Newtonia public meetings in 2025

Newton Public Library Board of Trustees

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees is meeting to handle routine business including approving bills and minutes, receiving financial and director reports, and reviewing the library's strategic plan progress. The board will also discuss the trustee manual chapter 4 and vote on book spine suggestions for staff windows. This is a regular monthly meeting with no major policy decisions expected.

• Approval of bills
• Library financial report
• Strategic plan progress review
• Trustee manual chapter 4 review
• Book spine suggestions/voting for staff windows

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees met on December 18, 2025, and approved the agenda, minutes, and bills. No public comments were made. The board discussed using $1,400 from donations or the building fund to straighten the southeast corner sign once weather permits, and agreed to rename the Long Range Plan to Business Calendar. The strategic plan is still in progress, with priorities 1, 2, and 5 approved by staff and director, and priorities 3 and 4 to be finalized by Ashton and Rachel.

• Approved agenda (motion by Soule, second by Hutchinson)
• Approved minutes (motion by Braafhart, second by Soule)
• Approved bills (motion by Bierman, second by Hutchinson)
• Approved $1,400 from donations or building fund for sign straightening
• Renamed Long Range Plan to Business Calendar

City Council

The Newton City Council is meeting to consider a consent agenda with routine items, hold a public hearing, and vote on several resolutions. Key actions include awarding a contract for the 1st Ave E and E 12th St drainage improvements project, approving an emergency repair expenditure for the Jordan Well, and consenting to the assignment of a development agreement. The meeting also includes a public hearing on the drainage project contract and an oath of office ceremony.

• Public hearing and resolution awarding contract for 1st Ave E and E 12th St Drainage Improvements Project; lowest bid $256,168.40 from Central Iowa Excavation
• Resolution approving emergency repair expenditure not to exceed $150,000 for Jordan Well pump motor replacement
• Resolution consenting to assignment of development agreement for 1810 1st Avenue East from Hopkins Properties LLC to CLN Investments LLC
• Resolution approving 28E Agreement with Jasper County for Newton Rail Park development services
• Resolution awarding contract for open-air shelter at Westwood Clubhouse Patio, cost $27,531.04

The Newton City Council approved multiple resolutions awarding contracts for the 1st Ave E and E 12th St drainage improvements, an open-air shelter at Westwood Clubhouse, and the 2025 W 3rd & 4th St traffic signal install project. They also approved an emergency repair expenditure for Jordan Well and consented to a development agreement assignment. A 28E agreement with Jasper County for development services in the Newton Rail Park was postponed to January or February for further work. All votes were unanimous (6-0).

• Awarded contract for 1st Ave E and E 12th St Drainage Improvements Project (6-0)
• Awarded contract for open-air shelter at Westwood Clubhouse Patio (6-0)
• Approved emergency repair expenditure on Jordan Well (6-0)
• Consented to Assignment of Development Agreement (6-0)
• Postponed 28E Agreement with Jasper County for Rail Park development services (6-0)
• Approved 2-year lawn care contract with Gilbert Lawn and Snow Removal LLC (consent agenda)
• Awarded contract for 2025 W 3rd & 4th St Traffic Signal Install Project (consent agenda)
• Approved consent agenda items 3-20 (6-0)

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a budget workshop to review capital improvement projects and receive presentations from city departments for the FY27 budget. The meeting includes presentations from the Senior Financial Analyst and executive team members, followed by council member questions and comments.

• Capital Improvement Projects presentation by Candace Streeter, Sr Financial Analyst
• Executive team presentations from Administrative Services, Finance, Library, Fire, and Public Works
• FY27 Budget Information presentation by Candace Streeter

The Newton City Council held a budget workshop to review the proposed FY27 capital improvement projects and departmental budget changes. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the meeting was informational, with staff presentations and council discussion. The council scheduled partner organization presentations for the January 5 budget workshop.

• Reviewed proposed FY27 general fund bonds totaling $3,397,000
• Reviewed FY27 funding source totals of $12,365,000
• Scheduled partner organization presentations for January 5 budget workshop
• Adjourned meeting at 7:53 PM (unanimous voice vote)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Newtonia Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit (CU25-5) requested by Amy Ray to allow outdoor storage as a secondary use at 2026 1st Ave. E. The board will also review minutes from its November 5 meeting. No other substantive business is listed.

• Public hearing on CU25-5: conditional use permit for outdoor storage at 2026 1st Ave. E (applicant: Amy Ray)
• Review of minutes from 11-05-25 meeting

Historic Preservation Commission

The Newtonia Historic Preservation Commission will convene on December 1, 2025, at 3:00 PM in the Large Conference Room at City Offices (Building 18, Legacy Plaza, 303 W 4th St N, Suite 501, Newton, IA 50208). The agenda consists entirely of procedural items, including roll call, review of previous minutes, certification of Iowa Open Meetings Law compliance, and public communications, with no decisions or substantive discussions scheduled.

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and consider resolutions to borrow up to $7.275 million for street, water, sewer, park, police, fire, airport, and housing improvements. The council will also vote on several routine items, including liquor license renewals, project completions, and change orders, as well as a fee schedule change for park shelters.

• Public hearing on $6.6M essential purpose loan for streets, utilities, police/fire vehicles, parks, airport, housing
• Public hearing on $600,000 general purpose loan for fire station, training facilities, security cameras, park amenities
• Public hearing on $75,000 urban renewal loan for downtown micro-grant and housing grant programs
• Resolution approving $22,850 change order for Aurora Tennis Lighting Project
• Resolution awarding $129,759 water treatment clarifier painting project to H2 Services

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a budget workshop to review the FY27 budget, including presentations from the executive team on finance, community development, and utilities, as well as employee compensation costs and debt service. Council members will have an opportunity to ask questions and provide input.

• Presentation of FY27 employee compensation costs by Jerri Clay
• Debt service fund presentation by Candace Streeter
• FY27 budget information presentation by Candace Streeter
• Executive team presentations on finance, community development, and utilities

The Newton City Council met in special session for a budget workshop on December 1, 2025. Staff presented FY27 budget information, including employee compensation costs, debt service payments, and property tax rollback numbers. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational only and adjourned without any votes.

• No formal decisions made; meeting was a budget workshop

Newton Public Library Board of Trustees

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to handle routine business, including approving bills and minutes. They will also discuss and potentially approve the FY27 budget, review the long-range and strategic plans, and get updates on the library sign project and holiday staff luncheon.

• FY27 Budget Discussion and Approval
• Library Sign Project Update
• Holiday Staff Luncheon Planning - Dec. 12th
• Trustee Manual Chapter 3 Review & Discussion
• County Wide Trustee Training Recap

The board approved the F27 budget, moved by Braafhart and seconded by Bierman. They also discussed a refund on the periodical line due to overcharging for microfilm conversion, and noted the library sign project is on hold until it worsens.

• Approved F27 budget (motion passed)
• Approved agenda, minutes, and bills (motions passed)
• Discussed library sign project, deferred until worsening
• Discussed collaboration with Foundation and Friends groups

Park Board

The Newtonia Park Board will meet to review minutes, discuss and potentially set 2026 shelter rental fees, and receive an update on holiday lights. New and old business items will also be considered.

• 2026 Shelter Rental Fees
• Holiday Lights Update
• Review of Minutes of Previous Meeting

The Newton Park Board met on September 17, 2025, with a quorum present. They approved the minutes from the previous meeting (July 16, 2025) by a 3-0 vote. The board reviewed year-end recreation events and upcoming holiday activities, and received updates on various park projects, including tennis courts, the Westwood Clubhouse, restroom upgrades, tree removal, and trail repairs. No new or old business was discussed.

• Approved minutes of July 16, 2025 meeting (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Civil Service Commission

The Newton Civil Service Commission will consider recommending that the City Council extend the suspension of civil service hiring practices for entrance positions for one year, as allowed by Iowa Code. They will also discuss authorizing the Fire Department to conduct promotional testing for Assistant Fire Chief and approving the Police Department's hiring process. The meeting includes roll call, approval of prior minutes, and adjournment.

• Resolution to suspend civil service hiring practices for entrance positions from Nov 18, 2025 to Nov 18, 2026
• Authorize Fire Department promotional testing for Assistant Fire Chief position
• Approve Police Department hiring process
• Approve minutes of June 16, 2025 meeting

The Civil Service Commission voted to recommend extending the suspension of Civil Service hiring practices for entrance positions through November 18, 2026, and approved the Fire Department's promotional testing process for Assistant Fire Chief and the Police Department's hiring process. All motions passed unanimously with two votes (Zellinger and Johnson present; Ray absent).

• Approved minutes of June 16, 2025 meeting (2-0)
• Recommended to City Council extension of Civil Service hiring suspension through Nov 18, 2026 (2-0)
• Authorized Fire Department promotional testing for Assistant Fire Chief (2-0)
• Approved Police Department hiring process (2-0)

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on selling five city-owned cleared lots to Young Buck Construction LLC for $5,000 total, with a commitment to build five new homes. The council will also consider final approval of an ordinance to end the Southwest Newton Urban Renewal Area, and a new ordinance restricting engine braking. Several other resolutions cover property tax rebates, TIF revenue claims, and a water treatment LED upgrade.

