City Council Meeting 12-17-18
The public is invited and encouraged to attend.
We’re Listening
The Ida Grove City Council will meet for their regularly scheduled meeting on Monday December 17th at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers located at 403 3rd Street in Ida Grove. As always, the public is invited and encouraged to attend. With many community members having voiced interest on the recent topics of water fluoridation and Heritage Days, we would specifically like to invite anyone with an opinion on either issue to please attend. Our City Council and Mayor welcome citizen input and want the community to know their voice can be heard. The City of Ida Grove wants all citizens to be aware of the legislation and initiatives that affect their lives. Your City Officials are working diligently to promote equity in access to local government information and services, and are committed to transparency and inclusion. With your insight, the Council can discover ways to improve this City we all call home. Please keep your feedback coming to help ensure your needs are being met and your voice is being heard.
City Hall Closed For Thanksgiving
City Hall will be closed Thursday November 22 & Friday November 23 in observance of Thanksgiving. Normal business hours will resume Monday November 26, 2018.
Ida Grove Library to host local photographer Don Poggensee
On Thursday, November 15th at 6:30pm, the Ida Grove Library will host a guided exhibit of the photography of local photographer Don Poggensee. The exhibit, guided by Don, will showcase a variety of photographs taken throughout his career and will feature photographs of the Amish, wildlife, nature, star trails, northern lights and other special images. The guided exhibit will be held in the Heritage Room of the Ida Grove Library, coffee and cookies will be served.
Area Students Visit City Hall
3rd graders from OABCIG recently visited Ida Grove City Hall. Students had a great time touring the facility, meeting the City Clerk and Mayor, learning about local Government and more! If you or your organization are interested in touring City Hall, please contact us for more details.
BURN PILE REOPENED
The City’s burn pile is OPEN again and just in time for the weekend! Reminder to please follow size restrictions on branches/limbs. Maximum size limits are up to 6″ in diameter and no more than 8′ in length. Thanks and have a great weekend!
Hydrant Flushing
NOTICE: The city will begin flushing fire hydrants from now until the weather becomes too cold. You may experience low water pressure and/or some discolored water during the process but don’t be alarmed. Thank you!
Daily Updates
Monday October 1st
- City Council meets tonight at 6 pm
- The City brush/tree disposal pile is currently closed for burning
- City Hall will be closed from 12-1 today
Temporary Allowances After Storm Lifted
‼️Attention‼️The temporary Badger Creek Park drop off location for tree debris is closed and the regular size restrictions for the City burn pile are back in place. Thank you!
Storm Cleanup Efforts
Yesterday we were hit pretty hard with bad weather but we are a CITY UNITED and we will get through this! Mayor Whiteing has formulated a plan to get things in order and help our citizens as quickly as possible. Normally the City is not responsible for trees, limbs or tree debris located on private property but with the extent of the storm damage, we are trying to assist residents as much as possible. More severe situations will take top priority so we ask everyone be patient. The city burn pile was opened first thing this morning. Size restrictions on limbs are currently lifted so all sizes may be disposed of at this time. A second, emergency drop off location for limbs has been designated in Zobel’s Addition at the Badger Creek Park cement parking area. If you have any questions or concerns please contact City Hall at 712-364-2428. Our City Crew is working diligently to get things cleaned up as quickly as possible but if you are able, lend a hand to your neighbor. A helping hand goes a long way. #cityunited #idagrove #livingforwardgivingback #smalltownlove#helpyourneighbor
Outdoor Pool Survey
Here at the City of Ida Grove we strive to provide our community with quality service and amenities. Please let us know your thoughts and opinions on our outdoor pool by taking part in a brief, anonymous survey found here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MCM62XJ . We want to provide the best experience possible to all of our pool-goers so your input is much appreciated. Thank you for your time.
