Community Update – November 23, 2022

Happy Thanksgiving!

The City of Indianola would like to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving! We are thankful we have the opportunity to serve the residents in one of the best communities in Iowa.

Non-emergency offices will be closed on Thursday, November 24, and Friday, November 25.

News from the Fire Department

Mayor Erickson administered the Oath of Office to three career Firefighter/Paramedics at the November 21 council meeting. Jill Burrell, Mark Butcher, and Reed Smith have worked for the City of Indianola for just over a year as full-time members of the Fire Department. 

Career Firefighter/Paramedic Chris Settles recently received his National EMS Certification. The National component requires continuing education on top of the state certification education. 

Congratulations to these employees! There is a growing need for Career Firefighter/Paramedics across the country. If you would like to join the esteemed staff at the City of Indianola, please visit the employment opportunities on our website. 

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in study session and regular session on Monday, November 21, 2022.  The meetings can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

During the study session, Council received an update on the Arts Master Plan and discussed the proposed ordinance and by-laws for the Sustainability Committee. More information can be found in the study session agenda packet.

Among the items Council approved in the regular meeting were:

• Payment Applications for the Water Resource Recovery Facility project, Boston Avenue project, and the Square Reconstruction project
• Annual reports from the Finance Department
• Applications for exemption of sign code at 1010 N Jefferson Way and 102 N Jefferson Way
• An amendment to Chapter 165 by adding a sign code and deleting Chapter 167
• Preliminary Plats for Indianola Industrial Park 3 and Heritage Hills Plat 12
• Authorization of the execution of an Infrastructure Agreement by and between the City of Indianola and Indianola Industrial Park LLC
• A motion of intent to accept the Warren County Historical Society’s offer to purchase real property located at 1206 W 2^nd Avenue

More information on these items and others can be found in the council packet.  To learn how to find and download agendas and packets and receive notifications when they are published, please watch this video.

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below. These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The next regular Council meeting will be on Monday, December 5 at 7:00 p.m. A study session will precede the meeting at 6:00 p.m.

December 5, 2022 (PDF)

December 19, 2022 (PDF)

City Budget

The City’s fiscal year begins on July 1, but the budget for the next year begins soon after! Staff is finalizing the details on departmental budgets. The capital improvement plan was recently presented to the Council. A preliminary budget report will be presented at the December 19 Council study session.

Boards and Commissions

There are numerous Boards & Commissions with current openings that provide citizens an opportunity to have an impact on our community by advising the City Council on various areas. If you are interested in serving, please visit our website for more information and the application. 

Community Blog

Community Update – November 10, 2022

Veteran’s Day

Most non-emergency offices at the City of Indianola will be closed on Veteran’s Day, Friday, November 11. The Indianola Public Library will still host Jurassic Nerf Attack for teens at 5:30 p.m. and the Indianola Activity Center will be open for daily activities and SHIIP appointments on Friday. 

The City of Indianola is proud to employ many Veterans. We would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to them and the other members of our community who have served, and those who continue to serve, our country. 

Brush Facility

The Brush Facility is currently accepting free yard waste through November 20 for items less than ½” in diameter. The facility is open Thursdays 11-dusk, Saturdays 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Sundays noon – 4 p.m. The last day the facility will be open this year is November 20. The Brush Facility will reopen in April 2023. 

Water Resource Recovery Facility

This week the Indianola Water Resource Recovery Facility began pumping from the old plant to the new plant’s ditches in order to begin the acclimation process. Beginning next week, the old plant will be bypassed and the tie-in to the new plant from the sewer mains will be completed. Drone and project videos are available on our website. 

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in study session and regular session on Monday, November 7, 2022.  The meetings can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

During the study session, Council received the annual reports on the Veteran’s Memorial Aquatic Center and Indianola Public Library. The annual reports can be found in the study session agenda packet.

Among the items Council approved in the regular meeting were:

• Payment Application No 1 for the Quail Meadows Sidewalk Connector to G&G Landscaping and Excavating
• A farm lease with Mark Putney
• A resolution approving the updated fee schedule by amending the nuisance/property maintenance administrative fee
• A resolution authorizing the certification of liens to the Warren County Treasurer for purposes of assessing the cost of nuisance abatement against property
• A resolution approving purchase of property and authorizing the execution of the contract
• The appointment of Megan Shipley to the Indianola Public Arts Commission
• The purchase of a K9 patrol vehicle
• A special event application for Home for the Holidays, to be held on December 10.

More information on these items and others can be found in the council packet. To learn how to find and download agendas and packets and receive notifications when they are published, please watch this video.

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below. These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The next regular Council meeting will be on Monday, November 21 at 7:00 p.m. A study session will precede the meeting at 6:00 p.m.

November 21, 2022 {PDF}

December 5, 2022 {PDF}

Public Hearings Scheduled for November 21

Public Hearings are an opportunity for members of the public to speak in front of Council on a specific agenda item. The following public hearings have been scheduled for November 21, beginning at 7 p.m.

• Public hearing regarding the sale of real property located at 1206 W 2^nd Avenue
• Public hearing regarding the proposal to enter into an Infrastructure Agreement with Indianola Industrial Park, LLC
• Public hearing regarding an application for exemption of sign code at 102 N Jefferson Way, Indianola, Iowa
• Public hearing regarding an application for exemption of sign code at 1010 N Jefferson Way, Indianola, Iowa
• Public hearing regarding an amendment to Chapter 165 by adding a sign code and deleting Chapter 167

Boards and Commissions

There are numerous Boards & Commissions with current openings that provide citizens an opportunity to have an impact on our community by advising the City Council on various areas. If you are interested in serving, please visit our website for more information and the application. 

Community Blog

Employment Opportunities

The City of Indianola is currently hiring for multiple positions, including a career Firefighter/Paramedic and Police Officer. Please visit our website for more information on employment opportunities.

Community Update – October 21, 2022

Capital Improvement Plan

At the Monday, October 17 Council meeting, Director of Finance Andy Lent gave a presentation of the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for FY2024 through FY2028. This is one of the first steps in preparing the FY2024 budget that will begin July 1, 2023. It is important to note that this is a plan that is subject to available funding and future decisions by the Council. The FY24 CIP presentation can be found on the website at this location: https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/512/City-Clerk-Finance-Department

Presentation

Halloween Activities

The City of Indianola is hosting the Children’s Costume Party and Trunk-or-Treat for families in Indianola! 

The Children’s Costume Party, on October 29, will be held at the Square from 10 am – noon. Costume contests begin at 10 a.m., with free activities and trick-or-treating happening until noon. 

Get your jokes ready for Beggars’ Night! Trick-or-treating will be held on Sunday, October 30 from 6 – 8 pm. If you will be handing out goodies, please leave a porch light on. 

Trunk-or-treat will be held at the Indianola Library on October 31 from 5:30 – 6:30 pm. Dress up in your best costume and visit City and IMU departments for treats, enjoy a snack, and vote for your favorite display.  

Fire Department Training

The Indianola Fire Department has weekly training sessions in order to prepare for any emergency. Recently, each division practiced vertical ventilation training and prepared a mass decontamination zone in the case of a significant hazardous materials incident. The Fire Department encourages you to prepare by planning – and practicing – your fire escape route at home. The Fire Department recently joined up with State Farm and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for National Fire Prevention Week and held an open house in order to spread the message that “Fire Won’t Wait. Plan Your Escape.” 

K9 Fundraiser

Thank-you to all those who have donated to the Police Department for their K9 unit. To date, they have received over $10,000 in donations. The K9 will assist in serving the community by helping to locate lost and at-risk individuals, stopping the flow of illegal drugs, and assist in community outreach and policing efforts.   

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in study session and regular session on Monday, October 17, 2022.  The meetings can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

Among the items Council approved were: 

• Payment Application Number 15 in the amount of $419,750.14 from Absolute Concrete for the Square Reconstruction Project
• Payment Application Number 28 in the amount of $727,741.72 from Williams Brothers Construction for the Water Resource Recovery Facility Project
• The purchase of a Jet/Vac Truck for the Water Resource Recovery Department
• The purchase and replacement of crack sealer equipment for the Public Works Department from Logan Contractors in the amount of $60,115.00
• Change Order Number 4 in the amount of $2,916.50 and Payment Application Number 6 in the amount of $364,971.00 for the 2022 Infrastructure Improvements Project (Boston Avenue)
• An amendment to the Fiscal Year 23 Budget
• An agreement with the Iowa Department of Transportation for a Surface Transportation Block Grant Program federal aid swap project: Hillcrest Avenue Reconstruction Project

More information on these items and others can be found in the council packet.  To learn how to find and download agendas and packets and receive notifications when they are published, please watch this video.

