Online Utility Bill Pay

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In an effort to provide you with ease and flexibility for your utility bill payments, the City of Ida Grove has implemented a new online payment service through Forte.  You can find the new service payment link at the bottom of the city’s main web page, or you may click on the Government dropdown box tab at the top right of the main page, click on the utilities option and click on the payment link located on this page.

  • Pay your bill via Forte’s secure website
  • Select payment options that work for you – credit card or debit card
  • Receive an electronic confirmation of your payment

Mike Collins Presented With Service Award

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The City of Ida Grove and the Ida Grove Fire Department would like to thank Mike Collins for his many years of service to the community.  Mike served as Fire Chief for 10 years within his total of 32 years of service in the Fire Department.  Mike is presented with his service award by Mayor and Assistant Fire Chief Devlun Whiteing.  Thank you Mike for your service, it is very much appreciated by everyone in the community.

Thank You to our Local Emergency Responders

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The Ida Grove City Hall and City Council would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our local Law Enforcement, EMT’s, and Firefighters for the services they provide to our community. Thank you all for protecting and serving our community, keeping it safe, and THANK YOU for volunteering your time and caring hearts to our community. On behalf of the city, we appreciate each and every one of you.

 

Comprehensive Plan Presentation

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The Ida Grove Comprehensive Plan Presentation will be held Monday April 23, 2018 at 5pm in the Ida Grove Rec Center. The meeting will begin at 5pm with a presentation from SIMPCO representative, Nicole Peterson. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend!  Please come review the draft comprehensive plan!

The 2017-2018 Comprehensive Plan of the City of Ida Grove is intended to serve as an advisory document that outlines the city’s vision. The purpose of this comprehensive plan is to provide a current inventory of community resources and a thoughtful statement of the community’s vision and goals for the future. This comprehensive plan includes analysis of the following topics: Housing, Economic Development, Transportation, Community Facilities and Services, Land Use, and Natural Resources. The comprehensive plan document provides legal justification for community decisions and ensures that local policies are in step with those of state, regional, and federal planning best practices. The plan can inform grant applications and leverage funding for community projects. The plan process incorporated public participation and facilitates intergovernmental collaboration through review and consideration of neighboring jurisdictions policy and plans.

For more information contact: Marc Dennison at [email protected] or Nicole Peterson at [email protected]

Have You Heard About……

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Tech support scams.

Here’s how they work:
You get a call from someone who says he/she’s a computer technician. He/She might say they’re from a well known company like Microsoft, or maybe your internet service provider. They tell you there are viruses or other malware on your computer. They say you’ll have to give them remote access to your computer or buy new software to fix it.

But is the caller who they say they are? Judging by the complaints to the Federal Trade Commission, no. These scammers might want to sell you useless services, steal your credit card number, or get access to your computer to install malware, which could then let them see everything on your computer.

Here’s what you can do:
1. Hang up. Never give control of your computer or your credit card information to someone who calls you out of the blue.
2. Pass this information onto a friend. You might know these calls are fakes, but chances are you know someone who doesn’t.

Want to know more? Sign up for scam alerts at ftc.gov/subscribe

If you spot a scam, please report it to the Federal Trade Commission.

Call the FTC at 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357) or TTY 1-866-653-4261
Go online: ftc.gov/complaint

Your complaint can help protect other people. By filing a complaint, you can help the FTC’s investigators identify the imposters and stop them before they can get someone’s hard-earned money. It really makes a difference.

Mayor and Business Leaders Meet with Governor

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Mayor Whiteing recently met with Governor Reynolds and Lieutenant Governor Adam Gregg in Ida Grove to discuss current and future employer needs as well as economic development. This event was coordinated by Ida County Economic Development.  The meeting included representatives from GOMACO, Midwest Industries, United Bank of Iowa, First State Bank, Horn Memorial Hospital, OABCIG Schools, and other professional organizations.  “It was great to have the Governor Reynold’s attention locally,” said Whiteing.  “Both the governor and lieutenant governor gave us examples of similar sized towns that are working with their schools and industry to keep their youth workforce local.  It is also nice to see that some of her suggestions, like applying for DNR grants and tourism awards, are things we are already doing to keep our community a great place to live.”  “It was a great experience for all involved.  It is not everyday that we have our governor in our own backyard.”

New Meal Opportunities for Home Bound 60+ Population

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Connections Area Agency on Aging is pleased to announce the expansion of our frozen meal program in Ida Grove.  To be eligible for meals, the client must be 60 or older and homebound.  Those under the age of 60 may qualify if they are on a Medicaid waiver program or purchase meals at full price.

Please contact Connections Area Agency on Aging for more information 1-800-432-9209 extension 8226 or 8225.

