Independence, IA
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IndependenceIA averageUS Census ACS
Median home value
$156,900 Typical home value $223,955 +5.8% yr/yr · +35.6% 5-yr
👤 Members & officials (10)
Members seen in recent official meeting records — names and roles as published.
Who’s on the Airport Board
- Rottinghaus
- Payne
- Pilcher
- Merritt Jones
- Brad Lichty
- Callahan
Who’s on the City Council
- Huston
- Mayner
- Callahan
- Moore
Municipal budget
Total revenue$25.1M (FY2023)
Total spending$26.2M (FY2023)
Taxes$6.1M (FY2023)
Debt outstanding$16.2M (FY2023)
Spending per resident$4,255 (FY2023)
Development activity
20257 housing units ($1.8M)
Upcoming
Tue Sep 1, 2026 · 08:30
Planning and Zoning Commission
Commission to review right-of-way request for Wapsie Valley Creamery
The Independence Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a brief meeting to approve the minutes from August 4, 2026, and review a right-of-way request for the Wapsie Valley Creamery. No other substantive business is listed on the agenda.
- Approval of previous minutes from 8/4/2026
- Right-of-way (ROW) request for Wapsie Valley Creamery
zoningright-of-wayplanning
City Hall, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Planning and Zoning Commission
Meeting
Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at 8:30 AM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
Agenda
Meeting Opening
1.
Roll Call
New Business
2.
Approval of previous minutes - 8/4/2026
3.
ROW Wapsie Valley Creamery
Adjournment
This agenda is subject to change.
Wed Sep 2, 2026 · 17:00
Airport Board
Independence Municipal Airport, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Airport Board Meeting
Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at 5:00 PM
Airport Terminal Meeting Room - 1684 230th
Street
Agenda
Meeting Opening
The Airport Board's mission is to advise the Council in developing the future of Independence aviation.
1.
Roll Call
2.
Approve the Agenda
The agenda may be amended to remove items during this time, but no items may be added to
the agenda.
3.
Approve Minutes
4.
Public Comment
Welcome to Visitors: 5-minute time limitation for speaking, no profanity will be tolerated, and
no personal attacks against Board Members or City Staff will be allowed. The Airport Board
is unable to respond or take any action at this time. Please state your name and address
before addressing the Board for the official record.
New Business
5.
Mechanic RFP's
6.
Engineer Update
7.
Chairman/City Manager Update
8.
Airport Manager Update
9.
Revenues and Expenses to Date
Adjournment
This agenda is subject to change.
Tue Sep 8, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Mon Sep 14, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Thu Sep 17, 2026 · 18:30
Library Board
Independence Public Library, Independence
Mon Sep 28, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Mon Oct 5, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Tue Oct 6, 2026 · 08:30
Planning and Zoning Commission
City Hall, Independence
Wed Oct 7, 2026 · 17:00
Airport Board
Independence Municipal Airport, Independence
Mon Oct 12, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Thu Oct 15, 2026 · 18:30
Library Board
Independence Public Library, Independence
Mon Oct 26, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Mon Nov 2, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Tue Nov 3, 2026 · 08:30
Planning and Zoning Commission
City Hall, Independence
Wed Nov 4, 2026 · 17:00
Airport Board
Independence Municipal Airport, Independence
Mon Nov 9, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Thu Nov 19, 2026 · 18:30
Library Board
Independence Public Library, Independence
Mon Nov 23, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Tue Dec 1, 2026 · 08:30
Planning and Zoning Commission
City Hall, Independence
Wed Dec 2, 2026 · 17:00
Airport Board
Independence Municipal Airport, Independence
Mon Dec 7, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Mon Dec 14, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Thu Dec 17, 2026 · 18:30
Library Board
Independence Public Library, Independence
Mon Dec 28, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Mon Jan 4, 2027 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Tue Jan 5, 2027 · 08:30
Planning and Zoning Commission
City Hall, Independence