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below. These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The next regular Council meeting will be on Monday, November 7 at 7:00 p.m. A study session will precede the meeting at 6:00 p.m.

November 7, 2022 (PDF)

November 21, 2022 (PDF)

Countywide Reappraisal

The Warren County Assessor has contracted with Vanguard Appraisals, Inc to conduct a reappraisal project in order to have accurate property assessments on every property within Warren County. The assessments will include interior and exterior inspections of the properties. 

Data collectors will have photo ID’s signed by the assessor. All law enforcement agencies have a list of names and license plate numbers of anyone involved in the project. Please visit the county website or contact the non-emergency sheriff’s office at 515-961-1122 if you have any questions or for more information. 

https://www.warrencountyia.gov/government/county-government/assessor/2022-county-wide-reappraisal/

Boards and Commissions

There are numerous Boards & Commissions with current openings that provide citizens an opportunity to have an impact on our community by advising the City Council on various areas. If you are interested in serving, please visit our website for more information and the application. 

Community Blog

Employment Opportunities

The City of Indianola is currently hiring for multiple positions, including a full-time Firefighter/Paramedic and Police Officer. Please visit our website for more information on employment opportunities. 

Community Update – October 7, 2022

Congratulations!

Parks and Recreation Director Doug Bylund was recently recognized by the Indianola Rotary for his outstanding service to our community. Bylund, who has been employed by the City for over 23 years, received the Rotary’s Paul Harris Award on September 22. We appreciate the enthusiasm he has for this community and thank him for his dedication to creating a variety of experiences that enhance and preserve the quality of life in Indianola.

Brian Sher was sworn in as the Chief of Police at the October 3 City Council meeting. Chief Sher brings nearly 29 years of experience to this role, serving the community in a variety of areas, including detective, captain, and most recently, interim chief. We look forward to seeing the positive transformations that Chief Sher and his leadership team continue to bring to the Indianola Police Department. 

The Indianola Public Library won the Historical Best category in the Warren County Historical Society’s Log Cabin Day parade on Saturday, September 24. This is the fourth year they have won the award. Their float included staff members dressed in dinosaur costumes. Congratulations!

Winter Preparations to Begin

Come harvest blooms at Buxton Park on Saturday, October 8 from 10 – 11 a.m. before the beds are cleaned out and the park is readied for winter! Please bring shears or pruners and containers with water for your flowers.

The removal of flowers from parks, flower beds, and flowers around the Square will begin the week of October 10. Park restroom winterization and closing is planned to begin the week of October 17.

If you are planning some winter preparations around your own property, please note that the City’s Fall Cleanup event is scheduled for Saturday, October 15 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Brush Facility. More information can be found on the flyer at the link below. Free yard waste disposal for qualifying items will be October 29 – November 20, 2022 at the Brush Facility.

FALL CLEANUP FLYER

Infrastructure Improvements Update

Sidewalk construction is progressing along Ashland Avenue on the Square and expected to be completed the week of October 17. The contractor will need to finish plantings, pavement markings, street signs and lighting before the street is opened.

On Boston Avenue, the east phase is now open. Contractors will be working on the west phase through the fall.

I-Magazine

The newest issue of the Indianola Magazine is now available! The magazine was mailed to every address in the 50125 zip code. Additional copies are available at City Hall, the Activity Center, Library, and the IMU Customer Service Center. A digital edition is also available.

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Monday, October 3, 2022. The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

Among the items Council approved were:

• A resolution modifying the Uniform Policy for Indianola Police Department Leadership.
• A resolution modifying the sick leave policy for the Indianola Police Department Leadership to be consistent with union officers.
• A special event permit for Indianola Parks and Recreation for the 2022 Children's Costume Party on October 29, 2022. 
• A resolution approving an intergovernmental agreement for the partial funding of Homeland Security Services within the metropolitan area. 
• A resolution approving a contract with Tree Town Consultants for a dual-purpose police dog and training by Tree Town Kennels LLC in the amount of $13,500.
• A resolution approving the replacement of the Hukill Memorial Fountain in Buxton Park. 
• A resolution approving a Professional Services Agreement with G&G Landscaping and Excavating for the Quail Meadows Sidewalk Connector. 
• A resolution authorizing the City Attorney to petition for title to abandoned property at 701 West Boston Avenue.
• A resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute a Subaward Agreement Contract by and between Indianola Hometown Pride (The City of Indianola, Iowa) and Warren County, Iowa (“Wonder on Buxton” Project).

More information on these items and others can be found in the council packet. To learn how to find and download agendas and packets and receive notifications when they are published, please watch this video.

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below. These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The next regular Council meeting will be on Monday, October 17 at 7:00 p.m. A study session will precede the meeting at 6:00 p.m.

October 17, 2022
November 7, 2022

Boards and Commissions

There are numerous Boards & Commissions with current openings that provide citizens an opportunity to have an impact on our community by advising the City Council on various areas. If you are interested in serving, please visit our website for more information and the application.

Community Blog

Employment Opportunities

The City of Indianola is currently hiring for multiple positions, including a Streets Operations Specialist and full-time Firefighter/Paramedic. Please visit our website for more information on employment opportunities.

Community Update – September 9, 2022

RVTV

WHO-Channel 13 RVTV will pull into the Indianola Square for its final stop on the way to Iowa City for the big Iowa – Iowa State matchup! Wear your favorite team gear (Iowa, Iowa State, Indianola or Simpson); grab some friends & bring your school spirit as we kick off Fall. They'll pull into town with escorts & the IHS pep band between 11:30-12:30. West Hill Brewing will host the radio show from 1-3 p.m.

The party starts at 3:00 p.m., with WHO-Channel 13 broadcasting live from the Square at 4, 5 & 6 p.m. At 7 p.m., IHS vs Pella is at the IHS stadium. Also, at 7pm, RVTV will continue on the Square with TrainWreck taking the stage at the corner of Howard and Salem. The night will wrap up at 10 p.m. with a live broadcast from the IHS football game.

Let's answer the timeless question... which fans really are the best? Bag chairs are welcome. No tents or outside food or drink. We'll have you covered with our local establishments & food trucks.

Credit Rating

Moody’s Investors Services, a major credit rating agency, reaffirmed the City’s credit rating as ‘Aa2’. According to Moody’s, this outstanding rating is due to Council’s wise budget decisions as well as the excellent day-to-day financial management provided by the Clerk/Finance staff and department budget management of the city department directors. The rating is important as investors will use it when submitting their bids for general obligation loan note series the Council has recently taken action on in connection with the Industrial Park Infrastructure Improvement Project.

Moody’s Report (PDF)

Summer Activities

We hope you enjoyed the City of Indianola summer activities as much as we enjoyed hosting them! Here are some fun facts about our summer programs:

• The library had 26,291 visitors in June and July
• 3,169 children and adults attended library programs
• Over 33,000 items were checked out at the library during that time, including 969 board games
• 1,947 pool passes were purchased
• 30,763 patrons visited the pool in 2022, up from 29,000 in 2021
• 36 seasonal employees worked at the pool
• The pool was open for 85 days
• 19,195 concession items were sold at the pool
• Pickard Park hosted 17 baseball/softball tournaments, 4 disc golf tournaments and 1 college cross country meet
  • That’s over 1,000 games and 600 practices
  • 330 tournament teams played and 49 of them were from out-of-state
  • 184 professional disc golf players participated in the TruBank Challenge, with 17 of them from Europe. Over 3,500 spectators attended the event
  • Two high school cross country meets are scheduled at Pickard this fall and at least 8 weeks of baseball/softball leagues and tournaments yet to be played

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, September 6, 2022.   The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

Among the items Council approved were:

• A special event permit for the Indianola High School’s Homecoming Parade on September 29 at 6:00 p.m.
• Payment Application Number 16 in the amount of $18,457.55 to Langman Construction for the Water Resource Recovery Facility Influent Trunk Sewer and Outfall project
• The appointment of Justin Nostrala to the Indianola Public Arts Commission
• A resolution instituting proceedings to take additional action for the issuance of not-to-exceed $3,500,000 general obligation capital loan notes
• A resolution approving an official statement (GO Loan Notes)
• A sign exemption of sign code at 1103 N Jefferson Way (Taco John’s)

More information on these items and others can be found in the council packet.  To learn how to find and download agendas and packets and receive notifications when they are published, please watch this video.

