Public Meetings - Mason City, Iowa

The Mason City Council held a regular meeting on March 4, 2025, at 7:00 PM. The meeting covered consent agenda items, public hearings, and action items including a contentious zone change and denial of liquor license renewals for three Malik's stores. All council members were present. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of February 18, 2025; claims dated February 20 and 27, 2025; permits; and the January financial report showing strong local option sales tax receipts (over budget on income, under budget on expenses). - Item 6: Resolution setting April 1, 2025 for a public hearing on $8.4 million General Obligation Corporate Purpose Loan for capital improvements (streets, aerial fire truck, sanitation equipment). - Items 7 & 8: Resolutions setting April 15, 2025 public hearings for disposition of two properties (430 1st Street NE and 626 North Delaware Avenue) to the North Iowa Corridor Housing Development Corporation for affordable workforce housing. - Item 9: Resolution setting April 15, 2025 public hearing on sale of land for the downtown hotel project. - Item 10: Resolution for 2025 Pavement Marking Program (estimate $206,000, funded by local option sales tax). - All consent items approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Abdul Owan (owner of Malik's 1, 2, 3) spoke on item 16, stating most issues had been addressed and requested a second chance. - Ann Scarcello (207 6th Street NE) suggested a 30-day denial of the liquor license instead of permanent denial. - Kelly Gertis (CG Public Health, 2570 4th Street SW) opposed renewal of the liquor license, citing failures in permits, notices, and compliance checks; urged council to uphold community standards. - Penny McCastlin (CG Public Health and North Iowa Addiction Prevention Alliance) urged council to consider the broader implications for youth substance use prevention and community health. - Mickey Baker (1828 South Harding) opposed the zone change (item 13) for 2708 19th Street SW from Z2 to Z3, preferring housing or commercial use at the existing corner property. - Gary Buffington (1811 South Harding) also opposed the zone change, citing concerns about traffic, parking, and desire for housing; noted missing neighbors. - Michael Munt (2045 South Wilson Avenue, applicant) supported the zone change, explaining he needs a larger building (50x100 ft) for a fireplace showroom and barbecue supply store, will provide off-street parking and ensure aesthetic compatibility. Discussion Items - City Administrator's Monthly Report: Reported increases in transit ridership and airport employment, police/fire department updates, deer management (48 tags filled), arena activity, and ongoing downtown housing project at Delaware Avenue with precast placement. - Zone Change – 2708 19th Street SW (Item 13, First Reading): Applicant Michael Munt seeks to rezone from Z2 Sub-Urban to Z3 General Urban for a fireplace and barbecue supply business. Council discussed property rights, comprehensive plan classification (low intensity allowing limited non-residential), and neighbor opposition. Councilman Adams noted this is first of three readings; Councilman Lee cited property rights and lack of red flags. A supermajority (5 of 6 votes) was required due to a petition. The first reading passed 5-0 (Councilman Massan did not vote). - Denial of Liquor License Renewal for Malik's 1, 2, 3 (Item 16): City Chief and staff outlined extensive non-compliance: open store without final fire inspection, unattended fuel pumping, building permit/sign violations, food license issues (Kratom, THC vapes/edibles), and court judgments. Council expressed concern over pattern of noncompliance. The motion to deny passed 5-0. The owner may appeal to the Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division for an administrative law judge hearing. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: All items approved unanimously. - Item 11 – East Park Redevelopment Project: Plans, specifications, and bid tabulation approved; contract awarded to Bob McKiness Excavating & Grading, Inc. for $196,000 (below estimate). - Item 12 – 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Plan: Adopted unanimously. - Item 13 – Zone Change 2708 19th Street SW: First reading approved (5-0). Second reading set for March 18, 2025; third/final reading on April 1, 2025. - Item 14 – Final Reading Zone Change (100-200 block 2nd Street SE, Z5 to Z3): Approved (5-0). - Item 15 – Final Reading Zone Change (4th Street SW & Lark, Z1 to Z4): Approved (6-0). - Item 16 – Denial of Liquor License Renewal for Malik's 1, 2, 3: Approved (5-0). Appellant may appeal to ABD. - Item 17 – Denial of New Liquor License for GEO Prime, Inc.: Not discussed or voted on; appears deferred or not moved.

