Public Meetings - Mason City, Iowa

The Mason City City Council held its regular meeting on August 19, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Mason City Room of the Public Library. The meeting featured a proclamation honoring a local wrestling champion, the city administrator’s monthly report, unanimous approval of a consent agenda covering multiple capital projects and financial resolutions, and a heartfelt recognition of retiring City Engineer Mark Ram. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved the regular meeting minutes of August 5, 2025. - Claims: Approved claims dated August 7 and 14, 2024. - Permits: Approved permits as presented. - Resolution – Assessments: Authorized levying assessments for unpaid charges on certain properties and certification to the County Treasurer for collection with property taxes. - Resolution – Fund Transfers: Approved the June 2024/Year End Transfers between funds. - Resolution – Sanitary Sewer Repairs: Authorized notice to bidders and set a public hearing for September 16, 2025, on plans for the 2025-2026 Sanitary Sewer Repairs – a $1.4 million capital improvement project to reduce infiltration. - Resolution – Street Panel and Curb Replacement: Accepted work and ordered payment for the 2025 Street Panel and Curb Replacement Program (Project No. 25-1002), which came in under budget at $312,000 and is funded by road use tax. - Resolution – Water Works Plant Upgrades: Awarded a contract to Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc. (SEH) for professional services related to the Water Works Plant Upgrades, replacing 20-year-old equipment that treats approximately 37 billion gallons of water (over 20 years). Special Items / Proclamation - Mayor Bill Schickle presented a proclamation declaring Saturday, August 23, 2025, as Aniyah Smith Day in Mason City. Aniyah Smith won the U.S. Marine Corps Junior Nationals wrestling tournament in Fargo, North Dakota, overcoming a nine-point deficit in the finals. She and Coach Jake Phillips were recognized for her achievement and determination. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public forum. Discussion Items - City Administrator’s Monthly Report: Aaron Burnett highlighted ongoing rebranding efforts (led by Pam Stecker), construction progress on Highway 122 and US 65, the Southbridge Mall theater roof and fire protection improvements, the upcoming bike shelter ribbon cutting (with speakers from IEDA and Active Living), and the imminent closing on the hotel project with Kinseth Hospitality. He also noted that the automated sanitation collection system discussed in the earlier worksession is fully funded within the capital improvement plan and budgeted as an enterprise fund. - Councilman Adam requested detailed updates on the Highway 122 and US 65 projects. City Engineer Mark Ram responded: Highway 122 utility trench work is nearly complete; paving is finished from Crescent Drive to Taylor; next year will focus on eastbound lanes and sewer/water utilities. Signal coordination improvements are expected next week. On US 65 (South Federal), utility work from 15th to 17th streets remains, with paving to follow; the project may finish early this season. - Councilman Lee asked about winter lane closures on Highway 122; Ram confirmed both lanes will remain open. Council Recognition - Mayor Schickle honored Mark Ram, who retired after 25 years with the city, including 18 years as City Engineer. The mayor praised his impact on water systems, streets, sewers, traffic signals, and recreation trails. Mark Ram thanked the council and staff, noting the freedom given him in recent years, and displayed his original employment letter from February 1, 2000. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items were approved by a unanimous roll call vote (Councilmembers Yeshewski, Massan, Adams, Simmons, Latham, Lee – all voting aye). - The proclamation for Aniyah Smith Day was issued. - No other formal votes were taken. - The meeting concluded with the recognition of Mark Ram and adjournment.

Mayor Bill Schickle called the regular meeting to order with all council members present. The council approved the agenda, heard no public comments, and approved a consent agenda with numerous routine items. Separate discussion and votes were held on two capital improvement contracts (19th Street Southwest and Southbridge Mall parking lot) and on the appointment of the next chief of police. Consent Calendar - The council approved the agenda unanimously. - The consent agenda (items 1–5 and 8–17) was adopted with a 7–0 roll call vote. Items covered included: appointment of Corey Freeman as a police officer; lighting, traffic signalization, and other improvements; a water tower maintenance program agreement; acceptance of work for a home grant downtown; a water rehabilitation project contract; dedication of lots in the Paul Feltz plat; a sidewalk service permit for outdoor seating; and support for a $500,000 Iowa DOT grant for reconstruction of 12th Street Northwest and Pierce Avenue (including a roundabout). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comment. Discussion Items - Item 6 – 19th Street Southwest Improvements: Councilman Adams requested background from city staff (Mark). The project was previously budgeted and involves widening and paving shoulders, adding protected turn lanes, and reconfiguring the Taft Avenue intersection. A traffic study will be conducted. Corridor width constraints exist due to a path and railroad. Construction is expected to begin the next construction season if included in the next capital budget. The resolution was approved unanimously. - Item 7 – Southbridge Mall Parking Lot Improvements: The project focuses on the middle third of the lot to match elevation changes from the adjacent hotel development. Lighting will be expanded in a future phase. Parking configuration will largely remain the same, with islands added to guide winter parking. The hotel’s section will use perpendicular parking, separated by a landscaping barrier; overflow parking will be shared. Councilman Lee asked about a clear barrier, and city staff confirmed it will be very apparent. The resolution was approved unanimously. - Appointment of Chief of Police: City Administrator Aaron Burnett recommended appointing Captain Michael McKelvey as chief of police, effective February 10, 2026, after current Chief Brinkley retires and uses accrued vacation. Captain McKelvey has 30+ years of service, including roles as patrol officer, field training officer, crime scene investigator, canine handler, sergeant, lieutenant, and captain. He attended the FBI National Academy in 2019 and received a first responder hero award in 2020. He expressed gratitude and commitment to finishing his career in Mason City. Council members praised the promotion from within and noted positive public reaction on social media. The motion carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved 7–0. - Item 6 (19th Street Southwest contract) approved 7–0. - Item 7 (Southbridge Mall parking lot contract) approved 7–0. - Appointment of Michael McKelvey as Chief of Police approved 7–0, effective February 10, 2026.