Public Hearing

The City Council has scheduled a public hearing for October 3, 2022. The meeting begins at 6:00 p.m. During the public hearing, the Council will hear comments regarding a proposed amendment to the Fiscal Year 23 budget.

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below.  These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The next regular Council meeting will be on Monday, September 19 at 6:00 p.m.

September 19, 2022 (PDF)

October 3, 2022  (PDF)

Tall Weeds and Grass

As we move into cooler weather, grass and weeds are beginning to grow again! City Code 154.02, section 302.4 states that grass, weeds or brush on private property shall be cut, mowed, and maintained so as not to exceed height specifications (eight inches in developed areas, for example). Please do your part to keep our community beautiful and healthy. While it is our goal to get any complaints and violations addressed in a timely manner, it does take time to follow the process that we are held to, per Iowa Code. Concerns can be submitted online.

Boards and Commissions

There are numerous Boards & Commissions with current openings that provide citizens an opportunity to have an impact on our community by advising the City Council on various areas. If you are interested in serving, please visit our website for more information and the application. 

Community Blog

Employment Opportunities

The City of Indianola is currently hiring for multiple positions, including a Streets Operations Specialist. Please visit our website for more information on employment opportunities.

Community Update – September 23, 2022

Upcoming Community Events

The Indianola City Council issued special event permits for several fall activities:

• Log Cabin Days Parade – September 24 at 10:00 a.m. The parade begins at the County Administration Building, south on Buxton to Boston Ave, west on Boston to C Street, south on C Street to Salem Ave, west on Salem to the Fairgrounds.
• Indianola Homecoming Parade – September 29 at 6 p.m. The parade travels from the high school to N 9^th, west on E Euclid, south on 5^th St, west on Ashland, south on 3^rd St, east on 1^st Ave back to the high school.
• Hometown Pride Indianola-Carlisle Bike Ride – October 1. Indianola riders should meet at 219 W Salem Ave at 9 am for check in and registration. Cost is $30/rider. The ride will begin at 10 a.m.
• Public Safety Open House – October 13 from 6 – 8:30 p.m. at City Hall.
• Mighty Maddy 5K – October 15. Event registration begins at 9 a.m. in the High School parking lot.

Police Chief Update

City staff and community stakeholders interviewed five finalists for the position of Chief of Police this week. The new chief will replace former Chief Dave Button, who retired in 2021. An announcement will be made during the week of September 26, 2022, after an offer is made and accepted. The anticipated date for the new chief to be sworn is October 3, 2022, during the City Council meeting.

Square Reconstruction Update

Street, curb and gutter paving has been completed on a portion of Ashland Avenue. The intersection of B Street and Ashland Ave is open. The paving of the Ashland and Buxton intersection is scheduled for the week of September 26. Sidewalk paving on Ashland Ave has begun and will continue over the next several weeks.  

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Monday, September 19, 2022. The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

Among the items Council approved were:

• Payment Application Number 27 from Williams Brothers Construction in the amount of $1,132,447.36 for the Water Resource Recovery Facility project
• Payment Application Number 14 in the amount of $583,693.50 from Absolute Concrete for the Square Reconstruction Project
• Payment Application Number 5 in the amount of $159,899.16 and Change Order Number 3 in the amount of ($48,580) to Absolute Concrete for the 2022 Infrastructure Improvements Project (Boston Avenue)
• An Ordinance amending Chapter 71.04 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Indianola (Overnight Square Parking)
• A resolution directing acceptance of a proposal to purchase $2,015,000 General Obligation Capital Loan Notes, Series 2022
• A resolution approving a major site plan application for a car wash at 1807 North Jefferson Way
• A resolution approving a major site plan application for a bank at 1401 North Jefferson Way

More information on these items and others can be found in the council packet. To learn how to find and download agendas and packets and receive notifications when they are published, please watch this video.

Council Meeting Times Amended

The City Council has amended its regular meeting schedule. Meetings will now begin at 7:00 p.m. Prior to each meeting, Council will have a study session from 6:00 – 6:45 p.m. 

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below. These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The next regular Council meeting will be on Monday, October 3 at 7:00 p.m.

October 3, 2022 (PDF)

October 17, 2022 (PDF)

Boards and Commissions

There are numerous Boards & Commissions with current openings that provide citizens an opportunity to have an impact on our community by advising the City Council on various areas. If you are interested in serving, please visit our website for more information and the application. 

Community Blog

Employment Opportunities

The City of Indianola is currently hiring for multiple positions, including a Streets Operations Specialist. Please visit our website for more information on employment opportunities.

Community Update – August 19, 2022

Pool Closing – Annual Cardboard Boat Races

The Veteran’s Memorial Aquatic Center will close for the season at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 21. The annual Cardboard Boat Races will begin at 3:30 that afternoon. We hope your boats are almost finished! Prizes will be awarded in the following categories:

• Best curb appeal
• Tiny House
• Most square footage
• Most colorful

Disc Golf

The annual professional and amateur disc golf tournament located in the greater Des Moines metro area will be at Pickard Park this weekend! The TruBank Des Moines Challenge 2022 presented by Discraft will be held August 19-21 and also includes a concert by Cory Wong on August 20. Tickets for the event can be purchased through Eventbrite.

Burn Ban

Warren County is currently under a burn ban. No person in Warren County shall engage in open burning in Warren County, effective August 17, 2022, at 8 a.m. Violations of this order is a simple misdemeanor. Updates to the burn ban can be viewed on the State Fire Marshall website.

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Monday, August 15, 2022.   The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

Among the items Council approved were:

• Liquor license renewals
• An event application for the Public Safety Open House to be held on October 13, 2022 at City Hall
• Payment Application Number 26 in the amount of $489,485.29 to Williams Brothers Construction for the Water Resource Recovery Facility project
• Payment Application Number 13 in the amount of $502,727.03 and Change Order Number 8 in the amount of $21,034.50 from Absolute Concrete for the Square Reconstruction Project.
• Change Order Number 2 (no change to contract amount) and Payment Application Number 4 in the amount of $114,990.61 to Absolute Concrete for the 2022 Infrastructure Improvements Project (Boston Avenue).
• A Professional Services Agreement with Dependable Drain and Plumbing for the Sewer Manhole Rehabilitation Project.
• An engagement agreement with Ahlers and Cooney in connection with a development agreement with Indianola Industrial Park, LLC in the Hillcrest/Downtown Unified Urban Renewal Area.
• The certification of liens to the Warren County Treasurer for purposes of assessing the cost of nuisance abatement against property.

More information on these items and others can be found in the council packet.  To learn how to find and download agendas and packets and receive notifications when they are published, please watch the video on our Facebook page.

Public Hearings

The City Council has scheduled the following public hearings for September 6, 2022. The meeting begins at 6:00 p.m. During the public hearing, the Council will hear comments regarding the agenda item.

• The authorization of a loan agreement and the issuance of not-to-exceed $3,500,000 general obligation capital loan notes of the City of Indianola, State of Iowa (for essential corporate urban renewal purposes).
• An application for an exemption of sign code at 1103 N Jefferson Way, Indianola, Iowa

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below.  These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The City Council and IMU Board of Trustees will meet in joint session on Monday, August 22 at 5:30 p.m. regarding capital improvement plans. The next regular Council meeting will be on Tuesday, September 6, 2022 (due to the Labor Day Holiday).

September 6, 2022

September 19, 2022

Tall Weeds and Grass

City Code 154.02, section 302.4 states that grass, weeds or brush on private property shall be cut, mowed, and maintained so as not to exceed height specifications (eight inches in developed areas, for example). Please do your part to keep our community beautiful and healthy. While it is our goal to get any complaints and violations addressed in a timely manner, it does take time to follow the process that we are held to, per Iowa Code. Concerns can be submitted online.

Boards and Commissions

There are numerous Boards & Commissions with current openings that provide citizens an opportunity to have an impact on our community by advising the City Council on various areas. If you are interested in serving, please visit our website for more information and the application. 

Community Blog

Employment Opportunities

The City of Indianola is currently hiring for multiple positions, including the Director of Information Technology. Please visit our website for more information on employment opportunities.

Community Update – August 5, 2022

Movie in the Park – TONIGHT!

