Election Day 2023!
Just a reminder that today, November 7, 2023, is Election Day for City Council, School Board, and EMS support.
Stop into the Ida Grove Recreation Center to vote! The polls are open until 8 p.m.
Water Tower Update
Sandblasting for the water tower has been completed. The first of 3 coats have been applied. This is a corrosion barrier coat to protect the tank from rust. Unfortunately, due to the forecasted drop in temperatures, crews are unable to finish with painting for the year. The paint crew has Ida Grove listed as top priority as soon as temperatures allow in the spring of 2024.
Thunder From the Prairie: The Life of Harold Hughes
Jerry Harrington, the author of Thunder from the Prairie: The Life of Harold Hughes, will speak at the Ida Grove Public Library at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 7.
A native of Ida Grove, Harold Hughes overcame severe alcoholism to become governor of Iowa from 1963 to 1968 and Iowa’s US senator from 1969 to 1974. He then stunned the political world by leaving office to enter the lay ministry and counsel alcoholics and drug addicts.
Hughes was known as a forceful, charismatic leader who renovated Iowa government during his time in Des Moines. The Iowa community college system was created during his administration. Hughes led a bipartisan effort to reorganize and equalize primary and secondary school funding and to modernize Iowa social services and revenue systems.
As senator, Hughes led the first national effort to aid alcoholics. He was also a national leader against the Vietnam War and American military deception. His office uncovered the secret bombing of North Vietnam in 1972.
More importantly, Hughes was a courageous leader unafraid to face difficult and controversial issues. Gifted with rugged good looks and a deep bass voice, his compelling intensity during speeches often brought people to tears when he talked of the downtrodden.
“Harold Hughes’ life story is one of ardent commitment to justice, compassion and sympathy for the underdog,” says Harrington. “I wrote this book to bring his vast accomplishments to the present day.”
Harrington will have copies of his book for sale and signing at the library.
City Amenities Closed For Season
With colder temperatures in the upcoming forecast, please note the following closures for City amenities.
City Park: Restrooms are closed and the tennis & pickleball nets are being taken down.
Kiwanis Ballfields: Restrooms and drinking fountains are closed.
Public Works will reopen these amenities in the spring of 2024.
Milling & Overlaying
Blacktop Service Company will be in town today to begin milling streets. They will then begin to overlay the streets late Thursday and/or Friday. The following streets are:
- 6th Street from Taylor to Burns
- 2nd Street from Rohwer to Warren
- 800 Block of Valley View Drive
Street Repairs
Beginning today, 10-2-2023, Blacktop Service Company will start crack sealing the following streets:
- Circle Drive
- Fairlane Street
- Iowa Street
- Washington Street from Highway to N. Main Street
- Moorehead Avenue from Highway to N. Main Street
- N. Main Street
- Court Street from 5th to 7th
- Moorehead Street from 5th to 7th
These repairs will continue throughout the week as weather permits.
Lost Dog 9-26-23
This dog was found at the OABCIG High School, but was also seen running around Fairlane earlier. If anyone has any information on this lost dog, please contact City Hall at 712-364-2428. We would like to see this dog find it’s owner.
Water Tower Sandblasting & Painting
Within the next couple of days, Maguire Iron will begin sandblasting our water tower. The tower will be contained as much as possible to help control the noise and dust. However, residents near the tower may experience increased noise levels during this time. Crews will begin working approximately 7am to 7pm seven days a week to complete this project as quickly as possible, weather permitting. Sandblasting will take about 1 1/2 to 2 weeks to complete, with painting to follow. We appreciate your patience over the next several weeks while this work is being done.
Caution: Chemical Spraying 2023
Public Works crew members will be spraying for weeds over the next several weeks at City parks as well as other City property. These flags will be placed in all areas being sprayed, please refrain from walking through areas where this flag is present.
Update 9-13-23
The boil advisory that was issued yesterday morning was due to a short term outage during the City’s ongoing migration from the old water system to the new water system, which caused a loss of pressure. We understand the frustration and are doing everything we can to avoid a future disruption. Please be patient while we continue transitioning.
With that being said, due to the unfortunate mandatory boil advisories that have recently transpired for our community, we have been working diligently to bring forward a solution to better notify the public in emergent situations such as phone call and/or text message. Current notifications are sent to the news stations, radio stations, city website, Facebook, and the local access cable channel.
We have had in place, an option to receive email notifications if at anytime our city website is updated with new information. You can subscribe to this at anytime. Click Here To Subscribe.
We are currently subscribing users that have signed up for email billing, and any future participants, will automatically be subscribed to the website. An email will be sent to verify subscription. You may opt out if you wish.