Ida Grove Library joins NASA and other organizations in celebrating the celestial event of the century

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The Ida Grove Library has joined more than 1,000 libraries across the country to participate in the celestial event of the century, the August 21, 2017 Solar Eclipse. During this national event, the shadow of the moon will sweep across the United States in a narrow band from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean in a spectacle that hasn’t occurred in decades. In fact, the last total solar eclipse for the United States was nearly 40 years ago. The rest of the U.S. and North America will see a partial eclipse, with the Moon covering up only part of the Sun. It is aptly named the Great American Eclipse.

This will be a great opportunity for our community to celebrate science with fun, hands-on activities, culminating in the eclipse event on August 21, 2017.

On Monday August 21st, the library will host an Eclipse viewing party from 11am-1pm. During the viewing party, the library will be distributing solar viewing glasses along with information on safe eclipse viewing. The Grout Museum will be in attendance during the viewing with a special hands-on “Outreach to Space” exhibit for all ages, and there will be a live stream of the total eclipse from NASA.   NASA’s live stream will include a wealth of images captured before, during, and after the eclipse by 11 spacecraft, at least three NASA aircraft, more than 50 high-altitude balloons, and the astronauts aboard the International Space Station – each offering a unique vantage point for the celestial event.

The Ida Grove Library will also offer a range of public programs during the week of August 14, 2017 to bring the excitement of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) to children, teens and adults.   Our schedule of events includes daily craft activities (while supplies last) as well as two special movie viewings. Scheduled activities the week of August 14th include:

Monday August 14th 1-2pm: Sun Catchers

Tuesday August 15th 1-2pm: Solar Art Prints

Wednesday August 16th 1-3pm: Eclipse Coloring

Thursday August 17th 1-2pm: Sundials

Thursday August 17th @ 5:30pm: Movie Night showing Apollo 13

Friday August 18th @10:30am: Children’s movie showing E.T. & a special solar s’mores making session after the movie

“We are excited that the Ida Grove Library will have the opportunity to participate in this national program,” said Angela Scales, library director.  “We have received tremendous support from the Shopko Foundation to help our community prepare for and enjoy this amazing astronomy event. We think people of all ages and backgrounds will find the solar eclipse to be an experience they will remember the rest of their lives.” More information on the scheduled events and safe eclipse viewing can be found on the library’s website at www.idagrove.lib.ia.us.

Ida Grove Library is located at 100 East 2nd Street.  All of the scheduled eclipse programs are free and open to the public during library hours. Solar viewing glasses will be available free of charge as well during the eclipse viewing event.

Ida Grove Library has joined the STAR Library Education Network (STAR_Net) and its NASA@ My Library initiative, which is providing resources and STEM activities to libraries across the nation related to the eclipse. Partners include NASA, the American Library Association, and many other organizations. This project was made possible through support from the NASA Science Mission Directorate, Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, Google, and the National Science Foundation.

July 13th Ida Area Farmer’s Market

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Eggs from Lori will be at the Ida Area Farmer’s Market

AFTER PROM will be grilling hamburgers, pork burgers or hot dogs this Thursday, July 13th. Included is a bag of chips and a drink. Don’t have a garden? Head to the Ida Area Farmers’ Market and let our four produce vendors give you fresh produce (not shipped from miles away). Look for blueberries, carrots, green beans, melons, onions, peas, peppers, cucumbers, potatoes, sweet corn, squash, and tomatoes. Some will be ready!! And don’t forget home decor, jewelry, and more from Genevieve, fresh flowers from Faith, wine from the Sinnotts, and eggs from Lori. So enjoy an evening at the park with great food, friends, and products from the market. 4:30 to 6:30 PM on Thursday in downtown Ida Grove.

 

King Theatre Renovation Board’s 2nd Annual Garden Party & Art Walk

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Enjoy a walk through the Harskamps’ Oasis…

Come walk the gardens and enjoy artwork by local artist Ken Harskamp – treats provided by Darts Harskamp! The weather is looking PERFECT for our second annual garden party and art walk hosted by the Harskamps. Enjoy a leisurely garden tour – self-guided or with our hosts – and then take a walk through Ken’s art gallery.

$15 per person or $25 for two – all proceeds go to our King Theatre Renovation. See you tomorrow, Saturday, July 8th, from 10 am to 2 pm, at the Harskamp residence, 609 Moorehead Street in Ida Grove.

Handicap accessibility at the alley behind the residence.

King Theatre Stabilized by Talented Local Team

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Thanks to a team assembled by Ida Grove’s Dan Gosch, the King Theatre’s south side has been stabilized, allowing the theatre board to move forward with this important project. West Central Construction, owned and operated by Jim and Pat Redenius, was on hand at the building today to hoist a 10″ H-beam in place under the roof’s joists and supported by cribbing on both sides.

