Independence, Iowa

City Council

City Council

Planning and Zoning Commission

Airport Board

City Council

Library Board

City Council

Planning and Zoning Commission

Airport Board

City Council

City Council

Library Board

City Council

City Council

Planning and Zoning Commission

Airport Board

City Council

Library Board

City Council

City Council

Planning and Zoning Commission

Airport Board

City Council

Library Board

City Council

Planning and Zoning Commission

Airport Board

City Council

City Council

Library Board

City Council

City Council

Planning and Zoning Commission

Airport Board

City Council

Library Board

City Council

City Council

Planning and Zoning Commission

Airport Board

City Council

Library Board

City Council

City Council

Planning and Zoning Commission

Airport Board

City Council

Library Board

City Council

City Council

Planning and Zoning Commission

Airport Board

City Council

Library Board

City Council

City Council

Planning and Zoning Commission

Airport Board

City Council

Library Board

City Council

Planning and Zoning Commission

Airport Board

Library Board

The Independence Library Board will review and vote on several policy updates, including the Prize and Incentives Policy and the Fines and Fees Policy. The board will receive a Strategic Plan Update and a Programming Update. A Budget Forecast will be presented for discussion. Additional items include a Park Project update and a review of the website revision.

• Prize and Incentives Policy
• Fines and Fees Policy
• Strategic Plan Update
• Budget Forecast
• Park Project

City Council

The Independence City Council will approve a consent agenda that includes a RAGBRAI special Class C retail alcohol license and a Sip N Zip retail tobacco permit. They will consider ordinance amendments to the traffic code and set a public hearing on fee schedule changes. The council will further review bids and award a contract for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications Project, and they will call an election on a proposed General Obligation Loan Agreement. Additional resolutions address preliminary plats, rezoning notices, and official posting locations.

• Approve consent agenda items: June 22 minutes, RAGBRAI Class C retail alcohol license (July 20‑24, 2026), Sip N Zip retail tobacco permit for FY 2027
• Second reading of ordinance amendment to Chapter 70 – Traffic Code Enforcement Procedures
• Award contract for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications Project after further bid consideration
• Resolution to provide notice of hearing on rezoning R‑2 to M‑2 for LARD LLC
• Resolution calling an election on a proposal to enter into a General Obligation Loan Agreement

Airport Board

The Airport Board will discuss two lease requests for Hangar No. 2 (Vault Hangar) and a request for proposals for mechanic services. Routine items include roll call, agenda approval, minutes approval, and public comment.

• RFP for Mechanic Services
• Hangar No. 2 (Vault Hangar) Lease Request
• Hangar No. 2 (Vault Hangar) Lease Request (2)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Independence Planning and Zoning Commission will meet on July 7, 2026 to review several development items. Items include approval of previous minutes, appointment of a chair, and the consideration of preliminary plats for The Pines Fourth Addition and Pries Enterprises. The commission will also discuss rezoning requests from LARD LLC, Pries Enterprises Inc., and Buchanan County for a senior center, as well as a lot combination agreement with Pries.

• Preliminary Plat of Survey – The Pines Fourth Addition to the City of Independence
• Plat of Survey – Pries Enterprises
• Rezoning of parcels – LARD LLC
• Rezoning of parcels – Pries Enterprises Inc.
• Lot Combination Agreement – Pries

City Council

The City Council will hold a work session to discuss funding for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Replacement and Fire Department Expansion projects. The body will also review a right-of-way abandonment and potential ordinance changes. This session is for discussion and debate prior to formal consideration at a future meeting.

• Wastewater Treatment Plant Replacement Project funding discussion
• Fire Department Expansion Project funding discussion
• Right of Way Abandonment at 10th Street NE
• Ordinance Amendment to repeal Chapter 71 regarding Automated Traffic Enforcement
• Discussion on Chapter 76 Bicycle Regulations and visibility at 2nd St NE and Highway 150 North

The City Council held a work session to hear updates from several city departments. Discussion included funding for the wastewater treatment plant and fire department expansion, as well as street and ordinance matters.

• No substantive decisions were made during this work session

Airport Board

City Council

The City Council will consider a first reading of an ordinance amendment to Chapter 70, which updates traffic code enforcement procedures. Resolutions include approving Geater Machining & Manufacturing's application to the Iowa BIG program and accepting work on the 8th Avenue NW stormwater improvements project. The council will also consider an engineering services agreement for the Enterprise Drive Trail Extension Phase 2. Consent items include several alcohol license renewals and a street closure request.