The Mason City City Council held a regular meeting on July 15, 2025, at the Mason City Public Library, starting at 7:00 p.m. (following a closed session at 6:00 p.m. for the City Administrator's annual review). The meeting included proclamations, a city administrator's report, a consent agenda, discussion on two pulled items, and a public hearing on a bond issuance. Councilmember Lee was absent; all other members were present. Proclamations - Parks and Recreation Month: The mayor proclaimed July 2025 as Parks and Recreation Month, recognizing the city's 20+ miles of trails, 600 acres of parkland, and the newly opened River City Riverwalk. Annie Hanson, chair of the Parks and Recreation Board, accepted. - 100th Anniversary of Highland Park Golf Course: The mayor proclaimed 2025 as the centennial anniversary year, noting the course hosts over 16,000 rounds of golf annually. Nick Largen, golf course leadership, accepted. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered on agenda items. The mayor noted that a citizen (about chickens) stayed after the meeting to speak with council and staff. City Administrator's Report - Aaron Burnett reported on: - Prairie Land Connector trail project – delayed due to EPA grant issues, but progress expected soon. - A video produced by Nelson Media telling the story of the Riverwalk and public art. - Completion of the bike park on the north side; two upcoming ribbon cuttings. - Fireworks enforcement – citations issued for violations; communication efforts were successful. - East Park project – paused due to grading analysis, house relocation expected within a month, then two homes will be sold via housing development corporation. - Public Works Director Jim Collins presented on automated sanitation collection: - Three container sizes shown: 32, 64, and 96 gallons. The 64 and 96 would be weekly for trash; the 96 would be for recycling every other week (bi-weekly). - Recycling will be single-stream but separate from garbage. Different colored tops may distinguish containers. - The city aims to implement within a year, pending council decisions at a future work session. - Councilmember Yashinski asked about single-stream; confirmed recycling is single-stream but garbage must stay separate. Consent Agenda - Items 1-7 and 10-12 were approved en masse by a roll-call vote: all present voted aye. - Items 8 and 9 were pulled for separate discussion. - Consent items included: approval of minutes (July 1, 2025), claims (July 3 & 10), permits, hiring of two police officers (Hayden Hoffmeyer and Logan Campbell), amendment to Building Renovation & Life Safety Grant Agreement (Brick and Tile Building), change orders for Fire Department dormitory, purchase of a fire aerial truck, public art easement and placement, quit claim deed and right-of-way dedication, and change order for Willow Creek Riverwalk project. Discussion Items - Item 8 – Change Orders for Fire Department Dormitory Addition: Councilman Latham expressed frustration that engineering oversights led to change orders (items 38-41), costing the city. Fire Chief explained that some items were missed by the engineering team but that pricing was fair and no hidden surprises remain. City Administrator noted that Berglund & Cram (architect) had been a good partner but acknowledged the high number of change orders was undesirable. Motion to approve carried unanimously (5-0). - Item 9 – Purchase of 100-foot Heavy Duty Aerial Tower Truck: Councilman Yashinski questioned the $2.1 million cost, noting the last engine cost $750,000. Chief explained that aerials are far more expensive, and fire apparatus prices jumped significantly around 2018. The 2025 purchase price includes a $500,000 prepayment (discount of $86,000) with the remainder financed via bonds in fiscal 2029. Motion carried unanimously (5-0). - Item 13 – Public Hearing and Approval of General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds, Series 2025: No public comment. Deputy City Administrator Brent Henson and financial advisor Maggie Berger (Spear Financial) presented. The bonds fund capital projects: $500,000 for the aerial truck, street improvements (Pearson/12th intersection, street rehab, US 65 contribution), a high ranger for tree removal, airport projects, and automated sanitation collection vehicles and containers. The bond sale received nine bids; award recommended to Piper Sandler & Co. (Minneapolis) at a true interest rate of 3.3820%. The city's Moody's rating was reaffirmed at AA3. A revision moved $95,000 of principal from the last maturity to year one to match the budgeted debt levy. Council approved the issuance unanimously (4-0, Councilmember Adams absent but noted as 'Absent' on roll call). Key Outcomes - Proclamations adopted – Parks and Recreation Month and Highland Park's centennial. - Consent agenda approved (all but Items 8 & 9) by unanimous vote. - Item 8 approved – Change orders 38-41 with Henkel Construction for the Fire Department dormitory, with noted concerns about engineering errors (vote: 5-0). - Item 9 approved – Resolution to purchase a 100-foot heavy duty aerial tower truck from Reliant Fire Apparatus for $2.1 million, with $500,000 down and remainder in FY2029 budget (vote: 5-0). - Item 13 approved – Award of General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds, Series 2025, to Piper Sandler & Co. at 3.3820% true interest rate (vote: 4-0 with one absent). - Retirement recognition – Trisha Sandal, Planning and Zoning Manager, was recognized for 23.5 years of service; her last day is July 30, 2025. No further business; meeting adjourned.

