Newtonia public meetings in 2023

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and consider resolutions on several items, including rezoning land for a new ALDI grocery store, awarding contracts for the Westwood Clubhouse demolition and Downtown Spray Park, and approving a service agreement for license plate reader cameras. The council will also vote on a resolution opposing Alliant Energy's proposed rate increase and an amended development agreement with Hotel Maytag Investors.

• Rezoning 101 feet of Eastgate Plaza Plat 2 from R-2 to C-A for a new ALDI store
• Award $550,812 contract to Brothers Concrete for Downtown Spray Park
• Approve $67,300 Flock Safety LPR camera agreement and $13,600 Byrne JAG grant
• Resolution opposing Alliant Energy rate increase (residential +13.4%, city cost $108k-$144k)
• Amended development agreement with Hotel Maytag Investors for tax rebate

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold a budget workshop to review capital improvement projects, debt service funds, and presentations from community development and services directors. This is a working session with no formal decisions scheduled.

• Capital Improvement Projects presentation by Finance Officer Lisa Frasier and Financial Analyst Candace Streeter
• Debt Service Fund review by Finance Officer Lisa Frasier
• Community Development & Services presentation by Erin Chambers and Brian Laube

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Newton Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on three requests: two conditional use permits for accessory buildings over 1,000 sq. ft. and one variance to exceed the 15-foot height limit. The board will also review minutes from its August 9, 2023 meeting.

• CU23-6: 1,000+ sq. ft. accessory building at 1200 East 19th Street South, applicant Joe Hartgers
• CU23-7: 1,000+ sq. ft. accessory building at 800 North 15th Avenue West, applicant Paulette Elscott
• V23-4: Variance for accessory building height exceeding 15 feet, applicant Paulette Elscott

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold a public hearing and consider approving a development agreement with Ex Nihilo LLC for 107 1st Ave. W., including a $10,000 forgivable loan and tax rebates up to $14,000. The council will also consider several resolutions, including a speed limit reduction on West Fourth Street North and Union Drive, an airport fee increase, and multiple project completions and purchases.

• Public hearing and resolution for development agreement with Ex Nihilo LLC (107 1st Ave. W.) with $10,000 forgivable loan and up to $14,000 tax rebates
• Ordinance to reduce speed limit on West Fourth Street North and Union Drive from 35 mph to 25 mph
• Resolution to increase airport tee-hangar rental fee from $160 to $175 per month
• Resolution approving purchase of a 2023 Freightliner roll-off truck for $195,000 for the landfill
• Resolution approving property tax rebate for McCann Housing Associates, LP in McCann Urban Renewal Area

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a budget workshop to review FY25 employee compensation cost estimates and hear presentations from the Utilities and Public Works departments. This is a discussion session, not a final decision-making meeting, to prepare for the upcoming budget.

• Presentation of FY25 Employee Compensation Cost Estimates by Financial Analyst Candace Streeter
• Utilities Department presentation by Director Jody Rhone
• Public Works Department presentation by Director Joe Grife

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a budget workshop to review the proposed FY25 budget schedule, the comprehensive plan, FY23 expenditures and revenues, property tax distribution, and city council goals. This is a discussion and review session, not a final budget approval.

• Review of Proposed FY25 Budget Schedule
• Review of Comp Plan
• Review of FY23 Expenditures by Function and Revenues by Source
• FY23 Tax Dollars at Work / FY23 Newton Property Tax Distribution
• Review of FY23 thru FY25 City Council Goals

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and first readings on rezoning three properties from residential to light industrial and on approving a two-lot residential subdivision. The meeting also includes routine approvals of financial reports, contracts, and staffing changes, as well as discussions on urban renewal and capital projects.

• Public hearing on rezoning 1011, 1015, and 1017 E 9th St N and 826 N 10th Ave E from R-2 to I-L
• First consideration of rezoning same properties to light industrial
• Public hearing and approval of minor plat for Cramer Estates subdivision at 500 block S 20th Ave W
• Resolution approving 28E agreement with Newton Community School District for School Resource Officer Program
• Resolution authorizing upgrade and expansion of Woodland Park Disc Golf Course

Civil Service Commission

The Newton Civil Service Commission will meet to approve minutes, certify promotional lists for Police Sergeant and Police Captain, and approve testing for a new police officer candidate list. This is a routine administrative meeting focused on police personnel actions.

• Certify the Promotional List for Police Sergeant
• Certify the Promotional List for Police Captain
• Approve Police Department to test and create a Police Officer Candidate List
• Approve minutes from November 6, 2023

Employee Relations Committee

The Employee Relations Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes and discuss a proposal to reorganize Community Services staff into the Community Development Department. No final decision is indicated on the agenda; it is listed as a discussion item.

• Approve minutes from October 16, 2023
• Discuss reorganizing Community Services staff into Community Development Department

Newton Public Library Board of Trustees

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees will hold its regular meeting to approve minutes, bills, and reports. Discussions include the library budget, advocacy efforts, roof construction updates, and planning for city council tours. No major decisions are scheduled.

• Approval of meeting minutes
• Library budget discussion
• Roof construction updates
• Library staff holiday party planning

Park Board

The Newton Park Board will meet to review and approve minutes from the October 25 meeting, discuss and vote on a soccer mini pitch recommendation, and consider proposed park fee revisions. The board will also receive a 2023 parks recap and address old and new business.

