Newtonia public meetings in 2021
79 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
City Council
The Newton City Council is holding a budget workshop to discuss the FY23 Community Development budget request, capital improvement projects, and debt service and tax increment financing funds. This is a discussion session, not a final decision-making meeting.
- FY23 Community Development Budget Request presented by Erin Chambers
- Capital Improvement Projects discussed by Brian Laube
- Debt Service Fund and Tax Increment Financing Funds presented by Lisa Frasier
City Council
The Newton City Council will meet to discuss and vote on several key items, including a presentation on the 2022 Park Bond Referendum, rezoning of 1404 1st Avenue West, and updates to parking and traffic ordinances. The meeting will also include public hearings on election precinct boundaries and urban renewal plan amendments.
- 2022 Park Bond Referendum presentation by Community Services Director Brian Laube and Newton Park Board
- Rezoning 1404 1st Ave W from C-A: Arterial Commercial to R-2: One- and Two-Family Residential
- Second consideration of ordinance amending parking rules for free municipal lots
- Second consideration of ordinance restricting street parking on E 4½ St S (300-400 blocks)
- Public hearing on urban renewal plan amendment for 1st Avenue East Economic Development Area
Park Board
The Newtonia Park Board will hold an electronic meeting to review and approve minutes from the November 17, 2021 meeting and vote on a recommendation of projects for the proposed park bond referendum. The board will also designate a spokesperson for the upcoming bond referendum presentation.
- Vote on recommendation of projects for the proposed park bond referendum
- Designation of a Park Board Spokesperson for the planned Park Bond Referendum Presentation
SSMID Board
The Newton Downtown SSMID Board is meeting electronically due to COVID-19. They will review minutes from October meetings, hear a finance report, and discuss new business including additional attachment hardware for Christmas decorations. Old business includes a poll of property/business owners about other SSMID projects for FY 21-22, and there will be updates from community partner organizations.
- Review of minutes from October 12 and October 28, 2021 meetings
- Finance report
- Discussion of additional attachment hardware for Christmas decorations
- Poll of property/business owners on other SSMID projects for FY 21-22
- Updates from Main Street, DDNA, and other community partners
Newton Public Library Board of Trustees
The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees is meeting to handle routine business including approving bills and minutes, and will discuss the library's financial report and long-range plan. They will also consider new business such as increasing cataloger hours, a collections price increase, and reviewing trustee manual chapters. The meeting includes public comment and planning for a holiday staff luncheon and building projects.
- Approval of bills
- Library financial report
- Cataloger hours increase approval
- Collections price increase
- FY23 library budget discussion
Employee Relations Committee
The Employee Relations Committee will meet to discuss a 2021 reorganization proposal presented by Community Services Director Brian Laube, Fire Chief Jarrod Wellik, and City Administrator Matt Muckler. The committee may motion to approve a recommendation for the full City Council.
- Discuss 2021 reorganization proposal with Community Services Director Brian Laube, Fire Chief Jarrod Wellik, and City Administrator Matt Muckler
- Motion to approve recommendation to Full City Council
City Council
The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and consider resolutions on a development agreement with Theisen Real Estate for a new retail location, a rezoning at 1404 1st Ave. W., and an urban renewal plan amendment. They will also consider ordinances on food truck regulations and parking changes, plus several routine items like liquor licenses, appointments, and fee schedule updates.
- Development agreement with Theisen Real Estate: $50,000 grant, 5-year TIF rebate (100% first 3 years, 65% year 4, 60% year 5), minimum assessment $1,500,000
- Rezoning 1404 1st Ave. W. from C-A to R-2 for single-family residential
- First consideration of ordinance regulating food trucks (application, fire inspection, location rules)
- Parking restrictions on S 6th Ave E. (1200-1400 blk) and E. 4 ½ St. S. (300-400 blk)
- Contract with Regal Clean, LLC for janitorial services at City Hall and Police Facility at $2,725/month
City Council
The Newton City Council is holding a budget workshop to review FY21 expenditures and revenues, discuss the FY22 property tax distribution, and receive information for the FY23 budget. This is a discussion session, not a voting meeting, focused on financial planning and city goals.
- Overview of City Goals by Katrina Davis
- FY21 expenditure and revenue review
- FY22 Newton property tax distribution
- FY23 budget information
Newton Public Library Board of Trustees
The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees is meeting to handle routine business including bill approval, financial reports, and a long-range plan. They will also discuss and potentially approve several policy changes, a service contract, and planning for the next fiscal year's budget and staff pay.
- Warnick & Reeves HVAC Service Contract
- Hotspot Policy Edits & Approval
- Renewal, Fines, & Holds Policy Edits & Approval
- Lambs Grove 28E Budget Prep Letter & Service Fee Approval
- FY23 Library Staff Pay and FY23 Library Budget
Park Board
The Newton Park Board will consider and vote on supporting a proposed timeline and options for constructing the Westwood Clubhouse, and a proposed donor recognition plan for the Downtown Splash Park. The board will also review minutes from the October 20 meeting and hear citizen comments.
- Presentation and vote of support on Westwood Clubhouse timeline and construction options
- Presentation and vote of support on Downtown Splash Park donor recognition
- Review and approval of October 20, 2021 meeting minutes
- Citizen participation period (3 minutes per speaker)
City Council
The Newton City Council is meeting to consider consent agenda items including nuisance abatement assessments, a new dump box purchase, TIF revenue claims, a property tax rebate, ballistic vests, and a development agreement. They will also hold final votes on ordinances about residential vehicle parking and street parking on S 6th Ave E, and introduce new food truck regulations.
