2025 Heritage Days Tumbler
Stop by City Hall and get your tumbler for this weekends festivities!
Each tumbler is $18.00 and includes the Heritage Days Drink Specials from local businesses!
All proceeds go back to Heritage Days!
UPDATE 5/24/25
We have just been notified that the water samples have passed all requirements.
The boil advisory that was in effect for Circle Drive, Fairlane, E. 6th, and E. 7th from Circle Drive to Barnes Street has been lifted.
You do not need to boil the water before consuming. Thank you for your patience.
Summer Reading, STEM Kits & Museum Passes — All Free at Your Library!
Hello from the Library!
Summer is almost here, and so are our free programs and tools to help you and your family make the most of it! Whether you’re staying local or traveling this year, the library has something for everyone.
Summer Reading 2025 (June 10–July 22)
Open to all ages — from preschoolers to adults. Sign up, track your reading, and win great prizes!
Take-Home STEM Kits
Ready to build, explore, and experiment? Our Take-Home STEM Bags are packed with hands-on learning activities—perfect for curious minds and summer discovery at home.
Launch PAD Children’s Museum Pass
Looking for a summer adventure? Check out our family pass to the Launch PAD Museum in Sioux City and enjoy hands-on learning for kids of all ages. Let your library card lead the way!
Going on vacation? Staying cool inside? Our digital collections bring the library to you 24/7:
- Libby – Borrow eBooks and audiobooks with a tap
- Hoopla – Stream movies, music, comics & more—no waiting!
- Kanopy – Watch award-winning films and educational kids’ shows
The library is for everyone. Whether you’re here for books, discovery, family time, or a quiet place to recharge—you belong at the library.
Visit us in person or online to see what’s happening this summer.
We can’t wait to see you!
— Your friends at Ida Grove Library
Closed Memorial Day
City Hall will be closed on Monday, May 26, 2025 in observance of Memorial Day.
We will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, May 27, 2025.
Have a safe and happy holiday!
ATTENTION: boil advisory for specific area of town
ATTENTION:
Due to water main repair, the following area of town will be without water for a few hours this evening. Repair of a water main requires a BOIL ADVISORY for the affected area only.
Affected area: Circle Drive, Fairlane Street, E. 6th Street, and E. 7th Street from Circle Drive to Barnes Street.
If you were not notified via door hangar, this notice does not pertain to you.
Again, affected area only PLEASE DO NOT CONSUME THE WATER FOR APPOXIMATELY 24 HOURS, EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY.
YOU MAY USE THE WATER, BUT DO NOT DRINK, COOK OR CONSUME IT UNLESS BOILED FIRST. IF YOUR WATER APPEARS DISCOLORED, RUN COLD WATER FOR SEVERAL MINUTES. WE APPOLOGIZE FOR THE INCONVENIENCE AND WILL UPDATE ONCE MORE INFORMATION IS RECEIVED.
Thank You Spotts Family
Prior to the Regular City Council Meeting on Monday, May 19th, the Spotts family gathered in the Council Chambers for a viewing of the council desk, tables, chairs and honorary plaque that were purchased with the $25,000 memorial donation in honor of the late Robert Spotts who served two terms on the City Council.
Pictured are: Julie Mauer, Teresa Lansink, Kathryn Spotts, Janna Thompson & Stacey Ernst
Better Not Bitter, an evening with author Michelle Cowan
The Ida Grove Library invites the community to an evening of inspiration on Wednesday, May 15 at 5:30 p.m., as author Michelle Cowan visits to discuss her memoir Better Not Bitter. This special event is free and open to the public.
Better Not Bitter is Cowan’s deeply personal account of overcoming hardship and choosing healing and strength in the face of life’s most difficult moments. Through her writing, she encourages readers to reflect, rise above, and redefine their own narratives with hope and resilience. During the program, Cowan will share insights from the book, discuss the experiences that shaped her journey, and engage with attendees in a Q&A session.
In addition to the talk, copies of Better Not Bitter will be available for purchase, and Cowan will be signing books for guests following the presentation.
Whether you’re a fan of memoirs, interested in personal growth, or simply looking for an uplifting evening, this event offers a meaningful opportunity to connect with an author whose message resonates with many.