• Public hearing and resolution to sell 5 properties (214 E 4th St N, 411, 421, 427 N 3rd Ave E, 215 E 5th St N) to Young Buck Construction LLC for $5,000 total
• Third consideration of ordinance terminating Southwest Newton Economic Development Urban Renewal Area
• Third consideration of ordinance prohibiting engine braking (except emergencies) with $105 fine
• Resolution approving property tax rebate for Best Midwest Properties LLC at 109 1st Ave W
• Resolution authorizing $26,629 LED lighting upgrade at Water Treatment Plant (net cost $20,590)

The Newton City Council adopted Ordinance 2478 adding an engine braking restriction to the traffic code, with Councilmember Ervin opposed. The council also terminated the Southwest Newton Economic Development Urban Renewal Area via Ordinance 2477 and Resolution 2025-442, and approved the sale of five city-owned properties. All other agenda items were approved as part of the consent agenda or separate motions.

• Adopted Ordinance 2478 adding engine braking restriction (5-1, Ervin opposed)
• Adopted Ordinance 2477 terminating Southwest Newton Urban Renewal Area (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-442 terminating Southwest Newton Urban Renewal Area Plan (6-0)
• Approved sale of city-owned properties at 214 E 4th St N, 411/421/427 N 3rd Ave E, 215 E 5th St N (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-436 awarding tree removal contract, amended to use FY25 bonds (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-432 property tax rebate for Best Midwest Properties LLC at 109 1st Ave W (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-433 authorizing private sale of 602 E 13th St N (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-444 establishing fine for engine brake violations (6-0)

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a budget workshop to review FY25 expenditures and revenues, discuss property tax distribution, and begin planning for the FY27 budget. Presentations will cover partner funding agreements (28E) and provide information for the upcoming budget cycle. Council members will have an opportunity to ask questions and provide input.

• FY25 Expenditure & Revenue Review
• FY25 My Tax Dollars at Work presentation
• FY25 Newton Property Tax Distribution
• 28E Agreements / Partner Funding for FY27
• FY27 Budget Information

The Newton City Council held a budget workshop to review FY25 expenditures and revenues, with no formal decisions made. Staff presented financial data, including a property tax distribution breakdown, and council members requested adjustments to charts and additional data. The meeting adjourned without any votes.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during the budget workshop

General

The Animal Review Committee is meeting to conduct a problematic animal hearing. The agenda includes roll call, the hearing, and adjournment. No other business is listed.

• Problematic Animal Hearing

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 receiving financial and director reports. The board will also discuss and potentially approve the FY27 budget, review the trustee manual, and consider several operational items such as a book vendor update, shelf order, and holiday staff luncheon planning.

• Approve 28E FY2027 Contract Rates
• FY27 Budget Discussion and Approval
• Library Signage Project update
• Fire Suppression System - CIP update
• Hotspot Policy Edits

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees approved September and October bills, a glass repair bill, a 28E contract with Lambs Grove, an LFI order, a wish list tree, and hotspot policy edits. They also confirmed a $10,000 Carnegie Library gift and discussed emergency management planning with $20,000 from the City Council. The FY27 budget was discussed but approval was postponed to the next meeting.

• Approved September 2025 edited bills
• Approved October 2025 bills
• Approved Hamilton Glass bill for staff windows
• Approved 28E contract rates for Lambs Grove
• Approved LFI order
• Approved Wish List Tree
• Approved hotspot policy edits
• Deferred FY27 budget approval to next meeting

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Newton Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on two variance requests allowing encroachments into required yard setbacks, then handle other business. The board will also review minutes from its previous meeting. This is a regular meeting with two specific property requests for residents to weigh in on.

• V25-9: Variance for sideyard encroachment at 600 E 23rd St. S., applicant Gary Stier
• V25-10: Variance for rearyard encroachment at 1511 W 9th St. S., applicant Doug Chodur
• Public hearing on both variance requests
• Review of previous meeting minutes

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and consider resolutions on several projects, including awarding contracts for a city camera project and Westwood Golf Course bridge repairs, and an ordinance to allow more urban chickens and ducks. The consent agenda includes routine approvals like minutes, liquor licenses, and financial reports. The meeting also includes closed sessions for litigation and personnel matters.

• Public hearing and resolution to award $127,358 contract to Mahaska Communication Group for 2025 City Camera Project
• Public hearing and resolution to award $516,458 contract to Caliber Concrete for Westwood Golf Course bridge replacement
• First consideration of ordinance to expand allowance of urban chickens/ducks (Planning & Zoning vote 3-1)
• Resolution approving property tax rebate for Nehring Auto Property at 1800 1st Ave E
• Resolution accepting completion of Airport Runway 14/32 project with final amount $1,066,088.49

Historic Preservation Commission

The Newtonia Historic Preservation Commission will hold a routine meeting with only procedural items, including roll call, minutes review, and certification of Iowa Open Meetings Law compliance. No decisions or discussions on historic preservation matters are listed.

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a budget workshop to review the Comprehensive Plan, set city council goals, and discuss the proposed budget schedule, ending fund balance projections for FY25/26, and partner funding agreements for FY27/28. This is a working session for discussion and input, not a final decision-making meeting.

• Review of Comprehensive Plan by Community Development Director Erin Chambers
• City Council Goals discussion led by Administrative Services Manager Katrina Davis
• Review of proposed budget schedule by Senior Financial Analyst Candace Streeter
• Review of ending fund balance FY25/26 year projections
• Partner funding for FY27/28E agreements

The Newton City Council held a budget workshop to review the Comprehensive Plan, city goals, and fund balance projections. Council approved 26 committed expenses by consent, including street projects, equipment, and vehicle needs. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational and procedural.

• Approved 26 committed expenses by consent (street projects, equipment, vehicles)
• Reviewed Comprehensive Plan and city goals
• Reviewed FY25/26 ending fund balance projections
• Requested partner funding letters for FY27/28 agreements

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Newtonia Planning & Zoning Commission is meeting to review minutes and continue a public hearing on a zoning ordinance amendment regarding urban chickens and ducks. The hearing was previously continued from September and October meetings. No other substantive business is listed.

• Continued public hearing for ZOA25-2: Zoning Ordinance Amendment regarding Urban Chickens and Ducks
• Review of minutes from the 10-7-25 meeting

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold a regular meeting with a public hearing on a bank stabilization contract, first consideration of an ordinance banning engine braking, and several resolutions for property tax rebates and water infrastructure projects. The agenda also includes consent items such as licenses, nuisance abatement assessments, and contract approvals.

• Public hearing and contract award for Children's Forest Bank Stabilization, low bid $54,617.81 from Crossroads Pipe & Grading
• First consideration of ordinance prohibiting engine braking except in emergencies
• Property tax rebates for Van Maanen Electric (500 Iowa Speedway Dr), Leavenwealth Capital, and Jasper Point Plaza in urban renewal areas
• Task Order 25-01 with Strand Associates for four new alluvial wells
• Task Order 25-02 with Strand Associates for clearwell baffles at water treatment plant

City Council

This is a City Council meeting held as a tour of the Mid America Recycling facility in Des Moines, Iowa. The agenda consists solely of a presentation and tour of the recycling center's facilities. No decisions or discussions of city business are listed.

• Tour of Mid America Recycling facilities at 2744 E Market St, Des Moines, IA

City Council

The Newton City Council is hosting a Main Street America State Program partnership visit to discuss how the city supports the local Main Street program and to review downtown successes and challenges. This is an informational and discussion session, not a voting meeting.

• Partnership visit with Main Street America State Program
• Discussion of city support for the Main Street program
• Review of downtown successes and challenges

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Newtonia Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on two requests: a conditional use permit for a single-family residence in a commercial zoning district, and a variance for a detached garage setback. The board will also review minutes from a previous meeting.

• Conditional Use Permit CU25-4 for single-family residence at 219 W 11th St. N. (applicant: Jaxon Keeton)
• Variance V25-8 for detached garage setback encroachment at 121 W 10th St. N. (applicant: Caleb Millsap)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Newtonia Planning & Zoning Commission is meeting to review minutes and continue a public hearing on a zoning ordinance amendment regarding urban chickens and urban ducks. The hearing was continued from the September 9, 2025 meeting. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Continued public hearing for ZOA25-2: Zoning Ordinance Amendment regarding Urban Chickens and Urban Ducks
• Review of minutes from the 9-9-25 meeting

City Council

The Newton City Council will vote on a contract for a new Public Safety Storage Building, approve property tax rebates for two developments, and consider restructuring the Utilities Department. The agenda also includes several routine items like liquor licenses, project completions, and fee schedule updates.

• Award $235,974 contract to Pro-Line Building Company for Public Safety Storage Building
• Property tax rebates for GG 115 LLC (208 S 2nd Ave W) and McCann Housing Associates (1105 E 12th St S)
• Reclassify IT Support Specialist to IT Support Manager at Range 7
• Move Utility Billing to Utilities Department and create Acting Superintendent positions
• Approve $6,675 LMI grant for 905 N 7th Ave W

The Newton City Council met and adopted a consent agenda containing 16 items plus 9 additional resolutions, including awarding the contract for the 2025 Public Safety Storage Building Project. They also approved a hotel-motel tourism grant, a low-moderate income set-aside grant, and an amendment to the set-aside policy. All votes were unanimous except for one resolution (2025-382) which passed 5-1.