• First reading of Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 70 – Traffic Code Enforcement Procedures
• Resolution approving Geater Machining & Manufacturing's application to the Iowa BIG program
• Resolution accepting work on the Independence 8th Avenue NW - IPF Area Stormwater Improvements Project
• Consideration of Engineering Services Agreement with Crawford Engineering & Surveying for Enterprise Drive Trail Extension - Phase 2
• Renewal of Del Rio Class C retail alcohol license and Chuong Garden Special Class C retail alcohol license

The council approved the agenda, consent agenda and a series of payment bills. It adopted the first reading of a traffic‑code amendment and suspended the two‑meeting rule for that ordinance. It also approved a resolution supporting Geater Machining’s application to the Iowa Economic Development Authority BIG Program, a storm‑water improvements project on 8th Avenue NW, and an engineering services agreement for the Enterprise Drive Trail Extension Phase 2.

• Approved agenda (all members ayes)
• Approved consent agenda items (all members ayes)
• Approved payment bills totaling $736,686.40 (all members ayes)
• Approved first reading of traffic‑code amendment (ayes: Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, Appleby, Weber)
• Suspended two‑meeting rule for ordinance (ayes: Moore, Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, Weber; nays: Appleby, Hanna)
• Approved resolution supporting Geater Machining BIG Program application (ayes: Mayner, O’Loughlin, Appleby, Weber, Hanna, Moore, Prusator)
• Approved resolution accepting 8" Avenue NW storm‑water improvements project (ayes: O’Loughlin, Appleby, Weber, Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner)
• Approved Engineering Services Agreement for Enterprise Drive Trail Extension Phase 2 (ayes: Weber, Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin; nays: Appleby)

Library Board

The Library Board will meet to discuss and potentially approve policies regarding prizes and incentives for patrons and fines and fees. Other business includes approval of bills, a statistics report, staff and park updates, and library board training.

• Consideration of Prizes and Incentives Policy
• Consideration of Fines and Fees Policy
• Approval of bills and financial reports
• Staff and park updates
• Library Board training

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings regarding a snow removal project at the Independence Municipal Airport and modifications to the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The body will also consider the sale of real property and updates to solid waste collection fees.

• Public hearing and contract award for Snow Removal Acquisition Improvements Project at Independence Municipal Airport
• Public hearing and resolution for the sale of real property at 416 9th Ave SE
• Public hearing and bid consideration for Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications Project
• Resolution to replace and repeal Resolution 2025-52 regarding Solid Waste Collection and Environmental Impact Fee Rates
• Resolution approving Pries Enterprises' application to the Iowa Economic Development Authority BIG Program

The Council approved an airport snow removal project, the sale of real property at 416 9th Avenue SE, and updated wastewater treatment plant specifications. Additional actions included updating solid waste collection fees and establishing a temporary parking moratorium.

• Approved $457,378.64 airport snow removal contract to Bodensteiner Implement Company (7-0)
• Approved sale of 416 9th Avenue SE to Jared Donnelly for $1,500 (6-1)
• Approved Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications plans and specifications (7-0)
• Approved updated Solid Waste Collection Fees and Environmental Impact Fee Rates (7-0)
• Approved parking moratorium on south side of 12th Street NE through end of 2026 (7-0)
• Approved support for Pries Enterprises application to Iowa Economic Development Authority BIG Program (7-0)

Airport Board

The Airport Board will receive updates from the engineer, chairman, city manager, and airport manager. Key discussion items include commercial building findings and research, as well as commercial building requirements for 2026. Revenues and expenses to date will be presented for information only.

• Commercial Building Findings and Research
• Commercial building requirements 2026
• Revenues and Expenses to date – Information Only
• Engineer Update
• Chairman/City Manager Update

Planning and Zoning Commission

City Council

The City Council will hold a work session to discuss and debate items for future formal consideration. Key topics include a water system study, updates on the fire department expansion, and proposed ballot language for that expansion. The council will also consider an ordinance amending traffic code enforcement procedures and discuss a Mechanic IA services contract.

• Water System Study Report
• Fire Department Expansion Update
• Ballot Language for the Fire Department Expansion
• Mechanic IA Services Contract Discussion
• Ordinance amending Chapter 70 Traffic Code Enforcement Procedures

The City Council conducted a work session to hear updates from several city departments. No substantive decisions or votes were recorded during this meeting.