For more information, please contact the Ida Grove Library at 712-364-2306
Summer Library Fun is Coming Soon – Register Now for “Level Up at Your Library”!
Ready to Level Up Your Summer?
Get ready for an exciting summer at the library! Our 2025 Summer Library Program – Level Up at Your Library is all about fun programs and movie events for all ages. Whether you’re looking for fun programs, entertaining films, or just a reason to get out of the house, we’ve got something for you!
Registration is now open!
Sign up today to enjoy a summer full of hands-on fun, family-friendly movie days, and fun filled programs to inspire and entertain.
Event schedules are available now – online and in the library. Come grab yours or check it out on our website.
Visit www.idagrove.lib.ia.us to register online and view the schedule.
Or stop by the library to register in person and get all the details!
Don’t miss your chance to make this summer one to remember. Let’s LEVEL UP together!
See you soon!
Your Library Team
Thank You!
The City of Ida Grove would like to thank Roger Frank with Nutrien Ag Solutions, for donating the fertilizer to the ballfields. We greatly appreciate this donation to keep our fields healthy and vibrant.
May at the Library: New Books, Events, and More!
Happy May! As the weather warms up and flowers bloom, we’ve got a lot of exciting things happening at the library this month. From new book releases to fun events, there’s something for everyone. Keep reading to see what’s coming up!
We can’t wait to see you at the library this month. Stay curious, keep exploring, and as always, thank you for being a valued part of our library community!
Know someone who would like to see what we’re up to? Feel free to download and share the newsletter! You can find the .pdf here: Word on the Shelves – May 2025
Pleasant Valley Trail Officially Open May 1st
The Pleasant Valley Trail is officially open today, May 1, 2025!
Mayor Proclaims Poppy Days 2025
MAYOR PROCLAIMS POPPY DAYS-
HONORS AMERICA’S WAR DEAD
Mayor, Nathan Weitl, has proclaimed May 1st through 31st, 2025 as Poppy Days in Ida Grove according to the Poppy Chairman of American Legion Auxiliary Unit #61, which sponsors the annual observance. Legion Auxiliary Members will be distributing poppies throughout May.
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, the American Legion Auxiliary adopted the Poppy as its memorial flower which pays tribute to the war dead and aids the living veterans and their families; and
WHEREAS, the contributions are used solely for children, youth, and rehabilitation in our local community;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Nathan Weitl, Mayor of the City of Ida Grove, do hereby proclaim the month of May 2025 as Poppy Month and May 1 through the 31 as Poppy Days in our community. /s/ Nathan, Weitl, Mayor
Sign Up For Alert Iowa Today!
Alert Iowa is the State of Iowa’s official emergency notification system. Not only does this provide information regarding weather related alerts, but also for county – community specific alerts.
Sign up for FREE emergency alerts via phone call, text, and/or email at
https://homelandsecurity.iowa.gov/programs/alert-iowa
2025 Pool Pass Discount May 1st!
Thursday, May 1st
Get your outdoor pool pass at a $15 discounted rate!
1 day only!
Passes can be purchased at the Ida Grove Recreation Center.
Click Here To View The 2025 Outdoor Pool Admission Fees
2025 Bid Request On Hay Cutting
City of Ida Grove
Bid Request on Hay Cutting
Hay cutting on City of Ida Grove property is now open for bid. Areas for cutting are located at the Airport (20 acres), City Well site (2+ acres), and flood control areas (43 acres) for a total of 66 acres, more or less. Call City Hall, 364-2428, for information on hay locations. All areas are to be round baled and mowed twice. The second mowing is required even if no hay is made and must be completed by September 7, 2025. All bales must be removed after each cutting.
Sealed bids are due on or before May 5, 2025 at 3:00 p.m., and can be mailed or delivered. Bids must be addressed and include 2025 Hay Bid on the envelope:
City of Ida Grove
2025 Hay Bid
PO Box 236
403 Third Street
Ida Grove, IA 51445
The City of Ida Grove has the right to refuse any, any part, or all bids. Bid opening will be on Monday, May 5, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. during the City Council meeting held at Ida Grove City Hall, 403 Third Street, Ida Grove.