- Nuisance abatement assessments totaling $1,601.83 against five properties
- Purchase and installation of a dump box for $30,932 from Henderson Equipment
- Purchase of ballistic vests from Galls, LLC for $16,275
- Third consideration of ordinance restricting outside parking/storage of vehicles and trailers on residential property
- First consideration of ordinance adding food truck regulations
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Newtonia Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a temporary use variance (V21-3) requested by Newton Events LLC to allow obstructions exceeding maximum airport height regulations for the PGI Convention from July 27 to August 8, 2022. The board will also review minutes from the October 6, 2021 meeting. The meeting is offered electronically due to COVID-19 concerns.
- Public hearing on V21-3: Temporary Use Variance for PGI Convention, July 27-August 8, 2022
- Review of minutes from October 6, 2021
- Electronic meeting option via Mediacom stream, comments due before 3:00 PM
Planning & Zoning Commission
The Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on a proposal to rezone 1404 1st Avenue West from C-A Arterial Commercial to R-2 One- and Two-Family Residential, applied by 2B Constructed, Inc. The commission will also discuss the Comprehensive Plan update and local housing development standards. The meeting is held electronically due to COVID-19, with public comments accepted before 3:00 PM the day of the meeting.
- Public hearing RZ21-1: Rezone 1404 1st Avenue West from C-A to R-2
- Discussion: Comprehensive Plan Update
- Discussion: Local housing development standards
- Review of minutes from August 17, 2021
City Council
The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and consider resolutions on a development agreement with Nehring Auto Inc. for property at 1800 1st Avenue East, including a 10-year tax rebate up to $15,000, and on an ordinance to allow campgrounds in the Central Business District (staff recommends against). They will also vote on several consent agenda items, including liquor licenses, street financial reports, and project completions, plus ordinances on parking restrictions and vehicle storage.
- Public hearing and resolution on Nehring Auto Inc. development agreement (minimum assessment $205,000, 10-year tax rebate max $15,000)
- Public hearing and first consideration of ordinance to add campgrounds to C-CBD conditional uses (staff recommends disapproval)
- Third consideration of ordinances restricting parking on E 15th St S and E 14th St S (600-700 blocks)
- Second consideration of ordinance on outside parking/storage of vehicles and trailers on residential property
- Resolution granting Downtown Improvement Grant up to $6,695.50 for 216 1st Ave W
SSMID Board
The Newton Downtown SSMID Board is holding a special meeting to decide on purchasing replacement batteries for existing lighted Christmas decorations and their installation/removal. The meeting is held electronically due to COVID-19 concerns. No other substantive business is listed.
- Decision on purchase of replacement batteries for lighted Christmas decorations
- Decision on installation/removal of those decorations
Park Board
The Newton Park Board is meeting to discuss and vote on a proposal to allow alcohol sales at larger events in some city parks. The agenda also includes routine items such as approving the previous meeting's minutes and public comments.
- Discussion and vote on allowing alcohol sales at larger events in some City parks
- Review and approval of minutes from September 15, 2021 meeting
- Citizen participation for parks-related comments
SSMID Board
The Newton Downtown SSMID Board is meeting electronically to review minutes from previous meetings, hear a finance report, and discuss new and old business. Old business includes Jasper County's removal of bunkers and flagpoles at Courthouse Square and additional SSMID projects for FY 21-22. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific dollar amounts or detailed proposals listed.
- Review of minutes from September 14 and September 20, 2021 meetings
- Finance report
- Jasper County removal of bunkers and flagpoles at Courthouse Square
- Additional SSMID projects for FY 21-22
- Lightning round updates from community partners (Main Street, DDNA)
City Council
The Newton City Council is holding a goal-setting workshop to review the comprehensive plan, the current and draft FY23 Capital Improvement Program, and past goals, then choose new goals for 2021-2023. This is a discussion and decision-making session, not a regular business meeting.
- Review of goal setting process
- Comprehensive Plan review
- Current CIP and draft FY23 CIP review
- Review of 2020-2022 City Council goals
- Selection of 2021-2023 goals
Historic Preservation Commission
The Historic Preservation Commission is holding a regular meeting with a standard agenda including call to order, roll call, approval of the agenda, certification of Iowa Open Meetings Law, approval of previous meeting minutes, and reports from staff, commissioners, and citizens. The meeting is largely procedural with no major decisions or public hearings listed.
- Approval of previous meeting minutes from September 13, 2021
- Communications from State Historic Preservation Office (attachment)
- Items from City Staff
- Items from Citizens
City Council
The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and vote on resolutions to sell city-owned properties, including a corrected sale to Habitat for Humanity and sales to Golden Hammer Homes and Mahaska Communication Group. They will also consider a resolution of intent for economic development support for a $7 million rehabilitation of Legacy Plaza buildings, and several other items including parking ordinance changes and a YMCA generator installation contract.
- Public hearing and resolution for sale of 521 S 4th Ave W to Habitat for Humanity (corrected legal description)
- Public hearings and resolutions for sale of 900 & 1106 S 5th Ave E to Golden Hammer Homes for $10,000 and 200 E 8th St N to MCG for $2,000
- Resolution of intent for economic development support to Catalyst Development Newton, LLC for Legacy Plaza rehab (min. $7M assessment, 52.3% IRA funds, 10-year hotel/motel tax rebate, $1.7M tax rebate)
- Resolution to apply for Downtown Housing Grant for Legacy Plaza Building 16 residential conversion
- Resolution to contract emergency generator installation at Newton YMCA ($25,000 cost, $7,500 committed)
SSMID Board
The Newton Downtown SSMID Board is holding a special meeting to decide whether to purchase additional lighted Christmas decorations for the Courthouse Square. The meeting is conducted electronically due to COVID-19 concerns. No other substantive items are listed.