• Adopted consent agenda items 3-18 (6-0)
• Awarded contract for 2025 Public Safety Storage Building Project (6-0)
• Approved $2,500 tourism grant for Jasper County Historical Museum (6-0)
• Approved low-moderate income set-aside grant for 905 N 7th Ave W (5-1)
• Amended Low-Moderate Income Set Aside Policy (6-0)
• Reclassified IT Support Specialist to IT Support Manager (6-0)
• Approved Utilities Department restructuring (6-0)
• Adopted 2025-2027 Elected Official's Goals (6-0)

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold a goal-setting workshop to review and select priorities for 2025-2027, including capital improvement plans, debt limits, and departmental goals. Presentations cover the current CIP, constitutional debt limits, and draft goals from departments.

• Review of FY26-FY30 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
• Presentation of Potential 2025-2027 City Council Goals
• Draft FY27-FY31 CIP
• Review of Constitutional Debt Limit and Outstanding Debt
• City Council Goal Selection

Newton Public Library Board of Trustees

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to approve bills and policies, including a donations policy and by-law edits. They will also discuss the library signage project, fire suppression system, security cameras, and the FY27 budget. The meeting includes routine reports and citizen participation.

• Approval of Donations, Gifts, & Memorials Policy
• Discussion of Library Signage Project
• Fire Suppression System - CIP (Capital Improvement Project)
• Library Security Cameras discussion
• FY27 Budget Discussion

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees approved several routine items, including the agenda, minutes, and bills. They approved a donation and memorial wordage change, lit outdoor signage, by-law edits, and 2026 holiday closure dates. No public comments were made, and no major financial or policy decisions were finalized.

• Approved agenda and minutes (unanimous)
• Approved bills (unanimous)
• Approved donation and memorial wordage change (unanimous)
• Approved lit outdoor signage (unanimous)
• Approved library board by-law edits (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 library holiday closure dates (unanimous)

SSMID Board

The Downtown Newton SSMID Board will meet to review the August 31, 2025 finance report and minutes from the June 10, 2025 meeting. They will discuss old business, including third-quarter activity for the district update, and consider additional projects for 2025-26. The meeting is a regular quarterly session with no public hearings or major decisions listed.

• Review of minutes from June 10, 2025
• Finance report as of Aug. 31, 2025
• Review 3rd Quarter Activity for District Update
• Discussion of additional projects for SSMID 2025-26

Park Board

The Park Board is meeting to review minutes, discuss year-end recreation programs, plan upcoming holiday events in parks, and receive project updates. The agenda is routine and contains no specific decisions or proposals.

• Review of minutes from previous meeting
• Year-end recreation program review
• Upcoming holiday events in parks
• Project updates

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on several resolutions including a $360,045 contract for the 2025 HMA Alley Overlay Project, traffic safety changes near the new splash pad park, and stop sign installations at two intersections. The meeting will also consider liquor license renewals, property tax rebates, and housing improvement grants.

• Approve $360,045 contract for 2025 HMA Alley Overlay Project (TK Concrete Inc)
• Remove 1 parking stall each on W 3rd St N and N 3rd Ave W near splash pad park
• Add stop signs at W 3rd St N at N 3rd Ave W and E 12th St S at S 13th Ave E
• Approve $2,500 tourism grant for Washer City Card Convention
• Approve $6,000 and $2,740.65 housing grants for 525 N 2nd Ave E and 625 E 4th St S

The Newton City Council approved a contract for the 2025 HMA Alley Overlay Project and adopted three ordinances changing parking and stop signs on specific streets. It also approved several resolutions, including a property tax rebate, a hotel-motel tourism grant, and two low-moderate income housing set-aside grants. All votes were unanimous except for two housing grants and one ordinance, which passed 5-1 with Councilmember Dalton dissenting.

• Adopted Resolution 2025-358 awarding contract for 2025 HMA Alley Overlay Project (6-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2474 changing parking on 200 block of North Third Avenue West and West Third Street North (5-1, Dalton dissenting)
• Adopted Ordinance 2475 adding stop signs on West Third Street North at North Third Avenue West (6-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2476 adding stop signs on East Twelfth Street South at South Thirteenth Avenue East (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-359 approving $2,500 tourism grant for Washer City Card Convention (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-360 approving low-moderate income housing set-aside grant for 525 North 2nd Avenue East (5-1, Dalton dissenting)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-361 approving low-moderate income housing set-aside grant for 625 East 4th Street South (5-1, Dalton dissenting)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-362 approving five-year power interrupt agreement with Interstate Power and Light (6-0)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Newtonia Zoning Board of Adjustment will decide whether a property at 200 East 20th Street North is exempt from a Conditional Use Permit or must act on one. The public hearing for this item was closed on August 7, 2025, and comments will be limited to board members unless reopened.

• 200 East 20th Street North, Capstone Behavioral Health Residence Conditional Use Permit decision
• Public hearing closed on 8/7/2025; comments restricted to board members unless reopened

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Newton Planning & Zoning Commission is meeting to review minutes from July 22, 2025, and hold a public hearing on ZOA25-2, a zoning ordinance amendment regarding urban chickens. No other business is on the agenda.

• Public hearing on ZOA25-2: zoning ordinance amendment regarding urban chickens

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission is holding a regular meeting with an agenda that contains only procedural items: roll call, review of minutes, and opportunities for staff, commissioners, and citizens to speak. No specific decisions, proposals, or public hearings are listed.

• Review of minutes from previous meeting
• Items from staff
• Items from commissioners
• Items from citizens

City Council

The Newton City Council will meet to approve bills, hear public comments, and vote on several resolutions including a $317,072.70 sewer lining contract, nuisance abatement assessments, and ordinance changes to remove parking stalls and add stop signs for safety near new splash pad park.

• Approve $317,072.70 contract for 2025 Sanitary Sewer Lining Project (low bidder: Municipal Pipe and Tool of Hudson, IA)
• Remove one parking stall each on W 3rd St N and N 3rd Ave W for pedestrian safety near splash pad park
• Add stop signs at W 3rd St N at N 3rd Ave and E 12th St S at S 13th Ave E for traffic safety
• Levy assessments for nuisance abatement costs (Schedule 25-11) and fix individual property assessments (Schedule 25-12)
• Reject all bids for 2025 Newton Public Safety Storage Building and order new bids

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 discussions on the long-range and strategic plans. Old business includes a donations policy, a soffit RFP selection, and projects for signage, window tinting, and landscaping. New business includes approving a delayed opening for staff training and reviewing board policies and documents.

• Approval of bills
• Soffit RFP selection & approval
• Library signage project design & discussion
• Window tinting project discussion
• Approve opening at 2pm on Oct. 1st for staff First Aid/CPR training

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees approved several contracts for exterior signage, interior privacy film, and window tinting, and confirmed the new mission statement. They also approved a late opening for CPR training and selected a strategic priority to present to the City Council. The board made minor changes to the bylaws and requested wording updates to the memorial policy.

• Approved sofit RFP from Zach DePenning (motion passed)
• Approved JDAWG RFP for exterior signs, including letters on south stone wall, west entrance, and a new monument sign (motion passed)
• Approved Sign Pro RFP for interior office privacy film (motion passed)
• Approved Cool Vu RFP for tinting upper west windows (motion passed)
• Approved late open on October 1 for employee CPR training (motion passed)
• Chose Priority 3 (Incident and Emergency Response Planning) from Strategic Plan to present to City Council (motion passed)
• Amended bylaws: changed 'Recognition of Visitors' to 'Citizen Participation' and 'Unfinished Business' to 'Old Business' (motion passed)

Building Trades Board

The Building Trades Board will review the minutes from the June 19, 2025 meeting and hear an appeal regarding a notice and order for a property at 1506 West 4th Street South. The meeting is scheduled for August 26, 2025, at Newton City Hall.

• Appeal of notice and order for 1506 West 4th Street South
• Review of minutes from June 19, 2025

City Council

The Newton City Council will consider several ordinances and resolutions, including allowing mobile food units near the new splash pad, granting a tax abatement for an industrial property, and adding stop signs at two intersections. The consent agenda includes routine items like minutes, liquor licenses, and contract awards. A closed session is scheduled for litigation strategy.

• Ordinance to allow mobile food unit parking on N 3rd Ave W near Harmony Park splash pad
• Ordinance granting 5-year sliding scale tax abatement for 1601 N 15th Ave E
• Ordinance to remove parking stalls and add stop signs near splash pad intersection
• Ordinance to add 4-way stop at E 12th St S and S 13th Ave E (8 accidents in 3 years)
• Resolution to purchase 827 E 8th St S for $2,500 for dangerous/dilapidated program

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Newton Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on two requests: a front yard setback variance for Montana Mike's at 1400 West 18th Street South, and a conditional use permit for a group living facility by Capstone Behavioral Healthcare at 200 East 20th Street North. The board will also review minutes from its July 17 meeting.

• V25-7: Frontyard setback variance for Montana Mike's, 1400 West 18th Street South
• CU25-3: Conditional use permit for Capstone Behavioral Healthcare group living facility, 200 East 20th Street North
• Review of minutes from 7.17.25 meeting

Historic Preservation Commission

The Newtonia Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to review the minutes from its June 2, 2025 meeting and discuss signage-related matters. The agenda includes standard procedural items such as roll call, certification of open meetings law, and public comment periods. No specific decisions or proposals are detailed in the agenda.

• Review of minutes from June 2, 2025 meeting
• Discussion of signage (staff item)
• Certification of open meetings law
• Items from commissioners, staff, and citizens

City Council

The Newton City Council will meet to decide on multiple resolutions and ordinances, including awarding a contract for the 2025 Westwood Patio Project, approving low-moderate income housing grants, and amending city codes related to swimming pools, mobile food units, and cemetery decorations. The meeting also includes a public hearing on the Westwood Patio Project contract.