In addition to West Central Construction, the King Theatre Board thanks Kevin Nulle for the use of his forklift, Dan Roeder for the use of his forklift and payloader; the City of Ida Grove for the use of the city’s payloader; and Godbersen-Smith for the use of the 10″ H-beam. If it was not for this team of talented people, the project would not advance as it now most certainly, and passionately, will. Long live the King.

 

Mark Nielsen retires with nearly 31 years on city maintenance staff

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After nearly 31 years as a city staffer, Mark Nielsen has retired. From left to right is daughter, Heather Nielsen; future son-in-law Jake Apple; wife Lanette Nielsen; Mark Nielsen; and Mayor Devlun Whiteing.

In our modern world, we thank our lucky stars that there are people like Mark Nielsen. He has worked for the City of Ida Grove for nearly 31 years before retiring today. Nielsen has his license to manage a municipal sewer system. Nielsen has been through re-licensure 15 times. Nielsen came on board November 17th, 1986. Ivan O’Tool was mayor and the council included Earl Pfleeger, Herman Jensen, Lowell Bloenker, Earl Muckey, and Ronnie Powell.

Currently, there are four people on the city maintenance crew: 30-year water works manager, Lon Schluter; 24-year roads manager Gerrod Sholty; 5-year parks manager, Bob Lorenzen, parks manager; and 15-year Kris Taylor, who assists in areas as needed. The city is currently viewing applicants to fill the big hole left by veteran Nielsen.

“Jerry Frahm was the foreman at the time who hired me,” said Nielsen. “I started off with helping with water chores getting my water license in 1987 and then my sewer license in August of 1988.”

Nielsen has been no stranger to trials in his field. “In the sewage processor, the plastic sheets to separate the different forms of sewage will sometimes come off,” noted Nielsen. “Those sheets are used for rotating biological contact. When those sheets come off, they are full of slime. You have to handle them with vice-grips to control them.”

Nielsen has had the duty a time or two of turning off the water of a customer who ignored a nonpayment disconnect notice. “I knocked on the door to inform the resident that she could pay her bill to continue service,” stated Nielsen. “She didn’t answer the door, so I shut off the water. I was about a block away when I heard someone yelling for me. She was on her doorsteps, suds running from her hair to her face, waving her payment at me and hoping I’d turn the water back on.”

Overall, Nielsen – who has worked with four city clerks and five different mayors – agree that it’s been a memorable 30-plus years. “We have a good crew,” said Nielsen of the self-managed team. “Sure, we get complaints now and again, but one compliment wipes out a dozen complaints.”

 

King Theatre Alley Wall Collapses

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Theatre alley wall collapse

Last night, the back of the theater collapsed at approximately 6:20 p.m. No one was in the building when it happened. Volunteers left early due to the storms moving through the area. Volunteer Fire and Ambulance departments were on hand to secure the area.

Doug Clough, King Theatre Board Chair, said, “We thank the firemen and ambulance crews for their quick action. We are beyond blessed to have had no volunteers hurt during this incident; if someone would have been hurt, this would be far more tragic than a delay in opening our theater. God is good.”

The board’s project coordinator is coordinating efforts to shore up the back of the roof to make the building structurally safe. The group will then put up some kind of screening to keep people, animals and rain out until the wall is repaired.

“This is just one hurdle out of many that that our King Theatre Renovation Board has faced for this important Ida Grove landmark.” said Clough. “Our board would like to assure citizens that when the King is up and running and people comment how great it is, we will affirm their faithful support by saying, LONG LIVE THE KING.”

 

2017 City Hall Closing Dates

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2017 City Hall Closure Dates

Ida Grove City Hall will be closed the following dates through January 1, 2018:

• Tuesday July 4th – Independence Day

• Monday September 4th – Labor Day

• Friday November 10th – Veterans Day

• Thursday, November 23rd and Friday, November 24th for the Thanksgiving Holiday

• Monday December 25th – Christmas Day

• Monday January 1st – New Years Day

 

Brush Pile Closed through July 4th

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City and volunteer fire fighting crews oversee the burning of the brush pile

Our brush pile is closed through July 4th. Our tree pile reached new heights with our latest round of removing dead or decaying trees on city property. Starting this morning, city crews – with the assistance of our volunteer fire department – began burning this pile. Over the course of the next few days, the city will monitor the progress and turn the pile to make sure all becomes ash which requires no special disposal.

 

Community Center Senior Lunch and Meals on Wheels Holiday Closure

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Senior Meal Services Closed July 3rd and 4th

The Community Center Senior Lunch and Meals on Wheels will be closed on Monday July 3rd and Tuesday July 4th due to the Independence Holiday.