- Decision on purchase of additional lighted Christmas decorations for Courthouse Square
SSMID Board
The Newton Downtown SSMID Board is meeting electronically to review the August minutes and finance report, discuss new business, and follow up on old business including the Jasper County removal of bunkers and flagpoles at Courthouse Square and additional SSMID projects for FY 21-22. Community partners will give updates. The agenda is largely routine with no major decisions listed.
- Review of minutes from August 10, 2021
- Finance report
- Jasper County removal of bunkers and flagpoles – Courthouse Square
- Additional SSMID projects – FY 21-22
- Updates from Main Street, DDNA, and other partners
Civil Service Commission
The Newton Civil Service Commission will consider motions to exhaust current firefighter and police officer candidate lists and to authorize testing for new lists, including a sergeant promotion list. This is a routine personnel administration meeting.
- Motion to exhaust current firefighter candidate list
- Authorize fire department to test and create new firefighter candidate list
- Motion to exhaust current police officer and sergeant promotion lists
- Authorize police department to test and create new police officer candidate list
- Authorize police department to test and create sergeant promotional list
City Council
The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and consider resolutions on several items, including awarding a $679,880 contract for remediation of the former manufactured gas plant site, approving a development agreement with Van Maanen Electric for a tax rebate, and selling city-owned properties. The consent agenda includes routine items like liquor licenses, nuisance abatement assessments, and various contracts. A presentation on the 20th anniversary of 9/11 is also scheduled.
- Public hearing and resolution to award $679,880 contract to Arrowhead Contracting for Former Manufactured Gas Plant Site 2021 Remediation Project
- Public hearing and resolution to approve development agreement with Van Maanen Electric, Inc. for $4.5 million minimum assessment and up to $600,000 tax rebate over 5 years
- Public hearing and resolution to accept purchase agreement from Progress Industries for properties at 702 E 4th St N and 416 N 7th Ave E for $5,000
- Resolution to set public hearing for sale of properties at 900 S 5th Ave E, 1106 S 5th Ave E, and 200 E 8th St N
- Resolution levying $13,155.41 in nuisance abatement assessments (Schedule 21-06)
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Newtonia Zoning Board of Adjustment is meeting to review minutes and hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit for a railroad/transfer facility in an I-L zoning district. The board will decide whether to approve the permit for the applicant, Boyd Brodie (Key Cooperative), on a parcel south of N 33 Ave E and E 28 St N intersection. The meeting is held electronically due to COVID-19, with public comment accepted before 3:00 PM.
- Public hearing on CU21-3: Conditional use permit for railroad/transfer facility in I-L zoning district at Parcel #0823276001, south of N 33 Ave E and E 28 St N intersection, applicant Boyd Brodie (Key Cooperative)
- Review of minutes from August 18, 2021
- Electronic meeting per Iowa Code section 21.8 due to COVID-19
Newton Public Library Board of Trustees
The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees is meeting to handle routine business including approving bills and minutes, and to discuss the library's financial report and long-range plan. They will also consider several new business items such as hiring, bylaw review, meeting times, and agreements for Pitney Bowes and Bridges 2022.
- Approval of bills
- Library financial report
- Pitney Bowes lease agreement
- Bridges 2022 library agreement
- Library capital improvement plan edits
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Newtonia Zoning Board of Adjustment is holding a special meeting to review two conditional use permit applications. One would allow retail use in an industrial (I-L) zoning district, and the other would allow a single-family residence in an I-L district. The board will also review minutes from its May 19, 2021 meeting. The meeting is offered electronically due to COVID-19 concerns.
- Public hearing on CU21-1: Conditional use permit for retail use in I-L zoning district at 315 East 12th Street South, applicant Robert W. Smith
- Public hearing on CU21-2: Conditional use permit for single-family residence in I-L zoning district at 1313 East 12th Street North, applicants Scott & Linda Greene
- Review of minutes from May 19, 2021 meeting
- Electronic meeting option per Iowa Code section 21.8 due to COVID-19
Employee Relations Committee
The Employee Relations Committee will meet to approve minutes from July 6, 2021, and discuss the Civil Engineering Tech Trainee position. A motion may be made to recommend action to the full City Council.
- Discuss Civil Engineering Tech Trainee position
- Motion to approve recommendation to full City Council
- Approve July 6, 2021 meeting minutes
Historic Preservation Commission
The Newtonia Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving the previous meeting's minutes. The main discussion items are a draft letter to property owners in the First Avenue East/West Historic Residential District, historic photo books, and downtown plaques. The meeting is largely procedural with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.
- Draft letter to First Avenue East/West Historic Residential District property owners
- Discussion of historic photo books
- Discussion of downtown plaques
- Communications from State Historic Preservation Office
City Council
The Newton City Council is holding a special workshop meeting with a presentation from the Newton Police Department on the response and management of police use of force incidents. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the agenda consists only of this presentation and standard procedural items.
- Presentation: Response and Management of Police Use of Force Incidents – Newton Police Department
Park Board
The Newton Park Board will meet electronically via Zoom on July 21, 2021, to discuss and vote on recommending a location for the 2021 Holiday Lights display, discuss food trucks and beverage sales in city parks, consider returning to in-person meetings, and vote on approving the 2021 Park Board Goals. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as call to order, roll call, and approval of previous minutes.