We’re Hiring – On-Call Library Assistant
Ida Grove Library is seeking an On-Call Library Assistant to assist with daily library operations on an as-needed basis, including evenings and weekends. Responsibilities include assisting patrons, checking materials in and out, shelving, and general support of library services.
Applications and a full job description may be obtained at City Hall, 403 3rd Street, between the hours of 8 am and 4 pm. Applications will be accepted through May 5, 2025. E.O.E.
Iowans You Should Know with Jeffrey Stein
A popular Iowa radio feature will come to life in a special presentation this month, offering a chance to explore the people, places, and events that have helped shape the Hawkeye State.
“Iowans You Should Know: Stories from the Iowa Almanac” will be presented by broadcaster and historian Jeffrey Stein on Tuesday, April 29th at the Ida Grove Library. The event, which begins at 5:30pm, is free and open to the public, and is funded by Humanities Iowa.
Stein is the creator and host of the Iowa Almanac, a daily syndicated radio segment that airs across the state a total of 50 times each weekday. Now in its 11th year, the program has featured more than 400 stories—each one spotlighting a notable moment or figure in Iowa history.
This in-person event gives Stein the opportunity to dive deeper into some of his favorite stories, from Iowa-born inventions like the Eskimo Pie and the clip-on bow tie, to legendary entertainers, political figures, and athletic standouts with Iowa roots.
“Iowa is a special place with so much to celebrate,” Stein said. “These in-person presentations give me the chance to tell more of the story than time permits on the radio.”
Each presentation is uniquely adapted to include stories of regional interest, making it especially meaningful for local audiences. And attendees are encouraged to suggest their own story ideas for future Almanac segments.
“I truly appreciate the opportunity to share these great stories in person,” Stein added.
For anyone who enjoys Iowa history, hometown pride, or just a good story well told, this event promises an evening of insight, entertainment, and connection.
Jeff Stein is a native Iowan and passionate storyteller who shares the rich history of his home state through the popular radio feature Iowa Almanac. He hosts a daily interview program on News/Talk 1540 KXEL, a 50,000-watt station serving listeners across Iowa.
An accomplished author, Stein has written six books focused on Iowa history and public policy. He also produces and hosts the Iowa Business Report radio program and podcast, and is a frequent speaker on topics related to Iowa’s media, history, and culture.
His work includes the award-winning documentary From the Battlefront to the Homefront: Iowa Broadcasters Go to War, as well as the four-volume Duane & Floppy Collection DVD set, preserving the legacy of Iowa’s beloved children’s television icons.
*The Ida Grove Library has received funding from Humanities Iowa, a private, non-profit, to host the presentation “Iowan’s You Should Know” by Jeffrey Stein. A cultural resource for Iowans since 1971, Humanities Iowa offers many cultural and historical programs and grants to Iowa’s communities.
Compost & Brush Pile Illegal Deposits
The city compost and brush piles are special amenities to those within city limits of Ida Grove. Unfortunately, we are continuing to see illegal dumping at these piles. The rules and regulations are in place for a reason; if the piles continue to be filled with prohibited debris, the City will have no choice but to close the piles for public access and offenders caught, will be fined. We would like to continue to have this open for our residents, but we are asking you to help do your part and keep the compost and brush pile free and clear of any illegal deposits.
Click Here To View Compost & Brush Pile Ordinance
Closing Early 4-18-2025
In respects to Good Friday, our office will close at 1 p.m. on Friday, April 18th. We will resume normal business hours on Monday, April 21st. We wish everyone a safe and Happy Easter!
FY26 Budget Adoption Public Hearing Notice
The City Council will conduct a Public Hearing on the proposed FY26 Budget at City Hall, located at 403 3rd Street, on April 21, 2025, at 5:30 pm.
Click Here To View FY26 Budget
FY26 Proposed Property Tax Rate Explanation
Attention Taxpayers:
City Staff & Leaders are excited to share the following information regarding the City’s portion of property taxes:
The City of Ida Grove will be REDUCING the CITY property tax rate by .7128/$1,000 of taxable valuation for fiscal year 2026!