Ida Grove Library to host University of Iowa’s Mobile Museum
The Ida Grove Library is set to host the University of Iowa’s Mobile Museum on Monday, September 24th from 10:30am – 4pm. The Mobile Museum will feature three physical exhibits for visitors to enjoy. The three featured exhibits are:
Discover, Develop, Deploy
This exhibit highlights work on nutrition, hearing loss, and supporting healthy families. From printing devices that help the hearing-impaired to creating eyeglasses and beyond, this partnership shows that translational science is only limited by your imagination!
A Matter of Scales: Pangolins in Peril
Pangolins are amazing scale-covered mammals from Africa and Asia. Unfortunately they are critically endangered because of illegal hunting and trade. Pangolins aren’t the only animals in trouble. There are more than 25 endangered species right here in Iowa. Learn about some of the simple steps everyone can take to help.
Wild Iowa: Awareness, Appreciation, and Action
Wild Iowa highlights UI Recreational Services’ outdoors programs including the Iowa Raptor Project, School of the Wild, and Wildlife Camps. Iowa is arguably one of the least “wild” states due to the loss of native habitats, but the UI’s outdoors programs work to awaken Iowans to the importance of our native habitats through research, educational programs, and the savanna restoration project.
The Mobile Museum also includes two interactive digital touchscreens let visitors learn about research and creative activity happening in a variety of UI units.
Make sure to stop by to see what’s happening at the University of Iowa and some of the great projects they have going on!
(source: https://discover.research.uiowa.edu/mobile-museum)
**ATTENTION** HERITAGE DAYS UPDATE!
Due to the potential rainy weather for Saturday, the Heritage Days Committee has decided to move the inflatables indoors to the Elementary School gym for both Friday and Saturday.
Test.
Heritage Days 2018
Heritage Days 2018 kicks of Thursday!!
2017 WATER QUALITY REPORT FOR IDA GROVE WATER UTILITY
This report contains important information regarding the water quality in our water system. The source of our water is groundwater. For questions regarding this information or how you can get involved in decisions regarding the water system, please contact IDA GROVE WATER UTILITY at 712-364-2989. Decisions regarding the water system are made at the city council meetings held on the first and third Monday of each month at 6:00pm at 403 Third Street and are open to the public. 2017 WATER QUALITY REPORT FOR IDA GROVE WATER UTILITY
Young Supporter
At just five years old, little Mia Mason is already accomplishing big things. Mia, the daughter of Tony and Renee Mason, recently held her very own lemonade stand during the Ida Grove City Wide Garage Sale weekend in an effort to raise money for the Ida Grove King Theater Project. Mia operated her stand Friday afternoon and evening, and again Saturday. Her stand, featuring both lemonade and cookies, brought in approximately $300 which the preschooler happily handed over for the renovation project efforts. (pictured here: Mayor Devlun Whiteing, Mia Mason and Theater Board member Doug Clough)
Ida Grove Library Receives Grant Award from Ida County Community Betterment Foundation
The Ida Grove Public Library Board and Staff would like to extend our sincerest thank you to the Ida County Community Betterment Foundation for the $7,000 grant we recently received to help update and modernize the children’s and young adults spaces at the Ida Grove Public Library.
The grant award will be combined with donations and fundraising efforts to help fund the grant proposal “Modern Designs to Inspire Minds”, set to begin after July 1, 2018. This project will help ensure that the youth in our community have a safe, inviting, comfortable space to meet, engage and explore their ever changing world. Plans are underway to update the children’s library with additional shelving to create a dedicated space for ages 8-12, as well as create a brand new maker space for children to explore and invent. Additional updates planned include the creation of a young adult reading area in the main library as well as an update to the adult reading area.
The support of the Ida County Betterment Foundation through this grant award and grant awards received in the past have allowed the library to make many updates, ensuring that the library is an open community space accessible to all ages and abilities.