Tom and Jerry will be shown tonight as The City State Bank Outdoor Movie at Memorial Park. Bring blankets and lawn chairs for seating. Street Eats DSM will be serving food 6 – 9 pm, with the movie starting around 8:30 p.m.

K9 Program

The Indianola Police Department has recently started fundraising efforts for the new K-9 program. Members of the department have started touring different training facilities and ordering some of the equipment necessary for the K-9 for when the dog arrives. They will also be hosting an event where all donations will be put towards the program. Staff is very excited to get the new Officer on the road!

Tall Weeds and Grass

City Code 154.02, section 302.4 states that grass, weeds or brush on private property shall be cut, mowed, and maintained so as not to exceed height specifications (eight inches in developed areas, for example). Please do your part to keep our community beautiful and healthy. While it is our goal to get any complaints and violations addressed in a timely manner, it does take time to follow the process that we are held to, per Iowa Code. Concerns can be submitted online. 

Disc Golf

The annual professional and amateur disc golf tournament located in the greater Des Moines metro area will be at Pickard Park this month! The A-tier events begin this week, with a tournament Saturday, August 6. The TruBank Des Moines Challenge 2022 presented by Discraft will be held August 19-21 and also includes a concert by Cory Wong on August 20. Volunteers are still wanted for this event. 

WHO RVTV - Indianola

WHO’s RVTV will be heading to the Indianola Square on Friday, September 9! Wear your favorite team gear (Iowa, Iowa State, Indianola or Simpson); grab some friends & bring your school spirit as we kick off fall. RVTV will pull into town with escorts & our pep band between 11:30-12:30. The party starts at 3, with WHO-Channel 13 broadcasting live from the Square at 4, 5 & 6 p.m. At 7pm, the IHS vs Pella football game kicks off at the Indianola football stadium. Also, at 7pm, RVTV will continue and TrainWreck will take the stage on the courthouse lawn. The night will wrap up at 10 p.m. with a live broadcast from the IHS football game.

Let's answer the timeless question... which fans really are the best? Bag chairs are welcome. No tents or outside food or drink. We'll have you covered with our local establishments & food trucks!

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Monday, August 1, 2022.  The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

Among the items Council unanimously approved were: 

• The purchase of a generator for the Quail Meadows 3 Lift Station
• The removal and disposal of sludge material from the Indianola Wastewater Treatment Facility
• A proposal from Jetco to perform fiber connectivity between the lift stations and the Water Resource Recovery Facility 
• Change Order No 2, Payment Application No 8 and final acceptance and payment to Vanderpool Construction for the South Plant Lift Station Project
• Approval of the Civil Service Commission’s list of applicants certified eligible for the position of career firefighter/paramedic
• Second consideration of an ordinance to rezone property adjacent to 2110 Country Club Road from A-1 (Agricultural Zoning District) to R-1 (Single-Family Residential Detached Zoning District)
• Acceptance of Public Improvements and Four-Year Maintenance Bonds for Sanitary Sewer, Storm Sewer, Water and Streets, accepting Easements, accepting street lots, and approving the Final Plat for Prairie Glynn Plat 3. 
• Acceptance of Public Improvements and Four-Year Maintenance Bonds for Sanitary Sewer, Storm Sewer, Water and Streets, accepting Easements, accepting street lots, and approving the Final Plat for Quail Meadows Plat 4. 
• Amendment No 7 to the Hillcrest/Downtown Unified Urban Renewal Plan
• Authorization for the Mayor to execute a Subaward Agreement Contract by and between the City and Warren County

More information on these items and others can be found in the council packet. 

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below.  These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The next regular Council meeting will be on Monday, August 15, 2022. 

August 15, 2022 

September 6, 2022

Rental Properties Inspection

Do you own or manage rental property in Indianola? Rental properties in Indianola are required to register their properties as part of the rental housing inspection program. If you own or manage a rental, you can register your property today on our city website: https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/.../Registration-and...

All rental properties will need to register and have their properties inspected. Inspection due dates for rental properties are ward based. Currently, the City of Indianola is inspecting rental properties located in Ward 1. All rental properties located in Ward 1 will need to complete their registration and inspection by February 28, 2023. For resources on how to prepare for your rental inspection or to see what ward you are in, please visit: https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/1013/Inspections

Please contact the Community Development department for any questions you may have regarding the registration process or rental housing codes by emailing comdev@IndianolaIowa.gov or calling (515) 961-9430.

Boards and Commissions

There are numerous Boards & Commissions with current openings that provide citizens an opportunity to have an impact on our community by advising the City Council on various areas. If you are interested in serving, please visit our website for more information and the application. 

Employment Opportunities

The City of Indianola is currently hiring for multiple positions, including the Director of Information Technology and Chief of Police. Please visit our website for more information on employment opportunities. 

Community Update – July 22, 2022

Hometown Pride Parade and Summer Art Festival

The Indianola Hometown Pride Committee is hosting the Celebrate Warren County Parade on Saturday, July 30. Whether you want to sign up to showcase your group in the parade, or be a spectator along the route, mark it on your calendar today! The parade will begin at Memorial Park and go right past Buxton Park, where the Indianola Summer Art Festival will be held! To register your group, sign up here: https://bit.ly/WCparade.

Distinguished Budget Award

For the sixth year in a row, the City of Indianola was awarded the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the GFOA for our Fiscal Year 22 budget. This award is the highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting and represents significant achievements by the City. GFOA established the program in 1984 to encourage and assist state and local governments to prepare budget documents of the very highest quality that are transparent and reflect both the guidelines established by the National Advisory Council on State and Local Budgeting and the GFOA's best practices on budgeting. More information on our current and past budgets can be found on the Clerk/Finance website.

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Monday, July 18, 2022.   The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

Among the items Council unanimously approved were:

• Payment Applications for the Water Resource Recovery Facility, 2022 Infrastructure Improvement Project on West Boston Avenue, and for the Square Reconstruction Project
• Appointments to the Hometown Pride Committee and the Indianola Public Arts Commission
• Authorization of the certifications of liens to the Warren County Treasurer for purposes of assessing the cost of nuisance abatement against property
• The FY24 budget calendar
• Hillcrest Avenue Reconstruction Project resolutions
• A major site plan application for a Cemen Tech
• A Plat of Survey for property located at 2105 N 3^rd Lane
• A preliminary plat for Trail View Plat 2

More information on these items and others can be found in the council packet.

Upcoming Public Hearings

• August 1, 2022 at 6 PM on the proposed Amendment No 7 to the Hillcrest/Downtown Unified Urban Renewal Plan.

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below.  These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The next regular Council meeting will be on Monday, August 1, 2022.

August 1, 2022

August 15, 2022

Rental Properties Inspection

Do you own or manage rental property in Indianola? Rental properties in Indianola are required to register their properties as part of the rental housing inspection program. If you own or manage a rental, you can register your property today on our city website: https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/.../Registration-and...

All rental properties will need to register and have their properties inspected. Inspection due dates for rental properties are ward based. Currently, the City of Indianola is inspecting rental properties located in Ward 1. All rental properties located in Ward 1 will need to complete their registration and inspection by February 28, 2023. For resources on how to prepare for your rental inspection or to see what ward you are in, please visit: https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/1013/Inspections

Please contact the Community Development department for any questions you may have regarding the registration process or rental housing codes by emailing comdev@IndianolaIowa.gov or calling (515) 961-9430.

Boards and Commissions

There are numerous Boards & Commissions with current openings that provide citizens an opportunity to have an impact on our community by advising the City Council on various areas. If you are interested in serving, please visit our website for more information and the application. 

Summer Activities

There are many activities offered by the City to keep everyone of all ages busy all summer long! Visit the calendar on our website to see all we have to offer, or visit the Library and Parks and Recreation pages.

Employment Opportunities

The City of Indianola is currently hiring for multiple positions, including the Director of Information Technology. Please visit our website for more information on employment opportunities.

Community Update – July 8, 2022

Indianola Veterans Memorial Aquatic Center Named Des Moines’ People’s Choice 2022 Winner

The Indianola pool was named the 2022 People’s Choice Winner! The pool has 34 lifeguards, 4 lifeguard instructors, one water safety instructor and 11 operational staff to serve the community. We appreciate the hardworking staff that makes Indianola’s pool the best around!

The Aquatic Center will be hosting the annual Cardboard Boat Races on August 21 at 3:30 p.m.

Downtown Reconstruction Project Update

This week, the following will be taking place in the downtown square as part of the Downtown Reconstruction Project.