City Council

The Independence City Council will hold its regular meeting on May 26, 2026, to discuss a final reading of a zoning ordinance amendment, a public hearing on selling a property at 204 3rd St NE, and a budget amendment.

• Final reading of Chapter 170 Zoning Regulations amendment
• Public hearing to sell 204 3rd St NE
• Resolution to approve Lot Combination Agreement for StealGard Inc.
• Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Amendment #2
• Old Rush Park Tavern Class C alcohol license renewal

The City Council approved a zoning ordinance amendment and authorized the sale of 204 3rd Street NE to Jared Donnelly for $5,000. Additionally, the council passed resolutions to amend the Fiscal Year 2026 budget and approve a lot combination agreement for StealGard, Inc.

• Approved agenda (All)
• Approved consent agenda including May 11 minutes and Old Rush Park Tavern license renewal (All)
• Approved bills for payment (All)
• Adopted zoning ordinance amendment No. 2026-635 (7-0)
• Authorized sale of 204 3rd Street NE to Jared Donnelly for $5,000 (6-1)
• Amended Fiscal Year 2026 budget via Resolution No. 2026-49 (7-0)
• Approved lot combination agreement for StealGard, Inc. via Resolution No. 2026-50 (7-0)
• Approved $9,043.61 Commercial Restoration Rehab Grant for 119 1st Street East (7-0)

Library Board

The Library Board will meet to review financial bills and statistics. The primary new business item is the discussion of wage and salary increases for fiscal year 2027.

• Wage and Salary Increases FY27
• Approval of bills
• Programming update
• Park update
• Library Board Training

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Independence Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a special meeting on May 19, 2026. The agenda includes a roll call, approval of the May 5, 2026 minutes, and discussion of a parcel combination for the Stealgard area. No other items are listed.

• Parcel Combination – Stealgard
• Approval of previous minutes – 5/5/2026

City Council

The City Council will discuss budget amendments, salary increases for the City Manager and other employees, and a new police union contract. The body is also considering the sale of two city properties and several equipment purchases.

• Public hearing for Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Amendment #2
• Proposed sale of 204 3rd Street NE and 416 9th Avenue SE
• Salary increases for City Manager and salaried/non-bargaining employees effective July 1, 2026
• Police Department Union Contract for July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2028
• Authorization for purchase of a combination jet/vac truck and a 3/4 ton streets truck

The council adopted final and second readings of ordinances amending Chapter 65‑Stop Required and Chapter 170‑Zoning Regulations. Members also suspended the two‑meeting rule for ordinance consideration, approved a citywide salary increase for employees, and authorized several resolutions including a snow‑removal project bid, a new coin‑acceptance policy, a lot‑combination agreement, and decertification of certain assessments.

• Adopted ordinance amending Chapter 65‑Stop Required (final reading) – Ayes: Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, Appleby, Weber (7 ayes)
• Adopted ordinance amending Chapter 170‑Zoning Regulations (second reading) – Ayes: Moore, Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, Appleby, Weber, Hanna (7 ayes)
• Suspended statutory rule requiring two‑meeting consideration for ordinances – Ayes: Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, Weber, Moore; Nays: Appleby, Hanna (5‑2)
• Approved salary increases for salaried and non‑bargaining employees effective July 1, 2026 – Ayes: Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, Appleby, Weber (7 ayes)
• Approved resolution ordering bids and public hearing for Snow Removal Acquisition Improvements Project – Ayes: Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, Appleby, Weber, Hanna, Moore (7 ayes)
• Adopted coin acceptance policy – Ayes: Weber, Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin; Nays: Appleby (6‑1)
• Approved lot‑combination agreement for property at 810 3rd Avenue SW – Ayes: O’Loughlin, Appleby, Weber, Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner (7 ayes)
• Approved decertification of certain assessments sent to Buchanan County Treasurer – Ayes: Appleby, Weber, Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin (7 ayes)

Airport Board

The Airport Board will consider routine approvals, staff updates, and a development inquiry regarding airport property. The meeting also includes reports on revenues and expenses to date.

• Development Inquiry – Airport Property
• Revenues and Expenses to Date
• Engineer Update
• Chairman/City Manager Update
• Clint Spearman update

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission will review and decide on three land-use items: a lot combination at 810 3rd Ave SW, a parcel division by Juhl, and a lot combination by Stealgard Inc. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes from April 7, 2026.