 

Donate $20 to the city’s King Theatre Project and Receive a Shirt fit for a King!

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All this for your support and a $20 donation – LONG LIVE THE KING!

King Theatre Board members will be under the King Marquee from 12:30 p.m. until Heritage Days Parade traffic subsides with this fantastic offer. A $20 donation gets you a shirt and your chance to display your love for this endeavor! Thanks for supporting OUR King Theatre!

 

Complete Heritage Days Schedule

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Our Heritage Days schedule for Friday, June 23rd, Saturday, June 24th, and Sunday, June 25th. Enjoy!

 

Heritage Days’ Farmer’s Market

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Farmer’s Market TODAY downtown at 2nd and Main.

IT’S HERITAGE DAYS!! Start your celebration by visiting the Farmers’ Market on 2nd Street in downtown Ida Grove. We have four produce vendors, a fresh flower vendor, wine and wine tasting, an organic meat vendor, a baked goods vendor, and a vendor who sells brown, blue, green, and buff eggs! Rita Pierson will be available with her artisan chocolates.

And grilling to raise funds for the King Theater Renovation will feature beef ribeye sandwich meals for $5 and shirts for a $20 donation.

So get in on the action and join your friends and neighbors from 4:30 to 6:30 PM on Thursday.

 

Fireworks Use in the City Limits

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The Battle Creek 4th of July Show is one of the best ways to enjoy fireworks

While fireworks are nothing new to Iowa small towns around the 4th of July holiday, capitol hill legislation has made sales and use of certain fireworks legal this year. Here are some tidbits of information for all Ida Grovians to consider this inaugural year:

– The legislated fireworks can only be displayed/set off on the user’s property or another private citizen’s property who has agreed to the use.

– Our city’s noise ordinance is still in effect and applies to fireworks use; no noise-oriented fireworks after 10pm per our noise ordinance.

– Fireworks cannot be used in city parks or other public areas unless allowed by city council decision.

Safety is also a key factor in using fireworks; local hospitals see a rise in burn victims during this time of year. Use common sense and caution.

 

Ida County Sanitation’s New Pick-up System Under Way

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Ida County Sanitations New Trash Cans

All Ida Grovians should have received new garbage cans from Ida County Sanitation (ICS) during the past two weeks. The new system is designed to allow citizens to use one waste receptacle and to roll it to their curb for ICS to mechanically pick and dump the trash into their truck.

Recycling practices have not changed.

“We’ve had good reception to the change and a few bumps in the road,” said Justin Georg, ICS owner and operator. George has had a few questions from customers, and – in an effort to make the transition as easy as possible – offers the answers to all citizens in an FAQ here:

Q. Can I get a smaller can?

A. Yes! We had 50 smaller cans and they have all been used. New cans should be available in 2 – 3 weeks.

Q. Do I have to fill up the can before it will be picked up?

A. No. If you have any amount of trash in the can, it can be set out for collection.

Q. If I damage my can, do I have to buy a new one?

A. If you are responsible for damaging your can and it cannot be used as designed for pick up, then you must buy a can that can be picked up by our trucks. Our can cost $70 at this time. Some hardware stores do sell similar cans. Cans can also be rented through ICS… call Justin Georg at 369.1677. If you need more than one can, you may also buy another.

Q. If I have large items that need to be picked up, what do I do?

A. Call ICS at 369.1677 to schedule pickup; please give ICS a full day’s notice.

Q. If I have further questions about this service, who do I call?

A. Justin Georg, 369.1677. If you have a billing question, please call Ida Grove City Hall at 364.2428.

 

Ida Area Farmer’s Market – TONIGHT!

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Farmer’s Market vendors are working for your enjoyment…

The Ida Area Farmers’ Market will be a 2nd & Main with its produce vendors, winemaker, fresh flower lady, organic meat producer, and baked goods vendors. Genevieve Voss and Rita Pierson will again be at the market with jewelry, home decor, artisan chocolates, and much more. Lori Loehr, a new vendor, will join us to sell brown and blue eggs! The After Prom Committee will be serving smoked turkey sandwiches, baked beans, chips, and a beverage for $6. Carryouts will be available. So join your friends and neighbors and support the kids and their parents. 4:30 to 6:30 pm in downtown Ida Grove.

 

“The more I learn about people, the more I like my dog.” – Mark Twain

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Like Twain, we are dog lovers in Ida Grove. We want you to keep your dog safe by keeping him or her from running at large If you love your dog as much as we think you do, license him or her with our city. If your animal is picked up, we can easily track down the owner if licensed.

Fines are assessed for dogs at large. The first fine is $20.00 with a daily boarding fee added. The second offense doubles and the third offense triples.

