Kalona public meetings in 2025
24 substantive meetings from 2025, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Council
The council will consider rescheduling three upcoming meetings from Mondays to Wednesdays. The agenda also includes an Iowa Alcoholic Beverage Division license renewal for Westside Petro, recognition of service for two members, and the swearing in of new council members.
- Rescheduling of January 5, January 19, and February 16 meetings to Wednesdays
- Iowa Alcoholic Beverage Division License Renewal for Westside Petro
- Recognition of service for Council Members Craig Spitzer and Hank Beisheim
- Swearing in of new City of Kalona Council Members
The Kalona City Council approved the agenda, minutes, and a list of bills totaling over $100,000. They also approved moving three January and February 2026 meetings to Wednesdays, renewed the liquor license for Westside Petro (4-1), and recognized outgoing council members Spitzer and Beisheim. New and re-elected council members were sworn in.
- Approved agenda and minutes (all yes)
- Allowed bills as listed (all yes)
- Approved moving Jan 5, Jan 19, and Feb 16 meetings to Wednesdays (all yes)
- Approved Iowa Alcoholic Beverage Division License Renewal for Westside Petro (4-1)
- Recognized Craig Spitzer (2012-2025) and Hank Beisheim (2020-2025) for service
- Swore in Joe Schmidt (re-elected), Taylor Yeggy-Berg (new), and Eileen Beran (new)
Council
The Kalona City Council is meeting to review a $900,000 water quality grant pre-application for the Yoder Property, discuss the preliminary design and well placement for a proposed north water plant, and consider a housing application for 502 & 504 A Avenue. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes, bills, and a public forum.
- Presentation of Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship Water Quality Initiative pre-application for $900,000 (Yoder Property)
- Preliminary review of proposed north water plant design and well placement
- Discussion on 2025 East Central Iowa Housing Trust Fund Student Built housing application for 502 & 504 A Avenue
The Kalona City Council approved the agenda, minutes, and a list of bills, and directed staff to continue with a $900,000 water quality grant pre-application. They also approved the 2025 East Central Iowa Housing Trust Fund Student Built Housing Application for 502 and 504 A Avenue. The meeting was held via Zoom due to weather, with one council member absent.
- Approved agenda with tabling of North Water Plant Design and Well Placement (all yes)
- Approved minutes of November 17, 2025 meeting (all yes)
- Allowed bills totaling $83,000+ (all yes)
- Directed staff to continue with $900,000 water quality grant pre-application (all yes)
- Approved 2025 Student Built Housing Application for 502 and 504 A Avenue (all yes)
Council
The Kalona City Council will hold its regular meeting with routine items like minutes and bills, plus a public forum. New business includes a resolution to waive review of a plat survey, discussion of easements for a water main distribution line, a fund transfer, a temporary closure of C Avenue for Christmas in Kalona, and a review of a Phase-1 Environmental Review for three properties.
- Resolution waiving right to review plat of survey for Terry Strabla
- Discussion of proceeding with easements for water main distribution line
- Resolution authorizing fund transfer
- Resolution establishing temporary closure of portions of C Avenue for Christmas in Kalona
- Review of Phase-1 Environmental Review for 502 9th Street, 503 10th Street, and 1001 F Avenue
The Kalona City Council approved a resolution to transfer $39,552.09 from the Local Option Sales Tax Fund to the General Fund for budgeted equipment lease payments. They also approved a resolution waiving the right to review a preliminary plat for Terry Strabala, and approved a street closure for Christmas in Kalona. The council directed staff to discuss easements for a water main line with property owners and to gather more information on a Phase-1 environmental review.
- Approved Resolution 2025-Y: transfer $39,552.09 from Local Option Sales Tax Fund to General Fund for equipment leases (5-0)
- Approved Resolution 2025-X: waived right to review preliminary plat for Terry Strabala (4-0)
- Approved Resolution 2025-Z: street closure on C Avenue for Christmas in Kalona (5-0)
- Approved agenda and minutes of November 3, 2025 (all yes)
- Allowed bills as listed (all yes)
- Directed staff to talk to homeowners about easements for water main line
- Requested preliminary costs for Phase-2 environmental review at later date
Council
The Kalona City Council will hold its regular meeting on November 3, 2025, with no old business. New business includes discussions and resolutions on a temporary street closure, grant acceptance, Vista Park project payments and improvements, a credit card policy, a bridge inspection report, a marketing proposal for a student house, TIF certification, snow removal procedures, and recognition of riverboat foundation funds.