Relay Iowa
Relay Iowa, the world’s longest relay run of 339 miles, will be making its way through Ida Grove this year! This year marks the 9th year for Relay Iowa; you can expect to see runner’s coming through Ida Grove on Friday, June 8, 2018. The PEO group will be grilling pork burgers and bratwurst at Food Pride from 11am to 1pm.
For more information on Relay Iowa, you can visit RelayIA.org
“Libraries Rock!” 2018 Summer Library Program at Ida Grove Library
Are you signed up for the Summer Library Program? We are currently accepting registrations and encourage all children to attend, we have some great programs lined up for this summer and can’t wait to see all of our summer readers!
The children’s summer library program will kick off on Tuesday, June 12 and includes brand new presenters along with a few seasoned veterans from previous years. Registration for the children’s summer program is now open and all children are welcome! The children’s schedule of events is as follows, all programs begin at 10:30am:
Tuesday June 12 – Fonziba Drums
Tuesday June 19 – Darrin Crow, Storyteller
Tuesday June 26 – Aspen Black, the Singing Cowgirl
Tuesday July 3 – Craft & Movie Day (Rock Dogs – PG)
Tuesday July 10 – Lisa Laird & Pockets Full of Fun Party and Picnic
We will also host a weekly Friday Morning Movie Matinee from June 8th through July 27th. Every Friday morning at 10:15am we will be showing a great family movie, and most are suitable for all ages. Make sure to stop down to pick up the summer schedule and get registered for these free programs. All programs are open to children of all ages and abilities, we welcome you to stop down and join in the summer fun!
The teen summer library program will welcome back Maker Camp. Maker Camp will run from June 28th – July 19th. Programs will be held each Thursday starting at 10:30am. All teens ages 11 and up are welcome to register for the program. Each week will bring new projects to make and ideas to explore! Registration for Maker Camp opens on June 1st.
The adult summer library program starts on June 1st, and this year we will host a special “Books to Movies” series! The “Books to Movies” series will feature a weekly movie at the library. This series kicks off on June 4th and runs through July 30th, movies will be shown every Monday starting at 1pm. We have a great movie line up and hope you will join us! Schedules for adult summer programs are now available and registration is open.
We encourage all of you to stop down and see what the library can offer you, both during the summer months, and throughout the year. Another great way to find out what’s going on at the library is through our website (www.idagrove.lib.ia.us), the library’s Facebook page, and the city’s website (www.idagroveia.com). Of course you can always give us a call for more information as well!
Library hours are: Monday 10-6, Tuesday 11-5, Wednesday 12-5, Thursday 12-7, Friday 10-7, and Saturday 9-2. Please stop by and see us or give us a call at 364-2306 for more details on the services we provide or with any questions you may have. We hope to see you soon at the library! Happy Reading!
Ida Grove Library Debuts Adventure Pass Program
Library users in 16 cities and towns statewide will soon have the option to take advantage of an extraordinary new program, the Iowa Libraries AdventurePass.
As a partner of the Iowa Libraries AdventurePass program, the Ida Grove Library will offer all cardholders the option to check out a free family pass to participating museums and attractions in the State of Iowa, starting on May 7, 2018.
With the AdventurePass program, cardholders will have access to passes for the Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens, Des Moines Blank Park Zoo, and Sioux City’s LaunchPAD Children’s Museum. Some restrictions do apply, so please check with the library for program rules.
“The library board and staff at the Ida Grove Library are very excited to bring this big city amenity to our small hometown library” said IG Library Director Angela Scales. “The AdventurePass is a fantastic opportunity for all adult cardholders at the Ida Grove Public Library, and will provide free access to great destinations in the State of Iowa.”
For more information on the program or for instructions on how to reserve passes, please contact the Ida Grove Library staff at 712-364-2306 or email [email protected]
UPDATE: Verizon Cell Tower
Beginning Monday, May 21st, contractors will begin installing conduit and fiber optic cable to service the Verizon Cell tower.