• Soccer mini pitch discussion and vote of recommendation
• Proposed park fee revisions and vote of recommendation
• Review and approve minutes from October 25, 2023 Park Board meeting
• 2023 Parks Recap presentation

SSMID Board

The Newtonia SSMID Board will review minutes from the August 8 meeting, receive a finance report, and discuss expanding the district boundaries. Updates on downtown beautification, Christmas decorations, and Harmony Park funding will also be provided.

• Discussion on expansion of the SSMID district
• Downtown Beautification Infrastructure update
• Christmas Decorations maintenance and placement date
• Continued discussion on funding for Harmony Park enhancements

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Newton Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on four items: two minor subdivisions and two rezoning requests. The commission will also review minutes from its August 15, 2023 meeting. No other business is listed.

• MP23-1: Cramer Estates, 2-lot minor subdivision at 505 S. 20th Ave. W.
• RZ23-2: Rezone west half of 1000 block E. 9th St. N. from R-2 to I-L.
• MP23-2: Eastgate Plaza Plat 2, 1-lot minor subdivision (re-plat) in 300 block Iowa Speedway Drive.
• RZ23-3: Rezone west 101 feet of Eastgate Plaza Plat 2 from R-2 to C-A.

City Council

The Newton City Council will meet to approve multiple resolutions, including property tax rebates for urban renewal areas, contracts for public works projects like water treatment plant upgrades and sewer repairs, liquor licenses, and a UTV/ATV ordinance amendment. Several public hearings will address water treatment plant controls and sewer crossing repairs.

• Approve property tax rebates for GG 115 LLC, Newton Elite Properties LLC, Van Maanen Electric Inc, and Best Midwest LLC within urban renewal areas
• Award contract for Water Treatment Plant Controls and Telemetry Replacement Project ($225,000)
• Award contract for WPC 1st St N Aerial Sewer Crossing Repair Project ($100,000)
• Approve liquor licenses for Alta House Event Center, Hy-Vee Food Store #1, and Capitol II Theatre
• First consideration of ordinance amending ATV/UTV regulations

Civil Service Commission

The Newtonia Civil Service Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes and certify the police officer candidate list. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no substantive policy items.

• Approve October 16, 2023 minutes
• Certify police officer candidate list

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will convene a routine meeting with only procedural items on the agenda, including roll call, minutes review, agenda approval, and certification of Iowa Open Meetings Law compliance. No decisions, ordinances, or public hearings are scheduled.

Park Board

The Newton Park Board will meet to approve minutes from the August 15 meeting, hear a presentation on a new soccer mini pitch, receive updates on holiday lights and 2024 golf course events during construction, and address old and new business items.

• Review and approve minutes from August 15, 2023 Park Board meeting
• Soccer Mini Pitch Presentation
• Holiday Lights Update – Jamie Murphy
• Westwood Golf Events during 2024 Construction – Nick Cummins

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a special workshop to discuss the future growth of the city. The agenda includes a presentation on this topic, followed by comments from the mayor and council members. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Presentation on City of Newton Future Growth
• Mayor and Council comments

Civil Service Commission

The Newton Civil Service Commission is meeting to approve minutes and authorize the police and fire departments to test and create candidate lists for promotions and hiring. The agenda includes items for Police Sergeant, Police Captain, and Firefighter candidate lists.

• Approve minutes of August 7, 2023 meeting
• Approve police department to test and create candidate list for Police Sergeant
• Approve police department to test and create candidate list for Police Captain
• Approve certification of candidate list for Firefighters

Employee Relations Committee

The Employee Relations Committee is meeting to consider a reorganization of police supervisory staff and a request for temporary staffing in the fire department. The agenda also includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes. No decisions are final until voted on by the committee.

• Police Department Supervisory Staff Reorganization
• Request for Temporary Staffing in the Fire Department
• Approve September 5, 2023 meeting minutes

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and vote on several items, including an urban renewal plan amendment for the North Central Urban Renewal Area, the first budget amendment for fiscal year 23-24, and the sale of city-owned property. The council will also consider resolutions on development agreements, grants, and program extensions.

• Public hearing and resolution to approve urban renewal plan amendment for North Central Urban Renewal Area, including property tax rebates and downtown projects
• Public hearing and resolution for first budget amendment FY23-24, adjusting revenues/expenses for self-insured health benefits, Arbor Estates phase 2, Jordan Well engineering, and Library roof replacement
• Public hearing and resolution to approve purchase agreement for city-owned property at 1011 and 1015 East 9th Street North for $8,000 from Brooks Grease Management, LLC
• Resolution to extend Newton Housing Initiative Single Family Home Construction Incentive Program through Dec 31, 2026, with $10,000 cash incentive for homes valued at $240,000 or more
• Resolutions for Downtown Improvement Grants: $4,104.93 for 309 1st Ave W and up to $25,000 for 114 E 2nd St S

Downtown Grant Review Board

The Newtonia, MO Downtown Grant Review Board will review two facade rehabilitation grants for properties at 309 1st Avenue West and 114 East 2nd Street South. The meeting is procedural with no decisions expected beyond approving prior minutes.

• Downtown Improvement Grant: 309 1st Avenue West, Painting and Facade Rehabilitation
• Downtown Improvement Grant: 114 East 2nd Street South, Facade Rehabilitation

City Council

The Newton City Council will consider awarding a $2,689,109.12 contract to McAnich Corp. for the Arbor Estates Second Addition construction project, a residential subdivision in northeast Newton developed in partnership with the Newton Housing Development Corporation. The council will also hold public hearings on selling two city-owned properties to abutting owners, and consider an amended loan agreement with Hatch Development Group. Several consent agenda items include liquor licenses, a budget amendment hearing date, and various equipment purchases.