• Award contract for 2025 Westwood Patio Project ($49,895.56) at Westwood Golf Course
• Approve $5,118.75 LMI housing grant for 1010 North 5th Avenue East
• Approve $9,225.00 LMI housing grant for 309 East 20th Street North
• Amend swimming pool code to adopt International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, 2015 Edition
• Allow mobile food units to park along N 3rd Ave W near Harmony Park splash pad

Newton Public Library Board of Trustees

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees is meeting to handle routine business and a long list of facility and planning items. They will approve bills, hear financial and director reports, and discuss the long-range and strategic plans. New business includes selecting a contractor for the soffit project, reviewing the FY25 budget and library statistics, and discussing window replacement, window tinting, landscaping, and a signage project. The board will also go into closed session for the library director's evaluation.

• Soffit RFP selection and approval
• Review FY25 budget
• Funding for library window replacement
• Library Foundation FY26 funding projects
• Donations, Gifts, & Memorials Policy discussion

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees approved about $8,500 for window replacement in the staff area/break room, with the foundation contributing $10,000. New officers were appointed, and the board tabled the soffit project due to no bids. The board also moved the entryway project out one year and discussed signage, window tinting, and landscaping.

• Approved $8,500 for staff-area window replacement (motion by Soule, second by Braafhart)
• Appointed Baker as president, Soule as VP, Braafhart as secretary, Bierman as treasurer
• Moved Nov, Dec, and June board meeting dates up one week
• Tabled soffit project until next meeting (no bids received)
• Moved entryway project out one year
• Approved bills as presented
• Approved agenda and minutes
• Entered and exited closed session to review director's performance

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Newtonia, MO Planning & Zoning Commission is meeting to review previous minutes and discuss urban chickens. The agenda is mostly procedural, with the only substantive item being the urban chickens discussion.

• Discussion on urban chickens

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and vote on amendments to three urban renewal areas, an industrial tax abatement, and multiple contracts including police equipment, sewer lining, and economic development services. The agenda also includes routine approvals of minutes, licenses, and bills.

• Public hearings and resolutions to amend North Central, 1st Avenue East, and East-Mart urban renewal area plans
• Ordinance adding 1601 North 15th Avenue East to industrial property tax abatements (5-year sliding scale)
• Contract with Newton Housing Development Corporation: $40,000/year for 5 years
• Contract with Newton Development Corporation: $77,000 for economic development services
• Downtown Improvement Grant of $5,131.96 for 109-111 W 3rd Street North

The Newton City Council approved a 19-item consent agenda including multiple resolutions for audits, contracts, and project approvals. It also adopted amendments to three urban renewal areas and approved first consideration of an ordinance adding 1601 North 15th Avenue East to industrial property tax abatements. Two contracts for economic development services were postponed to include more details, and a low-moderate income housing grant for 1010 North 5th Avenue East was postponed for further information.

• Approved consent agenda items 4-22 (6-0)
• Adopted urban renewal plan amendments for North Central, 1st Avenue East, and East-Mart areas (6-0 each)
• Approved first consideration of ordinance adding 1601 N 15th Ave E to industrial property tax abatements (6-0)
• Approved second consideration of swimming pool ordinance amendment (6-0)
• Approved first consideration of mobile food unit standards ordinance (4-2)
• Postponed contract with Newton Housing Development Corporation for more details (6-0)
• Postponed contract with Newton Development Corporation for more details (6-0)
• Postponed low-moderate income housing grant for 1010 N 5th Ave E (6-0)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment is meeting to hold a public hearing on a variance request (V25-6) to allow a front yard encroachment at 1016 S 6th Ave W. The board will also review minutes from the previous meeting and conduct routine procedural items.

• Public hearing on variance V25-6 for front yard encroachment at 1016 S 6th AVE W
• Review of minutes from previous meeting

Park Board

The Newton, IA Park Board is meeting on Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at 6:15 PM in the Council Chambers at Newton City Hall. The agenda includes roll call, review of previous meeting minutes, and a goal-setting session before adjournment. No specific projects, contracts, or decisions are listed on this agenda.

• Goal setting session
• Review of minutes from previous meeting
• Roll call of board members

Downtown Grant Review Board

The Downtown Grant Review Board will consider two items: a new Downtown Improvement Grant application for 109-111 W 3rd St. N and a reconsideration of a previously awarded grant for 105 W 2nd St. N. The board will also review minutes from the May 7, 2025 meeting.

• New grant application: 109-111 W 3rd St. N
• Reconsideration of previously awarded grant: 105 W 2nd St. N
• Review of minutes from 5/7/2025 meeting

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a special meeting that consists of a closed session to discuss strategy with counsel regarding pending or imminent litigation, as permitted by Iowa law. The meeting will return to open session before adjourning. No other business is listed on the agenda.

• Closed session under Iowa Code 21.5(1)(c) for litigation strategy
• Return to open session after closed discussion

The Newton City Council met in a special session and voted to enter a closed session at 5:30 P.M. to discuss litigation strategy with counsel. The council returned to open session at 5:52 P.M. and subsequently adjourned the meeting.

• Approved entering closed session for litigation strategy (6-0)
• Approved adjourning the meeting (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold a public hearing and first consideration of an ordinance adopting the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, and will consider a motion to reconsider postponing the purchase of 209 South 15th Avenue West for the Dangerous and Dilapidated Program. The consent agenda includes numerous resolutions on licenses, nuisance abatements, project completions, and purchases. A police mid-year report and discussion on Westwood Golf Course staffing are also scheduled.

• Resolution approving purchase of 209 South 15th Avenue West for $19,900 for Dangerous and Dilapidated Program
• Public hearing on ordinance adopting International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (2015)
• Resolution capping commercial building trades permit fees at $1,500
• Resolution supporting DMACC CAT Grant for Legacy Plaza Green Space
• Resolution approving real estate purchase for 10 feet of 2009 1st Ave E for $35,000 for Aurora Tennis Courts

The Newton City Council approved the purchase of 209 South 15th Avenue West for the Dangerous and Dilapidated Program (Resolution 2025-280) with a 5-1 vote. They also approved several resolutions including support for DMACC's Legacy Plaza Green Space grant application (4-2) and MercyOne Newton's ER renovation project (6-0). The consent agenda with 19 items was adopted unanimously.

• Approved purchase of 209 S 15th Ave W for Dangerous and Dilapidated Program (5-1)
• Approved support for DMACC Community Attraction & Tourism Grant for Legacy Plaza (4-2)
• Approved support for MercyOne Newton Emergency Department Renovation (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda items 4-22 (6-0)
• Approved first consideration of swimming pool ordinance amendment (6-0)
• Approved fee schedule amendment for commercial building trades permits (6-0)
• Approved employee handbook as amended (6-0)
• Approved real estate purchase for Aurora Tennis Courts project (6-0)

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a workshop to discuss several policy and economic development topics, including a Low Moderate Income housing grant policy, a local purchase policy, targeted business recruitment, and economic development tools like TIF and tax abatements. The meeting is a discussion session, not a voting meeting, and no formal decisions are expected.

• Low Moderate Income (LMI) Housing Set-Aside Grant Policy discussion
• Local Purchase Policy discussion
• Targeted Business Recruitment discussion
• Economic Development Discussion on TIF, Industrial Property Tax Abatement, and Citywide Urban Revitalization
• Expectations of Partner Organizations discussion

The Newton City Council met in a special workshop session to discuss several policy items, including the Low Moderate Income Housing Set-Aside Grant Policy, the Local Purchase Policy, targeted business recruitment, economic development strategies, and expectations for partner organizations. No formal votes or binding decisions were made during the meeting. The session concluded with an adjournment at 7:54 P.M.

• Adjourned the meeting at 7:54 P.M. (unanimous voice vote)

Building Trades Board

The Building Trades Board is meeting to review City Code 152.05 regarding swimming pool enclosures and covers, along with approving minutes from the previous meeting. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no other substantive items listed.

• Review of City Code 152.05 - Swimming Pool Enclosures/Covers
• Review of minutes from October 14, 2025 meeting

Park Board

The Newtonia Park Board will review minutes, hear citizen input, and discuss old and new business. Key items include a completed splash pad landscaping project, a city-wide playground evaluation, and a proposal for a fishing pier, parking, and hike & bike trail extension at Cardinal Pond. The board will also introduce goal setting for FY26-27 and receive staff updates on the Westwood Clubhouse and security cameras.

• Splash Pad Landscaping Boundary - Complete
• City-wide Playground Evaluation
• Cardinal Pond Fishing Pier, Parking and Hike & Bike Trail Extension
• Introduction to Park Board Goal Setting FY26-27
• Westwood Clubhouse Update

Civil Service Commission

The Newton Civil Service Commission will meet to approve the minutes from its February 20, 2025 meeting and to approve the promotional list for Fire Captain. The agenda is brief and contains only routine administrative items.

• Approve minutes of February 20, 2025 meeting
• Approve promotional list for Fire Captain

City Council

The Newton City Council will consider a water rate adjustment (third consideration), award a contract for the N.E. Pump Station improvements, and hold public hearings on the sale of 306 E 8th St S and the pump station contract. The agenda also includes numerous consent items, including contracts, agreements, and purchases, plus a first consideration of a fireworks ordinance to comply with new state law.