• Beginning at 8 PM on Sunday, July 10 and ending by the morning of Monday, July 11, there will be intermediate street/parking closures in the downtown square to finish permanent pavement markings.  This will affect the following areas:
  1. Salem Avenue between 1st Street and Howard Street
  2. Howard Street between Salem Avenue and 1^st Avenue
  3. Buxton Street between Salem Avenue and 2^nd Avenue (Highway 92)
• By Thursday, July 14, Howard Street between Salem Avenue and Ashland Avenue will be reopened to vehicular traffic. 

Additional information on the project may be found at: https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/804/Indianola-Downtown-Square-Streetscape

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, July 5, 2022.  The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

Among the items Council unanimously approved were:

• Event applications for a band concert on Salem Ave on July 21, the Celebrate Warren County Parade on July 30, and the Log Cabin Festival Parade on September 24
• Payment Application for the Water Resource Recovery Facility Trunk Sewer and Outfall Sewer Improvement Projects
• Appointments to the Hometown Pride Committee
• A representation letter with Myers and Stauffer LC regarding adjusted ground emergency medical transportation costs.

More information on these items and others can be found in the council packet.

Upcoming Public Hearings

• July 18, 2022 at 6 PM regarding a request to rezone property adjacent to 2110 Country Club Road from A1 to R1 Zoning District.
• August 1, 2022 at 6 PM on the proposed Amendment No 7 to the Hillcrest/Downtown Unified Urban Renewal Plan.

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below.  These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The next regular Council meeting will be on Monday, July 18, 2022.

July 18, 2022 {LINK}

August 1, 2022 {LINK}

Boards and Commissions

There are numerous Boards & Commissions with current openings that provide citizens an opportunity to have an impact on our community by advising the City Council on various areas. If you are interested in serving, please visit our website for more information and the application. 

Hometown Pride Parade and Summer Art Festival

The Indianola Hometown Pride Committee is hosting the Celebrate Warren County Parade on Saturday, July 30. Whether you want to sign up to showcase your group in the parade, or be a spectator along the route, mark it on your calendar today! The parade will begin at Memorial Park and end at Buxton Park, for the Indianola Summer Art Festival! The full route will be announced soon. To register your group, sign up here: https://bit.ly/WCparade.

Summer Activities

There are many activities offered by the City to keep everyone of all ages busy all summer long! Visit the calendar on our website to see all we have to offer, or visit the Library and Parks and Recreation pages.

Employment Opportunities

The City of Indianola is currently hiring for multiple positions. Please visit our website for more information on employment opportunities.

Community Update – June 24, 2022
 

Employee Awards

The City of Indianola recently awarded Firefighter/Paramedic Chuck Cross as Employee of the Year.  Mr. Cross, a 29-year veteran of the department, has been a reliable leader, instructor, and team member in the ever-changing work environment in order to provide high-quality services to the community.

Other employees nominated as Employee of the Year were Afton Bradley, Recreation Coordinator – Aquatics and Special Events; Alison Brown, Teen Services and Marketing Librarian; Garry Cunningham, Street Development; Jerad Keenan, Water Pollution Control Operator III; and MyLisa Thompson, IT Support Services. Nineteen employees received longevity awards.

At the annual IAWEA conference, Water Resource Recovery Department Director Rick Graves received the prestigious William D. Hatfield Award for outstanding performance and professionalism in the Operation of a Wastewater Treatment Facility. Water Pollution Control Operator Kevin Crawford was accepted into the Golden Manhole Society.

Thank-you to all City employees for their dedication to making Indianola a great place to live!

Downtown Reconstruction Project Update

Salem Avenue is now open to traffic. The contractor is working on the sidewalks on Howard Street. There will be sidewalks or other walking paths available for patrons during Ridiculous Days on June 25. Howard Street is tentatively scheduled to open the second week of July.

Ashland Avenue from 1^st to Howard Streets was closed this week. Pavement removal has been completed and the contractor is starting the underground utility work. Ashland Avenue from Howard to B Street is tentatively scheduled to close beginning July 11.

Hometown Pride Parade

The Indianola Hometown Pride Committee is hosting the Celebrate Warren County Parade on Saturday, July 30. Whether you want to sign up to showcase your group in the parade, or be a spectator along the route, mark it on your calendar today! Parade will begin at Memorial Park and end at Buxton Park, for the Indianola Summer Art Festival! The full route will be announced soon. To register your group, sign up here: https://bit.ly/WCparade.

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Monday, June 20, 2022.   The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

Among the items Council unanimously approved were:

• An event application for the Summer Art Festival on July 30, from 10 AM – 4 PM at Buxton Park
• Payment Applications for the Water Resource Recovery Facility, Downtown Reconstruction, and 2022 Infrastructure Improvement (Boston Avenue) Projects
• Fiscal Year 23 meeting calendar
• Submission of first quarter 2022 utility write-offs to the State Offset Program for collection
• The completion and final payment of the Valley Place Reconstruction Project
• An engagement agreement with Ahlers and Cooney regarding Amendment No 7 to the Hillcrest/Downtown Unified Urban Renewal Plan
• The renewal of an agreement between the City of Indianola and the Indianola Country Club for the use of sewer effluent
• A Professional Services Agreement with HR Green for fiscal year 23 general wastewater engineering services
• Budget amendment number 1 to the fiscal year 23 budget
• Fiscal year 23 salaries

More information on these items and others can be found in the council packet.

The Council met in a study session after the regular meeting to hear presentations regarding a proposed K9 Unit and the Wonder on Buxton project.

Public Hearing Scheduled

Council set a public hearing for July 18, 2022 at 6 PM regarding a request to rezone property adjacent to 2110 Country Club Road from A1 to R1 Zoning District.

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below.  These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The Council will meet in special session on June 27 at 8 AM to approve fiscal year-end claims. The next regular Council meeting will be on Tuesday, July 5, 2022 (due to the Independence Day holiday).

July 5, 2022

July 18, 2022

Non-Emergency Offices Holiday Closure

Non-emergency offices, including Parks & Recreation and the Library, will be closed on Monday, July 4^th, in observance of Independence Day. The Veteran’s Memorial Aquatic Center will have regular business hours on July 4.

Summer Activities

There are many activities offered by the City to keep everyone of all ages busy all summer long! Visit the calendar on our website to see all we have to offer, or visit the Library and Parks and Recreation pages.

Employment Opportunities

The City of Indianola is currently hiring for multiple positions. Please visit our website for more information on employment opportunities.

Community Update – June 10, 2022

Mayor’s Youth Council Bike Fest 2022

Pedal over to Irving Elementary on Saturday, June 11 for  Bike Fest 2022! The event, from 10 AM – noon, promotes bike safety and summer fun. Activities include a bike safety rodeo, dunk tank, bike obstacle course, big trike races, wet and wild games/contests, snacks and door prizes. Kids can also get fitted for a bike helmet. 

Construction Update

• 2022 Infrastructure Improvement Project (Boston Avenue): Contractors have been working on the sanitary sewer this week. 
• Iowa Ave & N 9th St: A subcontractor is working on the ADA sidewalk ramps. The project is expected to be completed by June 13. One lane of traffic will remain open during the project. Please use caution when driving in the area. 
• Downtown Reconstruction Project (Streetscape): The contractor is in the final stages of the work on Salem Avenue between Howard and 1st Streets; work includes installation of streetlights, street painting, signage, and planting flowers and trees. Work on Howard Street will begin next week. Ashland Ave from 1st to Howard will be closed beginning the week of June 20th. 

Meet & Greet

The public is invited to a meet and greet of Indianola’s City Manager Ben Reeves and Community School District Superintendent Ted Ihns on Thursday, June 16 from 6 PM – 8 PM. The event will take place at the Simpson College Black Box Theater, Kent Campus Center, 701 N C St.  Formal introductions are at 6:15 with an open reception following. 

Summer Activities

There are many activities offered by the City to keep everyone of all ages busy all summer long! Visit the  calendar on our website to see all we have to offer, or visit the  Library and  Parks and Recreation pages. 