Civil Siren Testing
The city maintenance crew will be performing testing on the civil sirens throughout the day on Wednesday, May 16, 2018. The sirens could sound for a few minutes each time, so please do not be alarmed. This is only a test.
Turtle Rescue
Excitement abounds!! City crew rescues a large snapping turtle within city limits today. Take a look at this monster sized snapper!
Ida County Community Betterment Foundation Grant Award
The City of Ida Grove would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the Ida County Community Betterment Foundation for the $4,000 grant we received! This money will go towards helping the city to purchase new LED Christmas lights to hang on the utility poles in the downtown area and along Moorehead Avenue.
Long Live The King!
The Princess Theatre was Built in 1914 for silent films. In 1917, the theater was bought by Frank King and brought into the sound era in 1921. In 1940, Milton Mansfield bought the theater, adding a marquee. In 1954, Bob Fridley bought the theater, adding an indoor wall waterfall, floating stair case, and changed the seating arrangement. In 1982, Fred Saunders bought the theater, issuing in the VCR tape rental era. In 2010, the building fell into disrepair and the analog equipment was no longer relevant. The City of Ida Grove acquired it in 2015, selling it to the Ida Grove Foundation for a period of reconstruction. The Ida Grove Foundation Board is currently reconstructing the inside with private donations, community fundraising, and grants. The Foundation has raised $400,000 and seeks to raise an additional $150,000; they have begun reconstruction and hope to be showing movies by the end of summer 2018.
The theater will primarily show movies; however, there will be a motorized screen which will allow them to utilize a large enough stage for public speakers and one-act plays.
Want to donate?
To contribute to our count’s King Theatre renovation, please contact Ida Grove City Hall at 712.364.2428. You may also contact Ida Grove Foundation’s President Douglas Clough at [email protected].
See our progress at our Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/longlivetheking51445/
Ida Grove Foundation Board [formerly King Theatre Renovation Board]:
President, Douglas Clough
Vice President, Ryan Goodman
Treasurer, Cheryl Gosch
Secretary, Beth Wolterman
Members:
Owen Bolte
John Brinkman
Paul Cates
Kim Claussen
Dan Gosch
Sandy Ullrich
Traci VanHouten
Source Water Protection Plan
YOU ARE INVITED!
The City of Ida Grove is pleased to announce that we are in the process of developing a collaborative Source Water Protection effort between our city officials, community members, and members of our rural community. We would like to welcome you to a meeting regarding Source Water, our current protection efforts and how we can move forward together in developing a long term plan for keeping our drinking water clean!
PLEASE JOIN US!
April 24, 2018
6:00pm
Ida Grove Community Rec Center
YOUR PARTICIPATION IS GREATLY VALUED!
For more information, contact Bridget Durst:
712-262-4177
Mowing Ordinance
Summer is fast approaching, and with Summer, comes green grass! Please read the following excerpt from the City of Ida Grove’s ordinance book regarding mowing regulations:
The City of Ida Grove reminds residents of the requirements for mowing of their properties within the city limits under ordinance 3-6.0101, 3-6.0103, 3-6.0104. 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 12 inches is required to be mowed. Any property not mowed after the vegetation reaches 12 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. Publication of this notice will serve as notice to property owners.
Thank you for your cooperation to keep Ida Grove a place to be proud of!
Burning Regulations
With April 1st right around the corner, the City reminds residents of their responsibility to follow the burning regulations set in place for the safety and also convenience of our citizens.
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 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. from April 1st to November 30th 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.
City of Ida Grove Comprehensive Plan Presentation
The City of Ida Grove is updating their comprehensive plan and would love to hear from YOU! Join your fellow citizens on April 23, 2018 at the Ida Grove Rec Center at 5:00 p.m. for a presentation to review the draft plan regarding future plans for housing, economic development, transportation, parks, and community facilities and services.
Click the links below to see the flyer and review the draft plan.