• Award contract to McAnich Corp. for $2,689,109.12 for Arbor Estates Second Addition
• Public hearing and resolution to sell city-owned property at Guthrie's Subdivision to Sara and Coy Penning for $7,000
• Public hearing and resolution to sell city-owned property at 514 South 3rd Avenue East to James & Mber D. Hutchinson for $5,000
• Resolution authorizing amended loan agreement with Hatch Development Group for IFA Workforce Housing Loan
• Approve liquor licenses for La Cabana Mexican Restaurant and Loves Travel Stop #361

Employee Relations Committee

The Employee Relations Committee is meeting to review previous minutes and discuss a proposal to add a Utility Meter Reader position in the Administration Department. No decisions are recorded in the agenda; the item is listed for discussion.

• Proposal to add Utility Meter Reader position in Administration Department

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and consider awarding contracts for several construction projects, including the Arbor Estates Second Addition ($2,689,109.12), Aurora Park Pickleball Courts ($370,000), and Maytag Pool Improvements ($1,052,826). They will also consider rejecting bids for the Westwood Golf Course Clubhouse due to high costs, and vote on a rezoning request. Additionally, the council will discuss utility meter reading technology purchases and a new meter reader position.

• Award Arbor Estates Second Addition construction to McAnich Corp. for $2,689,109.12
• Award Aurora Park Pickleball Courts to Minturn, Inc. for $370,000
• Award Maytag Pool Improvements to Sande Construction for $1,052,826
• Reject all bids for Westwood Golf Course Clubhouse due to costs exceeding estimates
• Rezone 1750, 1770, 1805 S 8th Ave E and 600 E 17th St S from R-2/R-4 to C-A

Newton Public Library Board of Trustees

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to handle routine business including bill approvals and reports, and will discuss the long-range plan, budget, and capital improvement plan submissions. The board will also review updates on the roof construction and fundraiser, and consider approving a part-time pay plan, a mulch installation quote, and a change to the library materials policy.

• Roof construction updates and roof fundraiser sub-committee report
• Library budget discussion and capital improvement plan submissions
• Approve part-time pay plan
• Approve mulch installation quote
• Approve use of library materials policy change

General

The Newton, IA City Council will hold a special workshop on August 21, 2023, immediately following the regular council meeting. The workshop will include a roll call and discussion of the Commercial Inspection Program.

City Council

The Newton City Council is meeting to consider a third reading of a zoning code update, approve a new collective bargaining agreement with municipal employees, and act on several resolutions including property sales, grants, and a water service project. The agenda also includes presentations on Project AWAKE and a school district update, plus a citizen participation period.

• Third consideration of zoning code update (Title XV, Ch. 158) aligning with Envision Newton 2042 plan
• Resolution approving 2024-2029 collective bargaining agreement with Public Professional and Maintenance Employees Local 2003
• Downtown Housing Grant up to $20,000 for 309 1st Avenue West (live-work building)
• Resolution setting public hearing for sale of city-owned property at 514 South 3rd Avenue East
• Resolution awarding contract for 2023 Water Service Project

Downtown Grant Review Board

The Downtown Grant Review Board will consider two grant applications for the property at 309 1st Avenue West: a Downtown Improvement Grant for sign and facade rehabilitation, and a Downtown Housing Grant. The board will also review minutes from the previous meeting and handle routine procedural items.

• Downtown Improvement Grant: 309 1st Avenue West Sign and Facade Rehabilitation
• Downtown Housing Grant: 309 1st Avenue West
• Review of minutes from May 25, 2023

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Newtonia Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on a rezoning proposal that would change four properties from residential to commercial mixed-use zoning. The applicants are Tim & Janet Onnen, Boycgo West LLC, and Beacon Housing Corp.

• RZ23-1: Rezoning four properties (1750, 1770, 1805 South 8th Avenue East and 600 East 17th Street South) from R-2/R-4 to C-A

Park Board

The Newton Park Board will meet to consider a recommendation supporting the proposed Project AWAKE expansion, which would remove cropland from the upcoming lease process. The board will also hear a disc golf presentation and review survey results for 2023 goal setting, followed by a vote on goals lists. The meeting includes time for citizen comments, with each speaker limited to three minutes.

• Vote on recommendation to support Project AWAKE expansion and remove cropland from lease process
• Disc Golf Presentation
• 2023 Park Board Goal Setting – presentation on survey results and vote on goals lists
• Review and approve minutes from June 28, 2023 Park Board meeting

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Newtonia Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit for a 1,000+ sq. ft. accessory building at 522 1st Street South. The board will also review minutes from the June 7, 2023 meeting. No other substantive items are listed.

• Public hearing for CU23-5: 1,000+ sq. ft. accessory building at 522 1st Street South, applicant Josh Stafford
• Review of minutes from June 7, 2023

Civil Service Commission

The Newtonia Civil Service Commission is meeting to review minutes and take action on several personnel items, including certifying candidate lists for police officer and fire marshal positions, exhausting the fire prevention specialist list, and approving testing for a new firefighter candidate list.