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Monday, June 6, 2022.  The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

Among the items Council unanimously approved were:

• An event application for Ridiculous Days on June 25, 2022
• Payment Applications for the Water Resource Recovery Facility Influent Trunk Sewer and Outfall Sewer project and the Gold Course Irrigation Pipe Extension Project
• Vehicle purchases for the Fire Department
• Amendment No 1 to the Professional Services Agreement with HR Green for the Construction Phase Services for the Water Resource Recovery Facility Project
• The Statewide Urban Design and Specifications (SUDAS) Standard Specifications (2022 Edition), as revised by the SUDAS General Supplemental Specifications and the revised City of Iowa City Supplemental Specifications
• Numerous appointments to city boards and commissions
• 2022 Strategic Plan
• Warren County Hazard Mitigation Plan

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below.  These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The Council will meet in special session on June 27 at 8 AM to approve fiscal year-end claims. The next regular Council meeting will be on June 20, 2022. 

June 20, 2022 (PDF)

July 5, 2022 (PDF)

Employment Opportunities

The City of Indianola is currently hiring for multiple positions. Please visit our website for more information on  employment opportunities. 

Yard Waste

The City would like to provide a friendly reminder that regulations ( 135.03) prohibit placing debris, such as grass clippings and rubbish, on roadways. This helps create a safer driving surface and also helps to prevent blocking of the storm sewer drains (as seen in the below picture) so that proper drainage can occur. The public’s assistance is greatly appreciated.

Community Update – May 19, 2022

Ventilators for Medic Units

The Indianola Fire Department will obtain four mobile ventilators for each medic unit from the State of Iowa. The addition of this piece of equipment will enhance the level of service provided to the community and increase efficiency. Staff will be trained on the equipment prior to installation in the ambulances. 

Indianola Public Library Summer Bash

Join us for our Summer Bash to kick off summer at the Library with music from KNIA, outdoor games, and food from Karams Grill, Dough Crazy, Hotsy Totsy Food Truck and Ron's Grill on Tuesday, May 31st from 6-8 PM. There will be a cornhole tournament for adults at 6:30 PM with a gift card to West Hill Brewing Company for the winner!

Water Resource Recovery Facility

The construction of the Water Resource Recovery Facility is approximately 80% complete. Drone footage of the progress can be viewed on the Water Resource Recovery Department’s website.

I Save Lives Blood Drive

The City of Indianola Employee Engagement Committee hosted the ‘I Save Lives Blood Drive’ on May 19. Thank-you to City staff and community members for participating!

Memorial Day

Non-emergency City offices will be closed on Monday, May 30 in observance of the Memorial Day holiday.

Yard Waste

The City would like to provide a friendly reminder that regulations (135.03) prohibit placing debris, such as grass clippings and rubbish, on roadways. This helps create a safer driving surface and also helps to prevent blocking of the storm sewer drains (as seen in the linked picture) so that proper drainage can occur. The public’s assistance is greatly appreciated.

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Monday, May 16, 2022.   The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

Among the items Council unanimously approved were:

• Payment applications for the 2022 Infrastructure Improvements Project (Boston Ave), the Water Resource Recovery Facility Project, the South Plant Lift Station Project, and the Square Reconstruction Project
• Agreements with Terracon Consultants for Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment and State 1 Geotechnical Site Assessment of the Warren County Highway Department property
• A contract with Snyder and Associates for traffic signal improvements at the intersection of Buxton St and 2^nd Avenue
• A quote for outdoor warning siren replacements
• A Major Site Plan application for restaurant and retail sales at 1010 North Jefferson Way

Study Session

The Indianola City Council heard a presentation from Snyder and Associates regarding the South K Street Paving Project. Highlights of the presentation included: Project History and Status; Property Assessment Process and Methodology; Speed Control Concepts; and Unique Design. The Council will discuss the project over several council meetings in the coming months. 

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below.  These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The Council will meet in special session on May 25 at HR Green to learn more about the sewer facilities, and on June 1 at City Hall to discuss the Public Safety and Library/City Hall Building Projects. The next regular Council meeting will be on June 6, 2022.

June 6, 2022 

June 20, 2022

Indianola Summer Arts Festival

The Indianola Public Arts Commission is hosting the Indianola Summer Art Festival on Saturday, July 30, 2022. Artist applications are now being accepted. The application can be viewed here.

Employment Opportunities

The City of Indianola is currently hiring for multiple positions. Please visit our website for more information on employment opportunities.

Community Update – May 6, 2022

Public Service Recognition Week

May 2-6, 2022, is Public Service Recognition Week. As President Woodrow Wilson said, “You are not here merely to make a living. You are here in order to enable the world to live more amply, with greater vision, with a finer spirit of hope and achievement. You are here to enrich the world, and you impoverish yourself if you forget the errand.” We thank our staff for their dedication in carrying out the mission of our organization to make Indianola a great place to live.

Pancake Breakfast

The Indianola Fire Department and Noon Lions are hosting their annual spring pancake breakfast on May 7, 2022, from 7 AM – 11 AM at the Indianola Fire Station, 110 N 1^st Street. Free will donations are accepted and will be used towards the purchase of a Lucas Device.

Median Maintenance

Spring median maintenance on Hwy 65/69 will be performed on Tuesday, May 17 from 9 AM – 3 PM. Inside lanes will be closed.

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Monday, May 2, 2022.  The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

Among the items Council approved were:

• An event application, noise permit and liquor licenses for the Indianola Chamber of Commerce Friday Night Live Concert Series. The concerts will be held at Memorial Park on June 10, 24 and July 8 from 6 PM to 9:30 PM. The parking lot area will be closed to traffic.
• Payment Application No. 13 to Langman Construction in the amount of $150,648.32 for the Water Resource Recovery Facility Influent Trunk Sewer and Outfall Sewer project
• Insurance benefits for city employees
• Authorization for a contract for a classification and compensation study
• Labor contract between the City of Indianola and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Local Union 238 and Police Unit
• An amendment to the purchase of a new single axle dump truck for the Public Works Department
• An agreement with DMMPO for preparing a sidewalk and trails inventory and condition report
• A development agreement and the sale of real property located at 506 W 2^nd Avenue
• A budget amendment to the Fiscal Year 22 budget
• An engagement agreement with D.A. Davidson for underwriter services

Consolidated city hall/library, new public safety facility 

The Indianola City Council did not approve two resolutions calling for a special election on bonds for a city facility (city hall/library) and public safety facility. Staff and Council continue to discuss and brainstorm ways to move the projects forward.

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below.  These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The next regular Council meeting will be on Monday, May 2, 2022.

May 16, 2022

June 6, 2022

Indianola Summer Arts Festival

The Indianola Public Arts Commission is hosting the Indianola Summer Art Festival on Saturday, July 30, 2022. Artist applications are now being accepted. The application can be viewed here.

Employment Opportunities

The City of Indianola is currently hiring for multiple positions. Please visit our website for more information on employment opportunities.

Community Update – April 22, 2022

Indianola takes steps toward consolidated city hall/library, new public safety facility 

Following years of assessments and planning, the City of Indianola is considering next steps toward a solution to ongoing facility needs for its fire station, police station, city hall, and library. At a council work session on Monday, Interim City Manager Charlie Dissell, Interim Police Chief Brian Sher, Fire Chief Greg Chia, and Library Director Michele Patrick presented conceptual plans as well as the planning process to date.

Presentation

Press Release

Travel Iowa 

On Tuesday, April 19, Travel Iowa premiered the Soul of Iowa campaign as part of the annual Iowa Tourism Conference. Indianola and the National Balloon Classic were one of only four regions chosen for a feature drone video story capturing some incredible footage.   The video can be seen here: https://youtu.be/98THjLkPd_s.  To find out more about the Soul of Iowa, please visit: https://www.soulofiowa.com/index.html

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Monday, April 18, 2022.   The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

Among the items Council unanimously approved were:

• An event application for the American Legion’s Veterans Memorial Day Parade on May 30 at 10:00 AM
• Payment Application No. 22 to William Brothers Construction in the amount of $2,040,212.11 for the Water Resource Recovery Facility project
• An intergovernmental agreement for mutual assistance for Warren County Fire/EMS Services
• A Professional Services Agreement with MSA Professional Services for planning services for the N 6^th Street sub-area plan and for the Indianola Public Works Facility needs assessment
• The purchase of a new single axle dump truck for the Public Works Department
• Change Order Number 5 in the amount of $30,501.14 and Payment Application Number 9 in the amount of $185,743.74 from Absolute Concrete for the Downtown Reconstruction Project
• Easements in connection with the Downtown Reconstruction Project
• Preliminary and final plats

Public Hearings Scheduled

The Indianola City Council will hold public hearings on May 2 at 6:00 PM regarding:

• The third amendment to the FY22 budget
• The proposed sale of real property and approval of a development agreement at 506 W 2^nd Avenue
• Complaints filed on tobacco sales permit violations

Brush Facility Open and Spring Cleanup Scheduled

The Indianola Brush Facility is now open on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Curbside spring cleanup has been scheduled for the week of April 25-29 on your recycling day. Please place your items on the curb by 6 AM. The total amount of debris on your curb must fit into the size of a flatbed pickup truck. For more information on cleanup or the brush facility services, please visit our website.

