Oskaloosa City Council Greenlights Major Improvements and Streamlines Processes

Council Meeting Proceedings:

The Oskaloosa City Council convened on Monday, June 17, 2024, at City Hall. The session, led by Mayor Dave Krutzfeldt, commenced with an invocation from Pastor Adam Kyle of the Lighthouse Community Church, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Community Comments:

Angela Foster, Oskaloosa Main Street Director, thanked the council for their support and provided updates on upcoming events, including the final “Friday After Five” and the Sweet Corn Serenade on July 25. She also mentioned the WHO RVTV event scheduled for September 4.

Consent Agenda:

The council approved the consent agenda, which included several key items:

Appointment of Judy Groenendyk to the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Appointment of Colby Kitzman to the Water Board of Trustees.
Setting public hearings for July 15 for nuisance abatements at 316 North 2nd Street and 813 South 12th Street.
Setting a public hearing for the vacation and sale of an alley adjacent to 606 3rd Avenue East.

Key Approvals:

FY 2025 Insurance Proposal:
The council adopted a resolution approving the FY 2025 Property, Liability, Automobile, Equipment, Deductible Buydown, and Workers Compensation Insurance at a cost of $480,569. The plan includes measures to mitigate risks associated with significant deductible costs for wind and hail damage.

Stadium Drive Improvements:
The council approved a resolution for proposed public improvements to Stadium Drive, undertaken by the Mahaska Community Recreation Foundation (MCRF). The project will include new pavement, sidewalks, storm sewers, and additional parking spaces.

Transient Merchant Ordinance Amendment:
The council passed the third reading of an ordinance amending Chapter 5.24 of the Oskaloosa Municipal Code, which streamlines the licensing process for peddlers, solicitors, and transient merchants, reflecting the increased number of food trucks in the city.

Reports and Announcements:

The City Manager’s quarterly report was distributed, highlighting progress on strategic objectives.
Mayor Krutzfeldt and council members praised recent community events and the vibrant atmosphere in the downtown area, specifically noting the well-received display of flags for Flag Day.

The meeting concluded with the council voting to adjourn. The next session is scheduled for July 1, 2024.