The Mason City Council held its regular meeting on February 18, 2025 at 7:00 PM at the Mason City Public Library. All council members were present (Lee, Adams, Simmons, Yesheski, Latham) except Mayor Shickle. The meeting addressed consent agenda approvals, three individually considered items (tax abatements, a settlement agreement, and a hotel development agreement), and three zoning changes. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda (items 1–17) en bloc, except for items 12, 15, and 17 which were pulled for separate consideration. Items approved included minutes of February 4 and worksession minutes of February 13, 2025; claims dated February 6 and 13; permits; appointment/hire of Angie Dickinson as Administrative Assistant – Housing/Safety (Grade G, Step 2, $22.74/hr.) and Jennifer Mericle as Finance Intermediate Accounting Clerk (Grade G, Step 8, $26.53/hr.); resolutions levying property assessments, setting a public hearing on the FY26 “Truth in Taxation” preliminary hearing, setting a hearing on the 2026-2030 Capital Improvements Plan, approving the collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local Union 238 (Police Department), supporting an Iowa Healthcare Credentialing Grant application, approving the purchase of an F250 pickup truck for the Parks Department, granting preliminary approval for Urban Revitalization Tax Abatements (subject to amendment of item 12), approving a development agreement with the North Iowa Corridor Housing Development Corporation (NICHDC) for 537 4th Street NE, approving competitive criteria for property disposition in Forest Park Urban Renewal Area, approving a settlement agreement with Merrill J. Fiala (item 15), and setting a public hearing on urban renewal plan amendments and a development agreement with ES 2024 Mason City Hotel Associates, LLC (item 17). Discussion Items - Item 12 – Tax Abatement Preliminary Approval: Councilor Erin noted that the Roller City property had already received a "DORA" or "CORA" and could not receive both. Staff confirmed the error. Council amended the motion to approve the resolution with the exception of Roller City. The motion carried unanimously. - Item 15 – Settlement Agreement with Merrill J. Fiala: The agreement addresses property at 1408 South Delaware Avenue. Council discussed the background of Iowa Code 657A proceedings for abandoned property, the incentive for the owner to comply (avoiding title transfer to the city), and the required timeline (exterior work by September 2025). Staff explained that legal costs are rarely recoverable and that the agreement provides a last chance for compliance. The motion carried unanimously. - Item 17 – Setting Public Hearing for Development Agreement with ES 2024 Mason City Hotel Associates, LLC: Aaron (staff) provided an update: the public hearing will allow final consideration of the development agreement for a downtown hotel. The developer, Kinseth, has received a brownfield tax credit from IEDA and is under design; breaking ground is anticipated by May 2025. Council discussed the timeline and the role of earlier downtown investments (River City Renaissance) in attracting Kinseth. The motion to set the public hearing carried unanimously. - Item 18 – Rezone 500 Block N. Delaware from Z3 to Z4: Staff requested waiving the second reading to allow final approval at this meeting because the developer’s application for low-income housing tax credits (LIHTC) is due the following day (February 19) and requires confirmed zoning. Council waived the second reading (unanimous) and then approved the rezoning on final reading (unanimous). Councilor Lee expressed concern about waiving readings becoming a habit. - Item 19 – Rezone 100-200 Block 2nd St SE from Z5 to Z3: Approved on second/final reading unanimously. - Item 20 – Rezone Southeast Corner of 4th St SW and Lark Ave from Z1 to Z4: Approved on second/final reading unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda adopted with exceptions of items 12, 15, and 17. - Item 12 approved as amended (excluding Roller City). Unanimous. - Item 15 (Settlement Agreement with Merrill J. Fiala) approved. Unanimous (4 votes recorded, all present). - Item 17 (Set public hearing for hotel development agreement) approved. Unanimous. - Item 18 (Rezone 500 block N. Delaware) – Second reading waived and final approval granted. Unanimous. - Item 19 (Rezone 100-200 block 2nd St SE) approved. Unanimous. - Item 20 (Rezone SE corner 4th St SW and Lark Ave) approved. Unanimous. - No public comments were made during the public forum. - Meeting adjourned after completion of all agenda items.