- Resolution approving temporary street closure on February 7, 2026
- Resolution approving grant acceptance through the Iowa Economic Development Group
- Consideration of paying CJ Moyna & Sons retainage for the Vista Park Project
- Resolution accepting public improvements for the Vista Park Project
- Resolution approving the 2026-2027 Tax Increment Finance (TIF) Certification
The Kalona City Council approved a $50,000 IEDA Rural Innovation Housing 2.0 grant for the Student House Project at 502 and 504 A Avenue, and accepted the final Vista Park Project improvements, paying $102,131.09 retainage. The council also approved the 2026-2027 TIF certification of $350,104.57, a credit card policy, a temporary C Avenue street closure for February 7, 2026, and a marketing proposal from Kalona Realty. All votes were unanimous unless noted.
- Approved $50,000 IEDA grant for Student House Project (5-0)
- Approved $102,131.09 retainage payment to CJ Moyna & Sons for Vista Park Project (5-0)
- Accepted public improvements for Vista Park Project via Resolution 2025-U (5-0)
- Approved credit card policy via Resolution 2025-V (5-0)
- Approved temporary C Avenue street closure for Feb 7, 2026, 8-11 AM (5-0)
- Approved 2026-2027 TIF certification of $350,104.57 via Resolution 2025-W (5-0)
- Approved marketing proposal from Kalona Realty for Student House Project (5-0)
- Accepted 2025 Bridge Inspection Report (5-0)
Council
The Kalona City Council will consider a change order for the Vista Park project, approve annual financial and urban renewal reports, and discuss fee changes, hiring a public works employee, and compensatory time. They will also consider purchasing two properties for a future Emergency Management Center.
- Change Order #2 for CJ Moyna - Vista Park Project in the amount of $31,349.72
- Approval of 2024-2025 Annual Financial Report
- Approval of 2024-2025 Urban Renewal Report
- Resolution approving changes to fee list for shelter and nuisance rates
- Purchase agreement for 503 10th Street and 502 9th Street for future Emergency Management Center
The Kalona City Council approved a change order for the Vista Park project, the annual finance report, and the urban renewal report. They also approved new shelter rental and nuisance fees, hired a full-time laborer, approved a one-time compensatory time payout, and authorized a purchase agreement for properties for a future emergency management center.
- Approved Change Order #2 for CJ Moyna – Vista Park Project ($31,349.72)
- Approved 2024-2025 Annual Finance Report
- Approved 2024-2025 Urban Renewal Report (TIF)
- Approved Resolution 2025-R setting shelter rental and nuisance fees
- Hired Kyle Martin as full-time general laborer at $40,000/year
- Approved one-time compensatory time payout for Michael Martens and Keaton Redlinger
- Authorized purchase agreement for 503 10th Street and 502 9th Street for emergency management center
Council
The Kalona City Council will hold its regular meeting on October 6, 2025, at 6:00 P.M. The agenda includes routine items like minutes and bills, plus new business: approving a tobacco license for Kwik Star, selling Nutmeg Cemetery plots to Rachelle Blackwell, and a resolution to temporarily close C Avenue on October 21, 2025. The council will also discuss agreements for environmental review and building planning services, and hear an annual presentation from the Washington County YMCA's CEO.
- Consideration of approving Iowa Tobacco License for Kwik Star
- Consideration of selling Nutmeg Cemetery plots to Rachelle Blackwell
- Resolution approving temporary C Ave street closure on October 21, 2025
- Discussion of agreement with Eocene Environmental Group for Phase 1 Property Environmental Review
- Discussion of agreement with Carl A. Nelson for Building Planning Services
The Kalona City Council approved the agenda, minutes, and a list of bills. It approved an Iowa Tobacco License for Kwik Star (4-1), sold Nutmeg Cemetery plots to Rachelle Blackwell, and authorized a temporary closure of C Avenue on October 21, 2025. The council also approved agreements with Eocene Environmental Group for a Phase 1 environmental review (not to exceed $4,000) and with Carl A. Nelson for site planning services for a future Fire and EMS Building (not to exceed $25,000). The YMCA presented a proposal for a 9% rate increase and pool membership adjustments; the council directed to continue with the proposal.
- Approved agenda and minutes (all yes)
- Allowed bills list (all yes)
- Approved Iowa Tobacco License for Kwik Star (4-1)
- Approved sale of Nutmeg Cemetery plots to Rachelle Blackwell (all yes)
- Approved temporary C Avenue street closure on Oct 21, 2025 (all yes)
- Approved agreement with Eocene Environmental Group for Phase 1 environmental review, not to exceed $4,000 (all yes)
- Approved agreement with Carl A. Nelson for site planning services for future Fire and EMS Building, not to exceed $25,000 (all yes)
Council
The Kalona City Council is meeting to consider several items, including the third and final reading of an ordinance that would add regulations for agricultural equipment in the downtown area. They will also vote on two liquor license applications and a grant application. A closed session is scheduled to discuss property acquisition.