Update ~ Boil Advisory
The current boil advisory for Badger Creek Drive and all of Zobel’s Addition is still in effect.
In order to lift the boil advisory, the city is required by the Iowa DNR to submit and pass two individual water samples. As of today, 9/7/2023, our first 18 hour test sample passed the requirements. We will be delivering the second sample to the lab this morning.
We will post an update tomorrow morning, once the final test has been received.
2nd & Main Farmers Market 8/24/2023
ATTENTION:
We are sorry to announce that we are canceling tomorrow’s market due to the heat. This heat advisory is now continuing through tomorrow and we just want all of our vendors and grillers (and market-goers!) to be safe. PTP will potentially be grilling and serving food at a future market, more on that to come. And next week’s market will be scheduled as normal. Thank you to everyone for understanding!
Dog At Large
**This animal is still looking for her owner***
The City of Ida Grove has picked up a lost black, female dog with a green collar. She was picked up in the Dawn and Sunset area of town. If anyone has any information, please contact City Hall at 712-364-2428. We would like to see this animal get home to his owner.
Fireworks Reminder
With the 4th of July quickly approaching, we want to remind citizens of Ida Grove that certain fireworks are permitted only during the following times, and to please be cautious and courteous of neighboring property owners.
(1) From the Saturday before July 4th until the Sunday after July 4th.
(2) Between 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. with the exception of July 4th or any Saturday within the permitted days, the hours are expanded to be between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m.
(3) Noon on December 31st until 1:00 a.m. on January 1st.
(4) The mayor, in consultation with the fire chief or any other persons, has the authority to suspend the use of fireworks during the above hours, when the mayor determines it is in the public interest to suspend the use of fireworks. A person shall not be convicted of a violation, for use during such suspension, unless it is proven that such person had actual knowledge of the suspension. Actual knowledge may be proven by testimony that the person was given a verbal warning. City Code 8.40.030
City Hall Closed Memorial Day
City Hall will be closed on Monday, May 29, 2023, in observance of Memorial Day.
We will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, May 30, 2023.
We wish everyone a safe and happy holiday.
2023 POOL SEASON
Friday, May 26th, 2023, the outdoor pool will officially be open for the season!
Hours of operation are as follows:
Monday – Saturday 1PM – 5PM and 7PM – 9PM
Sunday 1PM – 6PM
Lap Swim/Water Walking Monday – Friday 12pm – 1pm & 6pm – 7pm
Shout out to the Ida Grove Public Works Department for their hard work in getting the pool this cool!
Click Here For 2023 Admission Fees
**UPDATE** Lost Dog
***UPDATE**** This dog has been reunited with his owner.
The City of Ida Grove currently has a male dog. If anyone has any information on getting this dog back to its rightful owner please contact City Hall at 364-2428.
Pleasant Valley Trail
A portion of the Pleasant Valley Trail in front of Horn Memorial Hospital will be closed until further notice due to construction. We will keep everyone updated when that portion will reopen. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Pleasant Valley Trail
As of today, May 1, 2023, the Pleasant Valley Trail is officially open for the season.
Mayor Proclaims Poppy Days
MAYOR PROCLAIMS POPPY DAYS-
HONORS AMERICA’S WAR DEAD
Mayor, Nathan Weitl, has proclaimed May 1st through 31st, 2023 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 2023 as Poppy Month and May 1 through the 31 as Poppy Days in our community.
/s/ Nathan Weitl, Mayor
Burning Regulations
City of Ida Grove 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 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. from April 1 to November 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.
4-7-2023 Closing Early
In respects to Good Friday, our office will close at 1 p.m. on Friday, April 7th. We will resume normal business hours on Monday, April 10th. We wish everyone a safe and Happy Easter!
Budget Resolution FY24
Resolution No. 2023-17 Approving the Annual Budget for Fiscal Year 2023-2024. Please see the attachment for resolution.
Notice Of Public Hearing-Proposed Budget FY24
The City Council will conduct a public hearing on the proposed budget at temporary City Hall, 311 Barnes Street, Ida Grove on 4-3-2023 at 5:30 PM. Any resident or taxpayer may present objections to, or arguments in favor of, any part of the proposed budget. The attached notice has been published in the Ida County Courier (3-22-2023) and on the city of Ida Grove Facebook page in addition to the website.
Welcome Aboard, Mayor Weitl
We are excited to announce that yesterday, Nathan Weitl was appointed Mayor of the City of Ida Grove. Welcome aboard!
Pictured below from left to right: Nathan Weitl and Gregor Ernst.
