Road Closure
Attention: Godbersen-Smith is planning to close both M15 and Harold Godbersen Drive starting Monday April 22, 2019 at 9 a.m. Both roads will remain closed for the duration of the project. Thank you.
Community Meeting
The City Council, Mayor and City Staff would like to invite the public to attend an informational Community Meeting on Wednesday, April 10, 2019. The meeting will begin at 6:00 pm in the City Council Chambers. Mayor Whiteing will go over a power point presentation of the draft plans for the City Hall Renovation and accept any suggestions, comments or input from the community on the upcoming project.
Council Ward II Vacancy
The City of Ida Grove currently has a Ward II Council Seat vacancy. If you or anyone you know is interested in serving the community, please contact City Hall, Mayor Whiteing or a Council Member today! Ward II is comprised of the following:
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.
Attached is a Ward II map.
Severe Weather Awareness Week
In observance of severe weather awareness week, Public Works and Emergency Management crews will be testing the sirens around 10 am today. Please do not be alarmed, this is only a test!
Lost Dog
We are still looking for the owner of this sweet dog. If you have any information to assist us in getting this dog returned to its home, please call City Hall at 712-364-2428
Disaster Proclamation
Governor Kim Reynolds has issued a disaster proclamation due to the flooding event this week. If you would like more information on how to apply for assistance, please see the attachment.
Volunteers Needed
The City of Ida Grove in conjunction with the Ida Grove Fire Department are in desperate need of volunteers to fill sand bags today! There are currently several volunteers working diligently at the City Maintenance Shop, but could use more helping hands! Please consider volunteering your time to assist. Living Forward. Giving Back.
Now Hiring: Part Time Positions for the City of Ida Grove
Ida Grove City Hall is currently seeking an energetic and highly motivated individual to join our team as a part-time custodian. Ideal candidates for this position would be detail-oriented, flexible and willing to take on non-routine cleaning and special projects as the need arises. This position will be responsible for cleaning and sanitizing offices, meeting areas, bathrooms, community hall, council chambers and public areas.
Ida Grove Public Library is accepting applications for a part time Library Assistant to work eighteen hours per week; including day, evening and weekend hours. The person in this position will provide our community with outstanding patron services and be committed to promoting the services the library offers. Candidates must have knowledge of current technology, excellent customer service skills, and be willing to learn library practices and procedures. This position requires a high school diploma and is contingent upon a successful background check.
Applications and job descriptions for these positions may be obtained from Ida Grove City Hall, 403 Main Street, Ida Grove, IA 51445. Positions open until filled.
Cast Your Vote on Water Fluoridation
The Ida Grove City Council would like to hear from residents on whether or not fluoride should be added to Ida Grove’s water. To better represent you, the council wants to hear your opinion and have designed a survey system to allow citizens to voice their individual opinions. To cast your “vote” return the payment stub of your water bill by March 15th, 2019 with a ‘YES’ or ‘NO’ response to the following question: “SHOULD THE CITY ADD FLUORIDE TO THE WATER?”. Please also include the number of voting adults in your household. If each adult is voting differently that must be indicated or it will be assumed each is voting the same. Residents may also “vote” by calling Ida Grove City Hall at 712-364-2428 – (City of Ida Grove account number will be used for verification purposes). The City of Ida Grove thanks you for your participation in this survey so that we may better serve the community.
Last Day for Discounted Rates
February 28th is the last day to receive the discounted rate for registering your pets for the 2019 year. Remember – City Law requires all animals within city limits to be registered. This is quick and inexpensive, and in the event your animal is ever lost, it helps us get them back to you as quickly as possible. All animals registered before March 1 will get a discounted rate of $10.00 (altered) to $15.00 (unaltered). There are so many good reasons to register your pet – please do so today!
See full ordinance below
6.10.020 License required.
Any owner of a dog or cat within the city limits is required to license the animal the first of each year or when the animal has reached the age of six months. The owner must license the animal within 60 days of moving to town or within 60 days of obtaining a new pet at the January to February rates. The owner will need to provide the breed, sex, color, markings and name of each animal as well as the address and phone number of the owner. It is the responsibility of the owner to present proof the animal being licensed is incapable of breeding, if applicable. The owner must also provide proof of a current rabies vaccination in order to license the animal. The fees for licensing dogs and cats are as follows:
| January 1 – February 28 | $10.00 | $15.00 |
| March 1 – December 31 | $20.00 | $25.00 |
[Ord. 557 § 1, 2017; Code 1975 § 3-2.0202, 1975.]
Ordinance To Go Into Full Effect
Ida Grove has received an abundance of snow the past few weeks and we appreciate all snow removal efforts thus far. Per Ida Grove City Code 12.10.090 it is the responsibility of the abutting property owner of any sidewalk to remove snow, ice and any other accumulations within 24 hours or the property owner may be subject to a $25 (or higher) fee. Due to the extreme severity of the February 25th storm, the City has purposefully not issued citations in an effort to allow citizens ample time to clear sidewalks. On Monday, March 4th, a full week after the storm, the provisions set forth in the ordinance will go into full effect. Please be advised to have sidewalks clear by this day or face civil penalty.