- Third reading of ordinance adding Section 69.15 to Chapter 69, regulating agricultural equipment downtown
- Iowa Alcoholic Beverage Division licenses: Best of Iowa (Special Class B Retail Native Wine) and Kwik Star (Class E Retail Alcohol)
- Resolution to apply for grant funds from Washington County Riverboat Foundation
- Closed session on property acquisition (Iowa Code 21.5(j))
The Kalona City Council approved the third and final reading of Ordinance No. 2025-367, which restricts driving and parking agricultural equipment on specified streets and parking lots. The council also approved liquor licenses for Best of Iowa and Kwik Star, and authorized a grant application for park shelters. A closed session on property acquisition was held, with staff directed to gather more information.
- Approved Ordinance No. 2025-367 restricting agricultural equipment parking (5-0)
- Approved Iowa liquor licenses for Best of Iowa and Kwik Star (4-1)
- Authorized grant application for Kalona Southtown and City Park shelters (5-0)
- Entered closed session on property acquisition (5-0)
- Approved agenda and minutes (5-0)
- Allowed bills totaling $116,437.60 from General Fund and other funds
Council
The Kalona City Council will hold its regular meeting on September 3, 2025, with a second reading of an ordinance to regulate agricultural equipment in the downtown area. The council will also consider permits for a gas main along Highway 1 and a detour route for a concrete overlay project, plus a liquor license for a fundraiser and a discussion on park shelters.
- Second reading of ordinance adding Section 69.15 to Chapter 69, pertaining to agricultural equipment in the downtown area
- Alliant Energy utility DOT permit to install a gas main on the east side of the right-of-way along Highway 1
- Iowa DOT application and agreement for Washington County to use Highway 1 and Highway 22 as a detour route for a concrete overlay on Ginko Avenue starting in 2026
- Resolution accepting a Sun Titan Power Trailer
- 5-day Class C retail alcohol license for The Tipsy Traveler’s LLC for the K9 Unit Cornhole Fund Raiser on September 20, 2025
The Kalona City Council approved the second reading of Ordinance No. 2025-367, which restricts parking of agricultural equipment on certain streets and parking lots, with added no-parking areas. The council also approved an Alliant Energy utility permit, a DOT detour agreement for Washington County, a resolution accepting a Sun Titan Power Trailer grant, and a 5-day alcohol license for The Tipsy Traveler LLC. A discussion on park shelters resulted in direction to staff to explore grant options.
- Approved second reading of Ordinance No. 2025-367 (ag equipment parking) (5-0)
- Approved Alliant Energy utility permit for gas main along Highway 1 (5-0)
- Authorized City Administrator to sign DOT detour application for Washington County (5-0)
- Approved Resolution No. 2025-O accepting Sun Titan Power Trailer grant (5-0)
- Approved 5-day alcohol license for The Tipsy Traveler LLC (4-1)
- Directed staff to investigate grant options for park shelters
Council
The Kalona City Council will hold its regular meeting on August 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM. The agenda includes a resolution to waive the right to review a plat for John Stumpf, a review of the annual road use report for 2024-2025, and a proposal to move the September 1 meeting to September 3 due to Labor Day. No old business is listed.
- Resolution to waive right to review plat for John Stumpf
- Review of Annual Road Use Report for 2024-2025
- Consider moving September 1, 2025 meeting to September 3, 2025 (Labor Day)
The Kalona City Council approved the agenda, minutes, and a list of bills. It passed Resolution No. 2025-N to waive the right to review a preliminary plat for John Stumpf, accepted the Annual Road Use Report, and moved the September 1 meeting to September 3 due to Labor Day. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved agenda (motion by Bender, second by J Schmidt)
- Approved minutes of August 4, 2025 (all yes)
- Allowed bills as listed (all yes)
- Passed Resolution No. 2025-N waiving plat review for John Stumpf (3-0, two absent)
- Accepted Annual Road Use Report 2024-2025 (all yes)
- Moved Sept. 1 meeting to Sept. 3 due to Labor Day (all yes)
Council
The Kalona City Council will hold its regular meeting on August 4, 2025, at 6:00 P.M. The agenda includes discussion of a developer's agreement with the owner of the Dutch County Table, consideration of an engineering and design contract with MSA Professional Services, a resolution for temporary street closures for the Kalona Fall Festival, and discussion of parking regulations for agricultural equipment in downtown Kalona with the Washington County Sheriff.