• Certify Police Officer Candidate List
• Exhaust Fire Prevention Specialist Candidate List
• Certify Fire Marshal Candidate List
• Approve Fire Department to test and create Firefighter Candidate List

Employee Relations Committee

The Employee Relations Committee is meeting to review minutes and vote on two personnel actions: a step increase for the Water Pollution Control Superintendent and a restructuring in the Fire Department that creates a temporary Firefighter/EMT/P position while eliminating an Administrative Assistant (Ambulance Billing Specialist) position.

• Approve a step increase for the Water Pollution Control Superintendent
• Approve creating a temporary Firefighter/EMT/P position in the Fire Department
• Eliminate an Administrative Assistant (Ambulance Billing Specialist) position in the Fire Department
• Review minutes of June 5, 2023 meeting

City Council

The Newton City Council will decide on multiple resolutions including a property purchase at 909 East 7th Street North, zoning code updates, and contracts for roof rehabilitation and sewer inspection equipment. The meeting also includes public hearings on a property purchase agreement and zoning amendments, as well as updates on downtown projects like the spray park and Maytag Pool improvements.

• Purchase agreement for 909 East 7th Street North property for $5,000
• Resolution awarding contract for Southwest Building Roof Rehabilitation Project
• Resolution authorizing purchase of new sewer inspection camera equipment
• Second consideration of zoning code amendments per Envision Newton 2042 Comprehensive Plan
• Resolution approving Preliminary Design Services Agreement for Downtown Spray Park & Gathering Space Project

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a special workshop to hear a presentation on historical valuation growth and property tax uses from city finance staff. This is a discussion item, not a decision-making meeting, and no votes are scheduled.

• Presentation on historical valuation growth and property tax uses by Lisa Frasier, Michele Heisdorffer, and Candace Streeter
• Mayor and Council comments

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and consider resolutions on zoning code amendments, a revised preliminary plat for the Arbor Estates subdivision, and several construction projects including the Arbor Estates Second Addition, Westwood Golf Course Clubhouse, Maytag Pool improvements, and Aurora Park pickleball courts. The consent agenda includes liquor licenses, nuisance abatement assessments, and various contracts and purchases. The meeting also includes a presentation on housing and a mid-year police report.

• Public hearing on zoning code amendments (Title XV, Ch. 158) to align with Envision Newton 2042 plan
• Resolution approving revised preliminary plat for Arbor Estates Second Addition (28-lot subdivision)
• Resolution ordering bids for Westwood Golf Course Clubhouse, Maytag Pool Improvements, Aurora Park Pickleball Courts
• Resolution to provide funding to IndyCar LLC for NTT IndyCar Series in FY24 and FY25
• Resolution approving payment to Axon Enterprises for police video equipment

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a special workshop to receive an update on HF 718 property tax reform from city finance staff. The meeting includes roll call, the presentation, and mayor and council comments. No votes or decisions are scheduled.

• HF 718 Property Tax Reform Update presented by Lisa Frasier, Michele Heisdorffer, and Candace Streeter

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold a special workshop on July 10, 2023, to receive an update on the North Central Urban Renewal Area from Community Development Director Erin Chambers and Finance Director Lisa Frasier. The meeting will follow the regular council meeting at City Hall, 101 W 4th St S, Newton, IA 50208.

• North Central Urban Renewal Area update presentation by Erin Chambers and Lisa Frasier

City Council

The Newton City Council will conduct its regular meeting on July 10, 2023, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. The agenda includes votes on liquor license renewals and transfers, resolutions for land acquisitions and street right-of-way vacations, and approvals for subdivision plats. Public hearings will be held for the Stelpflug Addition and Bowen Acres Subdivision plats.

• Approve liquor licenses for American Legion (LC0018906), Walgreens #05942 (LE0002171), Newton Lodge #1270 (LF0000274), and Hy-Vee Indycar (Class C Retail, outdoor service for July 13–26)
• Resolution to apply for Iowa Thriving Communities designation with IFA and IEDA
• Resolution approving acquisition of private land at 1001 E 6th St N for E. 5th St N and N. 11th Ave E right-of-way
• Public hearings on Stelpflug Addition (7-lot subdivision at 1400 block of 1st Ave W) and Bowen Acres Subdivision (6-lot rural residential subdivision south of Newton)
• Third consideration of ordinance amending parking rules on S 5th Ave W near W 12th St S

Park Board

The Newton Park Board will review and approve minutes from its April 19 meeting, hear a presentation from Project AWAKE, and discuss the 2023 goal-setting process. The board will also vote on proposed updates to the Hike and Bike Trail Map. Citizen comments are limited to three minutes per person.

• Presentation by Project AWAKE
• Introduction of 2023 Park Board Goal Setting Process
• Proposed updates to Hike and Bike Trail Map - presentation and vote
• Review and approval of April 19, 2023 meeting minutes

Newton Public Library Board of Trustees

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to handle routine business and several significant items. They will vote on removing the Glassinator sculpture, discuss the library budget, approve policy changes from the ILS migration, and consider a RAGBRAI-related lawn program and parking lot closure. The board will also go into closed session to discuss the library director's goals and evaluation.

• Roof construction updates and fundraiser sub-committee report
• Glassinator sculpture removal vote
• Library budget discussion
• Policy changes from ILS migration approval
• RAGBRAI lawn program, parking lot closure, and early opening approval

General

The Newton City Council is meeting to present its initial contract proposal to the Newton Association of Professional Fire Fighters Union. This is the first step in contract negotiations, with no decisions or details of the proposal announced in the agenda.