Ward II Council Vacancy
The City of Ida Grove announces a Ward II Council vacancy effective immediately. City Council plans to hold a special council meeting Thursday, March 22 at noon. If anyone within Ward II is interested in filling this position, please contact City Hall at 364-2428 before Thursday. Ward II description is as follows:
Commencing at the intersection of the centerlines of Main Street and Fourth Street; thence South along the centerline of Main Street to the center of Seventh Street; thence West along the centerline of Seventh Street to the middle of the intersection of Seventh Street and Taylor Street; thence South along the centerline of Taylor Street extended to the centerline of Badger Creek; thence randomly South and East along the centerline of Badger Creek to the centerline of South Main Street; thence South along the centerline of South Main Street to the middle intersection of Center Lane and South Main Street; thence East along the centerline of Center Lane to the middle of the intersection of Center Lane and Park Lane; thence South along the centerline of Park Lane to the middle of the intersection of Park Lane and Zobel Lane; thence East along the centerline of Zobel Lane to the corporate limits.
Property Tax Credit
Who is Eligible?
Iowa residents, if your total household income is less than $22,855 and one of the following applies:
- 65 years of age or older as of December 31, 2017
- Totally disabled and age 18 to 64, as of December 31, 2017
For assistance contact:
Ida County Treasurer’s Office
712-364-2625
Ask for Traci Riessen the Ida County Treasurer
Pet Licensing
Reminder: Get your cats and dogs licensed at City Hall during the ‘early-bird registration period’. Any owner of a dog or cat within city limits is required by city ordinance to license the animal yearly. In order to license your pet you MUST provide proof of a current rabies vaccination. The licensing fees are as follows:
January 1-February 28 $10 per pet if spayed or neutered, $15 per pet if not spayed or neutered
March 1-December 31 $20 per pet if spayed or neutered, $25 per pet if not spayed or neutered
Sign up for Automatic Withdrawal
READY, SET, GO!!! The City of Ida Grove is pleased to announce we are ready to begin automatic withdrawal of monthly utility bills. Stop into City Hall today and ask for a “withdrawal authorization” form to have your utility bill automatically withdrawn from your checking or savings account. Once you have completed your authorization form, the City of Ida Grove will withdrawal your utility bill on the 10th of every month. Please note, if the 10th falls on a weekend or holiday, your bill will be deducted on the last business day previous to the 10th.
Sewer Backups
Sanitary sewer line blockages are typically caused by roots, grease, and improper disposal of items. Tree roots can enter the sanitary sewer system at joints and cracks in the sewer service lines and mains. Grease can solidify in the sewer lines and restrict other waste from flowing through. The lines can be blocked by items like disposable diapers, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, washing machine lint, rags or other items improperly flushed down the drain or toilet. Please refrain from flushing these items and keeping the sanitary sewer lines clear to provide you with good service without backups into your basement.
Source Water Protection Plan
YOU ARE INVITED!
The City of Ida Grove is pleased to announce that we are in the beginning stages of a collaborative Source Water Protection effort between our city officials, community members, and members of our rural community. We would like to welcome you to an open planning meeting regarding Source Water, our current protection efforts and how we can move forward together in developing a long term plan for keeping our drinking water clean.
PLEASE JOIN US!
March 13, 2018
6:00pm
Ida Grove Community Rec Center
YOUR PARTICIPATION IS GREATLY VALUED!
For more information, contact Bridget Durst:
712-262-4177
City of Ida Grove: 712-364-2428
Extendable Backwater Valves
Basement flooding can result in serious property damage. Be mindful of your health and safety when cleaning up your flooded basement. Floodwater may carry waterborne diseases, corrosive agents, irritants, and sharp objects. Electrical accidents are possible because of contact between appliances and water. Dress appropriately; wear overalls, gloves, protective eyewear, protective boots and a mask. Open windows and stay away from electrical equipment and outlets or shut off the electrical power.