- Discussion and vote to recommend location for 2021 Holiday Lights display
- Discussion on food trucks and beverage sales in City parks
- Discussion on returning to in-person meetings
- Discussion and vote approving the 2021 Park Board Goals
- Review and approve minutes from June 16, 2021 meeting
City Council
The Newton City Council will decide on levying unpaid nuisance abatement costs as property tax assessments and hear public input on redevelopment plans for three cleared lots. The meeting also includes updates on liquor license approvals, urban renewal amendments, and development agreements with tax increment incentives.
- Levy $1,335 in unpaid nuisance abatement costs across 5 properties (e.g., 608 E 12th St Pl N, 709 E 12th St Pl N)
- Approve redevelopment of 501/517 S 2nd Ave W and 521 S 4th Ave W lots to Habitat for Humanity for $5,000 each
- Set public hearings for urban renewal plan amendments in Southwest and East-Mart Economic Development Areas
- Consider development agreements with CRH Properties LLC and Cindy Rogers-Sell with annual tax increment payments
- Approve liquor licenses for Dollar General #3032 (1803 1st Ave E), Hy-Vee Club Room (1501 1st Ave E), Raceway 80 (4300 S 22nd Ave E), Walmart #748 (300 Iowa Speedway Dr)
Civil Service Commission
The Newton Civil Service Commission will meet to approve minutes, consider exhausting the current police officer candidate list, and certify a new candidate list for police officer positions. This is a routine personnel action for the police department.
- Motion to exhaust current police officer candidate list
- Certify candidate list for police officer
City Council
The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and vote on amendments to two urban renewal plans, a development agreement with Hopkins Properties LLC, and the sale of a city-owned property. The consent agenda includes routine items like liquor license renewals, contract awards for roof repairs and demolition, and a payment for police body cameras.
- Public hearing and resolution to approve urban renewal plan amendment for North Central Urban Renewal Area (Council Report 21-187)
- Public hearing and resolution to approve urban renewal plan amendment for 1st Avenue East Urban Renewal Area, including projects at 1810 and 1800 1st Avenue East (Council Report 21-188)
- Public hearing and resolution approving development agreement with Hopkins Properties LLC for 1810 1st Ave E, with $450,000 minimum assessment, $65,000 tax rebate over 10 years, and $35,000 forgivable loan (Council Report 21-189)
- Public hearing for sale of property at 717 West 6th Street South; no offers received (Council Report 21-190)
- Resolution approving $23,660 payment to Axon Enterprise Inc. for body cameras, in-car dash cameras, software, cloud storage, and accessories (Council Report 21-185)
Employee Relations Committee
The Employee Relations Committee will discuss adding a firefighter and temporary office staff in the Fire Department, and may vote on recommendations to the full City Council. The agenda also includes approving minutes from a previous meeting.
- Discuss Firefighter Addition
- Motion to Approve Recommendation to Full City Council on Firefighter Addition
- Discuss Temporary Office Staff in the Fire Department
- Motion to Approve Recommendation to Full City Council on Temporary Office Staff
Building Trades Board
The Newtonia Building Trades Board is meeting electronically to review minutes, hear a rental housing appeal for 502 East 12th Street South, and consider two D&D 2.0 grant applications for properties at 512 East 19th Street South and 500 1st Avenue West. The meeting is held remotely due to COVID-19, with public comment accepted only before the meeting.
- Rental housing appeal: 502 East 12th Street South
- D&D 2.0 grant review: 512 East 19th Street South
- D&D 2.0 grant review: 500 1st Avenue West
- Review of minutes from March 24, 2021
Downtown Grant Review Board
The Downtown Grant Review Board will hold a special meeting to review a grant application from Locksmith, Inc. for a property at 109 West 2nd Street North. The meeting will be conducted electronically due to COVID-19, with public participation limited to email or Zoom.
- Review of grant application from Locksmith, Inc., Randy Plumb, 109 West 2nd Street North
City Council
The Newton City Council is meeting to consider a consent agenda with routine items, a public hearing on vacating a right-of-way, and several resolutions including a $56,000 contract for a comprehensive plan rewrite and a $247,773 insurance renewal. The meeting also includes presentations on benefits and Project Awake, and a staff report on the Westwood Golf Clubhouse.
- Resolution selecting MSA Professional Services for comprehensive plan rewrite at $56,000
- Resolution renewing ICAP insurance package for $247,773
- Public hearing on vacating right-of-way in 800 block of North 19th Avenue East
- Resolution authorizing $1,000 to Newton Main Street for Downtown Electric Panel Project
- Resolution setting public hearing for sale of properties at 501, 517 S 2nd Ave W and 521 S 4th Ave W
Park Board
The Newtonia Park Board is meeting electronically to discuss several park-related items, including Jasper County bike trail plans, updates on the Downtown Splash Pad and Westwood Golf Course Clubhouse, and setting goals for 2021. The meeting will also include routine items like approving minutes and citizen comments.
- Jasper County Bike Trail Plans presentation by Keri Van Zante
- Downtown Splash Pad update from Splash Pad Committee
- Westwood Golf Course Clubhouse update by Brian Laube
- Park Board 2021 Goal Setting led by Brian Laube
- Review and approve minutes from May 19, 2021 meeting
SSMID Board
The Newton Downtown SSMID Board is meeting electronically due to COVID-19. They will review minutes from May 11, 2021, hear a finance report, and discuss new and old business, including additional SSMID projects for FY 21-22, an update on the Floral Planter project, and the downtown flag display schedule. Community partner organizations will also give brief updates.