Click Here To View FY26 Proposed Property Tax Rate Explanation
Grass Clipping Notice
The City of Ida Grove reminds residents not to blow grass clippings into city streets or alleys to prevent clogging of city storm drains. Leaving grass clippings in any street or alley is considered a “nuisance” and also includes debris such as leaves, brush, nails, glass, or rubbish of any kind. The placing of debris, including grass clippings, on streets and alleys could lead to violators being charged for clean-up per City Code 12.30.030. Placing Debris on Streets, Violation and Abatement.
Mowing Notice
Warmer weather is just around the corner! The City of Ida Grove reminds residents of the requirements for mowing of their properties within the city limits under Chapter 8.30 of the City Code. It is unlawful for owners of each lot and parcel of ground within the city limits to fail, refuse, or neglect to cut or destroy all weeds, vines, brush or other growth and debris. Property owners are reminded that any vegetation which reaches a height of more than 8 inches is required to be mowed. Any property not mowed after the vegetation reaches 8 inches in height, may be mowed by the City or their agents, and a charge of $75.00 per hour plus a surcharge of $100.00 will be charged to the property owner. This publication will serve as notice to property owners.
Notice of Public Hearing FY26 Proposed Property Tax Levy
The City Council will conduct a public hearing on the FY26 proposed property tax levy. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, 4/7/2025 at 5:00 p.m. at City Hall, 403 3rd Street, Ida Grove, IA. The attached notice has been published in the Ida County Courier (3/26/25), and on the City of Ida Grove, Recreation Center, Library, and the Fire Department Facebook pages in addition to the website.
City Compost & Brush Piles
The City of Ida Grove, from time to time, as designated by the city council at a regular meeting, may open, operate and maintain a compost and/or brush pile on city property for the use and convenience of citizens residing in the corporate limits for disposal of yard waste, trees, branches and bark during the designated hours of operation. 8.35.010
During the periods of time the city compost pile or brush piles are open, citizens of Ida Grove may deposit in the compost pile yard wastes defined for purposes of this section as grass clippings, leaves, flowers, etc.; produced as part of yard and garden development and maintenance and deposit in the brush pile, bark, tree limbs, and branches not exceeding 6 inches in diameter and 8 feet in length. 8.35.020
8.35.030 It shall be unlawful and a municipal infraction to: (1) Deposit in the compost or brush pile compost or other brush originating from outside the city limits. (2) To deposit in the brush or compost piles any matter or items not designated in this chapter (e.g., plastic bags or other containers, tree limbs exceeding maximum size, garbage and building materials. (3) To remove compost or brush without specific authorization from the city clerk. (4) Deposit compost or brush other than during times or hours of operation.
The municipal offense fine for violation of this chapter is $250.00 for first offense, $500.00 for second offense, and $750.00 for third or subsequent offenses. 8.35.040
Burning Regulations
Per City Code 13.25.150 (8) Hours and dates of burning: No person will be allowed to burn nearer than 10 feet of any building, or on any street or sidewalk at any time. Burning is only permitted between the hours of 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. from April 1 to Nov. 30 of each year. Yard waste is the only material that is allowed to be burnt. It shall be illegal for any person to burn or allow open burning on the premises except during the times and during the dates stated in this paragraph.
Tree Trimming Notice
Property owners are responsible for maintenance of trees on their property and on the city parking adjacent to their property as stated in City Ordinance 12.05.040. All branches are to be at least 15 feet above the street surface and 8 feet above sidewalks. Trees, bushes, shrubs, etc. are to be trimmed so they do not obstruct pedestrians, vision of traffic signs, or the view of any street or alley intersection. Alleys also need to be cleared to allow truck passage.
Permits Required
This serves as a reminder to all property owners and contractors that permits are required prior to beginning any construction or maintenance on projects such as: water, sanitary sewer, building construction, etc. Please visit the online city code at https://idagrove.municipal.codes/ or contact City Hall if you are unsure if a permit is required in order to avoid penalties.