The Mason City Council met on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 7:00 PM at the Mason City Public Library. The meeting included a presentation on the fiscal year 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), approval of a consent agenda, a separate discussion on the East Park Redevelopment Project, and several public hearings and ordinance readings. All items on the agenda were approved. Consent Calendar - The council approved the January 21, 2025 minutes; claims dated January 23 and 30, 2025; permits; appointments of John Robbins to the Zoning Board of Adjustment and Ray Stearns to the Housing Authority Board; the plan for audit accrual related transfers; a resolution authorizing notice to bidders for the East Park Redevelopment Project No. 24-1019 (pulled separately for discussion); a change order for the bike park and trails bid package 1; resolutions approving permanent placement of public art pieces Spiral Dance, Harmony In Light, and Resonance in downtown Mason City; and a purchase and sale agreement with Horizon Development for three parcels at the Northbridge site. All items were approved by a single motion, except item 7. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered during the public forum. No written comments were received on any public hearing items. Discussion Items - FY24 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) Presentation: Bonnie Schwager of ABDO presented the audit results for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024. She reported clean opinion letters across all three required areas (financial statements, state compliance, federal compliance), with no audit findings. General fund reserves ended at 50% of operating costs, a planned decrease from 62% the prior year. The budget anticipated a $6 million reduction, but actual reserves decreased by only $800,000. Schwager highlighted strong cash balances in the water fund, while the sewer fund used cash for capital repairs. The ambulance, cemetery, storm sewer, solid waste, golf course, and parking lot funds showed tight margins or reliance on transfers. She noted debt service drop-offs in 2029–2031 as potential opportunities for future debt issuance. Councilmember Massel expressed appreciation for the trust provided by clean audits. Councilmember Simmons asked about prior reconciliation issues; Deputy City Administrator Brent Henson confirmed all reconciliation issues were resolved. Councilmember Lee asked about future challenges for municipalities; Schwager cited federal funding timing, state levy changes, and unpredictable capital costs as key headwinds. - Item 7 – East Park Redevelopment Project: The council discussed a resolution authorizing notice to bidders. Councilmember Simmons asked about the decision to demolish three houses instead of moving them. City staff explained that after inspections and evaluation of site conditions, it was determined only two houses could be saved: one moved and one remaining in place. The third lot may be incorporated into the development depending on rock elevation and site conditions. The resolution was approved unanimously. - Item 13 – Rezoning for Northbridge Site: On first reading, an ordinance to rezone the 500 block of North Delaware Avenue from Z3 General Urban to Z4 Multi-Use District was introduced. Councilmember Latham requested a summary; City Administrator explained the rezoning is needed to allow a four-story building on the former Northbridge site, as the Z3 district limits buildings to three stories. Aaron (likely staff) noted that one adjacent property owner objected at the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, but the council proceeded with approval on first reading. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (items 2-11): Approved with item 7 voted separately. Motion by Yasheski, second by Massan. Unanimous. - Item 7 – East Park Redevelopment Project Notice to Bidders: Resolution approved unanimously. Motion by Simmons, second by Latham. - Item 12 – Disposition of City-Owned Property (537 4th Street NE): Public hearing held; no comments. Resolution approving sale to North Iowa Corridor Housing Development Co. approved unanimously. Motion by Latham, second by Massan. - Item 13 – Rezoning from Z3 to Z4 (500 block N. Delaware Ave): First reading approved unanimously. Motion by Massan, second by Yasheski. - Item 14 – Rezoning from Z5 to Z3 (100 and 200 blocks of 2nd Street SE): First reading approved unanimously. Motion by Yasheski, second by Latham. - Item 15 – Rezoning from Z1 to Z4 (SE corner of 4th Street SW and Lark Avenue): First reading approved unanimously. Motion by Massan, second by Simmons. - Item 16 – Rezoning from Z6-R to Z4 (1300 12th Street NW): Final reading approved unanimously. Motion by Yasheski, second by Latham. - Item 17 – Amendment to Title 1, Chapter 5 (Corporate Limits): Final reading approved unanimously. Motion by Simmons, second by Massan.

The Mason City Council held a regular meeting on January 21, 2025, at the Mason City Public Library. Councilmembers Latham, Simmons, and Adams were present; Councilmember Lee and Mayor Schickle were absent. The agenda was adopted unanimously. No public comments were made during the public forum. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda with the exception of items 7 and 13, which were pulled for separate discussion. - Items in the consent agenda included: minutes of January 7, 2025; claims dated January 9 and 16, 2025; December 2024 financials; reappointment of Steven Schurtz to the Active Living and Transportation Commission; appointment of Max Heimbuch as Swing Worker at $29.53 per hour; establishment of a new fund in the City's Chart of Accounts; resolutions for change orders with Henkel Construction Company for the Mason City Bike Park Building Package 3; authorization for the Mayor to sign a letter of support for a Low-Income Housing Tax Credit application; certification of population in annexed territory; a forgivable loan for rehabilitation of 205 North Federal Avenue; lease and purchase of Suzie Q Café assets; and support for a RAISE grant application for Highway 122/4th Street SW improvements. