Oskaloosa Police Department Recognized At Recent Council Meeting
Oskaloosa Police Department received the prestigious FBI-LEEDA Agency Trilogy Award from COO Michael Robinson Sr. at the Oskaloosa City Council meeting recently. This honor, awarded to fewer than 150 agencies nationwide, recognizes the department’s commitment to excellence through nationally renowned training. The department expressed deep gratitude to the Council for supporting their ongoing efforts in recruitment, retention, and staying current with best practices. (photo OPD Facebook page)
Community Comments
During the community comments segment, three residents voiced their concerns and updates:
Alicia Helm from 401 South Market Street criticized the council for what she described as a lack of transparency, particularly concerning the handling of 911 billing issues. She expressed frustration over what she perceives as the council’s failure to address these concerns honestly.
Brant Bollman of 1211 South Market Street shared exciting news about receiving an Iowa Arts Council Grant to bring a puppet festival to Oskaloosa next summer. He thanked the city for its ongoing support of the arts.
Julie Wells of 401 21st Avenue West echoed concerns about the 911 billing issue, particularly the absence of a contract ensuring the continuity of 911 services, which she said left the community vulnerable.
Consent Agenda
The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included:
The agenda for the August 19, 2024, meeting.
Minutes from the August 5, 2024, regular council meeting.
Various reports from city commissions, including the Oskaloosa Airport Commission, Civil Service Commission, and Board of Adjustment.
Financial reports for July 2024.
Liquor license applications, including a new license for Osky Liquor LLC and a special license for the Mahaska Chamber and Development Group.
Agency Trilogy Award Presentation
One of the highlights of the meeting was the presentation of the FBI-LEEDA Agency Trilogy Award to the Oskaloosa Police Department. The award, presented by Michael Robinson, FBI-LEEDA’s Chief Operating Officer, recognizes law enforcement agencies whose entire command staff has completed the Trilogy Leadership Series. Oskaloosa’s Police Department is now the second agency in Iowa to receive this prestigious award in 2024, underscoring the department’s commitment to leadership and excellence in law enforcement.
Public Hearing and Resolution on Weed Cutting
The council held a public hearing on levying a special assessment against private properties for weed cutting. With no public comments, the council approved the resolution, which mandates property owners to cover the costs of weed removal or face the charges being added to their property taxes with a 9% interest rate.
Construction Manager at Risk (CMR) for Recreation Center
The council approved a resolution selecting Carl A. Nelson & Company as the Construction Manager at Risk (CMR) for the Oskaloosa Recreation Center Natatorium Completion Project. This decision followed a thorough evaluation process, including interviews with top firms. Councilmember Drost expressed satisfaction with the selection process, highlighting Carl A. Nelson & Company’s relevant experience and reputation.
Temporary Suspension of Civil Service Commission Practices
The council also approved a resolution to temporarily suspend Civil Service Commission meeting practices for one year. This decision aims to expedite the hiring process for the police department, which is currently facing challenges in attracting qualified candidates. The suspension will allow the department to fill positions more quickly while maintaining existing hiring standards. Councilmember Ossian raised concerns about the balance between speed and quality, but the discussion clarified that the same rigorous standards would be upheld despite the expedited process.
Sewer Late Fee Charges
In another matter, the council passed the first reading of an ordinance amending the city code related to late fee charges for sewer services. The amendment clarifies how late fees should be distributed between water and sewer charges on utility bills
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Council Member Updates
During the council member updates, several initiatives were discussed:
Councilmember Ossian thanked local businesses for their contributions to a rural restoration project focused on water quality.
Councilmember Drost praised the city’s commitment to public safety and addressed misinformation regarding the Quick Star development project, affirming that the city is working collaboratively with the company.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 6:37 p.m. after a motion passed unanimously