The Mason City City Council held its regular meeting on July 1, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Mason City Public Library. The meeting included a public forum, adoption of a consent agenda with several items pulled for separate discussion, and action on a water tower rehabilitation contract, a downtown hotel development agreement, and an ordinance updating animal control regulations regarding chickens. Public Comments & Testimony - Ann Scarcello (207 Sixth Street NE) commented on agenda item 3A (denial of permits for sale of glass and metal devices). She stated that her store provides a safe place and assistance for drug users, and argued that removing the devices would only shift usage elsewhere. She implicitly opposed the denial. - Assam Said (1267 Moonstone Core, owner of North Side Liquor and Tobacco) also commented on item 3A. He stated that his store complies with age restrictions, conceals products, and is willing to build a separate room if required by the city. He expressed a desire to obtain the permit. Consent Calendar The consent agenda was approved with the exception of items 3A, 4, and 5, which were pulled for separate discussion. The approved consent items included: - Minutes of June 17, 2025 - Claims dated June 19 and 26, 2025 - Permits (excluding 3A) - May Financials (pulled for discussion) - Resolution adopting the Private Dead and Diseased Tree Program (pulled) - Resolution setting bond sale date for General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds - Resolution approving wastewater plant separation distance waiver - Resolution approving purchase of 2026 Ford F-250 truck for Animal Control - Resolution approving permanent placement of three public art sculptures at Georgia Hanford Park, Highline Trail, and Mason City Public Library - Resolution approving Amendment No. 1 to Economic Development Grant Agreement with Habitat for Humanity for renovation of three rental houses Discussion Items - Item 3A – Denial of Permits for Sale of Glass and Metal Devices: The council considered a recommendation to deny requests from three businesses (at 1303 4th Street SW, 418 South Federal Avenue, and 18 North Monroe Avenue) to sell glass and metal devices. Chief of Police stated that in 30 years he had never seen these devices used for tobacco, and there is no legal use for them. Councilman Latham noted that the items can be purchased online, denying the city a 40% up-front tax and sales tax. The motion to approve the denial passed 6-1, with Councilman Lee voting no. There is no appeal right for this permit decision. - Item 4 – May Financial Report: Finance Director Brent reported that the city ended the fiscal year slightly behind budget on local option sales tax ($41,000 short) and hotel-motel tax ($17,000 short). The June local option sales tax payment was the lowest of the year, reflecting April economic activity. The city is also awaiting significant state reimbursements: the Destination Iowa grant ($4.5 million total) has only received about $800,000 to date, and the Downtown West Home Grant ($1 million) has received nothing. Staff noted that the negative fund balances in the local option sales tax projects fund and ARPA projects fund are due to unreimbursed state grants and are expected to be resolved as reimbursements come in. If trends continue, future service cuts may be necessary. The report was approved unanimously. - Item 5 – Private Dead and Diseased Tree Program (Emerald Ash Borer): The council adopted a resolution creating a voluntary special assessment program for owner-occupied properties. Key features: the city will issue bonds to front removal costs, assess property owners over 10 years at 7% interest, with a maximum assessment cap of 10% of the property’s assessed value. Any cost above that cap will be covered by the city as a grant. The program is not income-tested; the 7% interest is intended to discourage use by those who can afford other financing. Staff emphasized this is a lender-of-last-resort program. Councilman Lee expressed concern that the program could still burden low-income homeowners, but the motion passed unanimously. - Item 11 – Water Tower Rehabilitation Project (Public Hearing): The council held a public hearing and approved three resolutions (adopting plans, bid tabulation, and awarding contract) for the “Water Tower Rehabilitation Project 25-1005.” The low bid from Seven Brothers of Shelby Twp., MI came in at $193,000, well below the engineer’s estimate. Councilman Yeshewski asked about the wide range of bids; staff assured that low bids have previously resulted in quality work. Motion passed unanimously. - Item 12 – Downtown Hotel Development Agreement: The council approved two resolutions: (A) a Development Agreement with ES 2024 Mason City Hotel Associates authorizing annual appropriations of tax increment payments, and (B) a $2,000,000 Urban Renewal Tax Increment Credit Support Agreement. City Administrator Aaron Burnett stated that all procedural steps are complete and the city is ready to close. The developer intends to close within weeks and begin construction in August, with a groundbreaking to be scheduled. Both resolutions passed unanimously. - Item 13 – Animal Control Ordinance Update (Chickens): The council approved