Last Day For Discounted Rate On Pet License
Stop into City Hall today and get your pet license at a discounted rate!
Any owner of a dog or cat within the city limits is required to license the animal each year or when the animal has reached the age of six months.
JANUARY 1 – FEBRUARY 28 $10.00 If Altered $15.00 if Unaltered
MARCH 1- DECEMBER 31 $20.00 if Altered $25.00 if Unaltered
Help Wanted! 2023 Seasonal Mowing Position
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 30 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. Season 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 by clicking link below, or from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday, at City Hall, 311 Barnes Street, Ida Grove. Position is open until filled. E.O.E.
City Hall Closed Monday 2-20-2023
In honor of Presidents’ Day, City Hall will be closed on Monday, February 20, 2023.
We will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, February 21, 2023.
Resolution 2023-7 Approving The Maximum Property Tax Dollars Requested For FY24
Resolution 2023-7 approving the Maximum Property Tax Dollars Requested for Fiscal Year July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024.
Please see attachment for resolution.
FY24 Maximum Tax Hearing Notice
Per SF 634- a public hearing will be held at the Ida Grove Rec Center, Temporary City Hall, on 2/6/2023 at 5:30 PM on the proposed maximum property tax dollars from certain levies. Residents and taxpayers of the City may present to City Council any objections or arguments in favor of the tax dollars before the budget is adopted and certified to the County Auditor. The attached notice has been published in the Ida County Courier (1-25-2023), and on the City of Ida Grove, Recreation Center, Library, and the Fire Department Facebook pages in addition to the website.
Automatic or Online Bill Pay Options
Did you know the City of Ida Grove offers a couple of different options to pay your water utility bill?
We offer automatic payments which is a FREE, no hassle service that will withdraw directly from your checking account on or about the 10th of each month. You will never have to worry about a late fee again!
We also offer an online bill pay service through Forte. This link can be found at the bottom of the city’s home page www.idagroveia.com and selecting “Pay Utilities Online”
- Pay your bill via Forte’s secure website and enter account information as shown on bill
- Select payment options that work for you – credit card or debit card (Forte charges a $2.00 flat fee)
- Receive an electronic confirmation of your payment
All payments are due by 5pm on the 15th of each month. If the 15th falls on a weekend or holiday observed by the City of Ida Grove, payments must be received by 8am the following business day to avoid late charges.
2023 DOG AND CAT LICENSES
City Code 6.10.020 – License Required
All dogs and cats over SIX months old must be licensed.
Fees: January 1 – February 28, $10 if spayed or neutered, $15 if not spayed or neutered.
For the remainder of the year (March 1 – December 31) $20 if spayed or neutered, $25 if not spayed or neutered.
Dogs and cats need to have their license tags on their collar for identification purposes; this allows the city to assist in reuniting a lost dog or cat with its owner.
By the order of the City Council of Ida Grove.
Lost & Found
A bracelet was found near the old City Hall lot on 3rd Street. If you or someone you know are looking for this, please contact City Hall at 364-2428 and provide a description to claim.
City Hall Holiday Hours
Friday, December 23rd 8 am – Noon
Monday, December 26th Closed
Friday, December 30th 8am – Noon
Monday, January 2nd Closed
We will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, January 3rd 2023.
*Open Mayor Position*
Mayor Whiteing has resigned due to being elected to the Ida County Board of Supervisors effective 1/1/2023. Council has the option to appoint a citizen to this position. Any citizen interested in filling the term through 2023 must reside within city limits. The Mayor seat will then be up for election on the 2023 ballot to fill the remaining 2 years of the term. If anyone is interested or has any questions, please contact City Hall at 712-364-2428.
Happy Thanksgiving!
City Hall offices will be closed on Thursday, November 24th and Friday, November 25th. We will resume normal business hours on Monday, November 28th. Wishing you all a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.
City Hall Phone Lines
City Hall is experiencing some issues with the phone lines. We are working on this and hope to have the lines back up today.
Holiday Ceramic Class at the Library
The library will be hosting a holiday ceramics class with D & L Ceramics out of Everly, Iowa. The class will be held on Tuesday, November 15th from 5pm – 8pm. Cost is dependent upon which ceramic you choose to paint, prices range from $5 to $60. Supplies and instruction are provided free of charge. To find out more about the class or sign up, please call the library at 364-2306.
Available ceramic options are viewable with this link: Holiday Ceramic Class (1)
Seasonal Help Wanted
HELP WANTED: The City of Ida Grove is taking applications for two part-time positions to push and remove snow from City streets, parking lots, sidewalks and other duties as directed. The positions are temporary/seasonal and require the following: must be 18 years of age or older, have a high school diploma or GED, and a Class B CDL driver’s license. Must be able to work day, evening, or weekend shifts on an on-call basis during snow emergencies. Experience is preferred, but not required. Applications can be picked up at City Hall, 311 Barnes Street or are available at www.idagroveia.com. Positions open until filled.