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - City Administrator’s Report: Administrator Invernett provided updates on capital improvement projects, the upcoming Iowa Bike Expo, a presentation at the State of North Iowa, legislative session priorities, and a major fire at the recycling center. The fire chief elaborated on the operational challenges, including water supply issues (nearest hydrant at 34th Street), the need to shuttle water with drop tanks, and the involvement of 19 apparatus and 35–40 personnel from five departments. Councilmembers praised the fire department's efforts and inquired about future hydrant placement. - Item 7 – New Fund for Mall Operations: Councilmember Latham explained that the fund is being established as an enterprise fund to track mall operations separately, similar to golf, ambulance, and arena funds. The motion to approve carried. - Item 13 – Suzie Q Café Acquisition and Lease: Councilmember Latham detailed the city's purchase of Suzie Q Café assets for $50,000 and a lease with A2E3 Properties, LLC for ground at 14 2nd Street NW. Lease payments start at $250 per month (year 1) and escalate to $400 per month (year 5). The building was shuttered after the Kirk apartment fire severed utilities. The city plans to retain ownership, potentially issue an RFP for an operator, and has the option to move the building if necessary. Councilmembers expressed support for preserving the historic structure. - Item 15 – Zoning Change (1300 12th Street NW): The public hearing was reopened due to a clerical error in the notice. Staff noted that the rezoning from Z6-R Restricted Industry to Z4 Multi-Use District is a first step. Councilmembers raised concerns about future development (e.g., Dollar General) and access safety. Staff confirmed that the city controls access permits and that a subdivision plat will come before council later. The council waived the first reading and approved the second reading. - Item 16 – Corporate Limits Ordinance: Approved on second reading without discussion. - Item 17 – SOO Green HVDC Link Franchise: Approved on second reading. Councilmember Yashinski asked about city costs, and staff clarified that the city is not responsible for construction except for optional fiber conduit installation. There is a small tax benefit. No public comment was received. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously (items 2–6, 8–12, 14). - Item 7: Approved establishing a new enterprise fund for mall operations (unanimous). - Item 13: Approved purchase of Suzie Q Café assets and lease agreement (unanimous). - Item 15: Public hearing closed; first reading waived (unanimous); second reading approved (unanimous). - Item 16: Second reading and final approval of corporate limits ordinance (unanimous). - Item 17: Second reading and final approval of 25-year franchise for SOO Green HVDC Link (unanimous).

The Mason City Council held its first regular meeting of the new year on January 7, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Mason City Public Library. The meeting featured the Mayor's State of the City address, approval of consent agenda items (with one item pulled for separate discussion), and public hearings on three ordinances: a zoning change, an annexation, and a franchise agreement for a transmission line. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Minutes – Approved minutes of December 17, 2024. - Claims – Approved claims dated December 18 and 27, 2024, and January 2, 2025. - Permits – Approved permits. - November Financials – Accepted. - Resolution 6 – Approved temporary closure of public ways for block parties and other events in 2025. - Resolution 7 – Adopted the City Council final Policy Agenda Work Plan for calendar years 2025–2026. - Resolution 9 – Accepted work and ordered payment for the 12th Street NE Bridge Replacement and 12th Street NW and 19th Street SW Bridge Rehabilitation Projects. - Item 9A & 9B – Approved hiring Ethan Blanchard as a police officer and Kira Quinn Jordan as an accounting and reporting analyst. - Item 8 (Change Orders) was pulled from the consent agenda for separate discussion (see below). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered on any agenda items. Discussion Items Mayor's State of the City Address (Item 1) Mayor Bill Schickle delivered a 30-minute address titled "Keep Moving, Keep Improving." He highlighted that 2024 was a breakout year for Mason City. Key points included: - Outdoor Recreation: The Prairie Rocks Trail System, Destination Iowa Bike Park, and Riverwalk District will open in summer 2025, positioning Mason City as "America's new outdoor recreation destination" with amenities comparable to Bentonville, Arkansas (which draws 1,000 cyclists/week). The Iowa Bicycle Coalition will release an economic impact study on January 25, 2025, showcasing Mason City. - Housing: Over 200 housing units were built in the past year. The city is planning housing for all income levels. Habitat for Humanity is building 13 homes in the Madison Heights development. The city also renovated 30 homes in the historic West Downtown neighborhood. - Public Safety: Seven new police officers hired; new police and fire headquarters are state-of-the-art. - Infrastructure: Highway 65 South reconstruction is underway; Highway 122 West reconstruction begins spring 2025 with a two-year project. A new airport terminal opened; a $15 million hotel (Kensis Hospitality) will break ground summer 2025. Four new businesses at the mall. - Education: Hoover Elementary scored highest proficiency and lowest absenteeism in the district. NIAC enrollment increased 7%. - Economic Designations: IEDA designated Mason City as a Thriving Community. Resolution 8 – Fire Department Dormitory Addition Change Orders (Pulled from Consent) Councilman Adams requested discussion. Chief described that change orders 25–34 total about $168,000, primarily for an upgraded alert call system. The new system will have 44 addressable speakers, zone paging, and panic buttons tied to security. The existing two-wire system was inadequate. The project budget is approximately $6 million; the overage is about $30,000, covered by leftover funds from other projects. The resolution passed unanimously. Public Hearing – Item 10: Zoning Change at 1300 12th Street NW First reading to rezone 5 acres from Z6-R Restricted Industry to Z4 Multi-Use District. Councilman Latham expressed concerns about intersection safety at 12th Street and North Pierce, a problematic T-intersection. City Engineer Mark noted that a roundabout is under