the first reading of an ordinance repealing and replacing Title 8, Chapter 4 (Animal Control) to address inadequate regulations, particularly regarding urban chickens. The new ordinance limits the number of chickens to six per property (down from 25) in Z2 and Z3 districts, with setback requirements for coops. A permit process is introduced; existing owners with more than six chickens will have one year to come into compliance. The ordinance also updates beekeeping regulations. Motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Item 3A: Denial of permits for glass and metal devices approved 6-1 (Lee dissenting). No appeal right. - Item 4: May Financial Report approved unanimously. Staff to monitor revenue trends and consider budget adjustments for FY27. - Item 5: Private Dead and Diseased Tree Program adopted unanimously. Staff will implement immediately; contact Development Services for participation. - Item 11: Water Tower Rehabilitation contract awarded to Seven Brothers, $193,000. Approved unanimously. - Item 12: Downtown hotel development agreement and tax increment credit approved unanimously. Closing expected in weeks, construction in August. - Item 13: First reading of animal control ordinance passed unanimously. Two more readings required; permit fee to be set later.

The Mason City City Council met on June 17, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Mason City Public Library. Mayor Bill Schickle presided with all council members present: Lee, Adams, Simmons, Latham, Masan (also spelled Massan in transcript), and Yeski (Yusheski). The agenda was adopted unanimously. No public comments were made during the public forum. Key actions included approval of the consent agenda (with item 9 pulled for separate discussion), unanimous approval of a 28E agreement with the Worth County EMS District, and unanimous approval of a development agreement with Mason City Hotel Associates for an 80-room extended-stay hotel in the Riverwalk District. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda as a whole, except item 9 (28E agreement) which was pulled for separate discussion. Items included: minutes of June 3, 2025; claims dated June 5 and 12, 2025; permits; April financial report; appointment of Ella Phillips as City Planner (Grade L, Step 1, $74,651/yr.); appointment of Carl Galliart as Utility Account Clerk (Grade G, Step 2, $23.48/hr.); resolution levying assessments for charges on certain properties; resolution authorizing a 28E agreement with Worth County EMS Districts (discussed separately); resolution adopting a Master Schedule of Fees; and reappointment of Scott Borcherding and Dennis Renner to the MacNider Museum Board. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - City Administrator’s Monthly Report: Aaron Burnett reported on the upcoming Riverwalk ribbon cutting (Thursday, June 19 at 10:00 AM), fire department promotions and hiring, property tax advocacy efforts with the Iowa League of Cities and Iowa City Managers Association, code enforcement successes, the Big Dill bike ride, Travel Iowa’s promotion of the Prairie Rock Trail System, and introduced Ella Phillips, who will join the planning department as City Planner. - Item 9 – 28E Agreement with Worth County EMS District: The agreement formalizes the existing service area (southeast corner of Worth County, including Grafton and Manley) and allows the newly formed EMS district to levy a tax (85 cents per $1,000 valuation) to pay for service. The city previously billed the county directly; the new tax revenue is estimated at $78,000 annually. The service will continue as before; the person transported still receives a bill. This is the first such agreement; Floyd County opted for AMR service instead. The resolution was approved unanimously. - Item 12 – Development Agreement with Mason City Hotel Associates (Resolutions A & B): The council considered two resolutions: (A) setting a July 1, 2025 date to approve the development agreement for the Waterfront Plaza Hotel, and (B) setting a public hearing date for urban renewal tax increment financing. The project is an 80-room extended-stay hotel with a pool, part of the Riverwalk District. Key incentives: a 100% tax rebate for 5 years and 50% for the next 5; a $2 million loan at 4% interest with interest-only payments for 3 years, 25-year amortization, balloon at year 10; and a $2 million loan guarantee backed by TIF. The developer also received a brownfield grant of approximately $1.2 million from the Iowa Economic Development Authority. Construction is targeted for mid-August 2025 to avoid winter. The convention center will be located separately in the old Yonkers mall space. The council discussed the use of local contractors (not contractually required but likely). Both resolutions were approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved as presented (all items except item 9). - Item 9 – 28E Agreement: Approved unanimously (6-0). - Item 12 – Resolutions A and B: Approved unanimously (6-0). The public hearing on the urban renewal plan is set for July 1, 2025. - Next Steps: The Riverwalk ribbon cutting is scheduled for Thursday, June 19, 2025, at 10:00 AM. The hotel development is expected to begin construction in mid-August 2025, with an 18-month build timeline.