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below.  These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The next regular Council meeting will be on Monday, May 2, 2022.

May 2, 2022

May 16, 2022

Employment Opportunities

The City of Indianola is currently hiring for multiple seasonal positions. Please visit our website for more information on employment opportunities.

Community Update – April 8, 2022

Ben Reeves Announced as New City Manager

The City of Indianola is pleased to introduce Ben Reeves as its next city manager. Mr. Reeves comes to Indianola from Santaquin City, Utah, a community of over 16,000 that is located 20 miles south of Provo, Utah. “It is an honor to be selected to serve the residents of Indianola as your next city manager. My family and I are very excited to relocate and plant roots in this beautiful community,” said Mr. Reeves. “It is my desire to perpetuate and enhance the great work of the city staff and elected leaders in an open, welcoming, and unifying manner. We are very grateful and humbled by this wonderful opportunity.” The full press release is available on our website.

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Monday, April 4, 2022.   The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

 Among the items Council approved were:

• Payment Application No. 12 to Langman Construction in the amount of $278,297.24 for the Water Resource Recovery Facility Trunk Sewer and Outfall Sewer Improvements project
• Approval of a sidewalk use agreement with The Groggy Dog
• Approval of an event application from the Indianola Public Library for their Summer Kickoff Event on Tuesday, May 31 from 6 pm – 8 pm
• The purchase of a vehicle for the Community and Economic Development Department

Public Hearings Scheduled

The Indianola City Council scheduled two public hearings:

• April 18, 2022 at 6 PM on the transfer of a storm sewer easement to Warren County
• May 2, 2022 at 6 PM for the third amendment to the FY22 budget

Downtown Square Commission Appointments

The Council also appointed nine individuals to serve on the newly formed Downtown Square Commission. This commission is responsible for recommending sidewalk and street use permits, street closure permits and reviewing façade grant applications.

Other boards and commissions will be seeking applicants this year. For a listing of upcoming openings or to learn more about our various boards, please visit our website.

Brush Facility Open and Spring Cleanup Scheduled

The Indianola Brush Facility is now open on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Free yard disposal days are through April 16. The facility will be closed on April 17.

Curbside spring cleanup has been scheduled for the week of April 25-29 on your recycling day. Please place your items on the curb by 6 AM. The total amount of debris on your curb must fit into the size of a flatbed pickup truck. For more information on cleanup or the brush facility services, please visit our website.

Spring Magazine

The Spring 2022 issue of the Indianola Magazine was delivered to area homes and is available online.  Check it out to discover a wide range of activities for citizens of all ages!

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below.  These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The next regular Council meeting will be on Monday, April 18, 2022.

April 18, 2022

May 2, 2022

Employment Opportunities

The City of Indianola is currently hiring for multiple seasonal positions. Please visit our website for more information on employment opportunities.

Community Update – March 25, 2022

City Manager Search

The City Council invites the public to attend a city manager candidate meet and greet on Friday, April 1 at 6:00 p.m. The event will be held in Hubbell Hall (2^nd floor), Kent Campus Center, Simpson College, 701 North C Street. A meet and greet will follow formal introductions. The Council will interview each candidate in closed session on Saturday, April 2. A press release with more information on the candidates will be published on Monday, March 28.

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Monday, March 21, 2022.   The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

Among the items Council approved were:

• Payment Application No. 21 to Williams Brothers Construction in the amount of $663,944.01 for the Water Resource Recovery Facility project.
• Approval of a deck agreement with The Brickhouse and sidewalk use agreements with The Local Vine and West Hill Brewery.
• An Ordinance creating a Downtown Square Commission. Applications are now being accepted.
  1. Ordinance Link
  2. Application Link
• The submission of city utility write-offs to the State Offset Program.
• The City’s Fee Schedule.
• The Fire Department Annual Report.
• An Ordinance creating an exception to nonconforming structures.
• An agreement and contract for fire protection and emergency response services between Greenfield Township, Warren County and the City of Indianola, Iowa.
• A contract with AVI Systems for a new audio/visual system in the Council Chambers. 

FY2023 Budget Approved

The Indianola City Council held a Public Hearing for the FY23 budget on Monday, March 21, 2022. The Council then unanimously approved the budget, which included the property tax levy decreasing by 8 cents. More information on the budget can be found on our website.

Grant for Outdoor Warning Siren Replacement Project

The Council also approved a subaward agreement between the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and the City of Indianola. The grant will allow the City to replace four outdoor warning sirens.

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below.  These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The next regular Council meeting will be on Monday, April 4, 2022.

April 4, 2022

April 18, 2022

Employment Opportunities

The City of Indianola is currently hiring for multiple seasonal positions. Please visit our website for more information on employment opportunities.

Community Update – March 11, 2022

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Monday, March 7, 2022. The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

Among the items Council approved were:

• Payment Application No. 11 to Langman Construction in the amount of $520,781.80 for the Water Resource Recovery Facility Influent Trunk Sewer and Outfall Sewer project.
• A hay mowing contract for the Activity Center.
• Brush Facility services, dates and fees for the 2022 calendar year.
• Wage ranges for parks, recreation, and aquatic center seasonal staff.
• A tentative labor agreement between the City of Indianola and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Local Union 238 and the Police Unit.

FY2023 Budget Update

The Indianola City Council will hold a Public Hearing for the FY23 budget on Monday, March 21, 2022 at 6:00 pm in the City Hall Council Chambers. More information on the budget can be found on our website.

City Manager Search

The City Council met in closed sessions this week to discuss and interview five individuals for the city manager position. Three applicants will be invited to the final round of interviews and a town hall session with citizens, tentatively scheduled for the last week of March.

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below.  These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The next regular Council meeting will be on Monday, March 21, 2022.

March 21, 2022

April 4, 2022

Water Resource Recovery Facility Update

Checkout the most recent progress video of the Water Resource Recovery Facility. The facility is scheduled to be substantially complete by summer and final completion this fall.

http://www.indianolaiowa.gov/999/Progress-Videos-Photos

Indianola Public Arts Commission

The Indianola Public Arts Commission was gifted another piano to place on the Square in order to attract visitors and encourage people to stay longer. They have partnered with the Indianola High School Advanced Art Class and Art Club to design and paint the piano. The theme of the design is honeybees.   The Commission’s first piano is currently at West Hill Brewery.

Community Update – February 11, 2022

$500,000 Grant Awarded to Indianola

The City Council has approved a contract for the Wastewater and Drinking Water Financial Assistance Program Grant (WTFAP) with the Iowa Finance Authority. This grant was awarded to the City of Indianola in the amount of $500,000 towards the construction of the new Water Resource Recovery Facility.

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Monday, February 7, 2022.   The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

 Among the items Council approved were:

• A renewal liquor license for Z's Eatery and Draught Haus.
• Urban Revitalization Designation Applications.
• Payment Application No. 10 to Langman Construction in the amount of $567,811.98 for the Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF) Influent Trunk Sewer and Outfall Sewer Project.
• Third and final consideration of an ordinance approving the vacation of a 20' and 42' storm sewer easement at 1010 North Jefferson Way.
• An agreement with Visual Labs for body worn cameras for the police department.
• Payment Application No. 6 and Change Order No. 1 for the South Plant Lift Station Improvement Project
• Change Order No. 5 for the Water Resource Recovery Facility Project.
• A Letter of Agreement between the City of Indianola and the Des Moines Airport Authority in which the City will contribute $250,000 over 5 years to the Airport Terminal Project.
• An agreement with Central Pump and Motor for the McCord - Plainview Lift Station Piping Project.
• 2020 SRF Loan Amendment for the Streetscape Sponsored Project, in which the interest is reduced so that more of the principal can be used on a storm water project.