• Lot combination - 810 3rd Ave SW - Mishler
• Parcel Division - Juhl
• Lot Combination - Stealgard Inc

The Planning and Zoning Commission approved three lot‑combination requests and one parcel‑division request, each by a unanimous 6‑0 vote. All motions were recommended and carried as presented. The meeting then adjourned.

• Approved lot combination for Kevin and Wendy Mishler (parcels 1004416006 & 1004416007) – 6-0
• Approved parcel division for Terry and Christine Juhl (parcel 1003426004) – 6-0
• Approved lot combination for Stealgard Inc. (parcels 0635151001 & 0635151004) – 6-0
• Approved minutes from April 7, 2026 meeting – 6-0
• Adjourned meeting – motion carried

City Council

This work session includes updates and discussions on several city departments and projects. Topics include police staffing levels, fire department expansion, wastewater treatment plant updates, and a potential real estate disposition. No public hearings are held during work sessions, but the council may take action on posted action items.

• Police Department Staffing Level discussion
• Fire Department Expansion Project Update
• Wastewater Treatment Plant Update
• 416 9th Ave. SE – Disposition of Real Estate
• 28E Agreement with BCEMA for Radiological Incident Response Assistance

The Independence City Council met for a work session on May 4, 2026. Council members received updates from the Fire Department, Public Library, Parks and Recreation, and Police Department and discussed topics such as RAGBRAI, wastewater treatment, stormwater study, fire expansion, a radiological‑incident response agreement, police staffing, real‑estate disposition, a city‑wide clean‑up day, a chicken request, and a coin‑acceptance policy. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded, and the meeting was adjourned at 7:06 p.m.

City Council

The council will hold a public hearing on a proposed rezoning from M-2 Heavy Manufacturing to C-2 Commercial. They will also conduct third reading of a zoning ordinance amendment, second reading of a stop-required ordinance, and first reading of another zoning amendment. Other business includes funding agreements, a RAGBRAI special event application, and a closed session for real estate strategy.

• Public hearing on rezoning M-2 Heavy Manufacturing to C-2 Commercial
• Third reading of Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 170 Zoning Regulations
• Second reading of Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 65 – Stop Required
• First reading of Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 170 Zoning Regulations
• Closed session per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(j) for real estate strategy

The council passed the third reading of a zoning amendment to Chapter 170 and a second reading of a Chapter 65 amendment. It approved funding agreements for a $12,000 fireworks display and a $10,000 agribition center project. Several members were appointed to airport commissions, a $144,720.60 purchase was authorized, and the RAGBRAI special event was approved. A public hearing for Budget Amendment #2 was scheduled for May 11, 2026.

• Approved third and final reading of Chapter 170-Zoning Regulations amendment (6 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved second reading of Chapter 65-Stop Required amendment (6 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved funding agreement with Independence Celebrations Committee for $12,000 fireworks (5 ayes, 1 nay)
• Approved funding agreement with Heartland Acres Agribition Center for $10,000 (5 ayes, 1 nay)
• Appointed Bill Lake to the Airport Zoning Commission (6 ayes)
• Approved purchase of materials from J & R Supply, Inc. for $144,720.60 (6 ayes)
• Approved special event application for RAGBRAI (6 ayes)
• Set public hearing date May 11, 2026 for FY2026 Budget Amendment #2 (6 ayes)

Library Board

The Independence Library Board meets to consider a technology plan and an internet usage policy, along with approving bills and reviewing a statistics report. Other updates include a park project and staff matters. The agenda is largely procedural with no detailed proposals or votes listed.

• Technology Plan discussion
• Internet Usage Policy review
• Approval of bills (no amounts listed)
• Park Update
• Staff Update

City Council

The Independence City Council will conduct a public hearing on the Fiscal Year 2027 budget. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as the pledge of allegiance, roll call, and agenda approval. No other decisions or proposals are listed on the agenda.

• Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Public Hearing

The council unanimously approved the special meeting agenda and then adjourned. No budget approvals, ordinances, or other substantive matters were decided.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will consider the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget, Capital Improvements Program, and Transfers. The body will also review ordinance amendments regarding parking, zoning, and stop requirements, and discuss funding agreements with five local organizations.

