity Center.  A flyer for this is attached.  Please help us spread the word regarding this meeting.
2nd Annual Contractors / Developers Breakfast Flyer

Library Hours

The Library will be closed January 6th - 19th to have some repair work done on the walls and to paint the interior.  During that time, the Library will offer curbside pickup for a few hours each day, and volunteers will deliver books to homebound residents and the senior living centers.  The Streets Department is helping the Library with the prep work, with the repair and painting contracted through First Avenue Painting of Indianola.

Community Development Updates

Attached please find various updates provided by the Community Development Department.
2019 Building Permits
Code Enforcement
Current Project Updates

Upcoming City Council Agenda

Attached, please find the draft agendas for the upcoming meetings.  As a reminder, these are fluid documents that can change on a regular basis (i.e. some items may get added/rescheduled due to Council direction, as well as other factors that may or may not be within the control of the City departments).
Draft - January 15, 2020
Draft - January 21, 2020
Draft - February 3, 2020