- Discussion of Developer's Agreement with the Owner of the Dutch County Table
- Consideration of Engineering and Design Contract with MSA Professional Services
- Resolution for Establishing Temporary Street Closures for the Kalona Fall Festival
- Discussion of Parking Regulation of Agricultural Equipment in Downtown Kalona with the Washington County Sheriff
The Kalona City Council approved an engineering and design contract with MSA Professional Services for trails, estimated at $52,000, with all members voting yes. They also approved a resolution for temporary street closures for the Kalona Fall Festival on September 26-27, 2025, and directed staff to finalize a developer's agreement with Marlin Bontrager for a 3-year tax rebate not to exceed $24,000 for Dutch Country Table. The council directed staff to continue with the agricultural equipment parking ordinance with no changes.
- Approved $52,000 engineering and design contract with MSA Professional Services (5-0)
- Approved Resolution No. 2025-M for temporary street closures for Kalona Fall Festival (5-0)
- Directed staff to finalize developer's agreement with Marlin Bontrager for 3-year tax rebate up to $24,000
- Directed staff to continue with agricultural equipment parking ordinance with no changes
- Approved agenda and minutes from July 21, 2025 meeting
- Allowed bills as listed, all voting yes
Council
The Kalona City Council will hold its regular meeting on July 21, 2025, at 6:00 PM. The agenda includes a second reading (with option for third and final) of an ordinance amending parking regulations for agricultural equipment, consideration of a door-to-door sales permit, approval of alcohol license renewals for Dollar General and Tequila Wine & Spirits, a letter of understanding for the 2024-2025 annual audit, a request from the Washington County Sheriff's Office to use public space for a September 20, 2025 event, and an application to the Iowa Living Roadways Community Visionary Program. The meeting will end with a closed session on the sale of property.
- Second reading of ordinance amending parking regulations for agricultural equipment
- Door-to-door sales permit application
- Alcohol license renewals: Dollar General (Class B) and Tequila Wine & Spirits (Class E)
- Letter of understanding for 2024-2025 annual audit
- Application to Iowa Living Roadways Community Visionary Program
The Kalona City Council approved the agenda, minutes, and a list of bills. They tabled the second reading of Ordinance No. 2025-367, approved a door-to-door sales permit for Arina Fitingova, approved alcohol license renewals for Dollar General and Tequila Wine & Spirits (4-1), approved signing the audit letter of understanding, and directed staff to apply for the Iowa Living Roadway program. The council also entered closed session to discuss property sale and directed staff to gather more information.
- Approved bills list (all yes)
- Tabled second reading of Ordinance No. 2025-367
- Approved door-to-door sales permit for Arina Fitingova (all yes)
- Approved alcohol license renewals for Dollar General and Tequila Wine & Spirits (4-1)
- Approved signing of 2024-2025 annual audit letter of understanding (all yes)
- Directed staff to work with county on Sheriff's Office K9 fundraiser event
- Approved application to Iowa Living Roadway Community Visionary Program (all yes)
- Entered closed session on property sale; directed staff to obtain more info
Council
The Kalona City Council will hold its regular meeting on July 9, 2025, to discuss summer road projects and consider several resolutions, including a fund transfer, changing council meeting time, and street closures for a car show. They will also consider chicken permits, cemetery plot sales, and a first reading of an ordinance on parking regulations for agricultural equipment.
- Discussion of Summer Road Projects
- Resolution Authorizing Fund Transfer
- Resolution Adopting New Time for Council Meetings
- Resolution Authorizing Street Closures for Car Show on August 23, 2025
- First Reading of Ordinance on Parking Regulations for Agricultural Equipment
The Kalona City Council approved $205,000 in summer road projects, including 6th Street, H Avenue, and annual patching. They also passed resolutions for a cemetery fund transfer, new meeting time, and a temporary street closure for a car show. The council approved chicken applications, cemetery plot sales, and the first reading of an ordinance restricting agricultural equipment parking.
- Approved $205,000 summer road projects (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 2025-J transferring $25,701 from Cemetery Savings to General Checking (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 2025-K moving council meetings to 6:00 PM starting July 21, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 2025-L closing portions of B Avenue and 5th Street for the Aug 23 car show (unanimous)
- Approved chicken application for Heidi and Craig Morrison at 409 D Avenue (unanimous)
- Approved cemetery plot sales to Pierce Trust, Mason, and Craft (unanimous)
- Approved first reading of Ordinance 2025-367 restricting agricultural equipment parking (unanimous)
- Approved bills list and transfers as presented (unanimous)
Council
The Kalona City Council will hold its regular meeting on June 16, 2025, with public forums and reports. Key actions include second readings of ordinances on sewer charges/private water systems and fireworks, plus consideration of selling cemetery plots and a road partnership with Washington County.