City of Ida Grove is an Equal Opportunity Employer
7th Street Resurfacing Update
On Friday, October 21, 2022, we will be resurfacing the asphalt on 7th St. from Main to Barnes. This will take place the majority of the day. We ask residents to please plan accordingly.
Trick or Treating 2022
Monday, October 31st the Chamber will be having a Trick or Treat kickoff at Godbersen Park at 5:30 p.m. with trick or treating commencing at 6:00 p.m. Come on down to celebrate! It will be a “spooktacular” night!
Recreation Director Position Opening
The City of Ida Grove (population 2,051) has an immediate opening for Recreation Director. Responsibilities would include management of a 20,000 square foot recreation center with the following amenities: weight room, aerobic room, gymnasium/walking track, two racquetball courts, indoor pool, spa, wading pool, sauna, golf room/golf simulator, card room, and community room with full kitchen. Membership totals are over 350 and draws from surrounding communities. Additional duties would include oversight of scheduling of events and programs at the ball fields, management of an aquatic center which is located next door to the recreation center and recreational programming such as youth tackle football, volleyball, basketball, and middle school softball and baseball as well as exercise classes and special events. For more information on the Ida Grove Community Recreation Center go to www.idagroverec.org. Job applications and complete job description may be obtained at City Hall (temporarily located inside the Rec Center), 311 Barnes Street, by visiting www.idagroveia.com or by emailing [email protected].
A degree in Parks and Recreation, Leisure Services, or related field is desired, but not required. Previous professional experience in recreation centers or swimming pools is preferred. Residency requirement within six months. Starting salary is negotiable.
Recreation Director Job Description
Send cover letter, resume, and references to:
City of Ida Grove, Attn: City Clerk, PO Box 236, Ida Grove, IA 51445
The City of Ida Grove is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Position open until filled.
Friday Siren Testing
On Friday, October 7, 2022, Public Works will be servicing the outdoor warning siren near 7th and Rohwer. If you hear the siren, do not be alarmed, it is only a test.
Lost Dog
***OWNER HAS BEEN FOUND***
Lost female dog found near the corner of 7th and Moorehead Street. If you have any information, please contact City Hall at 364-2428 as soon as possible.
Debit/Credit Card Service Fee
For those who pay with a debit or credit card, our 3rd party credit card provider will be increasing their customer service fees as of Saturday, October 1, 2022. The increase will be 25¢. This will be for customers who pay their utility payments online, over the phone, or in the office. We apologize for the inconvenience, but would like to remind everyone that we do offer a free automatic payment option. If you are interested in going to paperless billing, we do offer email billing as well. Please click the links below for more information. Thank you!
New Water Meters
Approximately half of the residents of Ida Grove should have received letters regarding the replacement and installation of new water meters and the other half will be receiving these letters soon. This is part of our water improvement project and there is no cost for the replacement, but all residents are required to have water meters replaced. To schedule, please contact UMS at (844) 741-6248. If you have any questions, please contact City Hall at 364-2428.
Click Here To View Letter
Governor Kim Reynolds Broadband Map
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OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR Governor Kim Reynolds ★ Lt. Governor Adam Gregg Governor Reynolds announces new statewide broadband map, requests public input DES MOINES – Today, Governor Reynolds and the Department of Management Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) announced the release of a new broadband map of Iowa, reporting the conditions of broadband availability in accordance with federal grant guidelines at over 1 million locations throughout the state. The public can view the map here [lnks.gd]. The new map provides a more detailed view than prior maps, identifying the broadband service available at homes and businesses across Iowa as reported by broadband providers. Locations with slower broadband speeds – defined by relevant federal guidelines to be slower than 100 upload/20 download – may be eligible for future grant funding opportunities issued by Governor Reynolds’ Empower Rural Iowa Broadband Program. “We are making important progress to connect all Iowans to high-speed broadband, but many communities remain unserved,” said Gov. Reynolds. “Today, I’m asking all Iowans to visit the broadband map and let us know if the broadband service reported at their location is inaccurate. This feedback will help us to direct resources to areas with the greatest need for broadband investment in the future.” The publication of the map commences a 30-day challenge process where the public, broadband providers, and communities throughout Iowa can submit information to the OCIO wherever they believe the map incorrectly reports broadband service data. |
403 3rd St., Ida Grove, Iowa 51445