FY2023 Budget Update

The Indianola City Council received a presentation by Assistant City Manager/CFO Andy Lent on the proposed FY2023 budget. This presentation came on the same night that the Council set the public hearing for the FY2023 Maximum Property Tax Dollars for Tuesday, February 22 at 6 PM. The presentation was an update on where the FY2023 budget currently stands and is subject to change prior to the final adoption of the budget at the second Council meeting in March. The presentation can be found at: https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/13710/FY23-Budget-Update-Presentation-7-Feb-2022

Boards and Commissions

The Council also appointed Elizabeth Miller to the Civil Service Commission, Bob Kling to the Bravo Board of Directors, and Lin Stecker to the Planning and Zoning Commission.

If you would like to volunteer to help your community, please visit our website to find opportunities.  

http://www.indianolaiowa.gov/164/Boards-Commissions

Set Your Calendar!

The City Council has scheduled two public hearings for the next Council meeting. To have your voice heard, attend the meeting in person, or submit a public comment form ahead of time. (http://www.indianolaiowa.gov/FormCenter/City-Hall-9/Public-Comment-76)

 February 22 hearings:

• Fiscal Year 23 Maximum Property Tax Dollars Hearing
• Plans, specifications, form of contract and estimate of cost for the 2022 Infrastructure Improvements on West Boston, North F Street and West Clinton Avenue

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below.  These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The next regular Council meeting will be on Tuesday, February 22, 2022. Immediately following that meeting will be a study session.

February 22, 2022

March 7, 2022

City Manager Search Update

The application deadline for the city manager position closed on Friday, February 4. The firm assisting with the recruitment will do an initial screening of the 37 applicants before compiling a report to Council of the candidates. The Council will meet in early March to review the candidates and set the interview process.

January Building Permit Report

The Community and Economic Development Department has issued the January 2022 Building Permit Report.  Last month, the City issued 15 building permits valued at over $5.5 Million, including 10 single-family dwellings valued at over $3.1 Million and a new commercial building (Executive Laser Wash) valued at $2.4 Million. To view the City’s archived building permit reports, please visit: https://www.indianolaiowa.gov/Archive.aspx?AMID=38.

Community Update – January 21, 2022

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, January 18, 2022. The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

Among the items Council approved were:

• Payment Application Number 19 for the Water Resource Recovery Facility. As of this week, the substantial completion date for this project is May 14, 2022 with final completion on July 24, 2022.
• Ordinances amending noise regulations, mobile food vendor requirements and zoning district at 404 South Jefferson Way.
• Payment Application Number 7 for the Streetscape Project. Phase One is substantially complete. The next phase will tentatively begin in early March.

Boards and Commissions

The Council also appointed Jane Whalen to the Board of Adjustment, Deb White to the IMU Board of Trustees, and re-appointed Sarah Ritchie to the Planning and Zoning Commission.

If you would like to volunteer to help your community, please visit our website to find opportunities.  The Civil Service Commission, Human Relations Commission and Planning and Zoning Commission have immediate openings.  We will be accepting applications for other boards and commissions this summer.

http://www.indianolaiowa.gov/164/Boards-Commissions

Set Your Calendar!

The City Council has scheduled several public hearings for February. To have your voice heard, attend the meeting in person, or submit a public comment form ahead of time. (http://www.indianolaiowa.gov/FormCenter/City-Hall-9/Public-Comment-76)

February 7 hearings:

• Fiscal Year 22 Budget Amendment
• 1201 North Jefferson Way Sign Exemption Request
• Right-of-way vacation and conveyance of the portion of the north/south alley that lies west of Lot 14 of the Plat of Jones and Windles Addition to Indianola
• Right-of-way vacation and conveyance of a portion of the north/south alley that lies between Lots 5 and 6 in Block 8 of the Original Town Plan of Indianola
• 2110 Country Club Road Rezoning Request
• Rezoning request for approximately 60 acres of property generally located southwest of the intersection of East Hillcrest Avenue and 143rd Street from M-1 (Limited Industrial Zoning District) to M-2 (General Industrial Zoning District)
• Plans, specifications, form of contract and estimate of cost for the Downtown Monument Project

February 22 hearings:

• Fiscal Year 23 Maximum Property Tax Dollars Hearing
• Plans, specifications, form of contract and estimate of cost for the 2022 Infrastructure Improvements on West Boston, North F Street and West Clinton Avenue

Study Session

After the regular meeting, the Council heard a presentation on the Streetscape Project by Chadd Kahlsdorf, with Bolten and Menk, the City’s engineer for the project. Key points of the presentation were:

1. Discussion on Phase 1
2. Lessons learned
3. Project phasing update
4. Monuments

Updates on the Streetscape Project are posted to the City’s website and Facebook Page.

Akhilesh Pal, Public Works Director, also gave a presentation on the Street Department during the Study Session. Key points of the presentation were:

1. Department activities, responsibilities, and priorities
2. Capital Improvement Plan
3. Need for increased staffing
4. Speed limit and stop sign regulations

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below.  These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. The next regular Council meeting will be on Monday, February 7, 2022.

Prior to their regular meeting, the Council will attend two special meetings: one on January 26 with other leaders around Warren County to discuss possible funding assistance for the Des Moines Airport terminal expansion project; and one on January 31 for the Council’s annual strategic planning session.

February 7, 2022

February 22, 2022

Snow Removal

After the snowstorm on January 15^th, the Streets staff completed the snow removal operations by using 224 hours of labor and 81 tons of salt-sand mix, and 7 tons of straight salt.  They have also hauled 250 truckloads of snow from the downtown area and seven parking lots. 

Community Update – January 7, 2022

City Council Update

The Indianola City Council met in regular session on Monday, January 3, 2022.  The meeting can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCwqdy2irWQILB_1QzcVrdw

 During this meeting, Council unanimously approved:

• A payment application for the Influent Trunk Sewer and Outfall Sewer Project in the amount of $327,624.64
• The second consideration of two ordinances pertaining to noise ordinances and mobile food vendors
• The final completion and payment on the 2019 Drainage Improvement Project by T.K. Concrete
• Setting a public hearing for a FY22 budget amendment to be held on February 7, 2022
• Appointing representation to MPO and CIRTPA (Councilman Richardson, Mayor Erickson, Interim City Manager Charlie Dissell and Public Works Director Akhilesh Pal)
• Membership to the newly-formed Mid-Iowa Planning Alliance for Community Development
• Salaries
• The referral of rezoning applications to the Planning and Zoning Commission for the commission to review and send a recommendation back to the Council.
• An extension to the operating agreement with Bird Rides through December 31, 2022. Bird Rides plans to place the scooters around the community after winter. The City has no financial obligations with this agreement.
• A Hold Harmless Agreement between the City of Indianola and Warren County Conservation Board regarding the Middleswart Lodge, located at 15875 118^th Avenue

Charlie Dissell, Interim City Manager reported the Square was opened to all traffic on December 30; the Streetscape Project engineer will give an update on the project at a future council meeting and has put together a guide for business owners on how to care for new sidewalks; compared 2020 and 2021 building permit applications and valuations; and thanked City staff for their work plowing snow during the first significant snowfall event.

After the regular meeting, the Council heard a presentation by Assistant City Manager/Finance Director Andrew Lent on the Fiscal Year 23 Budget in their study session. Key points of the presentation were:

1. Proposed personnel changes: Community and Economic Development adding an associate planner; Police Dept moving an employee from part-time to full-time; Fire/EMS promoting 3 employees to captain and pursuing a grant for 3 additional full-time employees; Public Works adding 2 full-time employees and promoting one employee to Crew Leader.
2. Other Significant Changes: WCEDC requests a $25,000 increase in contribution; IMU Shared Services will decrease due to IMU taking over their payroll and some IT services; other anticipated requests (HIRTA, Des Moines Airport)
3. FY23 Civic Organization Requests
4. Impact Items: Valuations from County; GEMT Funding; IMU Franchise Fees/PILOT Payments; Health Insurance Increase; IMU Utility Fee Increases, if any.
5. Next Steps: Finalize proposed budget after valuations are received; budget briefings with Council Members; Budget Presentation on February 7; Maximum Property Tax Dollar Hearing on February 22; Budget Hearing on March 14; Budget filed with the state by March 31st.

The FY23 CIP Presentation, along with budget information from previous years, can be viewed on the City’s website at http://www.indianolaiowa.gov/512/City-Clerk-Finance-Department.

Upcoming Council Meetings

Draft agendas for the upcoming Council meetings can be found at the link below.  These are working drafts and are subject to change. Agendas are published on the City's website the Thursday prior to a scheduled City Council meeting. Due to the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, the next Council meeting will be on Tuesday, January 18, 2022.

January 18, 2022

February 7, 2022