Wed Jan 6, 2027 · 17:00
Airport Board
Independence Municipal Airport, Independence
Mon Jan 11, 2027 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Thu Jan 21, 2027 · 18:30
Library Board
Independence Public Library, Independence
Mon Jan 25, 2027 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Mon Feb 1, 2027 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Tue Feb 2, 2027 · 08:30
Planning and Zoning Commission
City Hall, Independence
Wed Feb 3, 2027 · 17:00
Airport Board
Independence Municipal Airport, Independence
Mon Feb 8, 2027 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Thu Feb 18, 2027 · 18:30
Library Board
Independence Public Library, Independence
Mon Feb 22, 2027 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Mon Mar 1, 2027 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Tue Mar 2, 2027 · 08:30
Planning and Zoning Commission
City Hall, Independence
Wed Mar 3, 2027 · 17:00
Airport Board
Independence Municipal Airport, Independence
Mon Mar 8, 2027 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Thu Mar 18, 2027 · 18:30
Library Board
Independence Public Library, Independence
Mon Mar 22, 2027 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Mon Apr 5, 2027 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Tue Apr 6, 2027 · 08:30
Planning and Zoning Commission
City Hall, Independence
Wed Apr 7, 2027 · 17:00
Airport Board
Independence Municipal Airport, Independence
Mon Apr 12, 2027 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Thu Apr 15, 2027 · 18:30
Library Board
Independence Public Library, Independence
Mon Apr 26, 2027 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Mon May 3, 2027 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Tue May 4, 2027 · 08:30
Planning and Zoning Commission
City Hall, Independence
Wed May 5, 2027 · 17:00
Airport Board
Independence Municipal Airport, Independence
Mon May 10, 2027 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Thu May 20, 2027 · 18:30
Library Board
Independence Public Library, Independence
Mon May 24, 2027 · 17:30
City Council
City Hall, Independence
Tue Jun 1, 2027 · 08:30
Planning and Zoning Commission
City Hall, Independence
Wed Jun 2, 2027 · 17:00
Airport Board
Independence Municipal Airport, Independence
Recent meetings
Mon Aug 24, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
Council to vote on fines, parking, zoning, and rezoning request
The Independence City Council is meeting to consider multiple ordinance amendments, including a final reading on fines and fees, and second readings on parking, load limits, airport board powers, and various building codes. They will also hold a public hearing on a rezoning request from R-2 Residential to C-1 Commercial, and consider resolutions for a lot combination agreement and a geotechnical engineering proposal for the wastewater treatment plant. The agenda includes consent items, claims approval, and a presentation from the Buchanan County Health Trust.
- Third reading of ordinance amendment to Code Section 1.15 (Fines and Fees Schedule)
- Public hearing for rezoning R-2 Residential to C-1 Commercial
- Resolution to approve lot combination agreement for Pries Enterprises LLC
- Resolution to approve Geotechnical Engineering Proposal for Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications Project
- Consent agenda includes Casey's ownership amendments and Heartland Acres alcohol license renewal
zoningordinancesfeesparkingbuilding-codeswastewateralcohol-license
City Hall, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City Council Meeting
Monday, August 24, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
Agenda
Rules of Procedure
Meeting is live-streamed on the Indytel Local Access Channel, YouTube, and Facebook. Per the Rules of
Procedure for Conduct of City Council Business, the length of any meeting shall be limited to three (3)
hours. This limitation may be extended for any particular meeting by a super majority (two-thirds (5 out of
7)) vote to suspend the rules and extend the meeting by the time required. The Mayor shall be
responsible for enforcing this rule.
Meeting Opening
1.
Pledge of Allegiance
2.
Roll Call
3.
Approve the Agenda
The agenda may be amended to remove items during this time, but no items may be added to
the agenda.
4.
Presentation - Buchanan County Health Trust
5.