• Resolution to approve the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget, CIP, and Transfers
• Notice of hearing for Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications Project bids
• Rezoning request from M-2 Heavy Manufacturing to C-2 Commercial
• Funding agreements with Operation Threshold Inc., Buchanan County Senior Center, Buchanan County Tourism, Independence Area Chamber of Commerce, and Northeast Iowa RC&D
• Ordinance amendments to Chapter 69 (Parking), Chapter 170 (Zoning), and Chapter 65 (Stop Required)

The council approved the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, capital improvement program, and related transfers. Several ordinances amending parking, zoning, and stop‑sign requirements were adopted, and a public hearing was scheduled for a rezoning request. Funding agreements were approved for Operation Threshold, Buchanan County Tourism, and the Independence Area Chamber of Commerce.

• Approved FY 2027 budget, CIP, and transfers (6-1)
• Adopted Parking Regulations amendment (Ordinance 2026-632) (6-1)
• Approved Zoning Regulations amendment (second reading) (7-0)
• Approved Stop Required amendment (first reading) (7-0)
• Set public hearing on April 27 for M‑2 to C‑2 rezoning (7-0)
• Approved $2,000 Operation Threshold funding agreement (6-1)
• Approved $5,000 Buchanan County Tourism funding agreement (6-1)
• Approved $8,000 Independence Area Chamber of Commerce funding agreement (6-1)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Independence Planning and Zoning Commission will open the meeting, record roll call, and approve the minutes from February 23, 2026 and March 3, 2026. It will also discuss a rezoning application submitted by McDonald. The agenda ends with adjournment.

• Approval of minutes from 2/23/26
• Approval of minutes from 3/3/26
• Consideration of rezoning application – McDonald

The commission approved the February 23 and March 3 minutes unanimously. A recommendation to rezone Michael McDonald’s property to C‑1 was retracted after discussion. The commission voted 4‑0 to recommend the City Council rezoning parcel 1005400015 from M‑2 Heavy Manufacturing to C‑2 Commercial.

• Approved 2/23/26 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 3/3/26 minutes (unanimous)
• Retracted recommendation to rezone Michael McDonald property to C‑1
• Recommended rezoning parcel 1005400015 from M‑2 to C‑2 (vote 4‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Independence City Council will hold a work session to discuss updates on the wastewater treatment plant, RAGBRAI, and a mural project, as well as future projects like Larson Lane and Cedar Street.

• Wastewater Treatment Plant Update
• RAGBRAI Update
• Mural Project Update
• 2025 Bridge Inspection Reports
• Larson Lane and Cedar Street Potential Future Project

The Independence City Council met for a work session, heard updates from several departments, and discussed various projects and topics. No formal decisions, approvals, or denials were recorded. The meeting was adjourned at 7:23 p.m.

Airport Board

The Independence Airport Board will meet to approve minutes and discuss new business, including a request for proposals update, engineer updates, and financial reports.

• Approve minutes from a prior meeting
• RFP – Status Update & Discussion
• Engineer Update
• Revenues and Expenses to Date
• Public Comment (5-minute limit)

The Airport Board unanimously approved the agenda, the regular minutes, and the special meeting minutes. No resolutions, contracts, or policy changes were decided. The board discussed a lease request, an RFP status, and state grant opportunities, but deferred any action to future meetings.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved regular minutes (unanimous)
• Approved special meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The Independence City Council will conduct a public hearing on a proposed rezoning of A-1 agricultural property to R-3 residential. The meeting also includes a second reading of a parking regulations amendment and a first reading of a zoning regulations amendment. Council members will set a hearing date for the Fiscal Year 2027 budget and approve routine financial items and the consent agenda.

• Public hearing on rezoning A-1 Agricultural to R-3 Residential
• Second reading of Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 69 – Parking Regulations
• First reading of Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 170 – Zoning Regulations
• Set hearing for Fiscal Year 2027 Budget
• Accept and approve consent agenda (minutes of March 9, 2026 meeting)

City Council

The City Council is holding a special meeting for a budget hearing. The primary purpose is to conduct a public hearing regarding the proposed property tax levy for Fiscal Year 2027.

• Public hearing for the Proposed Property Tax Levy for Fiscal Year 2027

Library Board

The Independence Library Board will approve the agenda, minutes, and any pending bills. A statistics report will be presented, and the board will discuss new business on gutter maintenance and county revenues for libraries. Unfinished business includes a review of the library board bylaws, followed by several updates on staff, legislation, parks, training, and board activities.

• Approve Bills
• Statistics Report
• Gutter Maintenance
• Library Board Bylaws
• County Revenues for Libraries

City Council

City Council

The Independence City Council will review a contract for the 2026 Street Rehabilitation Project and a preliminary plat for the Jackson Green 7th Addition. The body will also hold a first reading of an ordinance amendment regarding parking regulations.