Be considerate of your neighbors as well; man’s best friend is known to poop on walks, so bring a scoop and a bag to clean up the ‘business.’

 

Chamber of Commerce Summer Golf Outing set for July 12

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The Ida Grove Chamber of Commerce is holding its annual four-person best ball tournament and steak fry this summer on Wednesday, July 12. There will be a shotgun start at 10 AM. The cost is $200 per team, and this entry fee garners the participants a round of golf, a noon lunch, entry into the putting contest, and an evening steak fry. Mulligans and other contests will be available for purchase at the time of registration. Teams may register online at http://www.idagrovechamber.org/golf_outing.html. For more information about our Chamber of Commerce, please log on to www.idagrovechamber.org.

The Ida Grove Golf & Country Club is home of this annual event

Relay Iowa Is Coming to Ida Grove!

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Relay Iowa Comes through Ida Grove

Runners and support staff participating in Relay Iowa will be in Ida Grove on Friday, June 9th, 2017.

Relay Iowa is the World’s Longest Relay Run! Teams of up to 12 participants run 339 miles to cross Iowa over a long weekend. Runners build their own team and then work together to break down the distance into segments of their choice.

There will be many people and extra vehicles in and around Ida Grove for this event. The route from Anthon to Ida Grove can be seen at http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/859820157. The route from Ida Grove to Lake City is shown at http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/859995567. Please watch for the runners and their support on your way to and from work to help keep them and yourselves safe.

Keep your eyes peeled for runners during this special event

Week two at our Ida Area Farmer’s Market

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Verdean Kruse is a regular at the Ida Area Farmer’s Market

WEEK TWO at the market Thursday 4:30pm to 6:30pm in downtown Ida Grove. Genevieve Voss will be in attendance with her home decor, jewelry, and much more. Also Rita Pierson (Cocoa Bellissimo) will be offering her artisan chocolates. Some of our produce vendors will be available as well as our new vendor, Cherri Sloan, who will be selling baked goods. Cherri has been baking for the Farmers’ Market in Jefferson for 5 years. Come and check her out!! And Faith will be in the park with fresh flowers. The Junior Competition Dancers will be grilling burgers, and offering chips, beans, pop or water, and desserts for $6 to raise money for their future competitions. So join the your friends and neighbors for the fun!

 

King Theatre Renovation Board Meetings

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The King Theatre Board meets the first and third Wednesday of every month. The public is welcome to attend board meetings. These occur at United Bank of Iowa’s main headquarters at Main and 2nd beginning at 5:15 pm. The board also has volunteer labor nights 5:15 – 7 pm on Tuesdays and Thursday evenings. The public is welcome to come help or just view the progress of this important community project.

 

Ida Area Farmer’s Market Makes 2017 Debut Thursday, June 1st!

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It’s starting again this upcoming Thursday, June 1st! Come to the Ida Area Farmers’ Market, located east of our downtown Main and 2nd Street intersection. Fresh produce Thursdays from 4:30-6:30 p.m. June 1 through September 28, 2017. It’s local, it’s fresh, it supports our community members. Vendors and their wares include Cherri Sloan, baked goods; Cocoa Bellissimo, artisan chocolates (part time); K & S Produce (Kenny Tietsort & Doug VanHouten), produce; Lakefront Gardens & Gifts (Genevieve Voss), home decor, jewelry, misc.; Faith Johnson, fresh flowers; Shettler’s Gardens, produce; Old Town Vineyard & Winery (John & Lenee Sinnott), wine & wine tasting; Thankful Harvest (Tom & Grace German), organic meat, produce, & baked goods; Quimby Street Creations (Gloria Sykes), knitted items (part time); Susan Spotts, produce; and Golden Horizons will be there the last Thursday of every month selling handmade crafts. Some of the produce available the first day will be asparagus and rhubarb. The Heritage Days Board will also be on hand to grill out as a fundraiser for our hometown celebration occurring the final week of June.

It’s fresh. It’s local. It benefits our community!

OABCIG FFA Members Beautify Downtown

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The City of Ida Grove would like to thank the members of the OABCIG Future Farmers of America (FFA) for taking the time to beautify the downtown area of Ida Grove. The group, under the tutelage of Dan Remer, Shelley Malcom and Byron Peters, planted flowers in the pots along 2nd and Main Streets. The City of Ida Grove would also like to thank the Chamber of Commerce for their generous donation of time and materials to this wonderful project. If you know of or see a member of the FFA, please thank them for a job well done. Thanks to everyone involved!

Byron Peters and Shelley Malcom plan out the location of the flowers

OABCIG Future Farmers of America recently spent time beautifying our downtown area

Citizens of Ida Grove… start your mowers!