• Third consideration of ordinance to adjust water rates (first increase in over six years)
• Public hearing and resolution awarding N.E. Pump Station Improvements contract to WRH Inc.
• Public hearing on purchase and redevelopment agreement for 306 E 8th St S (offer: $1,500 from Jeffrey Paul Homes)
• Resolution approving purchase of 209 S 15th Ave W for $19,900 for Dangerous & Dilapidated Program
• Resolution renewing Bing Bang as marketing agency of record

The Newton City Council approved a large consent agenda including numerous resolutions for contracts, agreements, and appointments. They also adopted two ordinances, one updating waterworks fees and another amending fireworks regulations. Several items were postponed, including a property purchase and a resolution supporting a DMACC grant.

• Approved consent agenda items 4-32 (6-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2469 updating waterworks fee schedule (6-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2470 amending fireworks code, effective 07/01/2025 (6-0)
• Awarded N.E. Pump Station Improvements contract to WRH Inc. (6-0)
• Approved purchase and redevelopment agreement for 306 East 8th Street North (6-0)
• Postponed purchase of 209 South 15th Avenue West until August 4th (6-0)
• Postponed resolution supporting DMACC Legacy Plaza grant (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-265 expanding food truck permit exemption (4-2)

SSMID Board

The Downtown Newton SSMID Board is meeting to review minutes, receive a finance report, and discuss old and new business, including the annual newsletter and potential additional district projects for 2025-26. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or dollar amounts listed.

• Review of minutes from 4/8/25, 4/14/25, and 5/15/25
• Finance report
• SSMID Annual Newsletter & Quarterly Updates
• Additional SSMID District Projects for 2025-26

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Newtonia Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a requested variance to reduce lot size and width below minimum standards for a property at 917 N 8th Ave E/717 E 10th St N. The applicant is Abe Property Solutions. No other substantive items are listed beyond standard procedural steps.

• Variance request (V25-5) for reduced lot size/width at 917 N 8th Ave E/717 E 10th St N, applicant Abe Property Solutions

Historic Preservation Commission

The Newtonia, MO Historic Preservation Commission will hold a routine meeting to review minutes from the previous gathering, receive updates from city staff, and consider items from commissioners and citizens. No substantive decisions or new proposals are listed on this procedural agenda.

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and consider awarding contracts for the Aurora Park tennis courts lighting and resurfacing projects, with bids totaling over $1 million. The council will also vote on a five-year Capital Improvement Plan, water rate adjustments, and several property tax rebates for developments in urban renewal areas.

• Award contract to Kline Electric for $346,146 for Aurora Park tennis courts lighting
• Award contract to Minturn Inc. for $667,683 for Aurora Park tennis courts project
• Adopt FY26-FY30 Capital Improvement Plan
• Third consideration of ordinance increasing Mayor and Council pay
• Third consideration of ordinance establishing partial tax exemption for industrial property

General

The Newton Animal Review Committee is meeting to conduct a roll call and hear an appeal regarding a problematic animal. The meeting will take place at Newton City Hall.

• Problematic Animal Appeal

Newton Public Library Board of Trustees

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to review financial reports, discuss long-range and strategic planning, and address library services for Jasper County. The board will also consider a request for proposals regarding soffit repairs and plan the library director's performance review.

• Library Soffit RFP and repairs
• Rural Library Services for Jasper County
• IMLS and State funding updates
• Summer Reading Activities planning
• Director's performance review and goals

The Newton Public Library Board approved a motion to repair and secure the library soffit, with no public comments. The board also discussed state funding cuts affecting job research, tutoring help, and interlibrary loan van service, and planned for the director's review and new library cards.

• Approved soffit repair and securing (motion by Soule, second by Baker)
• Approved agenda, minutes, and bills as presented
• Discussed state funding cuts to job research, tutoring, and van share
• Planned director's self-evaluation by June 26 and board evaluation by July 15
• Discussed adding community awareness to strategic plan goals

General

The Animal Review Committee is meeting to hear a problematic animal appeal. The agenda includes roll call, the appeal, and adjournment. No other items are listed.

• Problematic Animal Appeal hearing

City Council

The Newton City Council will meet to decide on multiple resolutions, including approving water utility fee increases after six years without adjustments, setting industrial property tax exemptions for five years, and awarding contracts for firefighter gear. The meeting also includes second readings of ordinances on council pay raises and industrial abatement, as well as public hearings on property sales and park improvements.

• Approve 2025-2026 water utility fee schedule (no specific amounts listed)
• Second consideration of ordinance increasing Mayor and Council pay (effective Jan 2026)
• Second consideration of ordinance establishing 5-year industrial tax exemption (75% Year 1)
• Resolution awarding purchase of firefighter personal protective equipment
• Public hearing on sale of 306 East 8th Street South

The Newton City Council approved the consent agenda (items 5-23) unanimously, which included liquor and tobacco licenses, nuisance abatement assessments, property tax rebates, project completions, and various resolutions. They also approved second considerations of ordinances on council procedures and industrial property tax exemption, and a first reading of a water fee schedule ordinance. No substantive decisions were made outside the consent agenda and ordinance readings.

• Approved consent agenda items 5-23 (6-0)
• Approved second consideration of ordinance amending Mayor and Council chapter (6-0)
• Approved second consideration of ordinance establishing partial tax exemption for industrial property (6-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance amending water fee schedule (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-194 for nuisance abatement assessments
• Adopted Resolution 2025-195 for property tax rebate to Leavenwealth Capital, LLC
• Adopted Resolution 2025-203 awarding purchase of firefighter PPE
• Adopted Resolution 2025-205 setting public hearing for sale of 306 East 8th Street South

SSMID Board

The Downtown Newton SSMID Board scheduled a special meeting consisting of a roll call, a walking tour of the Downtown Newton SSMID District, and adjournment. A rain date is set for May 16, 2025.

• Walking Tour of Downtown Newton SSMID District (May 15, 2025, with a rain date of May 16, 2025)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Downtown Grant Review Board will meet on May 14, 2025, at City Offices in Newton, Iowa, to conduct roll call, review previous meeting minutes, and consider new business. The single agenda item for new business is a downtown improvement grant application for 104 1st Street North.

• Review of downtown improvement grant for 104 1st Street North

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Newtonia Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a variance request for a 6-foot fence in the front yard at 500 S. 3rd Ave. W. Additionally, the board will review the minutes from its previous meeting held on April 2, 2025.

• Public hearing on V25-4: Variance to allow a 6 ft fence in the front yard at 500 S. 3rd Ave. W.
• Review of minutes from the April 2, 2025 meeting

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission is meeting for a routine session with no listed action items. The agenda includes roll call, review of minutes, and opportunities for input from staff, commissioners, and citizens, but no specific decisions or discussions are detailed.

• Review of minutes from previous meeting
• Items from city staff
• Items from commissioners
• Items from citizens
• Communications from SHPO, IEDA, or Dept. of Cultural Affairs

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold a public hearing and first consideration of an ordinance establishing a partial tax exemption for industrial property, and will consider raising mayor and council pay for the next term. The council will also vote on a resolution adding a new solid waste and recycling fee of $18.55 per residential unit, effective July 1, 2025, following a new contract with Dodd's Solid Waste & Recycling. Numerous other resolutions cover property tax rebates, grants, equipment purchases, and contract approvals.

• Public hearing and first consideration of ordinance for industrial property tax abatement (75% to 15% over 5 years)
• Resolution to increase mayor and council pay for next elected council starting Jan 1, 2026
• Resolution adding $18.55/month solid waste and recycling fee per residential unit, effective July 1, 2025
• Property tax rebates for McCann Housing Associates (1105 E 12th St S) and Theisen's (3021 1st Ave E)
• Denial of tax rebate payment to Newton Elite Properties (1123 1st Ave E) due to agreement violation

The Newton City Council approved a 24-item consent agenda including liquor licenses, property tax rebates for McCann Housing and Theisen's, and denied a rebate to Newton Elite Properties for a violation. They also passed resolutions for auditing services, police station windows, and various public works projects. The council approved first consideration of an industrial property tax exemption ordinance and several grants, while postponing the Westwood Clubhouse rental policy to May 19.

• Approved consent agenda items 9-32 (5-0)
• Approved first consideration of industrial property tax exemption ordinance (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-186 adding solid waste fee (5-0)
• Approved Downtown Improvement Grant for 309 1st Ave W (5-0)
• Approved low-moderate income housing grants for 2122 N 4th Ave E and 2014 S 3rd Ave E (5-0)
• Approved D&D 2.0 Demolition Grant for 1010 E 8th St N (5-0)
• Postponed Westwood Clubhouse rental policy to May 19
• Approved purchase of cemetery zero turn mower (4-0, Dalton abstained)

General

This is a special meeting of the Newton City Council consisting almost entirely of closed sessions to discuss litigation strategy with legal counsel, as permitted under Iowa law. The council will convene, enter closed session twice, and return to open session before adjourning. No public business or decisions are on the agenda.

• Closed session to discuss litigation strategy with counsel (Iowa Code 21.5(1)(c))
• Closed session to discuss litigation strategy with counsel (Iowa Code 21.5(1)(c))

Newton Public Library Board of Trustees

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees is meeting to handle routine business including bill approvals and reports, and to discuss long-range and strategic planning. They will also consider rural library services for Jasper County, library cards, IMLS and state funding, inter-library audiobook lending, a Lambs Grove 28E contract for FY2026, budget amendments for the council, and a library mailer.

