The Newton City Council convened earlier this week for its regular session, covering a full agenda of city business and community development items.
Key Actions Taken:
- Demolition Reimbursements Approved:
The Council approved five separate Demolition Reimbursement Applications, as recommended by the Finance & Audit Committee. Properties included:- 307 South Church Street
- 901 Menke Street (Unit 2)
- 903 Menke Street
- 1007 & 1009 Fairground Street
- 603 West End Avenue
- Zoning & Development:
Authorized the Zoning Board to proceed with proposed municipal code changes, including:- Allowing duplexes in SR-1 Zoning Districts
- Updates to regulations for storage buildings
- City Utility Easements:
Approved steps to secure easements for electric distribution and data communication infrastructure.
New Business & Appointments:
- Oath of Office Administered To:
- Mayor: Joshua Kuhl
- City Clerk: Maggie E. McDonald
- City Council: Gayle Glumac (Ward 1), Eric Blake (Ward 2), RJ Lindemann (Ward 3)
- Zoning Board: Ken Albrecht
- Appointments Approved:
- Committee Chairpersons and Members
- City Department Heads
- Wage Adjustments:
Approved a $1.25/hour raise for all city Department Heads.
Ordinances & Approvals:
- Ordinance in Development:
Authorized the City Attorney to draft an ordinance prohibiting the storage of junk, trash, or debris in or on vehicles or trailers parked on private property within city limits for longer than seven days. - Special Event Permits:
- Memorial Day All Vehicle Run – Newton American Legion Post 20, Saturday, May 24
- Liquor License – KC Hall for Peoples State Bank 150th Anniversary Celebration, Saturday, May 31 at the County Fairgrounds
- Purchases Approved:
- Security Camera System: $4,865 bid from Barlow Lock & Security
- 2024 Pace Cargo Trailer: $10,000
- 2025 Exmark Zero Turn Mower & Tire Set: $13,869
Costs for trailer and mower to be split among Water, Sewer, and Electric Departments.
Executive Session:
The Council entered a 35-minute closed session to discuss real estate matters. No additional action was taken.
Next Meeting:
Monday, May 20