consideration, with design in FY25 and construction in FY27, funded via CIP. No development agreement is attached; the rezoning itself does not obligate the city to incentives. The rezone passed first reading unanimously. Public Hearing – Item 11: Annexation for Tractor Supply First reading to annex 40 acres on the west side for a Tractor Supply store. This is a voluntary annexation. The ordinance passed first reading unanimously. Public Hearing – Item 12: SOO Green HVDC Franchise First reading for a 25-year franchise to SOO Green HVDC Link PROJECTCO, LLC to construct, operate, and maintain a 360-mile underground transmission line along railroad corridors from southwest of Mason City to Plano, Illinois. Raj Rajan, VP of Project Development, presented: the line will connect MISO and PJM grids, capable of powering 1.5 million homes. The project cost is $4+ billion, creating 12,000 construction jobs and 75 permanent jobs (split between Mason City and Plano). The cable is buried entirely in railroad right-of-way through Mason City. The city will receive tax revenue (estimated $7,000 per mile per year, allocated by the state) and a fiber conduit bundle for broadband. The project is 100% committed to organized labor. Council members expressed support, noting safety and economic benefits. The franchise passed first reading unanimously. Key Outcomes - Unanimous votes on all consent items, resolution 8, and first readings of ordinances 10, 11, and 12. - Next steps: Items 10, 11, and 12 require two more readings (second and final) before final adoption. - Directives: City staff will continue coordination with the developer for the 12th Street NW intersection improvement and with SOO Green on franchise details. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 9:00 PM (no formal time recorded).

The Mason City City Council held its regular meeting on December 17, 2024, at 7:00 PM in the Mason City Public Library. The meeting included the city administrator's report, approval of a consent agenda with several items pulled for separate discussion, a public hearing on a budget amendment, and approval of the Prairie Land Trail Connector project. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar The following items were approved by a single motion without discussion: - Minutes of December 3, 2024 - Claims dated December 5 and 12, 2024 - Permits - Appoint/hire Steven Diaz as Street Maintenance Worker ($30.40/hour) - Appoint/hire Marcy Troendle as Administrative Assistant in Public Works (Grade G, Step 3, $23.37/hour) - Reso levying assessments for charges on certain properties - Reso approving Preconstruction Agreement with Iowa DOT for Iowa 122 Reconstruction Project (STP-122-1(027)—2C -17) - Reso award of contract to Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc. for Taft Avenue Water Main Loop Project - Reso authorizing submission of BuRLS Grant application for Brick and Tile, LLC (103 East State Street) - Reso authorizing submission of AFG Grant for ultrasonic cleaner - Reso approving competitive criteria and procedures for disposition of property at 537 4th Street NE (Forest Park Urban Renewal Area) and declaring intent to convey to North Iowa Corridor Housing Development Corporation. Discussion Items - City Administrator's Monthly Report: Aaron provided updates on grant statuses (unsuccessful EPA Community Change Grant; received Safe Streets for All grant; awaiting ATIP grant for Highway 122 west planning). He reported that demolition of the old airport terminal will begin soon and that Destination Iowa projects (including the Prairie Land Trail Connector) have met the December 31 deadline for bid and award. Council members discussed the future use of the airport site, the scope of the Highway 122 project (west of downtown), and the timeline for the hotel development agreement (expected end of January). Aaron noted that without the EPA grant, several initiatives will proceed slower. - Item 7 – Appointment of Electrical Inspector: Council approved hiring Nick Wright (Grade K, Step 2, $33.16/hr). Councilman Latham praised finding a local candidate. - Item 8 – Designation of Official Newspaper: Council approved designating the Mason City Globe Gazette as the official newspaper for 2025. Councilman Yushewski asked about the payment structure; the City Clerk clarified that each submission is charged separately. The mayor noted the designation is required by law. - Item 12 – Public Hearing on Electric Franchise Agreement (Transmission System): Council approved ordering a public hearing for January 7, 2025. Councilman Yushewski asked why the system uses direct current; City Administrator Aaron explained that direct current is more efficient for long-distance point-to-point transmission. Mark also clarified that conduits will contain insulated cable. - Item 16 – Change Order for Willow Creek Riverwalk Project: Council approved a change order with Henkel Construction Company for $132,000 due to over-excavation of contaminated soils. Councilman Adams asked about funding; Aaron stated the project budget will be addressed through a future budget amendment or year-end adjustments, as Destination Iowa projects have been over budget. - Public Hearing – Budget Amendment 1 (Item 17): No public comments were received. Council approved the budget amendment for fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. - Prairie Land Trail Connector Project (Item 18): Council adopted plans, specifications, bid tabulation, awarded the contract to Heartland Asphalt, Inc. of Mason City, IA, and approved the contract and bond. The project will be funded by a grant and local option sales tax. Mayor described the route from Newman School to 240th Street. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (all six members present voted yes). - Item 7 (Nick Wright): Motion by Latham, second by Yushewski; passed unanimously. - Item 8 (Globe Gazette): Motion by Yushewski, second by Lee; passed unanimously. - Item 12 (Public Hearing): Motion and second; roll call passed unanimously. - Item 16 (Change Order): Motion by Adams, second by Yushewski; passed unanimously. - Budget Amendment 1: Motion and second; roll call passed unanimously. - Prairie Land Trail Connector (Resolutions A-D): Motion by Masan, second by Yushewski; roll call passed unanimously. All votes were 6-0 as all council members were present.