The Mason City Council met on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Mason City Room of the Public Library. The meeting included several special presentations, public comments on a controversial rezoning proposal, and a consent agenda covering routine business. Key actions included approval of a new city logo, adoption of urban renewal amendments for a hotel project, and a failed motion to rezone property for a proposed apartment development. Special Presentations - Can-Do Spirit of Mason City Award: Presented to Troy Elwood for saving a life during a North Iowa leadership trip to Washington, D.C. Elwood, a U.S. Army veteran and member of Mason City's 1133 Transportation Company, was recognized for his quick action when a patron collapsed at a restaurant. - Proclamation Celebrating the 250th Birthday of the United States Army: Mayor Bill Schickle declared June 14, 2025, as United States Army Day in Mason City, honoring all current and former service members. Consent Calendar - Approved as a block (motion carried 7-0): Minutes of May 20, 2025; claims dated May 22 and 29, 2025; permits; reappointment of Jennifer Lee to the Library Board; wage increases (3.25% for non-bargaining employees and appointed officials); contract award to WHKS & Co. for sanitary sewer repairs; purchase of three smart hydrants; contracts and bonds for downtown pedestrian ramp compliance and 2025 street rehabilitation; acceptance of work for Winnebago Way 12th Street NE Street and Utility Rehabilitation Project; and permanent placement of three public sculptures. Discussion Item: New City Logo (Item 8) - Pulled from the consent agenda for separate discussion. The logo incorporates architectural heritage (prairie school, stained glass), waterways (blue/green), and the letters "M" and "C." It aligns with broader rebranding efforts for Visit Mason City and Main Street Mason City. - Motion to approve carried unanimously on a voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Margaret Tarklson (2057 Augusta Drive) opposed rezoning (Item 18), arguing that the land should remain in Zone 2 to preserve residential character. She expressed concern that rezoning would open the area to non-residential uses and that the landowner's plans could change or the property could be sold. - Susan Rebidow (2260 Country Club Drive) supported the rezoning, praising the Pritchard family's work on the Legacy Golf Course and stating their commitment to the neighborhood. She noted the apartment complex would have a small footprint and provide needed amenities. - Liz Boyer (2209 Augusta Drive) reiterated concerns that the rezoning could lead to industrial uses, citing the SHOP CO building as an example where intended plans changed after approval. - Matt Boer (2209 Augusta Drive) urged the council to delay the vote until traffic issues at the intersection of South 19th and Taft were fully studied and addressed. He argued that once rezoned, there would be no going back. - Wade Kent (2336 Callaway Court) spoke in favor, noting the development would bring amenity-rich living (pickleball courts, dog park, green space) and that the Pritchards had a track record of integrity. He urged the council to look past rumors and support the project. Discussion Items - City Administrator's Monthly Report: Aaron Burnett provided updates on the Washington, D.C. fly-in for federal relations; road construction progress on Highway 122 and other detours; strategic planning with the Corridor economic development group; the upcoming summer concert and event lineup at the Mason City Arena (including Uncle Cracker, Skillet, comedy shows, MMA fights); and progress on the Prairie Rock Trail projects (Murphy Park Bridge, Prairie Land Connector Trail, River Walk scheduled to open June 19). - Urban Renewal Amendments (Item 16): Two resolutions to amend the Mason City Downtown Reinvestment Urban Renewal Area (Amendment No. 8) and the Forest Park Economic Development Area (Amendment No. 5) were presented. These amendments are necessary to utilize tax increment financing for the proposed hotel project. The hotel developer (Kinseth) is aiming for August construction start. Both resolutions passed unanimously on roll call votes. - Ordinance Amendment (Item 17): Final consideration of an ordinance amending the Mason City Combined, Amended and Restated Urban Revitalization Area (Amendment 4). Passed unanimously. - Rezoning Proposal (Item 18): Second consideration of an ordinance to rezone property generally located south of 19th Street SW between South Harding Avenue and Augusta Drive from Z2 Sub-Urban District to Z3 General Urban District. The proposal is intended to allow development of the “Legacy 19” apartment complex. Council debated the lack of a conditional use permit, potential for future uses if the landowner sold, traffic and stormwater concerns, and the developer’s track record. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (minus Item 8) approved unanimously. - New City Logo (Item 8) approved on a voice vote. - Urban Renewal Amendment No. 8 (Item 16a) passed 7-0. - Urban Renewal Amendment No. 5 (Item 16b) passed 7-0. - Ordinance Amendment (Item 17) passed 7-0. - Rezoning (Item 18): Motion to approve failed with a vote of 4 in favor (Councilmembers Masan, Lee, Yasheski, Adams) and 2 opposed (Councilmembers Simmons, Latham). The supermajority requirement was not met, so the motion failed. The property remains zoned Z2. No further action was taken.

