Sioux City Council Regular Meeting - September 21, 2026

The Sioux City Council held its regular meeting on September 21, 2026, addressing appointments, consent agenda items, public hearings on zoning and signage, and discussions on tourism funding and housing infrastructure. Key decisions included approval of a one-year funding agreement with Explore Siouxland and passage of the second reading of the sign ordinance.

Consent Calendar

• Approved as a block: reading of September 14th minutes; street closures for Starfest marching band competition; acceptance of the annual evaluation of the Human Rights Commission director; appointments of Justin Johnson and Christina Letche to the Transit System Advisory Board; amendment to extend the Wastewater Treatment Reconstruction and Design Advisory Committee term to March 31, 2027; adoption of plans for Fire Station One bathroom remodel and Brunner Avenue Access Drive; award of service provider agreement to Holstein Electric for collector well panel upgrade; lease with Tri-State Communications for tower space; change orders for Seeger Avenue water main replacement and Hooven Drive resurfacing; contract with L Builders for Midtown Terrace project; approval of August expenses and fund transfers; alcohol license applications; and minutes from boards and commissions.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Mark Solheim and Brett Watchorn interviewed for the Civil Service Commission, discussing their backgrounds and training requirements.
• Legend Campbell praised Breckies coffee shop for fall decorations and encouraged other businesses to decorate.
• Brett Watchorn expressed opposition to Explore Siouxland funding, stating that the return on investment should be clear and that the community will never become a tourist destination.
• Denise Chowdhury (Explore Siouxland) defended the organization's work, noting recent marketing efforts and the time needed to see results.
• Tito Parker (Thrive Coordinator) described the Thrive program that connects residents to services across 13 areas and invited council to attend a meeting.
• David Helpin (Lamar Advertising) spoke against the proposed cap-and-replace sign ordinance, arguing it would limit competition and growth.

Discussion Items

• Appointments: Mark Solheim and Brett Watchorn were appointed to the Civil Service Commission after discussion of their qualifications and the training required.
• Sign Ordinance (Second Reading): Council debated the cap-and-replace model for off-premise signs, with concerns about limiting competition and revenue. David Helpin opposed the cap, and Council discussed permit fees and variance processes. The ordinance passed 4-1 (Bernstein dissenting) and will proceed to a third reading.
• Explore Siouxland Funding: Council considered a two-year funding agreement but debated the organization’s vision and return on investment. Executive Director Stacy Anderson reported securing $150,000 in regional sports grants and hosting Team USA handball, and outlined marketing efforts. After discussion, an amendment to approve a one-year agreement passed. Council requested clearer metrics and collaboration with OVG and the Sports Commission.
• OVG Venues Report: General Manager Chad Smith provided updates:
  • Tyson Events Center: 70 events, 209,000 attendance (down 1.5% from prior year); Nate Bargatze comedy show grossed $543,000; Bongars Rodeo grossed $106,000; new Zamboni and premium seating installed; booking incentive fund of $300,000 with $100,000 used so far.
  • Orpheum Theater: 762 events, 73,000 attendance (up 6%); positive variance of $5,216; LED conversion completed; new sound system in progress; 25th anniversary of reopening and 100th anniversary planning.
  • Convention Center: 105 events, increased visits; negative variance of $248,000 due to sales turnover, HVAC repairs, and utility/insurance increases; new director of sales being hired; capital projects include carpet, tables, and elevator doors.
  • Smith announced he is stepping down as GM but staying in the community as AGM.
• Housing Infrastructure (DIG) Funding: Assistant City Manager Teresa Fitch presented options to increase funding for residential development from $1 million annually to $3-4 million. Current commitments have depleted funds through 2030. A proposed $1/month charge on water and sewer bills could generate $707,000 annually. Council requested a list of 10 potential projects and legal review before making a decision.

Key Outcomes

• Consent agenda approved unanimously.
• Wastewater committee term extended to March 31, 2027 (amendment passed 4-0).
• Final plat of Main Street Overlook approved (5-0).
• Rezoning at 4919 North Cleveland Street approved (5-0).
• Rezoning at 4017th Street approved (5-0) with waiver of statutory rule.
• Sign ordinance second reading passed (4-1).
• Items 18 (deletion of combined CBD renewal area sale) and 19 (deletion of temporary construction engagement) approved (5-0 each).
• Sky West Airlines lease approved (motion and second).
• One-year Explore Siouxland funding agreement approved (amendment passed; final vote unclear).
• Mark Solheim and Brett Watchorn appointed to Civil Service Commission.
• Council directed staff to provide confidential list of pending DIG projects and legal opinion on water/sewer surcharge.