- Review of May 11, 2021 meeting minutes
- Finance report
- Additional SSMID projects for FY 21-22
- Update on Floral Planter project (Yeager)
- Downtown Flag Display Schedule (Yeager/Maki)
Park Board
The Newton Park Board is meeting electronically via Zoom due to COVID-19. The agenda includes approving April minutes, an introduction to 2021 goal setting, and a season update for Maytag Pool. Public comments can be submitted by email or phone.
- Review and approve minutes from April 21, 2021 meeting
- Park Board 2021 Goal Setting Introduction
- Maytag Pool 2021 Season Update
City Council
The Newton City Council is holding a special meeting to consider a single consent agenda item: approving a temporary liquor license for Hy-Vee, Inc. for a wedding reception at DMACC on May 15, 2021. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom or in person.
- Approve 5-day special event liquor license for Hy-Vee, Inc. (Class C) for wedding reception on 5-15-21 at 600 N 2nd Ave W, DMACC
Historic Preservation Commission
The Newtonia Historic Preservation Commission is meeting electronically due to COVID-19. They will discuss a solar installation at 112 North 2nd Avenue West, as well as downtown plaques, signage, and educational lunch-and-learn events. The meeting includes routine items like approving the previous minutes and hearing citizen comments.
- Solar installation at 112 North 2nd Avenue West
- Downtown plaques
- Signage
- Lunch and learns
City Council
The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and consider resolutions on property sales and redevelopment, a $55,082.81 tax rebate for Lion Development Group, and third consideration of zoning and alley vacation ordinances. The agenda also includes consent items for contracts, purchases, and proclamations, plus discussions on nuisance and mobile food vendor ordinances.
- Property tax rebate of $55,082.81 to Lion Development Group for 320 W 3rd St N
- Public hearing and resolution to sell 920 and 922 E 9th St N to Golden Hammer Contractors for $10,000
- Public hearing and resolution to sell 520 N 3rd Ave E to Scott & Beth Pline for $2,500
- Third consideration of ordinance allowing retail as primary use in I-L Light Industrial zoning
- Third consideration of ordinance vacating alley in 200 block of S 5th Ave E
Newton Public Library Board of Trustees
The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees is meeting to handle routine business including approving minutes and bills, and receiving reports. They will also discuss the library's long-range plan, COVID-19 reopening plans, and consider policy changes and a new board member.
- Approval of bills
- Discussion of COVID-19 and library re-opening plans
- Board at-large seat posting and recruitment
- Hotspots update
- Library renewal and fine policies discussion, edits, and approval
Park Board
The Newton Park Board is meeting electronically to review and approve prior minutes, hear presentations on a National Skin Cancer Awareness event and an Edible Orchard, and address old and new business. The meeting is held via Zoom due to COVID-19, with public comments accepted by email or phone.
- Review and approve minutes from February 17, 2021 meeting
- National Skin Cancer Awareness event presentation by Brian Laube
- Edible Orchard presentation by Jamie Murphy
City Council
The Newton City Council will consider second-reading ordinances to allow retail sales as a primary use in the I-L Light Industrial zoning district and to vacate a portion of an alley in the 200 block of South 5th Avenue East. The council will also vote on several resolutions, including a 2.5% salary increase for the City Administrator, a $662,000 FAA grant application for airport taxiway relocation, and a motion to authorize litigation against a property owner. Public comment is invited via Zoom, email, or phone.
- Ordinance to allow retail sales as primary use (up to 100%) in I-L Light Industrial zoning district
- Ordinance to vacate north-south alley in 200 block of South 5th Avenue East
- Resolution approving 2.5% salary increase for City Administrator
- Resolution approving FAA grant application for $662,000 for Newton Airport Taxiway Relocation design/engineering
- Motion authorizing litigation against Jeremy Chedester and Chedester Properties, LLC regarding 209 W. 2nd St N
Newton Public Library Board of Trustees
The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees is holding a special meeting via Zoom. The main item of business is opening and awarding/approving a bid for library lawn maintenance. The rest of the agenda is procedural.
- Library lawn maintenance bid opening and awarding/approval
SSMID Board
The Newton Downtown SSMID Board is meeting electronically due to COVID-19. They will review the previous meeting's minutes and finance report, and discuss new business including council approval of the 2021 downtown cleaning and floral maintenance contract. Old business includes updates on the floral planter project and spring flag display.
- Council approval of 2021 Downtown Area Cleaning & Floral Maintenance contract
- Update on Floral Planter project (Yeager)
- Downtown Spring Flag Display (Yeager/Maki)
- Lightning Round updates from Main Street and DDNA
Civil Service Commission
The Newton Civil Service Commission will meet electronically to approve prior minutes and decide whether to authorize the Fire Department to test and create a candidate list for firefighters. The agenda is brief and includes only these items.
- Approve minutes of March 15, 2021 meeting
- Authorize Fire Department to test and create candidate list for firefighters
Historic Preservation Commission
The Newtonia Historic Preservation Commission is meeting electronically due to COVID-19. They will discuss a HRDP grant application, coloring books, and downtown/residential signage, along with routine approvals and communications.
- HRDP Grant Application discussion
- Coloring books item from city staff
- Downtown/Residential Signage discussion
- Approval of March 1, 2021 meeting minutes
- Communications from State Historic Preservation Office
City Council
The Newton City Council is considering the proposed Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for fiscal years 2022-2026, a five-year blueprint for city projects and equipment purchases. The plan outlines over $42 million in proposed spending across all departments, funded by various sources including bonds, grants, and enterprise funds. The council will review and potentially adopt the plan, which is subject to available finances and will be updated annually.