• Contract and bonds for the 2026 Street Rehabilitation Project
• Preliminary plat of Jackson Green 7th Addition
• Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 69 – Parking Regulations
• Rezoning request from A-1 Agricultural to R-3 Residential
• Sale/transfer of Police Department Mobile Command to Black Hawk County

Airport Board

The Independence Airport Board will meet to approve minutes and discuss revenue and expenses. The agenda includes an update on the RAGBRAI 2026 event and reports from the engineer and airport manager.

• Approve minutes from previous meetings
• Review revenues and expenses to date
• Receive Engineer Update
• Receive Chairman/City Manager Update
• Receive Airport Manager Update

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Independence Planning and Zoning Commission meets on March 3, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. in the Council Chambers at 331 First Street East. The commission will conduct a roll call, consider a rezoning request from Steve Gee Construction, and then adjourn. No other business is listed.

• Rezoning request from Steve Gee Construction

City Council

The Independence City Council held a work session to discuss and debate items that may be formally considered at a future council meeting. Presentations included updates on the wastewater treatment plant, a professional engineering study for The Pines stormwater project, and the fire department expansion. New business covered parking changes on the 200 block of 2nd Street NE and the sale/transfer of the police department's mobile command unit to Black Hawk County. The council may take action on any agenda item during this session.

• Wastewater Treatment Plant Update
• Proposal for Professional Engineering Services – The Pines First and Third Stormwater Study
• Fire Department Expansion Project Update
• Parking on 2nd Street NE (200 block)
• Police Department Mobile Command sale/transfer to Black Hawk County, Iowa

The Independence City Council met for a work session on March 2, 2026. Council members received updates from the Fire Department, Public Library, Parks and Recreation, and Police Department. General discussion covered the WWTP Replacement Project, a stormwater study engineering proposal, the Fire Department Expansion Project, parking on 2nd St NE, and the sale/transfer of the Police Department Mobile Command Unit. No formal actions, approvals, or denials were recorded.

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission will consider approving the minutes from the February 1, 2026 meeting, appoint a new commission chair and board secretary, and review the preliminary plat of survey for the Jackson Green 7th Addition. No other agenda items are listed.

• Approval of minutes from 1‑6‑2026
• Appointment of Commission Chair
• Appointment of Board Secretary
• Review of Preliminary Plat of Survey – Jackson Green 7th Addition

City Council

The Independence City Council will consider several items, including the final approval of the 2025 Strategic Plan and the adoption of a 10-Year Capital Improvement Plan covering fiscal years 2027‑2037. A maintenance agreement with the Iowa Department of Transportation will also be discussed. The council will vote on a resolution to update the Employee Handbook and on several consent‑agenda items such as meeting minutes and retail alcohol license applications.

• Adopt the 10-Year Capital Improvement Plan (FY 2027‑2037)
• Approve the 2025 Strategic Plan (final approval)
• Maintenance agreement with the Iowa Department of Transportation
• Resolution to update the Employee Handbook
• Consent agenda items: minutes of Feb 9 and Feb 10 meetings; Allerton Brewing Co. Class C retail alcohol ownership amendment; River’s Edge Sport & Fitness Class C retail alcohol license application

The Independence City Council approved the consent agenda, payment of listed bills, updates to the Employee Handbook, a 2026‑2031 agreement with the Iowa Department of Transportation, the 2025 Strategic Plan, and a 10‑year Capital Improvement Plan for fiscal years 2027‑2037. All motions passed with unanimous or near‑unanimous votes.

• Approved consent agenda items including prior meeting minutes and alcohol license updates (all ayes)
• Approved payment of listed bills (all ayes)
• Approved Employee Handbook changes (7‑0)
• Approved 2026‑2031 Iowa DOT agreement (7‑0)
• Approved 2025 Strategic Plan (7‑0)
• Approved 10‑year Capital Improvement Plan FY 2027‑2037 (7‑0)

Library Board

The Library Board will meet to review the FY 2026-27 budget and the Fines and Fees Policy. The board will also discuss library bylaws and receive updates on programming and buildings.

• Fines and Fees Policy
• Library Board Bylaws
• Library Budget FY 2026-27
• Buildings and Grounds Updates

Airport Board

The Independence Airport Board will convene to review submitted Requests for Proposals (RFPs) during a special meeting in Council Chambers. The board's role is to advise the City Council on the future of Independence aviation.