• Approval of bills
• Rural Library Services for Jasper County
• IMLS & State Funding discussion
• Lambs Grove 28E Contract for FY2026
• Budget Amendments to go to Council in May

The Newton Public Library Board approved the FY2026 28E contract with Lambs Grove despite two overdue payments, and voted to resume lending CD audiobooks. The board also approved routine agenda, minutes, and bills, and discussed funding cuts, a memorial bench, and a sculpture tour.

• Approved FY2026 28E contract with Lambs Grove (motion passed)
• Approved loaning CD audiobooks (motion passed)
• Approved agenda (motion passed)
• Approved March 27, 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved bills for payment (motion passed)

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a special meeting to consider a single resolution approving a joint agreement with Jasper County, Iowa, for urban renewal purposes. This is the only substantive item on the agenda, followed by adjournment.

• Resolution approving joint agreement with Jasper County for urban renewal

The Newton City Council held a special meeting and adopted Resolution 2025-137, approving a joint agreement with Jasper County, Iowa for urban renewal purposes. The vote was 5-1, with Councilmember Simbro voting against. Discussion noted unresolved issues and the need for a revenue fund for road maintenance.

• Adopted Resolution 2025-137 approving joint agreement with Jasper County for urban renewal (5-1, Simbro opposed)

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold public hearings and vote on several major items, including the 2025-26 operating budget with a tax levy of $17.10 per $1,000, a $5.24 million general obligation bond for equipment and projects, and the sale of multiple city-owned properties to developers. The council will also consider an amended development agreement with Hotel Maytag Investors for extended tax rebates, and a $25,000 low-moderate income housing set-aside for a duplex project. Several contracts and grants are also on the agenda.

• Resolution approving 2025-26 Operating Budget with tax levy of $17.10/$1,000
• Resolution authorizing $5,240,000 General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds, Series 2025A
• Public hearings and resolutions for sale of city-owned properties to Paramount Development ($20,000 for 4 lots, $30,000 for 6 lots) and VL Construction ($1,000 for 1 lot)
• Resolution providing $25,000 in Low-Moderate Income Housing Set-aside Funds for duplexes at 1309-1317 West 16th Street South
• Resolution approving amended development agreement with Hotel Maytag Investors, LLC for additional 7 years of tax rebates

The Newton City Council approved a $5,240,000 general obligation bond issue, the 2025-26 operating budget, and numerous resolutions including property tax rebates, property sales, and contracts. A downtown improvement grant was tabled pending owner appearance. The council also entered closed sessions for real estate and litigation strategy.

• Adopted $5,240,000 General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds, Series 2025A (6-0)
• Approved 2025-26 Operating Budget (6-0)
• Approved amended development agreement with Hotel Maytag Investors, LLC (6-0)
• Approved sale of city-owned properties at multiple addresses (6-0 each)
• Approved FAA funding application for Newton Apron Expansion Project (6-0)
• Tabled Downtown Improvement Grant for 309 1st Avenue West (6-0)
• Approved 4% salary increase for City Administrator (5-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 2466 amending cemetery regulations (6-0)

City Council

The Newtonia City Council will hold a special meeting to enter closed session and discuss legal strategy for matters currently in litigation or where litigation is imminent. No decisions are scheduled for the open portion of the meeting.

The Newton City Council met in special session and voted unanimously to enter a closed session to discuss litigation strategy with legal counsel, citing Iowa Code exemption. The council returned to open session about 54 minutes later and adjourned. No substantive public decisions were made.

• Approved motion to enter closed session for litigation strategy (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:26 P.M. (unanimous voice vote)

SSMID Board

The Downtown Newton Self-Supported Municipal Improvement District (SSMID) board is meeting to review minutes from the previous meeting, discuss 2025 district maintenance, care, and improvement projects, and set future meeting dates. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no specific project details or dollar amounts listed.

• Review of minutes from April 8, 2025 meeting
• Discussion of SSMID District Maintenance Care and Improvement Projects 2025
• Setting of future meeting date, time, and frequency

Downtown Grant Review Board

The Downtown Grant Review Board will review minutes from its March 26 meeting, consider two downtown improvement grant applications (104 1st Street North and 309 1st Avenue West), and elect officers for 2025. The meeting is scheduled for April 9, 2025, at 12:00 PM at the City Offices in Legacy Plaza.

• Review of minutes from 3.26.2025 meeting
• DT Improvement grant application for 104 1st Street North
• DT Improvement grant application for 309 1st Avenue West
• Election of 2025 officers

SSMID Board

The Downtown Newton SSMID Board will review the minutes from August 13, 2024, and the finance report. New business includes funding for SSMID district projects through Newton Main Street, and old business includes discussion of the SSMID ordinance.

• Funding for SSMID District projects through Newton Main Street
• SSMID Ordinance Discussion

City Council

The Newton City Council will consider a first budget amendment for FY 2024-25, approve a $5,217,000 bond purchase agreement for capital projects, and act on numerous resolutions including liquor licenses, property tax rebates, and various contracts. The agenda also includes public hearings on the budget amendment and the sale of city-owned properties, plus final votes on sewer and parking ordinance changes.

• Resolution approving $5,217,000 General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds, Series 2025A
• Public hearing and resolution for first FY 2024-25 budget amendment
• Third consideration of sewer ordinance: backwater valves, $1,500 discharge assistance
• Property tax rebates for GG 115 LLC (208 S 2nd Ave W) and Ex Nihilo (107 1st Ave W)
• Contracts for three police patrol vehicles, mowing, and 1st Ave signal project ($149,506 total)

The Newton City Council approved a first budget amendment for FY 2024-2025, adopted three ordinances (sewer code, two parking schedule changes), and passed numerous resolutions including contracts for police vehicles, mowing, signal improvements, and property tax rebates. All votes were unanimous except one abstention on a signage project amendment. The council also held three closed sessions for real estate, litigation, and personnel matters.

• Adopted first budget amendment FY 2024-2025 (6-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2463 amending sewer code (6-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2464 changing parking on 800 block E 14th St N (6-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2465 changing parking on 1400-1500 block N 9th Ave Pl E (6-0)
• Approved purchase of three police patrol vehicles (6-0)
• Approved contract for 1st Ave (Hwy 6) signal improvement project (6-0)
• Approved property tax rebates for GG 115 LLC and Ex Nihilo properties (6-0)
• Approved bond purchase agreement for GO Corporate Purpose Bonds Series 2025A (6-0)

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a special meeting with a public hearing on the proposed property tax levy for fiscal year 2025-2026. The levy is proposed at $17.10 per $1,000 of taxable valuation, the same as the current year. Residents may voice objections or support.

• Public hearing on proposed property tax levy for FY26 (July 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026)
• Levy set at $17.10 per $1,000 of taxable valuation, unchanged from current year
• Notice published in Newton Daily News on March 21, 2025

The Newton City Council held a public hearing on the proposed property tax levy for fiscal year July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026. No written comments were submitted, but several residents spoke, and Finance Officer Lisa Frasier explained the tax changes, including the state rollback increase and the over-65 credit. The hearing was closed with a unanimous vote, and the meeting adjourned without any formal decision on the levy.

• Closed public hearing on proposed property tax levy (6-0)
• Adjourned special meeting at 6:02 PM (unanimous voice vote)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Newtonia Historic Preservation Commission will convene its regular monthly meeting to review minutes from the prior session, hear updates from city staff and commissioners, and accept public comments. No substantive preservation decisions are scheduled for this procedural session.

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Newton Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on three requests: a conditional use permit for single-family residential development in a multi-family zoning district, a variance for granular surfacing in an I-L district, and a variance to exceed 60% lot coverage in an R-2 district. The board will also review minutes from the previous meeting and conduct other business.

• CU25-2: Conditional Use Permit for Single Family Residential Development in Multi-Family Residential Zoning District
• V25-2: Variance to allow granular surfacing in lieu of hard surface in I-L zoning district
• V25-3: Variance to allow lot coverage exceeding 60% in R-2 Zoning District

Newton Public Library Board of Trustees

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees will hold its regular meeting to approve minutes, hear financial and director reports, discuss long-range and strategic plans, and act on several policy and operational items including a computer carrel quote, library cards, and a reconsideration policy edit.

• Library Computer Carrel Quote
• Library Cards – New Design or Keep Current
• Library Gates & Security
• Request for Reconsideration Policy Edit Approval & Policy Review
• Staff Training Wednesday, May 7th: Close Library until 1pm

Downtown Grant Review Board

The Newtonia, MO Downtown Grant Review Board will hold its March 26, 2025 meeting to review minutes from the prior meeting, elect officers for 2025, and consider four Downtown Improvement Grant applications at 403 W 4th St N in Newton, IA.

• Election of officers for 2025
• 211 1st Avenue West - Downtown Improvement Grant
• 207 1st Avenue West - Downtown Improvement Grant
• 104 1st Street North - Downtown Improvement Grant
• 309 1st Avenue West - Downtown Improvement Grant

City Council

The Newton City Council is meeting to consider a wide range of items, including several ordinances on waterworks, sewers, parking restrictions, and cemeteries, as well as numerous resolutions for contracts, grants, and project approvals. Notable actions include approving a $101,332.90 kitchen equipment purchase for the Westwood Clubhouse, awarding a demolition contract, and authorizing engineering agreements for water and stormwater projects. The agenda also includes routine consent items, liquor license renewals, and a closed session to discuss real estate.