See full ordinance below:
Per Ida Grove City Code 12.10.090: REMOVAL OF SNOW, ICE AND ACCUMULATION
(1) It shall be the responsibility of the abutting property owners to remove snow, 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.
(2) Any violation of subsection (1) of this section by a property owner or tenant is a municipal infraction, subjecting the property owner and/or tenant to a civil penalty of $25.00. A second violation by the same property owner or tenant in the same fiscal year (July 1st through June 30th) shall be subject to a municipal infraction of $50.00, with the cost increasing by $25.00 for each subsequent infraction in the same fiscal year, up to a maximum of $500.00 for each infraction. Each day the snow, ice or accumulations are not removed is a separate municipal infraction
City Council Meets Tonight
Council Meetings are held the first and third Monday of each month (except Holidays) beginning at 6 p.m. Meetings take place in the Council Chambers at Ida Grove City Hall. The public is invited and encouraged to attend City Council Meetings, and participate in their local Government. Any citizen can address the Council in reference to any item on the agenda, or during the “Appearances” portion of the meeting. Community input, insight and ideas help the City Council make the vital decisions of our community. Together, we can make Ida Grove the best it can be for the future of your family and ours. For additional information or questions, you may contact us via Facebook, by email at [email protected], U.S. Postal Service at P.O. Box 236 or call the City Clerk’s Office at 712-364-2428.
COMMUNITY INPUT REQUESTED
COMMUNITY INPUT REQUESTED: The City Council is requesting community input at or before their upcoming meeting to be held Monday February 4th at 6pm. The City has received a proposal to have Godbersen-Smith make needed repairs and replacement to sections of the City’s recreational trail system in exchange for a piece of land from the City Park to be used for GEC. The piece of land that GEC would acquire from the City is approximately .4 – .6 acres and would be used to help expand their current shop building. The approximate modifications Godbersen-Smith would make to the City’s trail system would total roughly $150,000 and repair approximately .62 miles of trail. The current trail is 4” thick concrete and would be replaced with 5” thick concrete for the sections being repaired. They would also address erosion issues and look at tiling the High School hill. The council would like to give the public an opportunity to voice their opinion before making their final decision. If you have an opinion on the matter but are unable to attend, please feel free to call City Hall at 712-364-2428, email [email protected] or message us on Facebook!
Senator Joni Ernst Visits Ida Grove’s Midwest Industries
Ida Grove was pleased to have Senator Joni Ernst visit Midwest Industries Tuesday January 22, 2019. Midwest Staff, including Ida Grove Mayor Devlun Whiteing, are pictured here with Ernst, touring the facility. Ida Grove is proud to be the home of Midwest Industries and looks forward to more great things to come from this top-notch organization.
City Council Meets Tonight
Council Meetings are held the first and third Monday of each month (except Holidays) beginning at 6 p.m. Meetings take place in the Council Chambers at Ida Grove City Hall. The public is invited and encouraged to attend City Council Meetings, and participate in their local Government. Any citizen can address the Council in reference to any item on the agenda, or during the “Appearances” portion of the meeting. Community input, insight and ideas help the City Council make the vital decisions of our community. Together, we can make Ida Grove the best it can be for the future of your family and ours. For additional information or questions, you may contact us via Facebook, by email at [email protected], U.S. Postal Service at P.O. Box 236 or call the City Clerk’s Office at 712-364-2428.
WANTED: Heritage Days Committee Members
The City is looking for new members to join the Heritage Days Team! We have scheduled an informal public meeting to be held on Tuesday January 15th at 6 pm in the Council Chambers. This will be a time to ask questions, form committees, brainstorm, make suggestions and more. We need many volunteers to work together to make 2019’s Heritage Days Celebration the best yet!!
Board of Adjustment Receives Request for Special Use Permit at 1120 Valley View Drive
AGENDA SPECIAL USE PERMIT – Denim 2 Diamonds 2019
Public Notice – Conard-Whiteing
The Ida Grove Board of Adjustment will hold a Public Hearing on a special use permit for the purpose of a home based business at 1120 Valley View Drive in Ida Grove. The meeting will take place on Wednesday January 16th at 6:30 pm in the City Council Chambers. All persons desiring to be heard on the matter, either for or against, are encouraged to attend. If you have an opinion and are unable to attend, please feel free to call City Hall at 712-364-2428.
License Your Animal for 2019
Now is the time to license you cats and/or dogs for the 2019 year. It is City Law that all animals within city limits must be registered. This is quick and inexpensive, and in the event your animal is ever lost, it helps us get them back to you as quickly as possible. All animals registered before March 1 will get a discounted rate of $10.00 (altered) to $15.00 (unaltered). There are so many good reasons to register your pet – please do so today!
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.
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.
**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)
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.
403 3rd St., Ida Grove, Iowa 51445