The Mason City City Council met on May 20, 2025, with all members present. The agenda included proclamations, consent items, a water reclamation facility update, and a contested rezoning request. Key actions included approval of a real estate purchase for a roundabout, support for workforce housing tax credits for 125 units, and a 5-1 vote to rezone property for a 53-unit apartment complex despite neighborhood opposition. Proclamations - Mayor Bill Schickle presented three proclamations: Memorial Day (May 26), Tourism Month (May), and Building Safety Month (May). Representatives from the Veterans Memorial Association, Visit Mason City (Lindsay James, Blair Brody), and Building Safety (Kyle Peterson) accepted. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was adopted unanimously. Items included minutes, claims, permits, promotion of three fire lieutenants, purchase of a truck chassis and body for water distribution, a notice to bidders for the 43rd Street SW Water Rehabilitation Project ($260,000), a contract for Prairie Land Trail Connector construction administration, real estate purchase for a roundabout (pulled for separate vote), and resolutions of support for workforce housing tax credits (also pulled). Discussion Items - Real Estate Purchase (Item 12): The Council approved purchasing a property at 120,000 (nearly double assessed value) for a roundabout at Pierce Avenue and 12th Street. Staff cited site constraints and necessity. Councilman Latham abstained due to involvement in the sale. Motion carried 5-0-1. - Workforce Housing Tax Credits (Item 13): Council approved four resolutions supporting workforce housing credits for 125 units: Talon Development (64 apartments, 24 townhomes on LARC), Next Level Development (12 apartments on Briar Stone land), LPE Development (4 townhomes on Briar Stone land), and Kirk Mason City (mixed-use downtown). Staff noted occupancy rates near 100% and that all projects depend on credits. Motion carried unanimously. - Second Reading of Ordinance Amendment (Item 14): Amending urban revitalization area passed unanimously. - Water Reclamation Facility Update (Item 16): Kevin Graves (WHKS) presented the 60% design for nutrient reduction, a federal requirement. Project cost estimated at $33-36 million (up from 27.6 million) due to value additions and market volatility. Funding includes low-interest SRF loans, a nutrient removal loan, and grants. Construction set for spring 2026 with completion by October 1, 2027. No vote required. - Public Hearings (Items 15, 17, 18, 19): Budget amendment (unanimous), SRF loan application (unanimous), downtown pedestrian ramps contract to Continental Contracting (unanimous), and street rehabilitation contract to McKinnis Excavating (unanimous) – all approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Rezoning Request (Item 20): Seven residents spoke in opposition: Matt Boyer (2209 Augusta Dr), Liz Boyer (2209 Augusta Dr), Heidi Cool (2177 Augusta Dr), Corey Jurgenham (2350 Country Club Dr), Warren Steenart (2121 S Harding Ave), Warren Torglison (2057 Augusta Dr), and Joe Choter (2118 S Harding Ave). Concerns included: altered neighborhood character, traffic safety on 19th Street (dozens of accidents reported, speed 45 mph, no turn lane), property value impacts, water drainage issues, and the density not fitting the low-density family area. Some expressed support for development but not a three-story complex. Discussion Items (cont.) - Rezoning Request – 19th Street SW (Item 20): Developers (Core Real Estate and Legacy Group) presented plans for a 53-unit, three-story apartment with amenities (fitness center, club room, courtyard, pickleball/dog park area). Rents targeted 1,395-1,795. They highlighted 100-ft setbacks, landscaping buffers, and a retention pond to address drainage. Council considered traffic impacts; staff noted a 5-year plan to rehabilitate 19th Street from Taft to city limits, including widening and possible restriping. City attorney confirmed a protest petition (34.9% of nearby owners) required a supermajority (5 of 6) for passage. A motion to table for a traffic study failed for lack of a second. After debate, the main motion passed 5-1 (Councilman Latham opposed). Key Outcomes - Consent agenda adopted (minus items 12 & 13). - Real estate purchase (Item 12): Approved 5-0-1 (Latham abstain). - Workforce housing tax credits (Item 13): Approved unanimously. - Ordinance amendment (Item 14): Approved unanimously. - Public hearing items (15, 17, 18, 19): All approved unanimously. - Rezoning for 19th Street SW (Item 20): Approved 5-1 (Latham no), meeting the supermajority threshold. Zoning changes to Z3 allows apartment buildings and limited commercial uses.