The Mason City City Council met in regular session on December 3, 2024, with Mayor Bill Schickle presiding. The council heard the Active Living and Transportation Commission annual report, handled routine consent business, and took separate votes on a historic church deed, an Amazon-related street deed, and a public safety technology grant. Councilmember Simmons was absent; a quorum was present. Consent Calendar - The agenda was adopted with item 7 removed. - The consent calendar was approved by roll call (Massan, Latham, Yeski, Adams, and Lee voting yes), covering minutes, claims, and permits; the appointment of Jeff Hines to the Zoning Board of Adjustment; the hiring of Tracy Young in the street maintenance department; a resolution scheduling a December 17 public hearing on budget adjustments; neighborhood improvement items totaling $550,000 for infrastructure and continued home rehabilitation (including the 29th home rehabbed under a $1 million neighborhood grant); an agreement with Russ Hardy for removal/modification of the dangerous 4th Street retaining wall; a related Amazon quitclaim deed item; and a grant application for equipment and software. - Items 10, 12, and 16 were pulled from the consent calendar for separate consideration. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered, and the public forum was closed. Special Presentation: Active Living and Transportation Commission Annual Report - Commission Chair Dr. Steve Schert presented the annual report, joined by commission members Cynthia Hanson, George Reeson, Jim Miller, Jim Copen, and Craig Clark. - Schert described the commission's vision for Mason City as a premier Midwestern micropolitan community for livability and well-being, and its advocacy for active living, safety, and inclusion in transportation, land, and waterways. - Bike rental net revenue was up almost threefold; Craig Clark was credited for extensive volunteer maintenance. Twelve bikes were sponsored by eight businesses, with no significant expense to the city; sponsorship and future fleet options are being considered. - The Friends of Willow Creek, led by Sharon Steckman and Skylar Lee, organized cleanups and plan another spring cleanup. - The August 3 Winnebago River cleanup involved 16 volunteers and removed 590 pounds of trash, 840 pounds of recycled metal, seven tires, two televisions, and an appliance; participation was down from more than 50 volunteers five years earlier. - Everett's Preserve opened October 17 after work by city staff, the Human Powered Trails group, and Rock Solid Contracting; the mayor praised the transformation of the area. - The High Line Trail is nearly complete but needs signage; Prairie Rock Bike Park is planned for completion next year with support from a Destination Iowa grant. - People for Bikes ranked Mason City 22nd in Iowa, 378th in the Midwest, and 1,453rd in the U.S., with rankings expected to improve after new trail developments. - Councilmember Mason asked about bike rental users; Craig Clark said renters are mostly local residents. Councilmember Adams noted that businesses sponsored the bikes. Item 10: St. John Baptist Church Deed - On a motion by Councilmember Adams, seconded by Councilmember Yeski, the council approved accepting the deed to the historic St. John Baptist Church from the North Iowa Youth Center. - Staff member Trisha outlined next steps: boarding up broken windows, mothballing the building, reconvening the Saving St. John's group, developing a preservation plan with Bergland and Cram Architects, and pursuing grants available to historically Black churches, many with no local match. - The adjacent lot will be retained as green space, and the church may be reused as an event space. Councilmember Yeski confirmed the city would own the property and stabilize its upkeep. - The roll call recorded yes votes from Adams, Yeski, Lee, Latham, and Massan; the motion carried. Item 12: Amazon 43rd Street Deed - The council approved accepting a quitclaim deed from Amazon for the improved 43rd Street right-of-way. Councilmember Adams noted the project involved little city incentive beyond waived permit fees. - Staff member Aaron said Amazon is moving quickly toward operations, including hiring and preparing for snow fencing. The motion carried. Item 16: Narcotics Task Force Technology Grant - The council authorized submission of a grant for technology and safety improvements for the North Iowa/Iowa Narcotics Task Force special operations group. - The police chief explained the requested drone unit would be used mainly inside structures during tactical operations, not as an automated patrol or drone-as-first-responder tool. - Councilmember Lee supported the grant but asked the city to study drone policies from other cities to prevent misuse. The chief estimated the current unit costs about $25,000, while a broader drone-first-responder program might cost $75,000 to $100,000 to start. - The motion carried, with recorded yes votes from Lee, Latham, Adams, and Yeski. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar was approved, and a public hearing was scheduled for December 17 on budget adjustments. - The city accepted the St. John Baptist Church deed, with preservation planning and grant-writing as next steps. - The city accepted the Amazon deed for 43rd Street. - The city authorized the narcotics task force technology grant application. - No further business was conducted, and the meeting adjourned.