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Spring is in the air, Ida Grovians, and that means that yards are green and growing fast (especially with recent rains). Keeping a lawn properly mown not only makes for great looking properties and neighborhoods, it keeps the pollen-causing allergies at bay as well! All properties, whether vacated or non-vacated, are required to be mowed any time the vegetation reaches a height of more than 12 inches in the months of April, May, June, July, August, September and October. Any property which is not mowed after the vegetation reaches a height of 12 inches may be mowed by the City or their agents and a charge of $75 per hour for such mowing, plus a surcharge of $100, will be charged to the property owner (that’s about the same amount most residents spend for mower gas in an entire summer!). You may request a full copy of Ordinance Number 528 by calling City Hall at 364-2428.

 

Scheduled Longlines Internet Outage

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Longlines Announces Service Interuption

Longlines Internet has a scheduled cable outage beginning tonight at midnight through 3 am. Longlines will issue any updates to this outage that may occur. Longlines appreciates your understanding of this important time to upgrade their system.

 

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Home Repair Loan and Grant Program

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The USDA has announced a housing program for low income individuals

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development administers a home repair program for very low income individuals. The goal of the program is to make sure homeowners have safe and sanitary living conditions. An added benefit of this program for the community is an improvement to the current housing. Another benefit is the ability to allow elderly residents to stay in their homes longer by making improvements. Details of the program can be found at Ida Grove City Hall or the following website: http://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants

 

Airport Closure

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Airport Closure Announced

The City is closing the airport from 7:30am on May 15th to 4pm on May 22nd. Only the hospital helicopter will be allowed to access the area for severe emergencies. This is scheduled maintenance for the runway.

We apologize for this inconvenience.

 

Firemen, King Theatre Board among Ida County Betterment Grant recipients

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Scott Van Dusen, Ida Grove Fire Department Fire Chief, and Devlun Whiteing, Assistant Fire Chief, accept their Ida County Betterment Grant Award

Fire Chief Scott Van Dusen and Assistant Chief Devlun Whiteing were on hand Sunday, May 7th, to accept an Ida County Betterment Grant at the Arthur Community Hall. The Ida Grove Fire Department received $10,000 dollars. “We will use these funds toward the replacement of 10+ year old bunker gear – coats and pants,” stated Whiteing. “The fire department itself will put $4000 towards the project which will replace seven sets of bunker gear.”

Traci Van Houten, Doug Clough, and Ryan Goodman of the King Theatre Renovation Board also attended the 2 pm event. The board also received the top dollar amount of $10,000 which will be used to bring the building rear door above alley level to prevent rain from entering the building. “We’re grateful for this monetary injection afforded to us by the Ida County Betterment Foundation,” said Goodman. “We will put it to good use for our community!”

 

Planning and Zoning Committee and Board of Adjustment Vacancees

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Ida Grove’s Planning & Zoning Committee and Board of Adjustment Vacancies

Both the Planning & Zoning Committee and the Board of adjustment need five members to be fully functioning. If you have an interest to serve for the good our our Ida Grove community, please contact City Hall at 364-2428.

Planning & Zoning Commission, 3-Year Terms (NEEDS ONE ADDITIONAL MEMBER)

The Planning & Zoning Commission meets on the fourth Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Ida Grove Council Chambers at 403 Third Street.

The Planning & Zoning Commission are appointed by the legislative body and have three basic advisory responsibilities. They prepare zoning ordinances, recommend upon proposed changes in zoning, and review and update ordinances. The Zoning Commission has only the power of recommendation. All decisions require approval of the legislative body before they have any effect.

Board of Adjustment, 5-Year Terms (NEEDS TWO ADDITIONAL MEMBERS)

The Board of Adjustment meets the call of the chairperson at the Ida Grove Council Chambers at 403 Third Street.

Board of Adjustment meets at an on-call basis, and has three basic responsibilities. They do not have the power to change zoning, but have the power to adjust the law as it applies to a specific piece of property. The board has sole and exclusive power to act and the board’s decision does not require approval of the legislative body. Recourse to a decision of the board is through the District Court. The board’s powers include: the power of interpretation, the power to grant exceptions and the power to grant a variance.

 

Longlines Cable

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Longlines Announces Service Interruption

Longlines has notified Ida Grove City Hall that cable service will be disrupted beginning at 12:01 AM on May 3rd. It will be a 3 hour routine update that will be completed within the three hour period and service should be restored by 3:00 a.m.

 

Gregor Ernst Appointed for Ward I Seat

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Gregor Ernst has been appointed by the city council to fill the Ward I seat vacated by Jeff Buehler. The appointment – which runs through the end of 2017 – occurred at the city’s regular meeting on April 17th.