- Second reading of ordinance amending sewer charges and private water systems
- Second reading of ordinance amending fireworks regulations due to state changes
- Sale of cemetery plot to George and Eva Kuykendall at Nutmeg Cemetery
- Sale of cemetery plot to David and Anne Skaden at Sharon Hill Cemetery
- Discussion of partnership with Washington County Engineering for shared road work on 110th Street
The Kalona City Council approved the agenda, minutes, and a list of bills. It passed two ordinances on final reading: one updating sewer charges and private water system fees, and another allowing fireworks on certain dates. The council also approved cemetery plot sales, a road work partnership with Washington County, and moved the July 7 meeting to July 9.
- Approved agenda and minutes from June 2, 2025 (all yes)
- Allowed bills totaling over $100,000 (all yes)
- Passed Ordinance 2025-365 on sewer charges and private water systems (5-0)
- Passed Ordinance 2025-366 allowing fireworks on July 3, 4, and December 31 (5-0)
- Approved cemetery plot sales to Kuykendall and Skaden (all yes)
- Approved partnership with Washington County for 110th Street road work (all yes)
- Moved July 7 council meeting to July 9, 2025 (all yes)
Council
The Kalona City Council will hold its regular meeting on June 2, 2025, with several items for discussion and action. Key items include renewing cigarette permits for three businesses, reviewing the 2023-2024 audit report, and discussing a proposed engineering service agreement for water treatment plant improvements and Wells #7 and #8. The council will also consider the placement of these wells in Kalona City Park and hold first readings of ordinances amending sewer charges and fireworks regulations.
- Cigarette permit renewals for Casey's General Store, Westside Petro, and Dollar General (pending paperwork)
- Review and acceptance of the 2023-2024 audit report
- Discussion of proposed engineering service agreement with Garden and Associates for water treatment plant improvements and Wells #7 and #8
- Discussion of proposed placement of Wells #7 and #8 in Kalona City Park
- First reading of ordinance amending sewer charges and private water systems; first reading of ordinance amending fireworks regulations
The Kalona City Council approved a $420,000 engineering service agreement with Garden and Associates for the Water Treatment Plant Improvements, Water System Transmission Line, and Wells #7 & #8 Project. The council also approved first readings of ordinances on sewer charges/private water systems and fireworks, renewed cigarette permits for three businesses, and accepted the 2023-2024 audit report. Staff was directed to draft an ordinance regulating agricultural equipment in the downtown area.
- Approved $420,000 engineering agreement with Garden and Associates (5-0)
- Approved first reading of Ordinance 2025-365 on sewer charges and private water systems (4-0, Spitzer abstained)
- Approved first reading of Ordinance 2025-366 on fireworks (5-0)
- Renewed cigarette permits for Casey's, Westside Petro, and Dollar General (3-2)
- Accepted 2023-2024 audit report (5-0)
- Approved bills list (5-0)
- Directed staff to create ordinance regulating agricultural equipment in downtown
- Directed staff to investigate no-parking area and memorial sign at 6th & C Avenue
Council
The Kalona City Council will hold its regular meeting on May 19, 2025, at 7:00 PM. The agenda includes second readings of ordinances on water service rates, rental deposits, and sewer service rates, with the option to pass them as final readings. The council will also consider a 2025-2026 law enforcement contract, a public hearing and resolution on a 2024-2025 budget amendment, a conditional use agreement for property at 2254 133rd Street, a zoning map amendment, and renewal of the YMCA management contract.
- Second reading of ordinances on water service rates and rental deposits
- Second reading of ordinance on sewer service rates
- Consideration of 2025-2026 law enforcement contract
- Public hearing and resolution for 2024-2025 budget amendment
- Conditional use agreement for property at 2254 133rd Street
The Kalona City Council approved three ordinances: water rate increases (Ordinance 2025-363), sewer rate increases (Ordinance 2025-364), and a rezoning of 5.7 acres at 2254 133rd Street from A-1 to C-2 (Ordinance 2025-362). The council also approved the 2025-2026 law enforcement contract with Washington County for $336,451, the 2024-2025 budget amendment, a conditional use agreement for the same property, and the YMCA management contract at $54,000 annually. All votes were unanimous among the four present members (Bender, J Schmidt, G Schmidt, Beisheim); Spitzer was absent.