The Mason City City Council held its regular meeting on November 19, 2024, at 1:00 PM UTC (local evening time), with Mayor Bill Schickle presiding and all council members present. The meeting covered neighborhood improvements, outdoor recreation projects, new housing developments, and administrative actions. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda (items 1–13, 13A, 15–17, 23) with one exception: item 14 was removed for separate discussion. Items included approval of minutes, claims, permits, the October financial report, hiring of two police officers and a water distribution worker, submission of the state TIF report, appropriation of urban renewal funds, adoption of the 2025–26 policy agenda, acceptance of work on downtown pedestrian ramp compliance, authorization of bidding for the Prairie Land Trail connector, approval of property owner applications for the Downtown West Neighborhood Improvement Program (three properties, the 27th slated for improvement), change order for bike park signage, internal advance for housing stock rehab, and a connection agreement for Tractor Supply. The motion passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the public forum or the public hearings for items 18, 19, and 20. Discussion Items - City Administrator's Report (Aaron Burnett): Highlights included the Highland Golf Course having its longest recorded season in 99 years; a power purchase agreement for solar installation at Southbridge Mall with roof replacement to follow; resolution of parking lot light outage at Southbridge Mall (west lights on, east lights to be fixed by Thursday); progress on Destination Iowa projects (bike park ahead of schedule, Murphy Park bridge progressing, Prairie Land connector to bid soon, riverwalk ahead of schedule); the North Bridge Horizon development (age‑restricted senior housing with underground parking) made possible by the state's Thrive community designation; and introduction of job shadow student Brant Hakenstad and new Public Works Director Jim Collins. - Council follow‑up on Destination Iowa projects: Councilman Adams inquired about timelines. Burnett noted the bike park grading is largely complete with a summer opening; Murphy Park bridge abutments being poured with an early summer completion; and the riverwalk should open in late spring, weather permitting. All projects are ahead of schedule. - Horizon Development (Item 19): The council held a public hearing for the proposed Harmony Park development in the North Bridge area—a $13 million, 45‑unit age‑restricted senior housing project with underground parking. Mayor described it as made possible by the Thrive designation. Councilman Latham expressed strong support, noting it would improve the area and provide underground parking. Councilman Lee questioned the 10‑year, 100% city tax abatement with no cap; City Administrator clarified that Section 42 properties are assessed differently and that the school levy is excluded, so only about 60% of taxes are abated. The motion passed unanimously. - Termination of EBCO Holdings Agreement (Item 14): The council separately considered terminating the real estate development agreement due to lack of development. City Administrator confirmed the property owner (Pritchard Companies) is already exploring new development options; the conditional rezoning restrictions remain. Councilman Adams asked about future use, likely light industrial or assembly. The motion passed unanimously. - Habitat for Humanity Agreement (Item 20): The council approved a development agreement with Habitat for Humanity to build 13 homes in the Madison Heights neighborhood, with a $35,000 city loan. Councilwoman Simmons noted her role on the Habitat board but voted in favor. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (Items 1–13, 13A, 15–17, 23): Approved unanimously. - Item 14 (Termination of EBCO Holdings Agreement): Approved unanimously. - Item 18 (Downtown West Neighborhood Improvement – A, B, and C): Approved unanimously. - Item 19 (Harmony Park Development): Approved unanimously. - Item 20 (Habitat for Humanity Development Agreement): Approved unanimously.