Program Postponed: New Date for Adventures Along Iowa’s Historic Lincoln Highway
Due to yesterday’s weather and the continued clean up effort across the area, the program scheduled for tonight at the library –“Adventures Along Iowa’s Historic Lincoln Highway with Darcy Maulsby” — has been postponed.
The new date for this program is Thursday, April 3 at 5:30 PM.
We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the change and appreciate your understanding.
For those planning to attend, we look forward to seeing you then! If you are unable to attend the rescheduled date, feel free to reach out for more information.
City Hall Closure
Due to the weather, City Hall will be closed today, March 19. Please stay home and stay safe!
Impending Storm 3/19/2025
With the impending blizzard conditions expected to impact our area tomorrow, 3/19/2025, we would like to inform the residents of Ida Grove that our City Crew will be operating with one less plow truck and sander due to unforeseen mechanical issues that are unable to be resolved prior to the storm. We ask the residents to please be patient as our crews try and get streets open.
2025 Seasonal Mowing Help Wanted
HELP WANTED
The City of Ida Grove is currently seeking an energetic and highly motivated individual to join our team for a seasonal, part-time mowing position. Working hours will be determined by the Park’s Superintendent, up to 25 hours/week, with all equipment provided by the City. Current driver’s license is required. Experience in mowing, lawn clean-up, and trimming is preferred, but willing to train the right person. Seasonal work will run from approximately April through September. Must be 18 years of age or older to apply.
Application and job description may be obtained at City Hall, 403 3rd Street, from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Position is open until filled. E.O.E.
Help Wanted – 2025 Summer Rec Umpires
Help Wanted – Summer Rec Umpires
The Ida Grove Community Recreation Center is currently looking for umpires for the upcoming summer softball & baseball season.
Full time and substitute umpires are needed for Summer Rec. Games will be held week nights from May 9 through the end of June. Umpires will be paid a minimum of $30 per game. Certified umpires will be paid $50 per game. Major/Minor games require at least one certified official.
Those interested in umpiring should contact Recreation Director Scott Clark at 364-3716 or [email protected].
Now Hiring For The 2025 Outdoor Pool Season
Now Hiring: Outdoor Lifeguards!
The Ida Grove Rec Center is currently accepting applications for the following positions for the upcoming outdoor pool season:
- Pool Manager
- Assistant Pool Manager
- Head Lifeguards
- Lifeguards
Position Overview
As a member of our outdoor pool team, you will play a key role in ensuring the safety and security of our pool patrons. Your responsibilities will include monitoring pool activities, maintaining a clean and safe environment, log taking, chemical testing, and performing other duties as assigned by the Pool Manager or Assistant Pool Manager.
Qualifications
- Pay is based on qualifications and previous experience.
- Must be reliable and demonstrate strong communication skills.
- Lifeguard certification is required for lifeguard positions (or must be obtained before the start of the season).
Important Dates
- Applications are due by March 21.
- The outdoor pool season begins May 23.
How to Apply
Applications are available at the Ida Grove Rec Center.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of a fun and rewarding summer job! Apply today!
***UPDATE***Please Conserve Water 3-4-25
****UPDATE*****
Well repairs were successfully completed. In order to reduce stress on the pump, we will be refilling the water tower slowly. Please continue to conserve and reduce water usage throughout the evening. Wednesday, March 5, 2025 citizens may resume normal water use, unless otherwise notified.
The City of Ida Grove is asking residents to please conserve water as we are dealing with a mechanical issue at our well site. We are addressing the situation as quickly as possible, as repair parts are on the way. Thank you for your patience and understanding. We will keep you informed as repairs are made.
Spring Has Sprung—And So Have Our New Library Picks!
Hello from the Ida Grove Library!
Spring is here, and so are plenty of new books! This month, we’ve got fun activities, fresh reads, and a dash of library magic to keep you entertained. So grab your reading glasses, and let’s leaf through this month’s newsletter!
Feel free to print a copy to share with friends and family – just click the link below!
March 2025 – Word on the Shelves
Want To Stay In The Know?
Did you know? You can sign up to receive important alerts delivered directly to you via call, text and/or email.