- Parallel Taxiway Reconstruction at airport: $3.19 million
- Westwood Golf Course Clubhouse: $980,000
- Maytag Pool Upgrades: $1.05 million
- Union Drive Reconstruction: $3.0 million
- Dangerous & Dilapidated Blight Removal: $1.25 million
City Council
The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and consider adopting the FY22-FY26 Capital Improvement Plan, along with issuing four bond series totaling about $9.99 million for projects including road reconstruction, sewer improvements, and the D&D program. The council will also consider zoning changes to allow retail as a primary use in light industrial districts, an alley vacation, and a property tax rebate for a senior residence. Several equipment purchases and grant awards are on the consent agenda.
- Public hearing and resolution adopting FY22-FY26 Capital Improvement Plan (Council Report 21-089)
- Issuance of $2,740,000 GO bonds (2021A), $430,000 taxable GO bonds (2021B), $4,840,000 sewer revenue bonds (2021C), and $1,990,000 road use tax bonds (2021D)
- Ordinance to allow retail sales as primary use in I-L Light Industrial zoning district (Council Report 21-090)
- Ordinance vacating alley in 200 block of South 5th Avenue East (Council Report 21-091)
- Property tax rebate for Newton Senior Residence LLC in North Central Urban Renewal Area (Council Report 21-085)
Newton Public Library Board of Trustees
The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting to approve bills and the financial report, discuss the long-range plan, and receive reports from the director and foundation. They will also consider old business on COVID-19 reopening plans and new business including landscaping bids, a roof RFQ/RFP, and several agreements.
- Opening landscaping bids received and extending RFP date
- Library flat roof RFQ/RFP approval
- Enrich, Direct State Aid, and Interlibrary Loan Reimbursement Agreements approval
- BRIDGES/E-books Agreement approval
- Food for Fines dates approval
Downtown Grant Review Board
The Downtown Grant Review Board is meeting electronically due to COVID-19 to review three grant applications for downtown properties, elect officers, and approve prior minutes. Public comment is by email only; in-person comment is not available.
- Review of grant application for Bruns Dental Office, 112 1st Avenue East
- Review of grant application for CRH Properties, 117 1st Avenue East
- Review of grant application for Northwestern Mutual, 117 West 2nd Street North
- Selection of officers
- Approval of minutes from November 18, 2020 meeting
Building Trades Board
The Building Trades Board is meeting electronically to review minutes from October 13, 2020, and to discuss the D&D Grant 2.0 for the rehabilitation of 602 East 13th Street. The meeting is held online due to COVID-19, with public comment accepted only before 11:00 AM on the meeting day.
- Review of minutes from October 13, 2020
- D&D Grant 2.0: 602 East 13th Street North rehabilitation review
Park Board
The Newton Park Board is meeting electronically due to COVID-19. They will vote on supporting a National Skin Cancer Awareness event, and hear presentations on an edible orchard and pickleball. The board will also approve the previous meeting's minutes and take public comments.
- Vote on support for parks participation in National Skin Cancer Awareness event
- Edible Orchard presentation by Jamie Murphy
- Pickleball presentation by Brian Laube
- Review and approve minutes from February 17, 2021 meeting
- Citizen comments limited to 3 minutes per person
Planning & Zoning Commission
The Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on two zoning amendments: one to permit general retail stores in the I-L Light Industrial district, and another to update city code on mobile food units. They will also review an alley vacation request for the 200 block of South 5th Avenue East. The meeting is electronic due to COVID-19.
- ZOA21-1: Amendment to allow General Retail Stores in I-L Light Industrial district
- Newton City Code Ch. 111 amendment: Mobile Food Units
- Review of AV21-1: Alley vacation, 200 block of South 5th Avenue East
Civil Service Commission
The Newton Civil Service Commission will meet electronically to handle routine personnel matters, including appointing a new chair, approving prior minutes, and certifying promotional and candidate lists for police positions. The commission will also declare the current police officer list exhausted and authorize testing for a new candidate list.
- Appoint new Civil Service Commission Chair
- Certify promotional list for Lieutenant
- Certify promotional list for Sergeant
- Declare current Police Officer list exhausted
- Authorize Police Department to test and create additional candidate list for Police Officers
City Council
The Newton City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on the 2021-22 operating budget, which keeps the tax levy at $17.14 per $1,000 and maintains staffing. The council will also consider approving bond purchase agreements for several projects, including sewer and road improvements, and vote on ordinances restricting parking in specific areas. Other items include liquor license renewals, a $25,000 forgivable loan for a downtown property, and a $3,790 expense for floral planters.
- Public hearing and resolution to approve the 2021-22 operating budget, tax levy $17.14/$1,000
- Bond purchase agreements: GO 2021A ($2,970,000), Taxable GO 2021B ($435,000), Sewer Revenue 2021C ($5,900,000), Road Use Tax 2021D ($2,355,000)
- Third consideration of ordinances restricting parking on W 9th St N, W 10th St N, and N 5th Ave W; adding 'No Right Turn on Red' at E 12th St and 1st Ave
- Resolution for $25,000 forgivable loan to Best Midwest Properties for 109 1st Ave W
- Resolution authorizing $3,790 for 10 floral planters in downtown
SSMID Board
The Newton Downtown SSMID Board is meeting electronically due to COVID-19. They will review minutes and finances, and vote on floral planter locations on 1st Avenue and the 2021 downtown cleaning and floral maintenance contract. Updates will be given on the floral planter project and an abandoned bike in the SSMID bike rack.