• Presentation of City of Newton initial proposal to firefighter union

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Newtonia Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on the final plat for Stelpflug Addition, a 7-lot residential subdivision proposed by 2B Constructed Inc. at 1404 1st Avenue West. The meeting will also include a roll call, review of previous minutes, and introduction of a new commissioner.

• FP23-1: Final Plat for Stelpflug Addition, 7-lot residential subdivision at 1404 1st Avenue West
• Introduction of Commissioner Andrew Elbert

City Council

The Newton City Council is meeting to consider a range of items including public hearings on property sales, a water revenue loan, and several ordinances. Key decisions include approving a $800,000 water utility improvement loan, selling city-owned properties, and a naming rights agreement for a golf course pavilion.

• Public hearing and resolution for $800,000 Water Revenue Loan for water utility improvements
• Purchase agreement for 524 South 4th Avenue East for $1,000 to VL Construction, LLC
• Purchase agreement for 309 South 8th Avenue West for $5,500 to Jeffrey Versteegh
• Naming rights agreement with Gregg Young Auto for $65,000 for Westwood Patio and Pavilion
• Ordinance to restrict parking on 1100 block of South Fifth Avenue West

General

The Newton City Council is meeting to hear a contract proposal from the Newton Association of Professional Fire Fighters. The agenda includes roll call and the union's presentation, followed by adjournment. No other business is listed.

• Newton Association of Professional Fire Fighters contract proposal

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Newton Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on four applications: an accessory building addition, a privacy fence, a cold storage building, and a residential development. The board will also review minutes from its May 3 meeting. No other business is listed.

• CU23-2: Accessory building addition over 1,000 sq ft at 710 E. 20th St. S. (Scott Walker)
• V23-3: 6-foot privacy fence in front yard at 905 S. 6th Ave. W. (Wayne & Jennifer Mann)
• CU23-3: 30' x 40' cold storage building at 4221 S. 22nd Ave. E. (Scott Shover)
• CU23-4: Residential development of Parcel #0834281039 in 200 block of E. 12th St. S. (Julia Prendergast)

Civil Service Commission

The Newtonia Civil Service Commission is meeting to review the minutes of the May 1 meeting and certify the police officer candidate list. This is a routine administrative meeting with no major policy decisions or public hearings on the agenda.

• Certify police officer candidate list
• Review of May 1, 2023 meeting minutes

Historic Preservation Commission

The Newtonia Historic Preservation Commission will hold a routine meeting on June 5, 2023, at City Offices in Legacy Plaza. The agenda consists entirely of procedural items such as roll call, approval of previous minutes, and certification of Iowa Open Meetings Law. No decisions, ordinances, or public hearings are listed.

Employee Relations Committee

The Employee Relations Committee will review minutes from its May meeting and vote on a resolution to increase the pay range for an administrative assistant in the Police Department from Range 2 to Range 3.

• Resolution approving pay range increase for Police Department administrative assistant (Range 2 to Range 3)

General

The Newton City Council will hold a special workshop to hear presentations on utility billing and House File 718, a state budget bill. The meeting follows the regular council session and includes time for mayor and council comments.

• Utility Billing presentation by Jody Rhone, Utilities Director
• House File 718 discussion led by Matt Muckler, City Administrator, Lisa Frasier, Finance Officer, and Candace Streeter, Financial Analyst

City Council

The Newton City Council is meeting to consider a range of items including a $800,000 water revenue loan, RAGBRAI street closures, parking restrictions, and several contracts and grants. The agenda includes consent items, first readings of ordinances, and resolutions for various projects and agreements.

• Public hearing set for $800,000 water revenue loan
• RAGBRAI street closures and $12,400 barricade rental approved
• Parking restrictions on S 5th Ave W near W 12th St S
• Downtown improvement grants: $2,648.28 for Silverado Jewelry, $25,339.26 for 120 N 2nd Ave W
• Liquor license renewals and transfers for multiple businesses

General

The Newton City Council will hold an exchange-of-proposals meeting with the Utilities Employee Union to review its July 1, 2023 contract offer. No decisions are scheduled; the session is procedural.

• Exchange of Utilities Employee Union July 1, 2023 proposal

Downtown Grant Review Board

The Downtown Grant Review Board will review two grant requests for downtown improvement projects at 105 West 2nd Street North (Silverado Jewelry) and 120 North 2nd Avenue West (Remax Newton). The board will also approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Downtown Improvement Grant Request: 105 West 2nd Street North, Silverado Jewelry
• Downtown Improvement Grant Request: 120 North 2nd Avenue West, Remax Newton
• Review of minutes from 2-15-2023 meeting

Newton Public Library Board of Trustees

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to handle routine business and discuss several key items, including updates on the building project's roof funding and construction, a potential contract with Lambs Grove, and the library levy and budget. They will also consider a library program policy and director evaluation.

• Roof funding updates and fundraiser sub-committee report
• Lambs Grove 28E contract approval and signing
• Library levy (HF718) and budget discussion
• 2024 holiday closures approval
• Glassinator sculpture damage and removal discussion

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on the preliminary plat for Bowen Acres, a proposed 6-lot subdivision in unincorporated Jasper County. The commission will also review minutes from the previous meeting and hear a presentation from the NHDC Director.