Ernst has been an Ida Grove resident for four years with his wife Jess. The couple has two daughters, Avery and Brynn. “My grandparents moved here in 1943, and my father was raised here, so I spent many summers in Ida Grove,” said Ernst.

Ernst serves as Vice President, Product Development for Peerless Network, a nationwide provider of telecommunications services. “I have nearly 20 years of management experience in a high pressure industry,” stated Ernst. “While I have a technology background, I’m passionate about the continued revitalization and beautification of our city.” He has a BA in German/International Business from the University of Iowa and an MBA from the Keller Graduate School of Management.

Ernst has also served as organizer of the Ida Grove Kiwanis Soccer program for the past two years. He also currently coaches three youth soccer teams.

“I’m proud of the sustainability of Ida Grove and want to help foster an environment where our industries and population can grow. This is our home and we should be proud of it.”

 

Meet Ida Grove’s New City Administrator

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Marc Dennison of Waunakee, WI has accepted the position of Ida Grove City Administrator.

Marc Dennison of Waunakee, WI, has accepted the position of Ida Grove City Administrator. Dennison will start no later than May 1st. The City Council approved a $65,000/year salary, 3 weeks a year in vacation and $3,000 in net moving expenses. Dennison has previously been Economic Development Director and Village Administrator in two Villages in Wisconsin. He has Bachelor degrees in Political Science and Public Administration and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. City Councilmen Scott Tomlinson and Doug Clough abstained from the vote. Councilman Clough was a candidate for the position who withdrew from consideration last week. Clough commented that it would be in the best interest of the City if he remain with Midwest Industries and stay on the Council and work with an experienced City Administrator. The City Council would like to thank the members of the Ida Grove public who took part in the meet and greet of the candidates and provided public feedback. Citizens are encouraged to introduce themselves to Dennison and make him feel welcome in Ida Grove.

 

King Theatre Progress

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Showing a holiday movie during our 100th anniversary can happen with community involvement!

In this week’s edition of the Ida County Courier, King Theatre Renovation Board Chair Doug Clough updates our community on the progress of this project and the ambitious goal of showing a holiday movie in December. You can find his letter on page A5 and a special ad on the bottom right-hand corner of page A3 for those who are interested in contributing to the King’s longevity. If you’d like to put some gloves on and work, we have volunteer nights Tuesday and Thursday from 5:15pm to 7pm.

 

Meet the Five Finalists for City Administrator

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Five finalist have been chosen for the city administrator position

This Saturday, March 25th, citizens have the opportunity to meet our five finalists for Ida Grove City Administrator. This event will be held at Ida Grove City Hall from 1 pm to 4 pm. Attendees are encouraged to ask questions of the five candidates and to provide feedback to the council’s personnel subcommittee on the merits of each.

The personnel subcommittee includes Mayor Devlun Whiteing, Ward 1 representative Jeff Buehler, and At-large representative Ryan Goodman. Ward 1 councilman Doug Clough and Ward 3 councilman Scott Tomlinson have abstained from all personnel committee involvement and their right to vote on this hiring.

Here is a brief overview of each of the finalists:

Marc Dennison – Marc was born, raised and currently lives in Wisconsin. Marc is a small town, community driven person. He has a BS and a MA in Public Administration. He started his municipal career as an Economic Development Director, working with attaining funding and TIF districts to drive economic development. He has served as a Village Administrator for two different municipalities in Wisconsin, one half the size of Ida Grove and one almost the same size. He understands the dynamics of a small, Midwestern Community and how to get projects moving with the funding constraints that they have.

Kandice Tomlinson – Kandice has been the Ida County Program and Outreach Coordinator for the ISU Extension office since 2013. She provides programming at the extension and externally for various organizations, all within the framework of a county-funded budget. One of the main responsibilities of her current role is public outreach and interaction, with her clients ranging from children to adults. She has experience with fundraising through various community organizations and is a member of several community Boards and a member of several more community organizations. Kandice is from the area and moved away, moving back to make Ida Grove her home with her husband Scott.

Gerald Smith- Gerald comes to us from Kansas City, MO. He is a seasoned municipal professional with a Masters in Public Administration from Northern Illinois University who started his career as an Assistant Village Manager in Deerfield, IL. Over the years he has been a Village Administrator, a Municipal Management Consultant, an Assistant City Manager, a Director of General Services and a City Manager. He has worked with communities from 15,000 in population to 450,000 and understands finance and budgeting, city management, community service and strategic visioning and planning.