The City of Ida Grove has partnered with Ida County to utilize Alert Iowa’s messaging system. Visit Iowa’s Homeland Security & Emergency Management website, linked below, and choose from one of three ways to register for an account today! You may opt into receiving alerts that are pertinent to you for the town you reside in or all towns within Ida County. The alerts may include notifications such as boil advisories & severe weather warnings. Click the link to sign up! https://homelandsecurity.iowa.gov/alert-iowa/
You can also get up to date emails when you subscribe to our website at www.idagroveia.com and scroll to the bottom of our home page, enter your email, and click subscribe! It’s that easy!
Anything we post on our website will automatically send you an email!
Like and follow us on our Facebook page at City of Ida Grove, Iowa. We share all of our website postings to our page!
Winter Weather Reminders
With the projected snowfall forecasted for the remainder of the week, we wanted to share this friendly reminder in regards to on-street parking and sidewalks.
10.45.100 Snow Removal – Parking Prohibited
(1) Parking Prohibited. No person shall park, abandon or leave unattended any vehicle on any public street, alley, or city-owned off-street parking area during the “snow removal season” as designated by the mayor under the provisions of IGCC 10.45.080, if either of the following conditions apply:
12.10.090 Removal of Snow, Ice and Accumulation
(1) It shall be the responsibility of the abutting property owners to remove sow, ice and accumulations promptly from sidewalks. If a property owner does not remove snow, ice or accumulations within 24 hours, the city may do so and assess the costs against the property owner for collection in the same manner as a property tax.
City Hall Closed 2-17-25
City Hall will be closed on Monday, February 17, 2025, in observance of Presidents’ Day.
We will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.
Welcome to the February Edition of The Word on the Shelves!
Happy February! We’re thrilled to bring you the latest edition of The Word on the Shelves. As winter settles in (maybe…finally…it sure has been tough to tell), this month’s newsletter is filled with exciting updates, upcoming events, and, of course, plenty of book recommendations to keep you warm and cozy.
In this February edition, you’ll find:
- A recap of January’s programs and statistics
- A sneak peek at new books releasing this month
- Blind Date with a Book — a special month-long literary event
Whether you’re in the mood for a heartwarming romance, an inspiring biography, or a fun family activity, there’s something for everyone this month. Thank you for being a valued part of our library community—we can’t wait to share more stories and adventures with you!
Happy reading,
Your Library Team
Want to share the love? Download the February Newsletter here —
1-24-25 UPDATE Circle Drive, Fairlane, E. 6th, E. 7th from Circle to Barnes
We have just been notified that the water samples have passed all requirements.
The boil advisory that was in effect for Circle Drive, Fairlane, E. 6th, and E. 7th from Circle Drive to Barnes Street has been lifted.
You do not need to boil the water before consuming. Thank you for your patience.
Update Circle Drive, Fairlane, E. 6th & E. 7th From Circle to Barnes
Water main repairs took longer than anticipated and water should be restored this afternoon/evening. Regarding the boil advisory WHICH IS STILL IN EFFECT, for this area only, the precautionary test may take 18 hours to obtain results. We will keep everyone updated with information as we receive it.
Residents of Circle Drive, Fairlane, E. 6th, and E. 7th from Circle Drive to Barnes Street
Due to water main repair, the following area of town will be without water this morning through early afternoon or as soon as repair is complete. Repair of a water main requires a BOIL ADVISORY for the affected area only.
Affected area: Circle Drive, Fairlane Street, E. 6th Street, and E. 7th Street from Circle Drive to Barnes Street.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW MAP OF AFFECTED AREA AS SHOWN WITHIN RED OUTLINE.
If you were not notified via door hangar, this notice does not pertain to you.
Again, affected area only PLEASE DO NOT CONSUME THE WATER FOR APPOXIMATELY 24 HOURS, EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY.
YOU MAY USE THE WATER, BUT DO NOT DRINK, COOK OR CONSUME IT UNLESS BOILED FIRST. IF YOUR WATER APPEARS DISCOLORED, RUN COLD WATER FOR SEVERAL MINUTES. WE APPOLOGIZE FOR THE INCONVENIENCE AND WILL UPDATE ONCE MORE INFORMATION IS RECEIVED.
403 3rd St., Ida Grove, Iowa 51445