• Review submitted Requests for Proposals (RFPs)
• Meeting in Council Chambers at 331 First Street East
• Board to advise City Council on aviation development

The board approved the meeting agenda unanimously. It then approved continuing negotiations on an Independence Airport mechanic/trainer contract with Clint Spearman of Spearman’s Aviation Services, with all members voting in favor. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved continuation of negotiations for airport mechanic/trainer contract with Spearman’s Aviation Services (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will hold a work session to review department operating budgets, transfers, and the Capital Improvement Plan for FY2027. The body will also receive a project update on the 1st Street West BUILD Grant application and discuss ambulance services.

• 1st Street West BUILD Grant Application project update
• Ambulance services discussion
• FY2027 Department Operating Budgets
• Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
• Budget transfers

The Independence City Council met for a work session on February 17, 2026. Council members discussed the 1st Street West BUILD grant, ambulance services, department operating budgets, capital improvement plans, and FY 2027 transfers. No motions were voted on or decisions made. The meeting was adjourned at 7:49 p.m.

Airport Board

The Independence Airport Board meeting will elect its officers, receive updates from the engineer, chairman, city manager, and airport manager, and review submitted RFPs. The board will also discuss revenue and expense figures to date. No formal actions beyond the officer election are indicated.

• Election of officers
• Engineer update
• Chairman/City Manager update
• Review of submitted RFPs
• Revenue and expense report to date

The Airport Board unanimously approved the agenda and minutes. Members elected Vicky Pilcher as Chairperson, Merritt Jones as Vice Chair, and Brad Lichty as Secretary. The Board also unanimously agreed to hold a special meeting on February 17 at 11:30 a.m. to finish reviewing two RFP submissions.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Vicky Pilcher Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Merritt Jones Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Brad Lichty Secretary (unanimous)
• Scheduled special meeting Feb 17 to continue RFP review (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will consider a resolution to accept and approve the final plat for The Pines Third Addition. This item addresses the subdivision plan for the new development. No other substantive decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Resolution to accept and approve the final plat of The Pines Third Addition

The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda. A resolution was adopted to accept the final plat of the Pines Third Addition and to authorize the mayor to sign it. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Agenda approved; ayes: all members present, absent: Appleby
• Adopted final plat of the Pines Third Addition; ayes: Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, Weber; absent: Appleby
• Meeting adjourned; ayes: all members present, absent: Appleby

City Council

The council will discuss and vote on the plans, specifications, contract form, and bids for the 2026 Street Rehabilitation Project, culminating in a resolution to award the contract. A hearing will be set for the proposed property tax levy for fiscal year 2027. The body will also consider endorsing a grant application for the 1st Street West corridor rebuilding project and renew two retail alcohol licenses.

• Resolution awarding the contract for the 2026 Street Rehabilitation Project
• Public hearing on plans, specifications, contract form and cost estimate for the 2026 Street Rehabilitation Project
• Set a hearing for the proposed property tax levy for fiscal year 2027
• Resolution to endorse the grant application for the 1st Street West – Rebuilding a Major Corridor Project
• Renewal of Gedney Bakery & Coffeehouse Class C retail alcohol license and Kwik Star #717 Class B retail alcohol license

The council approved the plans, specifications, and contract for the 2026 Street Rehabilitation Project and awarded the contract to Tschiggfrie Excavating Company for $677,326.90. A public hearing on the FY2027 property‑tax levy was scheduled for March 23, 2026. The council also endorsed the 1st Street West corridor grant project and approved several other agreements and financial items.

• Approved agenda (all ayes)
• Approved consent agenda including two retail alcohol license renewals (all ayes)
• Approved bills for payment totaling $282,226.00 (all ayes)
• Set public hearing on FY2027 property‑tax levy for March 23, 2026 (7 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved plans, specifications, and contract for 2026 Street Rehabilitation Project (6 ayes, 1 nay)
• Awarded 2026 Street Rehabilitation Project contract to Tschiggfrie Excavating Co. for $677,326.90 (6 ayes, 1 nay)
• Endorsed 1st Street West corridor grant project (7 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved Amendment #1 to Ritland + Kuiper Landscape Architects agreement (7 ayes, 0 nays)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission meeting scheduled for February 3, 2026, was canceled. No items were decided or discussed.