The Mason City City Council met on May 6, 2025, at 7:00 PM at the Mason City Public Library. Mayor Bill Schickle presided. Councilmember Yashewski was absent; a quorum was present. The agenda was adopted with the exception of the Apraxia Awareness Day proclamation, which was presented privately. The meeting featured three ceremonial proclamations, a consent agenda with unanimous approvals, and three public hearings. Proclamations & Special Presentations - Historic Preservation Month (May 2025): Council recognized the Historic Preservation Commission, highlighting restoration projects including upper-story housing, the YWCA, the Elks building, and the Riverwalk District. The Waterfront Plaza opens June 13, 2025, at 10:00 AM. - Make it OK (Mental Health Awareness Day): Dylan Schulty, Transit and Operations Safety Manager, accepted the proclamation. The Make it OK celebration will be held Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 11:45 AM at the Principal Performing Arts Pavilion. - Bicycle Safety Month (May 2025): Mark Verba of the Iowa Bicycle Coalition and members of the Active Living and Transportation Commission accepted the proclamation. The proclamation honored Jenny Bowles Verba, killed by a distracted driver in 2024, and highlighted the upcoming Ride of Silence on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 6:40 PM starting at Central Park. Mark Verba’s advocacy contributed to Iowa’s new hands-free cell phone law, effective July 1, 2025. Consent Calendar All items on the consent agenda were approved unanimously except Item 19, which was pulled for separate discussion: - Minutes of April 15 and worksession minutes of April 22, 2025. - Claims dated April 17, 24, and May 1, 2025. - Permits. - March Financial Report. - Promotion of Tim Cahalan to Fire Captain at $41.84/hour. - Appointment of Kristi Taylor as Data Processing Specialist at Pay Grade G, Step 5 ($24.62/hour). - Resolution authorizing temporary street closings for the 86th annual North Iowa Band Festival (May 24, 2025, parade and May 22–25 events). - Resolution setting a May 20, 2025, hearing on amending the FY2025 budget (Amendment 2). - Resolution accepting work and ordering payment for the Pierce Avenue NW over Willow Creek Bridge Railing Replacement. - Resolution approving contract and bond for the 2025 Street Panel and Curb Replacement Program. - Resolution approving a settlement agreement between the City and JoAnn M. and Russell J. Hardy for property south of the North Ohio Avenue cul-de-sac. - Resolution authorizing a real estate purchase agreement with Chad Joseph Jones for property at 929 N. Pierce Avenue (part of the city’s effort to eliminate a dilapidated property). - Resolution authorizing Amendment 1 to the Building Renovation & Life Safety Grant Program with 2 Artists, LLC for the YWCA renovation (extending the deadline to June 2026). - Resolution setting a June 3, 2025, public hearing on Urban Renewal Plan Amendment No. 8 (Downtown Reinvestment) and Amendment No. 5 (Forest Park Economic Development Area). Discussion Items Item 19 – Lease and Management Services Agreement with Mason City Youth Hockey (MCYH) for the Multipurpose Arena The council discussed a one-year agreement for MCYH to lease the Multipurpose Arena for ice sports. Key changes from the previous agreement: - Cleaning responsibility: Defined in the lease, assigned to MCYH (volunteers or paid staff). Councilman Latham and Adams noted past confusion and praised the clarity. - Ice-out months: Reduced from nine to eight months (dropping a warm month) to lower utility costs for both the city and MCYH. - Management fee: Covers city staff services (arena manager salary and benefits) provided year-round. - Naming rights: Retained by the city; the administrator reported ongoing conversations with potential sponsors. Councilman Adams questioned the one-year term; the administrator explained it allows continued adjustments based on operational data. The agreement was approved unanimously. Public Hearings Item 20 – Transit Funding Application Dylan Schulty, Transit Operations and Safety Manager, presented the annual application to the Iowa DOT. Funding requests: - Federal Section 5311 grant: $857,252 ($757,252 for operations, $100,000 for capital). Operations require a 50% local match; capital requires 20%. Both included in the FY26 transit budget. - State revenues (from motor vehicle taxes): estimated $343,621 (Mason City’s share: 1.76%). Total: $1,200,873. No public comment; the resolution was approved unanimously. Item 21 – State Revolving Fund for 43rd Street SW Sanitary Sewer Lift Station Resolution authorizing submission and execution of an SRF Environmental Review application. No public comment; approved unanimously. Item 22 – Urban Revitalization Plan Amendments (Resolution A and Ordinance B) - Resolution A adopting Amendment No. 4 to the Urban Revitalization Plan for the Mason City Combined, Amended & Restated Urban Revitalization Area. Approved unanimously. - Ordinance B (first reading) amending the ordinance designating the revitalization area. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Proclamations were issued for Historic Preservation Month, Make it OK (Mental Health Awareness Day), and Bicycle Safety Month. - Consent agenda (excluding Item 19) approved unanimously. - Item 19 – One-year lease with Mason City Youth Hockey for the Multipurpose Arena approved unanimously (5-0). - Resolutions 20, 21, and 22A approved unanimously (5-0). - Ordinance 22B approved on first reading unanimously (5-0). - The meeting adjourned with an invitation to the ribbon cutting of the renovated Mason City Police Department on May 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM ($1.8 million project funded largely by local option sales tax).