• Resolution approving $101,332.90 kitchen equipment purchase for Westwood Clubhouse (plus $2,000 freight)
• Resolution awarding demolition contract for 427 N 3rd Ave E and 306 E 8th St S to D.W. Zinser Co. Inc. ($41,965 from Dangerous and Dilapidated funds)
• Ordinance (2nd consideration) increasing sewer financial assistance from $1,000 to $1,500 per project and $3,000 to $4,500 total
• Resolution approving engineering agreement for E 12th St and 1st Ave E stormwater improvements (not to exceed $247,000)
• Resolution approving LMI housing grants: $16,300 for 203 E 8th St S, $5,426.25 for 323 E 10th St N, $750 for 605 E 27th St S

The Newton City Council met on March 17, 2025, and approved a consent agenda containing 22 items, adopted Ordinance 2462 amending waterworks regulations, and passed 30 resolutions covering contracts, grants, and project approvals. All votes were unanimous except for Resolution 2025-102, which passed 4-2. The council also entered a closed session to discuss real estate.

• Adopted Ordinance 2462 amending waterworks code (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda items 3-24 (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-102 designating South Central Pump Station as Animal Control Facility (4-2)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-103 approving Fire/Police Storage Facility location (6-0)
• Approved low-moderate income housing set-aside grants for three properties (6-0 each)
• Awarded contract for Demolition Project 2025-01 (6-0)
• Approved professional services agreement for Westwood Golf Course water main loop design (6-0)
• Entered closed session to discuss real estate purchase/sale (6-0)

City Council

The Newtonia City Council is holding a special meeting that includes a closed session to discuss the potential purchase or sale of real estate, as permitted by Iowa Code. The meeting will begin with roll call, move into the closed session, then return to open session and adjourn. No other business is listed on the agenda.

• Closed session under Iowa Code Section 21.5.1.j to discuss real estate purchase or sale

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Newton Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a variance request by Alliant Energy for a reduced front-yard setback at 328 West 8th Street North. The board will also review minutes from its January 8, 2025 meeting. This is a regular meeting with one substantive item.

• Public hearing on V25-1: Variance for reduced front-yard setback at 328 West 8th Street North, applicant Alliant Energy
• Review of minutes from the 1.8.2025 ZBA meeting

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Newton Planning & Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on a proposed minor subdivision called Whispering Pines Estates, which includes an 8-lot division at 501 East 19th Street South. The meeting also includes routine procedural items such as reviewing minutes from the previous meeting and adjourning.

• MP25-2: Whispering Pines Estates Minor Plat – 8-lot subdivision at 501 East 19th Street South
• Public hearing on proposed subdivision

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold four public hearings on proposed loan agreements totaling up to $6.03 million for street, park, public safety, and housing improvements. The council will also consider several resolutions, including a new solid waste collection contract, a biosolids removal contract, and multiple ordinances affecting water, sewer, and parking regulations.

• Public hearings on loan agreements: $4.2M essential purpose, $930K parks/recreation, $700K public facilities, $200K urban renewal
• Resolution to award contract for 2025-01 subdrain collector line project
• Resolution approving 1-year extension of lime sludge removal contract with Jon Taylor
• Resolution approving property tax rebate for Newton Senior Residence, LLC in North Central Urban Renewal Area
• First consideration of sewer ordinance increasing financial assistance for prohibited discharge removal from $1,000 to $1,500 per project

The Newton City Council approved a consent agenda with 13 items, including a $35,000 fund transfer for the dog park, a property tax rebate for Newton Senior Residence, and contracts for subdrain and roof repairs. They also closed four public hearings on loan agreements and adopted a resolution combining general obligation loans. Several ordinances were advanced, including waterworks and sewer code changes, and a resolution for residential solid waste and recycling collection was adopted.

• Approved consent agenda items 4-16 (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-063 transferring $35,000 to Park Bond Fund for Dog Park (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-064 property tax rebate for Newton Senior Residence (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-065 awarding subdrain collector line contract (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-070 combining general obligation loan agreements (6-0)
• Approved second consideration of waterworks ordinance (6-0)
• Approved first consideration of sewer ordinance (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-071 for residential solid waste and recycling contract (6-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Newtonia, MO Historic Preservation Commission will convene a procedural meeting with no substantive decisions or discussions listed on the agenda. The agenda consists entirely of routine items such as roll call, review of previous minutes, and adjournment.

Newton Public Library Board of Trustees

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to approve bills, hear reports, and discuss the long-range and strategic plans. They will also consider several action items, including a patron internet ban reconsideration, becoming a USDA summer snack site, and approving contracts for pest control and HVAC services. Policy reviews and a shelving quote are also on the agenda.

• Patron Internet Ban Reconsideration
• Library as Summer Snack Site through USDA
• Review & Approve BDC Contract with Preferred Pest
• Review & Approve HVAC Contract with Reeves
• Library Soffit on Canopy Over South Entrance

The board rescinded a prior decision to remove rural resources and upheld a patron's internet privileges ban. It also approved several contracts, policy changes, and a shelving quote, and agreed to host a USDA snack site.

• Rescinded removal of rural resources (approved)
• Upheld ban on patron's internet privileges (approved)
• Approved BDC contract with Preferred Pest (approved)
• Approved Reeves contract (approved)
• Approved hot spot policy and late return cutoff (approved)
• Altered overdue notice policy to expire items at 42 days (approved)
• Approved library shelving tear down quote (approved)
• Agreed to be USDA snack site for June and July (approved)

Civil Service Commission

The Civil Service Commission will meet to review minutes from November 2024 and consider canceling the current Fire Captain promotional list and requesting a new one. This is a routine administrative meeting with one substantive action item.

• Cancel current Fire Captain promotional list and request new list

The Civil Service Commission approved canceling the current Fire Captain promotional list and creating a new one, allowing the Fire Department to administer a new test. The minutes also include approval of the previous meeting's minutes and adjournment.

• Approved minutes of November 18, 2024 meeting (3-0)
• Approved canceling current Fire Captain promotional list and creating new list (3-0)

City Council

The Newton City Council will consider final adoption of the 2025 City Code and zoning amendments clarifying where kennels, pet boarding, and pounds are allowed. They will also take first consideration of waterworks ordinance changes, approve several contracts and resolutions, and hold a closed session for litigation strategy.

• Third consideration of ordinance adopting 2025 City Code
• Third consideration of zoning amendment for kennel, pet boarding, and pound facilities
• First consideration of waterworks ordinance amendments (Chapter 54)
• Resolution approving property tax rebate for Jasper Point Plaza, LLC in 1st Ave E Urban Renewal Area
• Resolution awarding contract for 2025 Highway and Symbol Painting Project

The Newton City Council unanimously adopted the 2025 City Code (Ordinance 2460) and a zoning amendment (Ordinance 2461) after third consideration, with no opposition. They also approved a consent agenda covering licenses, resolutions, and contracts, and passed resolutions for a city-wide signage replacement and a change order for the Westwood Clubhouse project. The meeting included a closed session for litigation strategy.

• Adopted Ordinance 2460, the 2025 City Code (6-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2461, zoning amendment (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda items 5-17 (6-0)
• Approved first consideration of waterworks ordinance amendment (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-058, city-wide signage replacement (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-059, Westwood Clubhouse change order #3 (6-0)
• Approved liquor licenses and device permits as listed
• Entered closed session for litigation strategy (6-0)

City Council

The Newton City Council will consider a zoning ordinance amendment to clarify where kennels, pet boarding, and pounds are allowed, requiring conditional use permits for some facilities. The agenda also includes several resolutions on permits, staffing, and purchases, plus consent items like liquor licenses and contracts.

• Second consideration of zoning amendment for kennel, pet boarding, and pound facilities
• Resolution approving $126,510 purchase of two golf simulators for Westwood Clubhouse
• Resolution authorizing temporary positions in Administration and Police for FY26
• Resolution approving 3-year agreement with Schneider Geospatial for GeoPermits portal
• Resolution accepting $62,904.76 Assistance to Firefighters Grant

The Newton City Council met on February 3, 2025, and approved a 21-item consent agenda (items 3-23) covering licenses, resolutions, and contracts. They also gave second consideration to two ordinances, including the adoption of the 2025 City Code and a zoning amendment. All votes were unanimous (5-0) with Councilmember Ervin absent.

• Approved consent agenda items 3-23 (5-0)
• Approved second consideration of 2025 City Code ordinance (5-0)
• Approved second consideration of zoning ordinance amendment (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-043 for Schneider Geospatial GeoPermits portal (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-044 authorizing temporary positions in Admin and Police (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-045 for Westwood Golf Course staffing reorganization (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-046 to purchase two golf simulators (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-047 supporting Grow Solar Program (5-0)

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a budget workshop to conduct a final review of the FY26 budget, presented by the Finance Officer and Sr Financial Analyst, and to discuss outside agency funding for FY26. The meeting is a working session focused on these budget items, with no other substantive business on the agenda.

• Final review of FY26 Budget
• Outside Agency FY26 Funding discussion

Historic Preservation Commission

The Newtonia Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to handle routine administrative business: approving minutes, electing officers for 2025, and reviewing the SHPO CLG Annual Report for 2024. The agenda includes no public hearings or major decisions, only standard procedural items.