The Mason City City Council held its regular meeting on November 12, 2024, at 7:00 PM. The meeting included proclamations honoring veterans and GIS Day, the announcement of the People's Choice Award for the River City Sculptures on Parade, an update on the EPA Brownfields grant, and several consent agenda items. The council also debated and approved individual items including a change order for the fire department dormitory project, a public hearing setting for a Habitat for Humanity partnership, an urban renewal plan amendment, an annexation for a new Tractor Supply store, and the final reading of a zoning ordinance. Proclamations and Special Presentations - Veterans Day Proclamation: Mayor Bill Shickle recognized Randy Sol Sulsa, Chair of the Mason City Veterans Memorial Association, and invited the community to a ceremony on Veterans Day (November 11) at 10:30 AM at Central Park. - GIS Day Proclamation: Laura Mott, the city's GIS analyst, was recognized for her work on Geographic Information Systems, and the day was proclaimed GIS Day in Mason City. - River City Sculptures on Parade People's Choice Award: Mark Walder, director of the program, announced that the 2024 People's Choice Award winner is "Slow Dancing" by sculptor Judd Nelson, sponsored by Nancy Sweetman. To date, 75 sculptures have been sold for a total purchase price of $1,179,350, with 61 permanently displayed on the sculpture walk. - EPA Brownfields Grant Update: Ben Curtis of EOCN Environmental Group (formerly Impact 7G) presented a progress report on the four-year, $500,000 EPA grant. Key metrics: 4 phase one environmental site assessments completed, 1 phase two completed, 5 properties seeking EPA eligibility, and a parcel-by-parcel inventory of over 1,400 parcels in the downtown area. The city has spent about $100,000 (20% of the grant) and is on track. City Administrator Aaron Burnett noted that the grant has already assisted with the River Two apartments, the new hotel downtown, the Delaware apartments, and analysis of the old Kirk Apartment site. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda (items 1–14 and 16) with a unanimous vote, except for items 15 and 17 which were pulled for separate discussion. Routine items included: - Approval of minutes, claims, permits, and the September financial report. - Appointments to various boards: Mike McCulvie and Bonnie Clunder (new) and Scott Shipman (reappointment) to the Housing Advisory Appeals Board; Richard Haas to the Airport Commission; Judy Pedalty to the Library Board. - Appointment of Jim Collins as Public Works Director, Ryan Merrill as Firefighter Paramedic, and Jason Howe as Water Reclamation Heavy Equipment Operator. - Approval of an amendment to the SEH professional services agreement for the 43rd Street Southwest lift station. - Resolution accepting work and ordering payment for the Elmwood St. Joseph Cemetery Storm Sewer Improvement Project. - Resolution approving a purchase of a truck and plow from Midwest Peterbuilt Group for the street department. Discussion Items - Item 15 – Change Order for Fire Department Dormitory Addition: Councilman Lee thanked Fire Chief for finding savings and requested a summary. The Chief reported that the project is ahead of schedule (mid-January move-in anticipated) and the change order covers structural reinforcements, plumbing repairs, aesthetic improvements, and ceiling revisions. The changes are within budget and will enhance long-term maintenance. The motion carried unanimously. - Item 17 – Setting Public Hearing for Habitat for Humanity Grant: Councilman Yeshewski asked about the funding source (Fund 147, the housing fund) and the mechanism. City Administrator Burnett explained that the $100,000 grant (matching a Cerro Gordo Foundation grant) will be paid back over time from increased property tax revenues from the 13 new homes, functioning like a TIF but simpler. Councilman Lee expressed support for the creative approach. The motion to set the public hearing for November 19, 2024, passed unanimously. - Item 18 – Urban Renewal Plan Amendment (Public Hearing): Councilman Lee initially had concerns about using TIF funds for tree removal, but after discussion with City Administrator Burnett, he clarified that the amendment is narrowly scoped to prevent low-income homeowners from losing their homes due to high tree removal costs. The council stressed that the actual implementation will come back for approval. The motion passed unanimously. - Item 19 – Annexation of 40 Acres for Tractor Supply (Public Hearing): Councilman Yeshewski asked about the rationale for annexation. City Administrator Burnett explained that the annexation is a negotiated deal tied to providing city water and sewer utilities. The building is nearly 100% compliant with city codes, and the annexation will bring additional tax base and sales tax. The only non-conformity is a small portion in the 500-year floodplain. The motion passed unanimously. - Final Reading of Zoning Ordinance: The ordinance to bring the city into compliance with new state code zoning requirements was approved on final reading with a unanimous vote. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous. No roll call votes were recorded as split. - The consent agenda (items 1–14, 16) was approved. - Item 15 (Fire Department dormitory change order) was approved. - Item 17 (Habitat for Humanity public hearing set for November 19, 2024) was approved. - Item 18 (Urban renewal plan amendment) was approved after a public hearing. - Item 19 (Annexation for Tractor Supply) was approved after a public hearing. - The final reading of the zoning ordinance was approved. - The council will next meet on November 19, 2024, for the Habitat for Humanity public hearing.