Ottawa City Commission Meeting Summary - November 11, 2026

The Ottawa City Commission met on November 11, 2026. All commissioners were present. The meeting included updates on three properties facing code enforcement, unanimous acceptance of public improvements for the Northeast Village subdivision, and the conditional selection of firms for a proposed community center project.

Consent Calendar

• Approved minutes from the November 4, 2026 regular meeting.
• Authorized setting a public hearing for the 2026 budget amendments.
• Approved the agenda.

Discussion Items

• 1641 South Main Street: Property improvement partner Hodges reported demolition is nearing completion (expected by Thanksgiving). McCurdy Auto coordinated their own demolition with the contractor. The site will be graded and the land offered for sale. Commissioner Allen inquired about underground gas storage tanks, to which the status is unknown.
• 1017 South Ash: The owner missed the September 4th work deadline. Notices to vacate were posted (deadline December 7th), and the city is preparing for a December 15th bid opening for demolition. Commissioner Skidmore appreciated the inclusion of community resource lists. Mayor Pro Tem Crowley expressed opposition to granting further extensions to the owner.
• 214 South Main Street: The property owner has not allowed a full interior inspection. The city issued a two-week ultimatum for the owner to remove a drop ceiling to allow structural assessment. City Manager Motty emphasized the urgency due to potential winter snow loads. Commissioner Allen requested staff ask the owner about his grant application status during their next weekly check-in.
• Northeast Village Subdivision Public Improvements: Director Finch presented the request to accept public infrastructure (sidewalks, sewers, water) valued at over $425,000 for the 40-unit townhome development. The developer confirmed construction is on track for occupancy in spring 2027. The resolution was approved unanimously.
• Community Center Design Services: City Manager Motty selected BG Consultants from eight respondents, citing their extensive experience with CDBG-funded projects. Selection is contingent upon grant award. Approved unanimously.
• Community Center Grant Administration: Wood O'Brien was selected for grant administration at a total cost of $39,282. City Manager Motty and Commissioner Skidmore noted the cost relative to the project scale and the critical compliance requirements for the CDBG program. Selection is contingent upon grant award. Approved unanimously.

City Manager Report

• Operations: Public Works inspected 406 storm drains, collecting over four tons of debris. Utilities installed a new water main on the 100 block of South Locust. Dead trees on Main Street were removed.
• Events: Comprehensive Plan Open House (Nov 11), Murder Mystery Dinner (Nov 13), Hi-Fi Dueling Pianos (Nov 20), Mayor's Tree Lighting & Christmas Parade (Nov 28).
• Reminders: Applications for the Utility Winter Assistance Program are due December 1st.

Governing Body Comments

• Commissioners thanked staff and volunteers for the Veterans Day Parade and flag displays. Mayor Clayton recognized the significance of November 11th as Armistice Day and thanked veterans for their service.

Key Outcomes

• Resolution 11D: Unanimously approved acceptance of Northeast Village public improvements.
• Resolution 11E: Unanimously selected BG Consultants for community center design (contingent on CDBG grant).
• Resolution 11F: Unanimously selected Wood O'Brien for grant administration (contingent on CDBG grant).
• Property Deadlines: Demolition at 1641 S Main expected by Thanksgiving. Tenants at 1017 S Ash required to vacate by December 7th; demolition bid opening December 15th. Owner of 214 S Main given two weeks to allow inspection or city will contract for access.
• Meeting Schedule: The November 25th study session was canceled. The next regular meeting is November 18th at 10 a.m.