A backwater valve is a device that prevents sewage from backing up into your basement. A valve will automatically prevent water from the sanitary sewer from coming back into your home’s plumbing system. A properly installed backwater valve must be placed so that sewage backup will be stopped and not come out through plumbing fixtures or the floor drain in your basement. A licensed plumber can look at your system and recommend the appropriate installation. If you are going to install a backwater valve, a licensed plumbing contractor must install it properly. These valves also require periodic inspection and maintenance to remove debris and reduce the risk of failure. Ask a licensed plumbing contractor how to properly inspect and maintain the backwater valve that is installed for your home.
It is important to note that a backwater valve is designed to be closed during sewer surcharge conditions to keep water from the sanitary sewer system from flowing into your home. When the backwater valve closes, water from inside of your home will not drain out. When there is a risk of sewer surcharge, such as during a heavy rain storm, you should avoid using the toilet, sink, shower, washer, dishwasher or any other appliance that releases water to the sanitary sewer system. The water will not be able to get past your backflow prevention device(s) and will have nowhere to go except back into your home.
If you are redoing the sewer line to your house, the City of Ida Grove suggests you include an extendable backwater valve. This valve will help prevent sewer line backups into your basement. If you have any questions, please contact City Hall at 364-2428 or the WWTP Operator Shannon Hazelton at 364-3252.
Closings
Due to the weather, the Ida Grove Recreation Center will be closed today.
Owner-Occupied Housing Rehabilitation Program
The Western Iowa Community Improvement Regional Housing Trust Fund is working in partnership with SIMPCO to make available an Owner-Occupied Housing Rehabilitation Program. The mission of the program is to further the preservation and development of affordable housing and grow affordable housing opportunities for low-to-moderate income households in Ida County.
Eligible repairs include: repair or replacement of heating, electrical, and plumbing systems; roofs; windows; ADA accessibility and other repair work necessary to address substandard health or safety conditions.
Some program requirements are:
- All households assisted shall have gross annual incomes under 80% of the county SHTF income limit.
- The property must be a single family unit.
- Applicants shall own and occupy the property to be assisted and shall be current on taxes, utilities, mortgage payments, and housing insurance.
- The property must remain the principal residence of the homeowner for five years.
Funding is limited and will be distributed throughout the service area to the extent possible and approved on a “First Ready, First Served” basis. Forms and additional program information is available by contacting Amanda Harper at SIMPCO (712)-279-6286 or by visiting simpco.org.
Ida Grove Economic Development Corporation
Ida Grove aspires to be a community defined by the creativity, diversity and innovation of its citizens and businesses. So if you or anyone you know enjoy economic development, have an undiscovered creative streak, love working with and interacting with equally committed people……… being on the Ida Grove Economic Development Corporation is definitely for YOU!
The Economic Development Corporation is created to advise the City of Ida Grove regarding local business retention and recruitment. The corporation is responsible for developing and recommending policies, procedures, organizations, and ordinances to the City Council for adoption that best suit the community for a healthy and diversified economy. The corporation provides businesses with an atmosphere to locate, innovate, grow, and prosper within our community.
The Economic Development Corporation’s areas of interest include developing plans and programs for the following:
- Planning and Development
- Support of projects and procedures that are in accordance with the purpose, spirit, and intent of the City Comprehensive Plan.
- Promote redevelopment of business.
- Take advantage of different local, state, and federal grant programs.
- Work in conjunction with the Ida Grove Chamber of Commerce, the City of Ida Grove and Ida County Economic Development in the recruitment of new businesses to the area, as well as retaining established businesses.
City Council Meetings
The Ida Grove City Council meets on the first and third Mondays of the month, except when the meetings are shifted to the following Tuesdays to avoid conflicts with holidays. Meetings are held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, at 403 Third Street.
Online Utility Bill Pay
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
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
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
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]
Mayor and Business Leaders Meet with Governor
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
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
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
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.
403 3rd St., Ida Grove, Iowa 51445