- Approval of floral planter locations on 1st Avenue
- Approval of 2021 Downtown Area Cleaning & Floral Maintenance contract
- Update on floral planter project
- Update on abandoned bike in SSMID bike rack
Historic Preservation Commission
The Newtonia Historic Preservation Commission is holding a routine electronic meeting due to COVID-19. They will approve the prior meeting minutes, receive communications from the State Historic Preservation Office, and discuss the submitted CLG Annual Report and the Preservation at Its Best Awards. Public comment is by email only.
- CLG Annual Report submitted
- Preservation at Its Best Awards discussion
- Approval of February 1, 2021 meeting minutes
- Electronic meeting due to COVID-19
City Council
The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and consider resolutions to borrow up to $3.65 million through general obligation, sewer revenue, and road use tax revenue bonds for equipment, street projects, and sewer improvements. The council will also vote on consent agenda items including nuisance abatement assessments, a demolition contract, and a ladder truck pump repair, plus second consideration of several parking-related ordinances.
- Public hearings on borrowing up to $700,000 (GO Loan #1), $550,000 (GO Loan #2), and $2,400,000 (Essential Purpose Loan)
- Resolution to enter into Sewer Revenue Loan Agreement for plant improvements, Jet/Vac truck replacement, and SW sewage pump station pumps
- Resolution to enter into Road Use Tax Revenue Loan Agreement for reconstruction of E 3rd St S & E 2nd St S, W 3rd St S & W 2nd St S, and asphalt mill/overlay of various streets
- Second consideration of ordinances restricting parking on W 9th St N, W 10th St N, and N 5th Ave W, and adding 'No Right Turn on Red' at E 12th St and 1st Ave
- Resolution approving Downtown Improvement Grant of up to $5,000 for 107 1st Avenue West
Newton Public Library Board of Trustees
The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees is meeting to handle routine business including approval of minutes, bills, and the financial report, as well as discussing the long-range plan and the director's report. They will also address old business on COVID-19 reopening plans and trustee training, and new business on re-bidding landscaping and approving a hotspot policy.
- Approval of bills and financial report
- Discussion of long-range plan
- COVID-19 and library re-opening plans
- Re-bidding landscaping, RFQ approval
- Hotspot policy edits and approval
Downtown Grant Review Board
The Downtown Grant Review Board is meeting electronically due to COVID-19. They will review grant applications from Farmhouse Creations and Northwestern Mutual (the latter noted as no action), approve previous minutes, and select officers for 2021.
- Review of grant application from Farmhouse Creations, 107 1st Avenue West
- Review of grant application from Northwestern Mutual, 117 West 2nd Street North (no action)
- Approval of minutes from November 18, 2020 meeting
- Selection of officers for 2021
SSMID Board
The Newton Downtown SSMID Board is meeting electronically due to COVID-19. They will review the previous minutes and finance report, discuss new business including a floral planter project and the board's mission statement, and elect 2021 officers. Old business includes updates on downtown cleaning and floral maintenance RFQ, removal of holiday decorations, and trash receptacles.
- Floral Planter Project (Main Street Design Committee report)
- Review of SSMID 'Purposes' (mission statement)
- Election of Officers (Chair/Vice Chair) for 2021
- Downtown Area Cleaning & Floral Maintenance RFQ – update
- Removal of Courthouse Square Flags, Christmas Trees & Decoration Fixtures
Zoning Board of Adjustment
The Newtonia Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a temporary use variance to extend the term for exterior storage of damaged equipment and vehicles at the Iowa Speedway, 3333 Rusty Wallace Drive, for insurance adjustment. The meeting is electronic due to COVID-19, with public comment accepted before 3:00 PM.
- Public hearing on V21-1: Temporary Use Variance for Iowa Speedway, 3333 Rusty Wallace Drive, applicant Tyler Clement
- Review of minutes from December 22, 2020 meeting
- Electronic meeting per Iowa Code section 21.8 due to COVID-19
Newton Sanitary Landfill 28E Members
The Newton Sanitary Landfill 28-E Members are holding an annual budget workshop to review recycling programs, recap 2020, and discuss proposed capital projects, equipment, and the FY 21/22 operating budget. They will also review year-end tonnage, ownership allocations, and fees. This is a working session to plan the landfill's finances and operations.
- Review of recycling programs and solid waste reduction efforts required by the Comprehensive Plan
- Proposed landfill capital projects and equipment
- Proposed FY 21/22 landfill operating budget
- Year-end tonnage summary and update of Ownership Allocation Table
- Discussion of fees
City Council
The Newton City Council is holding a budget workshop to review the city's capital improvement plan (CIP) and general fund expenditures. The workshop includes discussions on non-salary expenditures for the general fund and other funds, followed by a final review of the CIP and budget by Finance Officer Lisa Frasier. The agenda is primarily a working session with no formal votes or public hearings.
- Capital Improvement Plan totaling $42,219,600 for FY22-26
- Airport Parallel Taxiway Reconstruction at $3,190,000
- Union Drive Reconstruction at $3,000,000
- Westwood Golf Course Clubhouse at $980,000
- Maytag Pool Upgrades at $1,050,000
City Council
The Newton City Council will hold its regular meeting and a budget workshop, covering consent items, a public hearing on selling city-owned property at 602 East 13th Street North, and several resolutions. Key actions include setting public hearings for up to $5.9M in sewer revenue bonds and $2.355M in road use tax bonds, approving an engineering agreement for a traffic signal project, and authorizing a letter of intent for EV charging stations. The council will also review the FY22 budget in the workshop.