Doug Clough – Doug is currently the City Councilman for Ward 2 in Ida Grove and Customer Service Manager at Midwest Industries, Inc. Doug is a public facing, customer service driven person who strives to create success and, in the event of a problem, equitable solutions. These skills have played an integral part in the success of his 20-year career at Midwest Industries, eight-year stint as an English teacher in Ida Grove, and as a six-year council member. Doug came to Ida Grove 28 years ago and has made Ida Grove his home and eventual retirement community. He understands the issues that the city currently faces and has a strength in pulling people together to get things done. Doug lives in Ida Grove with his wife Mary; the couple have five children, two currently attending OABCIG High School.

Tracy Luke – Tracy has been the Civil Deputy at the Ida County Sheriff’s office since 2006. She has experience working with the public (often in difficult circumstances), working with tight budget constraints with unexpected funding challenges and being part of a collaborative environment where things need to be dealt with in a timely fashion and often under pressure. Tracy and her husband Charlie chose Ida Grove as their home 20 years ago when Charlie joined the Iowa State Patrol.

 

 

Daylight Savings Time Reminder

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Spring forward one hour at 2 am Sunday, March 12th

Daylight savings is tomorrow Sunday, March 12th. Remember to set your clocks ahead one hour before hitting the hay. This is also a good opportunity to replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide testers. Enjoy the rest of your weekend – and, remember – once the temps warm up again, you’re going to love that extra hour of sunlight!

 

Snow predicted for this weekend – Reminder of Parking Ordinance

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With the likelihood of snow amounting to more than 1/2″ this weekend, please follow the ordinance regarding prohibited parking on public streets, alleys, or city-owned off-street parking areas. This ordinance is in effect if a. new snow fall has accumulated to a depth of one-half inch or more; or b. if snow removal operations have been commenced by the City of Ida Grove.

If the snow has been removed or plowed from a street, alley or parking area and the snow has ceased to fall, the prohibition on parking no longer applies. Fines are $15 for not following the ordinance. Thank you for helping our city crews to do their job as best possible.

 

Ward I Seat Discussion at Regular March 20th Council Meeting

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Ida Grove’s Ward I is encompassed within the bold lines of this Ida Grove map

At our council’s regular Monday, March 20th meeting (6 pm at City Hall), council members will discuss the appointment of a citizen to take over the Ward I duties for exiting councilman Jeff Buehler. Ward I citizens who are interested in potential appointment are welcomed to attend this meeting to express their interest in filling this seat through the end of 2017. For an overview of Council Rights and Responsibilities, please go to https://idagroveia.com/government/leadership-and-team/#tab-id-3. This seat will be up for election in November of this year at which time the appointment individual may choose to run for a four-year term.

 

TIME CORRECTION: Special City Meeting to Discuss Appointment for Ward I Vacancy

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Our Ida Grove City Council will hold a special meeting Thursday, March 2nd, at 5:00 pm to discuss the anticipated vacancy of the seat representing Ward I. Jeff Buehler, who currently holds the Ward I spot, is moving outside the city limits. The appointment will run through the end of the 2017 calendar year with this seat up for general election this November.

 

Special City Meeting to Discuss Appointment for Ward I Vacancy

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Ward I Boundaries

Our Ida Grove City Council will hold a special meeting Thursday, March 2nd, at 5:15 pm to discuss the anticipated vacancy of the seat representing Ward I. Jeff Buehler, who currently holds the Ward I spot, is moving outside the city limits. The appointment will run through the end of the 2017 calendar year with this seat up for general election this November.

 

King Theatre Caramel Apple Pickup Time

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Ghirardelli Dipped Caramel Apple Pickup Saturday, February 11th, noon to 3 pm

For those who ordered Caramel Apples to support our city-owned King Theatre, please pick up your apples at the First United Methodist Church between noon and 3 pm on Saturday, February 11th. Our generous community of theatre supporters purchased 653 apples! See you Saturday, February 11th, between noon and 3 pm!

 

King Theatre Community Input Meeting TONIGHT

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Our King Theatre Board, with our architect, is holding a community input meeting this evening, February 7th, at 6 pm at our Ida Grove Recreation Center. We will cover the project progress to date and seek input on the two final designs (interior & exterior), our operations model (volunteer needs), an aggressive timeline, and our fundraising plan (grants, donations, community events). When you enter the rec center, just follow the smell of popcorn and the promise of a King-sized movie experience!

 

City Council Appoints Interim Mayor

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Devlun Whiteing is Ida Grove’s Interim Mayor through the end of 2017

At our January 16th City Council meeting, our council approved the appointment of Devlun Whiteing as interim mayor. This appointment will run through the end of 2017 with a regular election this upcoming November. Council member Doug Clough (Ward II) stated, “Devlun brings a wealth of experience at a time when we need it. He has been our town’s fire chief and has worked with our council on budget and equipment issues.