The Mason City City Council met on April 15, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Mason City Public Library. The meeting included proclamations honoring Mayor Bill Schickle for becoming the longest-serving mayor in city history and celebrating Arbor Day, as well as reports, consent agenda approvals, public hearings on the budget and property sales, and a final reading on ward boundary changes. Proclamations - Mayor Pro Tem Paul Adams read a proclamation declaring April 13–19, 2025 as Mayor William Schickle Week, recognizing that Schickle has served a record 5,918 days (and counting) as mayor since 1990. Two cakes were provided after the meeting, one gluten-free for the mayor. - Operations and Maintenance Manager Jim presented an Arbor Day proclamation, noting Mason City has received the Tree City USA Award for 20 consecutive years. The city has identified 5,500 ash trees on public right-of-way; 4,500 have been removed due to emerald ash borer, leaving about 1,000 to go. Arbor Day was proclaimed for April 25, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the public forum. City Administrator’s Monthly Report City Administrator Aaron Roussell reported: - Airport: Year-over-year increase in airplane deplanements is 82% , attributed to the direct Chicago flight and free parking. A future Denver destination was discussed, but near-term priority is moving the early flight earlier for better connections. - Facilities: Ribbon cuttings are scheduled for the new police department (early May), fire department, bike park, riverwalk, and Murphy Park Bridge. - Prairie Rock Trail System is gaining statewide attention; Roussell presented at the Iowa Rural Development Summit. - Mohawk Square: The city received a judgment in a 657A action, but the owner (Anthony Allos) appealed, so legal proceedings continue. An estimate from WHKS placed stabilization costs at about $30 million; demolition is likely. Consent Calendar Approved unanimously (7-0) with the exception of item 6, which was pulled for separate vote. Items approved en bloc: - Minutes of April 1, 2025 - Claims dated April 3 and 10, 2025 - Permits - Resolutions for: public hearing on SRF financing for Water Reclamation Plant (May 20); contract/bond for 2025 Pavement Marking Program (under budget, funded by local option sales tax); notice for public hearings on 2025 Street Rehabilitation and Downtown Pedestrian Ramp Compliance (both May 20); award of grass/weed mowing contract to Rite Way Lawn Service; a $30,000 forgivable loan to Tom Abbas for Floyd & Leonard (510 S. Washington Ave.) for a $450,000 upgrade; a tax abatement agreement for a proposed shooting range at 221-225 19th St. SW; notice of hearing on Urban Revitalization Plan amendment (May 6); change orders for Willow Creek Riverwalk ($11,500) and Mason City Bike Park (due to soil issues). Discussion and Vote on Item 6 – Hiring Firefighter/EMTs Councilman Adams asked Fire Chief about the five vacancies. The chief confirmed there are five openings (one longstanding, one resignation, three retirements of officers). The hires bring the department to 39 firefighters. Approved unanimously (7-0). Public Hearings and Votes - FY 2025-2026 Budget: No public comment. Resolution adopted unanimously. Councilman Latham thanked staff for keeping taxes low. - 2025 Street Panel and Curb Replacement (Item 18): No public comment. Resolutions A, B, C (approve plans, bid tabulation, and award to Larry Elwood Concrete, Inc.) adopted unanimously. - Sale of 527 4th St. NE (Item 19): Property sold to North Iowa Corridor Housing Development Corporation. Unanimous approval. - Sale of 430 1st St. NE (Item 20): Sold to same corporation. Unanimous. - Sale of 626 N. Delaware Ave. (Item 21): Sold to same corporation. Unanimous. - Sale of property to Mason City Hotel Associates (Item 22): Resolution approving disposition under urban renewal. City Administrator explained the development agreement will come back soon; the hotel project faces market uncertainty but the developer (Kinzett) is experienced. Unanimous approval. Action Item – Final Reading on Ward Boundaries (Item 23) Final reading of an ordinance amending Title 1, Chapter 9, Section 5 of the City Code to adjust boundaries for the 2nd and 4th wards due to the Tractor Supply annexation. Unanimous approval (7-0). Key Outcomes - Proclamations issued for Mayor Schickle Week and Arbor Day. - Consent agenda (except item 6) approved 7-0. - Hiring of five firefighter/EMTs approved 7-0. - FY 2025-2026 budget adopted 7-0. - Street/curb replacement contract awarded to Larry Elwood Concrete, Inc. 7-0. - Three city-owned properties sold to North Iowa Corridor Housing Development Corporation, each 7-0. - Property sale for downtown hotel project approved 7-0; development agreement to be presented later. - Ordinance adjusting ward boundaries adopted on final reading 7-0. - Meeting adjourned after no further business.