• Public hearing on PP23-2: Bowen Acres preliminary plat, 6-lot subdivision at SE corner of S. 52nd Ave. E. and Hwy S-74 S.
• Review of minutes from May 2, 2023 meeting
• Presentation by NHDC Director Bruce Showalter

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold public hearings on a 23-lot subdivision and a street vacation, and consider ordinances for RAGBRAI regulations and Historic Preservation Commission membership. They will also vote on resolutions for water system engineering, a new well, ambulance fees, a demolition grant, and creating temporary firefighter positions.

• Public hearing and resolution for preliminary plat of Arbor Estates Second Addition, a 23-lot subdivision in northeast Newton
• Ordinance to vacate west 6 feet of East 6th Street North right-of-way in the 1000 block
• Resolution approving RAGBRAI route through Newton (Route A or B) for July 27, 2023 event
• Resolution approving Task Order 23-01 with Fox/Strand Engineering for new Jordan Well construction
• Resolution approving new 10-year lease for Community Hangar with Midwest Custom Ag Aviation, Inc., with $400,000 tenant investment

General

The Newton City Council will hold a special workshop to review bids, quotes, and contracts for public improvement projects, services, and purchases. This follows the regular city council meeting and includes mayor and council comments before adjournment.

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Newton Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a request for a front yard setback variance for a detached accessory building at 1500 North 3rd Avenue West, submitted by Machelle Vos. The board will also review minutes from its February 1, 2023 meeting. No other business is listed.

• Public hearing on variance V23-2 for a detached accessory building at 1500 North 3rd Avenue West
• Review of minutes from February 1, 2023 meeting

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Newton Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on two items: a request to vacate the west 6 feet of East 6th Street North in the 1000 block, and a preliminary plat for Arbor Estates Second Addition, a 23-lot residential subdivision in northeast Newton. The commission will also review minutes from February 21, 2023, and elect officers.

• Public hearing on vacation of west 6 feet of East 6th Street North (SV23-1)
• Public hearing on Arbor Estates Second Addition preliminary plat, 23-lot subdivision (PP23-1)
• Election of officers

Historic Preservation Commission

The Newtonia Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to review minutes, approve the agenda, and discuss items from city staff, including recognizing May as Historic Preservation Month and a CLG grant round discussion. The meeting also includes time for items from the commission, citizens, and communications from state historic preservation offices.

• Discussion of CLG grant round
• Recognition of May as Historic Preservation Month
• Review of minutes from April 3, 2023 meeting

Civil Service Commission

The Civil Service Commission is meeting to review minutes from its March 6 meeting and to certify candidate lists for firefighter and fire prevention specialist positions. The agenda is procedural, with no policy decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Certify Firefighter Candidate List
• Certify Fire Prevention Specialist Candidate List
• Review minutes of March 6, 2023 meeting

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a special workshop to discuss Iowa Code Chapter 26, which governs public improvement projects, and to review bids, quotes, and contracts for such projects. City Attorney Matt Brick will present on the code, and city staff will discuss procurement matters. This is a workshop, so no formal decisions are expected.

• Presentation on Iowa Code Chapter 26 by City Attorney Matt Brick
• Discussion of bids, quotes, and contracts for public improvement projects

Employee Relations Committee

The Employee Relations Committee is meeting to approve the minutes from their February 20, 2023 meeting and to consider authorizing a pay range increase for the Fire Captain position from Range 8 to Range 9 in the Fire Department. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 17, 2023, at Newton City Hall.

• Approve minutes of February 20, 2023 meeting
• Authorize increase in pay for Fire Captain from Range 8 to Range 9

City Council

The Newton City Council will consider several resolutions and ordinances, including a $2,500 tourism grant for Fierce Faith Music Festival, a pay increase for Fire Captain, and amendments to city codes regarding council procedures and Historic Preservation Commission membership. The agenda also includes routine items like liquor license approvals and consent agenda items.

• Resolution approving $2,500 Hotel-Motel Tourism Grant to Fierce Faith Music Festival
• Resolution authorizing Fire Captain pay increase from Range 8 to Range 9
• Third consideration of ordinance amending Council Powers and Duties to align with 2023 Procedural Rules
• First consideration of ordinance expanding Historic Preservation Commission eligibility to owners of historic properties
• Resolution amending Low-Moderate Income Set Aside Funds policy to allow dead tree removal assistance

City Council

The Newton City Council will meet on April 3, 2023, to discuss and vote on several resolutions, including the issuance of $4.76 million in general obligation bonds for street improvements and park projects, adoption of the FY24-FY28 Capital Improvement Plan, and approval of the 2023-2024 operating budget. The meeting will also include public hearings on the capital plan and operating budget, as well as discussions on liquor license approvals, nuisance abatement assessments, and updates on city projects and policies.

• Approve $4,760,000 General Obligation Bonds for downtown street improvements, W 6th St S reconstruction, and park projects
• Adopt FY24-FY28 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) with 5-year funding and project details
• Approve 2023-2024 Operating Budget with $17.14/1,000 tax levy and 25% undesignated fund balance
• Approve liquor licenses for Americinn (4401 S 22nd Ave E), Nostalgia Wine & Spirits (109 N 2nd Ave E), and others
• Approve purchase of four fire hydrants and zero-turn mower for Union Cemetery

General

The Newton City Council will hold a retreat to discuss economic development topics. The meeting is procedural with no formal decisions listed on the agenda.

City Council

The Newton City Council is meeting to decide on several items, including reinstating a housing development agreement with a new company name, approving a budget amendment for the current fiscal year, and advancing changes to the animal ordinance. They will also consider various resolutions for contracts, bonds, and policy changes.

