Oskaloosa City Council Finalizes Budget, Community Voices Raise Concerns

Oskaloosa, Iowa – The Oskaloosa City Council met in regular session on Monday, April 21, 2025, with a packed agenda and a room filled beyond fire code capacity, prompting a reminder from city officials to keep aisles clear in case of emergency.

Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Approved

The council unanimously adopted the City of Oskaloosa’s budget for Fiscal Year 2026 following a public hearing with no comments submitted. The resolution also approved levying taxes in alignment with the newly adopted financial plan. Additionally, the council passed a separate resolution amending the FY2025 budget to address year-end adjustments.

The FY2026 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), which outlines major infrastructure and capital projects through FY2030, was also adopted. The CIP includes funding priorities for parks, utilities, and transportation enhancements, though specific project details were not debated during the meeting.

Controversial Appointments to Regional Airport Board

One of the evening’s most debated issues was the appointment of Mayor David Krutzfeldt and Councilman Bob Drost to the South Central Regional Airport Agency (SCRAA) board. Public comments raised serious concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest, transparency, and the legality of these appointments.

Alicia Helm, a resident representing the “Stop the Airport” coalition, criticized the appointments on ethical grounds. “Council Member Drost is a current employee of Musco Sports Lighting,” Helm said. “He has already voted on matters directly affecting the airport without recusing himself. This is a direct conflict of interest.”

Nick Ryan echoed those concerns, warning that proceeding with the appointments might expose the city to “serious civil and possibly criminal liability” under Iowa Code §68B and §721.2. Others, including Trent Kerr, invoked historical parallels, likening the community’s exclusion from decision-making to “taxation without representation.”

Despite the objections, the council approved the appointments. Krutzfeldt was confirmed by a vote of 5-2. Drost’s appointment passed 4-2, with one abstention due to his direct involvement.

New Officer Sworn In

Oskaloosa Police Department welcomed a new officer to its ranks. Isaac Nienkirk, a recent Oskaloosa High School graduate and former peer helper, was officially sworn in during the meeting. Mayor Krutzfeldt administered the oath, highlighting Nienkirk’s commitment to public service.
Additional Council Actions

The council approved several routine and infrastructure items, including:

A $19,171 payment to Wynn Company, LLC for work on the North Park Sanitary Sewer Improvements Project.

Two payments totaling $41,587.95 to SVPA for services related to the Early Childhood Education and Recreation Center.

A resolution to authorize property mowing contracts for lots in violation of the city’s weed ordinance.

Approval of the FY2026 salary schedule for non-union employees.

Scheduling of public hearings for the vacation and sale of alleyways near 901 E Avenue West and 407 South C Street.

Adoption of a resolution supporting the Oskaloosa Children’s Museum project, a proposed educational and play facility expected to enhance youth development and family engagement in the community.

Storm Sewer Project and Contract Awarded

The council also finalized plans and awarded a contract for storm sewer improvements at B Avenue West and North H Street. The project aims to address drainage issues in the area and is part of the city’s ongoing infrastructure modernization efforts.
Arbor Day Proclamation

Mayor Krutzfeldt signed a proclamation declaring April 25, 2025, as Arbor Day in Oskaloosa, encouraging residents to plant and care for trees as part of the city’s environmental sustainability goals.