City Council

The Independence City Council Work Session will review several items slated for future action, including a resolution to endorse grant funding for the 6th Avenue SW Extension Trail Phase 2. The council will also receive updates on the Art Across Indee dam lighting project, the wastewater treatment plant federal grant, and the 1st Street West BUILD grant contract amendment. A major agenda focus is the discussion of the Fiscal Year 2027 levy and associated budget requests.

• Resolution to endorse the 6th Avenue SW Extension Trail Phase 2 for grant funding
• Art Across Indee Update – Dam Lighting
• Wastewater Treatment Plant Update – Federal Grant
• 1st Street West BUILD Grant Application – Contract Amendment
• Fiscal Year 2027 Levy Discussion

The council voted to approve and authorize the mayor to sign a resolution endorsing the 6" Avenue SW Extension Trail Phase 2 project for grant funding. The motion passed with five votes in favor and one against; one member was absent. No other actions were taken before the meeting adjourned.

• Approved endorsement of 6" Avenue SW Extension Trail Phase 2 (5-1)

City Council

The Independence City Council will approve the minutes, alcohol license renewals, and claims. The body will also consider a budget amendment and a sidewalk compliance assessment.

• Approve minutes from January 12, 2026
• Approve Spot #2, Dollar General, and Hartig Drug Company alcohol license renewals
• Approve Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Amendment #1
• Resolution to assess property owner for sidewalk regulation failure
• Approval of Professional Services Agreement with McGrath Human Resources Group

The council approved the meeting agenda, consent agenda and a series of financial bills unanimously. An ordinance amending bicycle and skateboard regulations was adopted by a 5-2 vote. The FY2026 budget amendment, a sidewalk assessment resolution, and a contract for a classification and compensation study were each approved unanimously.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved financial bills totaling $365,095.41 (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance amending bicycle and skateboard regulations (5-2)
• Adopted resolution amending FY2026 budget (7-0)
• Adopted resolution to assess property owners for sidewalk regulations (7-0)
• Approved agreement with McGrath Human Resources Group for classification study (7-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a work session to discuss department Capital Improvement Project (CIP) budgets for fiscal year 2027. The body will also review a classification and compensation study.

• FY 2027 Department CIP Budgets
• Classification and Compensation Study

The Independence City Council met for a work session on January 19, 2026. Members discussed the Fiscal Year 2027 Capital Improvements for each department and the classification and compensation study. No motions were voted on, and the meeting was adjourned at 7:58 p.m.

Library Board

The Independence Library Board will review and approve pending bills, evaluate the library director's performance, and discuss a BCCF grant application. Additional topics include county funding advocacy, library park fundraising, and updates on the Lamont Public Library. The meeting also includes routine reports and training items.

• Approve Bills
• Library Director Evaluation
• BCCF Grant
• County Funding & Advocacy
• Library Park and Fundraising

City Council

The City Council will consider a resolution of necessity for the 2026 Street Rehabilitation Project and approve a Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Amendment. The meeting will also include consent agenda items such as alcohol license renewals.

• 2026 Street Rehabilitation Project resolution of necessity
• Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Amendment #1 public hearing
• Class C retail alcohol license renewals for 319 Social House and Minimart
• Professional Services Agreement with McGrath Human Resources Group
• Fire Service Fee Update – 2026

Airport Board

The Independence Airport Board will meet to elect officers and review revenues and expenses. The meeting includes an engineer update and a discussion regarding the Streeters Lease.

• Election of officers
• Review of revenues and expenses to date
• Engineer update
• Streeters Lease discussion
• 2025 Aviation Fuel Summary

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission will meet to elect a Chairperson and Secretary. The body will also consider approvals for a final plat and a lot combination.

• Bluebird Ct: At the Pines Third Addition Final Plat Approval
• Silberstein lot combination approval
• Election of Commission Chairperson
• Election of Commission Secretary

City Council

At the work session, the Independence City Council will discuss items slated for future formal consideration, including a classification and compensation study, a 10‑year capital improvement plan, and a strategic plan. The council will also consider an ordinance to amend Chapter 175 subdivision regulations to align design standards with the Statewide Urban Design and Specifications (SUDAS). A closed‑session will address a real‑estate strategy, with a follow‑up action item after the session.

• Ordinance to amend Chapter 175 – Subdivision Regulations to align design standards with SUDAS
• 10‑Year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
• Classification and Compensation Study
• Strategic Plan
• Closed session on Real Estate Strategy per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(j)