• Reinstatement of purchase agreement with Pivotal GP Holding LLC for properties at 1117 N 3rd Ave E and 211 E 12th St N for $1.00, with commitment to build multi-family housing
• First budget amendment for FY 2022-23, adjusting revenues/expenditures for projects like Union Drive, Library Roof, Road Use Tax streets, and tornado repairs, without impacting property tax levy
• Third consideration of ordinance amending Chapter 90 'Animals', including tethering limits, dangerous dog designation, and signage for underground fencing
• Resolution approving development agreement with Revenant Capital, LLC and Joshua Gillespe for 901 N 6th Ave E
• Resolution moving medical insurance to self-insured, with expected savings of $441,268 (20.92%)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Newtonia Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving the agenda and minutes, selecting officers, and receiving updates from city staff. Staff will report on the CLG 2022 annual report, a commissioner vacancy, and the Historic Properties Redevelopment update. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Selection of officers
• CLG 2022 Annual Report submitted
• Commissioner vacancy to be addressed
• Historic Properties Redevelopment update

Civil Service Commission

The Newton Civil Service Commission will meet to certify candidate lists for police officer and fire captain positions, approve the police officer hiring process, and authorize testing for fire prevention specialist and firefighter positions. The agenda also includes exhausting the current firefighter candidate list and approving minutes from the previous meeting.

• Certify Police Officer Candidate List
• Review and Approve Police Officer Hiring Process
• Certify Fire Captain Promotional List
• Approve Fire Department to Test and Create Candidate List for Fire Prevention Specialist
• Approve Fire Department to Test and Create Candidate List for Firefighter

City Council

The Newton City Council is meeting to consider several significant items, including public hearings on loan agreements totaling up to $3.7 million for various city improvements, a resolution to purchase a new landfill trash compactor for $922,061.55, and the second consideration of an updated animal ordinance. The council will also vote on consent agenda items such as liquor licenses, mowing contracts, and a police camera purchase, and receive updates on the downtown park and rental housing program.

• Public hearing on Essential Purpose Loan Agreement up to $3,000,000 for streets, sidewalks, drainage, sewer, water, lighting, vehicles, airport taxiway, cemetery, and property restoration
• Public hearings on General Purpose Loan Agreements #1 ($300,000 for downtown park) and #2 ($400,000 for library, City Hall, computers, wash bay, park study)
• Resolution approving purchase of landfill trash compactor for $922,061.55 from Mid Country Machinery and RDO Integrated Controls
• Second consideration of animal ordinance changes including tethering limits, dangerous dog designation, and signage for underground fencing
• Consent agenda includes liquor licenses for Murph and Marys and Newton 66, and four mowing contracts

Newton Public Library Board of Trustees

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees will hold its regular meeting, covering routine approvals, financial and director reports, and a discussion of the long-range plan. Key items include a roof funding discussion and a report from the roof fundraiser sub-committee, as well as updates on the ILS migration and approval of the BRIDGES agreement.

• Approval of bills
• Roof funding discussion and fundraiser sub-committee report
• ILS migration update
• Approval of BRIDGES agreement
• Library wish list updates and approval

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on a request to vacate the south half of an alley in the 600 block of North 8th Avenue East, submitted by Believers in Grace Church. The commission will also review minutes from the November 22, 2022 meeting and elect officers.

• Public hearing AV23-1: N-S alley vacation (south half) in the 600 block of North 8th Avenue East, applicant Believers in Grace Church
• Review of minutes from November 22, 2022
• Election of officers

Employee Relations Committee

The Employee Relations Committee is meeting to consider recommendations on staffing levels for several city departments, including utilities water distribution, code enforcement, fire prevention, and public works/engineering. The committee will also review minutes from the previous meeting. These are recommendations that may be forwarded to the full council for action.

• Recommendation to approve Utilities Water Distribution staffing
• Recommendation to approve Code Enforcement Division staffing
• Recommendation to approve a Fire Prevention Specialist position
• Recommendation to approve Public Works / Engineering staffing

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a resolution setting the maximum property tax dollars for FY2024 at $7,946,354, an 11.01% increase from FY23. The council will also consider several ordinances, including changes to street parking in northeast Newton and updates to the animal ordinance, plus multiple resolutions for contracts, grants, and agreements.

• Public hearing and resolution on FY24 maximum property tax dollars: $7,946,354 (11.01% increase)
• Second consideration of ordinance to restrict parking on N 3rd Ave E and N 2nd Ave E (2000-2200 blocks)
• First consideration of animal ordinance changes (tethering limits, dangerous dog definitions)
• Downtown improvement grant of $3,750 for Lederman Building renovation at 118 N 2nd Ave E
• Resolution authorizing agreement with Christensen Development and Jasper County for Legacy Plaza redevelopment

SSMID Board

The SSMID Board will meet to review minutes from prior meetings, receive a finance report, and discuss new business including the 2023 budget, Christmas decorations, and a cleaning & floral maintenance contract. Old business includes an update on downtown beautification infrastructure. The board will also hear brief updates from community partners.

• 2023 Downtown Cleaning & Floral Maintenance contract
• Budget & SSMID projects for 2023 discussion
• Downtown Beautification Infrastructure (flags, benches, flower pots) update
• Status of Christmas Decorations
• Finance Report presentation

Building Trades Board

The Building Trades Board is meeting to review the Rental Housing Inspection Program, including enforcement of the nuisance code through rental inspections, reinspection requirements, and the rental inspection checklist. The agenda is primarily a policy review with no specific decisions or contracts listed.