- Approved water rate increases (Ordinance 2025-363) with 3-year schedule (4-0)
- Approved sewer rate increases (Ordinance 2025-364) with 3-year schedule (4-0)
- Approved rezoning 5.7 acres at 2254 133rd St from A-1 to C-2 (Ordinance 2025-362) (4-0)
- Approved 2025-2026 law enforcement contract with Washington County for $336,451 (4-0)
- Approved 2024-2025 Budget Amendment (Resolution 2025-I) (4-0)
- Approved conditional use agreement for property at 2254 133rd Street (4-0)
- Approved YMCA management contract at $54,000 annually (4-0)
- Approved bills list and minutes (all yes)
Council
The Kalona City Council is holding its regular meeting on May 5, 2025, with second readings of ordinances to change council and mayor pay after January 1, 2026, and first readings on zoning map changes, water and sewer rates, and rental deposits. A public hearing and conditional use agreement for property at 2254 133rd Street are also on the agenda, along with setting a hearing for a budget amendment.
- Second reading of ordinance to change council pay after Jan 1, 2026
- Second reading of ordinance to change mayor pay after Jan 1, 2026
- Public hearing and conditional use agreement for 2254 133rd Street
- First reading of ordinance amending zoning map
- First reading of ordinances on water service rates/rental deposits and sewer service rates
The Kalona City Council approved final readings of ordinances raising council member pay from $50 to $60 per meeting and the mayor's salary from $3,000 to $3,250 per year, effective January 1, 2026. It also passed first readings of ordinances increasing water and sewer rates over three years, and approved a rezoning request for 5.70 acres at 2254 133rd Street from A-1 to C-2. The council allowed bills totaling over $100,000 and set a public hearing for a budget amendment.
- Approved council pay raise to $60 per meeting (5-0)
- Approved mayor salary increase to $3,250 per year (5-0)
- Approved first reading of water rate ordinance with 3-year increases (5-0)
- Approved first reading of sewer rate ordinance with 3-year increases (5-0)
- Approved first reading of rezoning 5.70 acres at 2254 133rd St to C-2 (5-0)
- Approved bills list totaling $100,000+ (5-0)
- Set public hearing for May 19, 2025 on budget amendment (5-0)
Council
The Kalona City Council will hold a public hearing on the 2025-2026 budget and consider a resolution to approve it, along with budget transfers. The council will also vote on hiring full-time general laborers, approving job duty and wage adjustments, and a payroll matrix. Other items include ordinances changing council and mayor pay after January 1, 2026, and setting a public hearing for a conditional use re-zoning request.
- Public hearing and resolution for 2025-2026 budget and transfers
- Hiring of full-time general laborers
- Amendment to job duties and wage adjustments
- Ordinance changing council pay after January 1, 2026
- Public hearing set for May 5, 2025, on re-zoning request for 2254 133rd Street
The Kalona City Council approved the 2025-2026 budget with a tax levy rate of $10.36 per $1,000, unchanged from the previous year. They also approved hiring two full-time general laborers, amended job duties and wages for several staff, and passed first readings of ordinances to increase council and mayor compensation. A public hearing was set for a rezoning request, and a moratorium on cargo container building permits was enacted.
- Approved 2025-2026 budget and transfers (5-0)
- Approved hiring Patrick Woodburn and Ethan Garrett as general laborers (5-0)
- Approved amended job duties and wage adjustments for four staff (5-0)
- Approved 2025-2026 pay matrix with 5% wage adjustments (5-0)
- Approved Resolution 2025-H for non-profit payments (5-0)
- Passed first reading of Ordinance 2025-360 increasing council pay to $60/meeting (5-0)
- Passed first reading of Ordinance 2025-361 increasing mayor pay to $3,250/year (5-0)
- Set public hearing for May 5 on rezoning 2254 133rd St to C-2 (5-0)
Council
The Kalona City Council is holding a public hearing to discuss the proposed property tax levy for the 2025-2026 budget year. This is the main item on the agenda, and no other business is listed.
- Public hearing for proposed property tax levy for budget year 2025-2026
The Kalona City Council held a public hearing on the proposed property tax levy for the 2025-2026 budget, with residents asking questions about state tax changes and the tax rate. The council then approved the agenda, minutes, and a list of bills, and set a public hearing for the 2025-2026 budget on April 21. They also approved temporary street closures for a bike race, an easement for Alliant Energy, a liquor license renewal, and grants for tree planting and a mobile solar emergency trailer.