• Election of HPC Officers for 2025
• Review of minutes from January 6, 2025 meeting
• SHPO CLG Annual Report 2024
• SPARK program update

Newton Public Library Board of Trustees

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to approve bills, discuss the FY26 budget, and consider several action items, including a furnace bid, holiday hours, and a part-time employee handbook. The board will also discuss long-range and strategic plans, and hear from a DMACC representative.

• Approve furnace bid
• FY26 budget discussion
• Part-time library employee handbook approval
• Library holiday hours – edit 2025 NYE closure
• Rural library services for Jasper County

The Newton Public Library Board of Trustees approved a $30,819.13 furnace bid from Reeves, voted to close the library at 3pm on Dec. 31, approved part-time employee handbook changes, and changed rural library services to open access (without Libby) effective April 15, 2025. The board also discussed potential coordination with DMACC's new library and welcomed new trustee Ashton.

• Approved $30,819.13 furnace bid from Reeves
• Approved closing library at 3pm on Dec. 31
• Approved part-time employee handbook changes
• Approved rural services change to open access (no Libby) on April 15, 2025
• Approved agenda
• Approved minutes
• Approved bills

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a special meeting primarily to enter a closed session to discuss strategy with counsel regarding pending or imminent litigation, as permitted under Iowa law. The meeting will begin with roll call, move to the closed session, then return to open session before adjourning. No other business is listed on the agenda.

• Closed session to discuss litigation strategy under Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(c)

General

The Newton City Council is holding a budget workshop to review the proposed FY26 budget, presented by Finance Officer Lisa Frasier and Senior Financial Analyst Candace Streeter. Council members will also discuss an employee compensation proposal and provide input and questions for staff. This is a working session, not a final adoption.

• Review of FY26 proposed budget
• Employee compensation proposal discussion
• Council member input and questions for staff

The Newton City Council held a budget workshop to review the proposed FY26 budget, including revenues, expenditures, and employee compensation. They discussed increasing pay for the next council starting 01/01/26 and reviewed the union contract wages and pay matrix increases. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and informational.

• Reviewed FY26 proposed budget presentation
• Discussed recommendation to increase council pay for term starting 01/01/26
• Reviewed employee compensation proposal and union contract wages
• Adjourned meeting at 8:28 P.M. (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The Newton City Council will meet to approve routine items like liquor license renewals and utility purchases, as well as vote on property sales and zoning changes. Notable discussions include a solar energy education program, a softball complex rezoning, and an animal control facility ordinance update.

• Approve liquor license renewals for 7 businesses including Dollar General #3032 and Legends American Grill
• Vote to sell City-owned property at 1111 W 22nd St S for $2,000 with $1,000 credit for curb repairs
• Consider zoning amendments for animal control facilities and Fastpitch SB Complex Minor Plat I rezoning
• Reject all bids for 1st Ave E traffic signal upgrade project due to costs exceeding $102,420 grant
• Award $27,287.50 in downtown housing grants for 107 1st Ave W and accept $125,000 REAP grant for Cardinal Pond ADA fishing pier

The Newton City Council approved the sale of city-owned property at 1111 West 22nd Street South, adopted a minor plat for the Fastpitch SB Complex, and gave first consideration to a zoning ordinance amendment. They also rejected all bids for the 1st Ave E traffic signal upgrade project and approved several resolutions, including grants for downtown housing and a fishing pier at Cardinal Pond.

• Approved sale of city property at 1111 West 22nd Street South (Resolution 2025-023, 6-0)
• Approved Fastpitch SB Complex Minor Plat I (Resolution 2025-024, 6-0)
• Approved first consideration of zoning ordinance amendment (6-0)
• Rejected all bids for 1st Ave E traffic signal upgrade (Resolution 2025-025, 6-0)
• Approved first consideration of 2025 City Code adoption (6-0)
• Awarded Downtown Housing and Improvement grants for 107 1st Ave W (Resolution 2025-026, 6-0)
• Accepted REAP grant for ADA fishing pier and trails at Cardinal Pond (Resolution 2025-027, 6-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including liquor licenses, water meter purchase, and street sweeper purchase (6-0)

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a special meeting to consider approving a special event liquor license for Apres Bar Co, LLC. The license would allow the sale of alcohol at a special event on January 18, 2025. The agenda contains only this one action item and standard procedural items.

• Approve Special Event Liquor License for Apres Bar Co, LLC, 3333 Rusty Wallace Drive, Class C Retail Alcohol License for Special Event January 18, 2025

The Newton City Council held a special meeting and approved a consent agenda item granting a Class C Retail Alcohol License for a special event on January 18, 2025, to Apres Bar Co, LLC at 3333 Rusty Wallace Drive. The motion passed with four ayes and no nays. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved special event liquor license for Apres Bar Co, LLC (4-0)

Park Board

The Newtonia Park Board will hold its January 15, 2025 meeting at Newton City Hall to conduct routine business including electing board officers, reviewing minutes from the previous meeting, and discussing splash pad rules. The agenda also includes new business items such as pool passes and a REAP grant award.

• Elections of Board Positions
• Splash Pad Rules review
• Pool Passes discussion
• REAP Grant Award

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Newtonia Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to review a conditional use permit granted in 2018 for an auto sales business at 1504 West 4th Street North. The board will also approve minutes from the December 4, 2024 meeting. No other substantive items are listed.

• Public hearing on conditional use for auto sales at 1504 West 4th Street North
• Review of minutes from December 4, 2024 meeting

Downtown Grant Review Board

The Downtown Grant Review Board will meet to review grant applications for two properties on 1st Avenue West. One application has been withdrawn. The board will also approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• 107 1st Avenue West - Downtown Improvement Grant, Downtown Housing Grant
• 113 1st Avenue West - Downtown Improvement Grant, Downtown Housing Grant (WITHDRAWN)
• Review of Minutes from 12.11.2024

The Downtown Grant Review Board approved a total of $27,287.50 in Downtown Improvement Grants for 107 1st Ave West, owned by Jerome Schwaller (Ex Nihilo LLC). The grants cover $7,287.50 for facade, sign, and awning work, and $20,000 for second story renovations, contingent on a 1:1 match. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).

• Approved $7,287.50 for facade, sign, and awning work at 107 1st Ave West (5-0)
• Approved $20,000 for second story renovations at 107 1st Ave West (5-0)
• Approved minutes of December 11, 2024 meeting (5-0)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Newton Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on two items: a minor plat for a 1-lot subdivision for the Project Fastpitch Softball Complex at 3800 Rusty Wallace Dr, and a proposed amendment to the Newton Zoning Code to clarify definitions and allowable locations for kennels, boarding facilities, and pounds. The commission will also review minutes from a previous meeting.

• Public hearing on MP25-1: Minor Plat for Project Fastpitch Softball Complex (1-lot subdivision) at 3800 Rusty Wallace Dr, Southeast Newton
• Public hearing on ZOA25-01: Amendment to Newton Zoning Code (Ch. 158) to clarify kennel, boarding facility, and pound definitions and locations

City Council

The Newton City Council is holding a budget workshop to discuss the FY26 budget, including presentations from the fire chief and utilities director, and a review of partner funding. The meeting is a discussion and planning session, not a final vote on the budget.

• Mayor/Council wages discussion
• Executive team presentations by Fire Chief Jarrod Wellik and Utilities Director Jody Rhone
• FY26 partner funding review
• FY26 budget information presented by Finance Officer Lisa Frasier

The City Council met in a special budget workshop to review FY26 budget information. No formal votes were taken; the council reached consensus to maintain current mayor/council wages and FY25 partner funding levels. The meeting was informational, with presentations from the Finance Officer, Fire Chief, and Utilities Director.

• Maintained current mayor/council wages (consensus)
• Maintained FY26 partner funding at FY25 levels (consensus)

City Council

The Newton City Council will hold a public hearing and consider resolutions related to the Hotel Maytag development, including an amended development agreement with a sliding-scale tax rebate, a second amended loan agreement with Hatch Development Group, and a parking space lease amendment. The council will also act on a consent agenda covering appointments, contracts, and routine resolutions.

• Public hearing and resolution on amended development agreement with Hotel Maytag Investors, LLC (105 North 2nd Avenue East) with sliding scale tax rebate
• Resolution authorizing second amended loan agreement with Hatch Development Group, L.L.C. to pause principal reimbursements for FY25-FY27
• Resolution amending parking space lease with Hotel Maytag Investors, LLC to remove Water Tower Parking Lot (215 South 2nd Avenue West)
• Resolution awarding contract for Public Works/Community Development Wash Bay Project
• Resolution approving performance contract with Enchanted Entertainment LLC for July 4, 2025 DJ services

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to review the minutes from its December 2, 2024 meeting and discuss a Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibit. The agenda includes routine items such as roll call, staff reports, commissioner and citizen comments, and communications from preservation-related agencies. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Review of minutes from 12.02.2024 meeting
• Discussion of Smithsonian Institution Travelling Exhibit

The Newton Historic Preservation Commission met on January 6, 2025, and approved the previous meeting's minutes with corrections (4-0). No substantive decisions were made; the commission deferred officer elections and discussion of the end-of-year report to the next meeting. Staff and citizen updates were provided, including on the SPARK exhibit and Main Street activities.

• Approved previous meeting minutes with corrections (4-0)
• Deferred officer elections to next meeting
• Deferred end-of-year report discussion to next meeting