- Public hearing and resolution for sale of 602 East 13th Street North
- Set public hearing for $5,900,000 Sewer Revenue Loan Agreement
- Set public hearing for $2,355,000 Road Use Tax Revenue Loan Agreement
- Approve engineering design services for N 4th Ave W & Highway 14 traffic signal
- Approve non-binding letter of intent to Blink Charging for EV charging stations
Newton Public Library Board of Trustees
The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees is meeting to handle routine business and discuss several operational items, including COVID-19 reopening plans, a landscaping bid, a capital improvement request, and the FY22 budget. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom.
- COVID-19 & Library Re-Opening Plans, including resuming story time
- Landscaping RFQ/Bid Opening
- Library CIP Request
- HVAC Service Contract Approval
- Library FY22 Budget
Park Board
The Newton Park Board is meeting electronically via Zoom due to COVID-19. The agenda includes appointing a new chair, introducing new members, and receiving updates on the Maytag Pool and the Newton Cares Classic Golf Tournament. Public comments can be submitted by email or phone.
- Appointment of new Park Board Chair
- Introduction of new Park Board members
- Maytag Pool update
- Newton Cares Classic Golf Tournament update
- Approval of December 16, 2020 minutes
Planning & Zoning Commission
The Newtonia Planning and Zoning Commission is meeting electronically to hold a public hearing on a proposed alley vacation in the 200 block of South 5th Avenue East, with the City of Newton as applicant. The commission will also review minutes from October 2020 and select officers for the coming term.
- Public hearing AV21-1: alley vacation in 200 block of South 5th Avenue East, applicant City of Newton
- Review of minutes from October 6, 2020 meeting
- Selection of officers
City Council
The Newton City Council will consider several resolutions, including economic development forgivable loans totaling $80,000 for three downtown properties, a first reading of an electrical code update, and a public hearing for the sale of city property. Consent agenda items include liquor license renewals, contract awards, and project completions.
- $20,000 forgivable loan to Cindy Rogers-Sell for Farmhouse Creations at 107 1st Avenue West
- $30,000 forgivable loan to CRH Properties, LLC for Crazy Redhead Quilting at 117 1st Avenue West
- $30,000 forgivable loan and tax rebate intent for Hopkins Properties LLC at 1801 1st Avenue East
- First consideration of ordinance updating electrical code to 2020 National Electrical Code
- Public hearing set for sale of property at 602 East 13th Street North
City Council
The Newton City Council is holding a budget workshop to review the proposed FY22 budget, including revenue estimates, employee compensation, and department changes. The agenda includes discussions on the general fund revenue estimate, employee compensation schedule, downtown promotional funding, and the overall FY22 budget. Changes since the January 4th workshop include a net increase of $144,500 in general fund expenditures and $51,312 in revenues, with $132,000 in capital items moved from CIP borrowing to the general fund.
- Review of initial general fund revenue estimate by Finance Officer Lisa Frasier
- Review of employee compensation schedule by Finance Analyst Michele Heisdorffer
- Downtown Newton Promotional Funding of $2,500
- FY22 budget changes: Police overtime reduced by $15,000, training increased by $5,000
- Fire department adds $52,000 for SCBA bottles and turnout gear, $42,000 for building remodel
SSMID Board
The Newton Downtown SSMID Board is meeting electronically due to COVID-19. They will review the previous meeting's minutes, a finance report, and discuss several downtown improvement projects, including floral planters, cleaning and maintenance contracts, flags, and alley repairs.
- Floral Planter Project status update
- Downtown Area Cleaning & Floral Maintenance RFQ status
- Courthouse Square Flags status
- Alley Surface Repair status
- Trash Receptacles location status
Historic Preservation Commission
The Newtonia Historic Preservation Commission is holding its January 2021 meeting electronically due to COVID-19. The agenda includes routine items like approving the previous meeting's minutes, plus staff updates on the Certified Local Government (CLG) annual report and Fred Maytag Park's Maytag Bowl. The commission will also handle annual business, including board appointments, Main Street representation, and officer elections.
- CLG Annual Report discussion
- Fred Maytag Park - Maytag Bowl item
- Board appointment
- Newton Main Street representation
- Officer elections
City Council
The Newton City Council is holding a budget workshop immediately following its regular meeting to discuss the upcoming fiscal year's budget. Department heads will present their budget requests, and staff will provide revenue estimates and discuss special revenue funds and tax increment financing. This is a discussion session, not a final budget approval.
- Police, Fire, Library, Community Services, Public Works, Community Development, and Administration department presentations
- Initial general fund revenue estimate pending county information
- Special revenue funds and partner contributions discussion
- Tax Increment Financing discussion
City Council
The Newton City Council will consider several resolutions, including annual fee schedule revisions for Westwood Golf Course, Maytag Pool, and other park facilities, and acceptance of easements for a Casey's General Stores sanitary sewer project. The consent agenda includes liquor license renewals, project completions, and a housing committee appointment. The meeting is open for public comment via Zoom or email.
- Resolution amending Public Works and Community Services Fee Schedule (Council Report 21-004)
- Resolution accepting real estate easements for Casey's General Stores sanitary sewer construction (Council Report 21-005)
- Liquor license renewals for Okoboji Grill (600 N 2nd Ave W) and Montana Mike's (1400 W 18th St S)
- Resolution appointing Jorge Arreola to Housing Steering Committee
- Accepting completion of 2020 Tree Removal Project No. 5 – Maytag Park ($92,717.00 contract)