Council Votes To Increase Wastewater And Storm Water Rates, Partners With GTSB

Oskaloosa, IowaTo enhance traffic safety within the community, the Oskaloosa City Council, in its meeting on March 4, 2024, approved a grant application in collaboration with the Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau (GTSB).

The partnership aims to bolster the capabilities of the Oskaloosa Police Department in conducting targeted traffic safety enforcement patrols.

Under this new agreement, the police department is set to expand its enforcement operations, focusing on general enforcement and impaired driving with an allocation of up to $15,000 and $10,000, respectively. This initiative is designed to ensure safer roads for the city’s residents by reducing incidents of impaired driving and traffic violations.

In addition to enforcement efforts, the grant will facilitate the acquisition of two in-car radar systems and installing speed feedback signs, with budgets of up to $4,000 and $7,000, respectively.

The GTSB has committed to providing guidance and reimbursement for the outlined services, ensuring the Oskaloosa Police Department has the necessary resources to implement these safety measures effectively. According to the city council’s communication, this collaboration has historically generated up to $25,000.

The Oskaloosa City Council also approved the reappointment of Pam Blomgren to the South Central Regional Airport Agency.

This will be Blomgren’s third term representing the City of Oskaloosa on that board.

Her approval came at a 5-1 vote after At-Large Councilmember Charlie Comfort raised concerns that the precedent for the appointment needed to be followed.

Amal Eltahir explained that there had been an oversight in the process but that there also wasn’t any policy in place for reappointment.

The Council also approved raising the rates for wastewater and stormwater within the City.