• Review of Rental Housing Inspection Program Policy
• Enforcement of Nuisance Code (Chapter 94) through Rental Inspection
• Reinspection Requirement
• Review of Rental Inspection Checklist

Historic Preservation Commission

The Newtonia, MO Historic Preservation Commission will meet to review the 2022 Certified Local Government (CLG) annual report and address a current commissioner vacancy. The meeting will also include routine procedural items such as approval of minutes and compliance with Iowa Open Meetings Law.

• Review of 2022 CLG Annual Report
• Discussion of Commissioner Vacancy

City Council

The Newton City Council will vote on a joint urban renewal agreement with Jasper County to support the Newton Legacy Reinvestment District, approve a preferred location for Aurora Park pickleball courts, and consider an ordinance changing parking restrictions on several northeast Newton streets. The agenda also includes numerous routine resolutions, liquor license approvals, and public hearings on the capital improvement plan and property tax levy.

• Resolution approving joint urban renewal agreement with Jasper County for Newton Legacy Reinvestment District
• Ordinance to add no-parking zones on N 3rd Ave E, E 21st St N, and N 2nd Ave E in northeast Newton
• Resolution selecting Option A-2 as preferred location for Aurora Park pickleball courts
• Resolution setting public hearing on proposed maximum property tax dollars for FY 2023-2024
• Resolution approving purchase of 2023 Ford Police Interceptor SUV from Stivers Ford

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a budget workshop to finalize the FY24 budget and Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). They will discuss a state residential rollback error, outside agency funding, and any other changes before giving final direction to staff.

• Discussion of State of Iowa Residential Rollback Error
• Outside Agency Funding Proposal for FY24
• Final Review of FY24 Budget & CIP
• Council discussion on any other changes to FY24 budget proposal
• Final direction from Council to staff on FY24 budget proposal

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Newton Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit for an addition to an accessory structure exceeding 1,000 sq. ft. at 907 W. 8th St. N. The board will also review minutes from the January 4, 2023 meeting. No other substantive items are listed.

• Public hearing on CU23-1: Conditional use permit for accessory structure addition at 907 W. 8th St. N.
• Property located in R-2 and A-1 zoning districts
• Applicant: Stephen Ezell
• Review of January 4, 2023 meeting minutes

Building Trades Board

The Newtonia Building Trades Board meets to review and discuss updates to the city’s rental housing code and inspection policies. Items include proposed changes to basement bedroom regulations, garage storage rules, ceiling height standards, and nuisance code enforcement through rental inspections.

• Review of basement bedroom/exit rules (Newton Code Section 151.31)
• Discussion on garage storage standards (Newton Code Section 151.43)
• Proposed updates to bedroom ceiling height requirements (Section 151.27)
• Review of rental inspection program policies and enforcement of nuisance code (Chapter 94)

Newton Public Library Board of Trustees

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to approve minutes, bills, and reports, discuss long-range planning, and review a roof funding discussion and Reeves HVAC contract approval. The board will also address alcohol on library property and approve a library closure for staff training.

• Roof funding discussion
• Reeves HVAC contract approval
• Library closure April 8th–15th for staff training, ILS migration, & shifting
• Approval of Page job description & pay
• Review of Intellectual Freedom Webinars

City Council

The Newton City Council is meeting to consider a resolution updating park rules to allow ice fishing on Cardinal Pond, along with several other routine items including liquor licenses, fund transfers, and a contract for landfill services. They will also discuss pickleball courts at Aurora Park and a residential and commercial inspection program. The meeting includes two closed sessions to discuss litigation strategy with counsel.

• Resolution approving updated park rules to allow ice fishing on Cardinal Pond
• Liquor license approvals including Kwik Star ownership change and special event at DMACC
• Resolution authorizing 3-year agreement with HLW Engineering Group for Newton Sanitary Landfill
• Resolution authorizing sale of spray injection patching machine and repealing 28E agreement with Jasper County
• Discussion of pickleball courts at Aurora Park

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a budget workshop to review the initial general fund revenue estimate, non-salary expenditure proposals for the general fund and other funds, and an employee compensation proposal. The council will also discuss tax increment financing and partner funding. This is a working session to prepare for the upcoming budget.

• Initial general fund revenue estimate presented by Michele Heisdorffer
• Tax Increment Financing discussion led by Lisa Frasier
• General fund non-salary expenditures proposal
• Non-salary expenditures for all other funds proposal
• Employee compensation proposal review

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Newtonia Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a variance request to enlarge a non-conforming accessory building at 1101 W 4th St S in the C-N zoning district. The board will also review minutes from the previous meeting and elect officers.

• Variance V23-1: 630 sq ft accessory building enlargement at 1101 W 4th St S (C-N zoning)
• Public hearing on the variance request
• Election of officers for the Zoning Board of Adjustment

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a budget workshop to discuss the upcoming fiscal year's budget. Presentations will cover the police department, general administration, initial general fund revenue estimates, special revenue funds, partner contributions, and tax increment financing. This is a working session for budget planning, not a final budget adoption.

• Executive presentation by Police Chief Rob Burdess on police department budget
• Executive presentation by Finance Officer Lisa Frasier on administration budget
• Initial General Fund revenue estimate presented by Senior Financial Analyst Michele Heisdorffer
• Discussion of Special Revenue Funds and partner contributions
• Discussion of Tax Increment Financing