- Approved agenda and minutes (all yes)
- Approved bills list (all yes)
- Set public hearing for 2025-2026 budget on April 21, 2025 (all yes)
- Approved Resolution 2025-F for temporary street closures for 100k Horseshoe Gravel Bike Race (all yes)
- Approved Alliant Energy easement on Sharon Hill Cemetery west property line (all yes)
- Approved Timeless Charm Class B Native Wine License renewal (4-1)
- Approved Trees Forever Grant of $10,000 for 52 trees (all yes)
- Approved IEDA Grant for Mobile Solar Emergency Response Trailer with $1,500 city match (all yes)
Council
The Kalona City Council is holding its regular meeting with several action items, including a second reading of an ordinance to amend special speed zones, selling cemetery plots, and closing part of D Avenue for the Kalona Home Show. The council will also set a ribbon-cutting date for Vista Park and discuss installing a road culvert for potential public parking on South 14th Street.
- Second reading (with option for third/final) of ordinance amending Code of Ordinances Section 63.04 Special Speed Zones
- Sale of Sharon Hill Cemetery plots to Robert Shaver and to Larry Robert and Leni Adonise Hynes
- Resolution to temporarily close a portion of D Avenue for the Kalona Home Show
- Setting ribbon cutting date and time for Vista Park
- Discussion of installing road culvert on city-owned recreational land for potential public parking on South 14th Street
The Kalona City Council approved an ordinance amending speed zones, setting 45 mph on 133rd Street to Nutmeg Avenue and 35 mph near Nutmeg and Vista Drive. The council also approved selling cemetery deeds, a temporary street closure, and a culvert project for public parking access. All votes were unanimous.
- Approved speed zone ordinance: 45 mph on 133rd St to Nutmeg Ave, 35 mph near Nutmeg/Vista Dr (5-0)
- Approved sale of Sharon Hill and Nutmeg Cemetery deeds to Robert Shaver and Larry Robert/Leni Adonise Hynes (5-0)
- Approved Resolution 2025-E closing D Avenue from 6th St crosswalk 124 ft east, March 28-29 (5-0)
- Set Vista Park ribbon-cutting for May 3, 2025, 9:30-11:30 AM
- Directed staff to proceed with Washington County Engineering on culvert installation for public parking
Council
The Kalona City Council will hold its regular meeting on March 3, 2025, at 7:00 PM. The agenda includes a first reading of an ordinance amending speed zones, consideration of an equipment purchase, discussion of the Kalona Trails Community, a possible agreement for part-time building inspection services, and a resolution to temporarily close streets. Public forum and comment periods are available.
- First reading of ordinance amending Code of Ordinances Section 63.04 Special Speed Zones
- Consideration of equipment purchase
- Discussion of Kalona Trails Community
- Consideration of agreement for part-time building inspection services
- Resolution establishing temporary closing of streets
The Kalona City Council approved the first reading of an ordinance amending speed zones on 133rd Street and Nutmeg Avenue, setting 45 mph on most of Nutmeg and 35 mph near the Vista Drive intersection. The council also approved the purchase of a new TORO mower for $67,321.33 (4-1), signed a building inspection agreement with Terry Goerdt, and authorized a temporary street closure for an Easter event. All other actions were routine approvals of minutes, bills, and transfers.
- Approved first reading of speed zone ordinance (5-0)
- Approved $67,321.33 TORO mower purchase (4-1)
- Signed building inspection agreement with Terry Goerdt at $45/hour (5-0)
- Authorized temporary closure of 9th Street for Easter event (5-0)
- Approved agenda and minutes (5-0)
- Allowed bills totaling $208,000+ (5-0)
Council
The City Council will review bills and receive a report from the City Administrator. The agenda includes setting a public hearing date for the proposed budget tax levy and accepting donated funds for trails.
- Public hearing for Proposed Budget Tax Levy set for April 7, 2025
- Acceptance of donated funds towards Trails
- Iowa Alcoholic Beverage Division renewal for Los Amigos Taqueria (Class C Retail Alcohol License)
The Kalona City Council approved the agenda, minutes, and a list of bills totaling over $100,000. They set a public hearing for the proposed property levy on April 7, 2025, at 6:30 PM, with a rate equivalent to last year's. The council accepted a $1,000,000 donation from the Shiloh Committee for a walking/biking trail from Kalona City Park to Kalona Vista Park. They also approved a Class C Retail Alcohol License for Los Amigos Taqueria.
- Approved agenda and minutes from February 3, 2025 (all yes)
- Allowed bills as listed (all yes)
- Set public hearing for property levy on April 7, 2025, at 6:30 PM (all yes)
- Accepted $1,000,000 donation from Shiloh Committee for trail project
- Approved Class C Retail Alcohol License for Los Amigos Taqueria (all yes)
Council
The Kalona City Council will hold its regular meeting, covering routine items like minutes and bills, plus a public forum. New business includes a chamber presentation, sale of cemetery plots, opening a bank account for donated trail funds, establishing a trails committee, liquor license renewal, and discussion of the proposed Washington County Riverboat Fund distribution and the preliminary 2025-2026 budget.
- Sale of cemetery plots at Sharon Hill and Nutmeg cemeteries for multiple named individuals
- Opening an account with Hills Bank and Trust for donated funds designated for trails from Shiloh
- Establishing a Trails Committee
- Approval of Iowa Alcoholic Beverage Division renewal for Kalona Historical Society (Special Class B Retail Native Wine License)
- Discussion of proposed Washington County Riverboat Fund distribution for 2025-2026 budget
The Kalona City Council approved the Washington County Riverboat Fund distribution of $235,000 for 2025-2026, covering projects like the Community Center Debt, Historical Village, Fire Department Equipment, Parks, Community Events, Student Build House, and C Avenue Lot. They also approved selling cemetery plots, opening a trail donation account, establishing a Trails Committee, and a liquor license for the Kalona Historical Society. The council reviewed the preliminary 2025-2026 budget, noting required water and sewer rate increases starting July 1, 2025, and directed staff to seek grant funding options.
- Approved $235,000 Riverboat Fund projects for 2025-2026 (all yes)
- Approved sale of cemetery plots at Sharon Hill and Nutmeg (all yes)
- Authorized opening Hills Bank account for trail donations (all yes)
- Established Trails Committee (all yes)
- Approved Special Class B Retail Native Wine License for Kalona Historical Society (all yes)
- Approved agenda and minutes (all yes)
- Allowed bills totaling $235,000+ (all yes)
Council
The Kalona City Council will hold a work session to discuss the Yoder Property, water system improvements, and wastewater treatment facility improvements. The regular meeting will consider selling cemetery plots, approving a bridge inspection agreement, updating cemetery charges, and a liquor license, plus an economic development update.
- Discussion of Yoder Property
- Discussion of Water System Improvements
- Discussion of Wastewater Treatment Facility Improvements
- Consideration of Selling Sharon Hill Cemetery Plots to Edward and Linda Fisher and Irene McDowell
- Resolution Updating All Kalona Municipal Cemetery Charges
The Kalona City Council held a work session and regular meeting on January 22, 2025. They discussed updates on the Yoder Property, water system improvements (estimated $3.5M), and wastewater system improvements (estimated $7M), directing staff to calculate rate increases for potential State Revolving Fund loans. In the regular meeting, they approved the agenda, minutes, bills, sale of cemetery plots, a bridge inspection agreement, a resolution updating cemetery charges, and a liquor license for Tipsy Travelers.
- Approved agenda (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from January 6, 2025 (unanimous)
- Allowed bills as listed (unanimous)
- Approved sale of Sharon Hill Cemetery plots to Edward and Linda Fisher and Irene McDowell (unanimous)
- Approved 2025 Bridge Inspection Program Agreement with Calhoun-Burns Associates (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 2025-C updating cemetery charges (unanimous)
- Approved 5-Day Special Class C Retail Alcohol License for Tipsy Travelers (4-1)
Council
The Kalona City Council is meeting for its regular session. The agenda includes routine items like minutes and bills, plus a report from the city administrator. New business includes recognizing Washington County Riverboat Foundation funds, passing resolutions on official publications and appointments, discussing cemetery charges, and considering the Student House Project with grant funds for a job trailer and tools.
- Recognition of 4th Quarter Washington County Riverboat Foundation Funds
- Resolution Designating Official Publication, Committee Membership, and Appointing Certain City Officers
- Resolution Making Appointments and Confirming Appointments by the Mayor
- Discussion of Cemetery Charges
- Consideration of Student House Project and use of Riverboat grant funds for job trailer and tools
The Kalona City Council approved the agenda, minutes, and a list of bills. They passed resolutions designating official publication, committee memberships, and city officer appointments, as well as confirming mayor's appointments to various boards. The council recognized $51,749.79 in Washington County Riverboat Funds for budgeted projects and directed staff to continue with the Student House Project, including purchasing a job trailer and tools. Cemetery charge increases were discussed but tabled for later action.
- Approved agenda and minutes (all yes)
- Allowed bills totaling $51,749.79 (all yes)
- Approved Resolution 2025-A designating publication, committees, and officers (5-0)
- Approved Resolution 2025-B confirming board appointments (5-0)
- Recognized $51,749.79 in Riverboat Funds for budget projects
- Directed staff to continue Student House Project, including job trailer and tools purchase
- Tabled cemetery charge increases for later resolution