Public Comment
Welcome to Visitors: 5-minute time limitation for speaking, no profanity will be tolerated, and
no personal attacks against Council Members or City Staff will be allowed. The Council is
unable to respond or take any action at this time. Please state your name and address
before addressing the Council for the official record.
Consent Agenda
6.
Accept and Approve Consent Agenda
All items listed under the Consent Agenda will be enacted by one motion. There will be
no separate discussion of these items unless a request is made prior to the time the
Council Votes on the motion.
a.
The minutes of the August 10, 2026, regular meetin …
Tue Aug 18, 2026 · 18:30
Library Board
Library Board to elect officers, consider infectious disease policy
The Independence Library Board will meet to approve the agenda, minutes, and bills, and receive a statistics report. New business includes electing officers, discussing an infectious disease policy, and considering a November closure for staff development. The board will also receive updates on programming, the Iowa Library Association Conference, and board training.
- Election of officers
- Infectious Disease Policy discussion
- November Closure/Staff Development Change
- Approval of bills
- Statistics report
libraryboard-meetingpolicystaff-developmentstatistics
Independence Public Library, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Library Board Meeting
Tuesday, August 18, 2026 at 6:30 PM
Library Community Room - 805 1st Street East
Agenda
Meeting Opening
1.
Introduction of Guests
2.
Approve the Agenda
The agenda may be amended to remove items during this time, but no items may be added to
the agenda.
3.
Approve Minutes
Financials
4.
Approve Bills
Statistics
5.
Statistics Report
New Business
6.
Election of Officers
7.
Infectious Disease Policy
8.
November Closure/Staff Development Change
Unfinished Business
Miscellaneous
9.
Programming Update
10. Iowa Library Association Conference
11. Library Board Training
12. Board and Staff Reports
Adjournment
This agenda is subject to change.
Mon Aug 10, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
Council to consider sewer loan, annexations, and multiple code updates
The Independence City Council will hold a public hearing and consider a resolution on a Sewer Revenue Loan for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications Project. They will also take first readings on numerous ordinance amendments updating building, plumbing, and other codes, and consider resolutions on annexations, a rezoning notice, and a police services agreement template. Several consent agenda items include alcohol license renewal, bowhunting requests, and a special event application.
- Public hearing and resolution on Sewer Revenue Loan for Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications
- First readings of ordinance amendments to Chapters 155-166 (building, plumbing, mechanical, fuel gas, fire, electric, residential, property maintenance, existing building, energy conservation, pool/spa codes)
- Resolution to set hearing on rezoning from R-2 Residential to C-1 Commercial
- Resolution preliminarily approving pre-annexation agreement and voluntary annexations
- Commercial Restoration Rehab Grant applications for 119 and 121 1st St E
budgetzoningannexationpublic-hearingordinancepolicealcohol-licensehunting
City Hall, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City Council Meeting
Monday, August 10, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
Agenda
Rules of Procedure
Meeting is live-streamed on the Indytel Local Access Channel, YouTube, and Facebook. Per the Rules of
Procedure for Conduct of City Council Business, the length of any meeting shall be limited to three (3)
hours. This limitation may be extended for any particular meeting by a super majority (two-thirds (5 out of
7)) vote to suspend the rules and extend the meeting by the time required. The Mayor shall be
responsible for enforcing this rule.
Meeting Opening
1. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Roll Call
3. Approve the Agenda
The agenda may be amended to remove items during this time, but no items may be added to
the agenda.
4. Public Comment
Welcome to Visitors: 5-minute time limitation for speaking, no profanity will be tolerated, and
no personal attacks against Council Members or City Staff will be allowed. The Council is
unable to respond or take any action at this time. Please state your name and address
before addressing the Council for the official record.
5. Proclamation
6. Oath of Office
Consent Agenda
7. Accept and Approve Consent Agenda
All items listed under the Consent Agenda will be enacted by one motion. There will be
no separate discussion of these items unless a request is made prior to the time the
Council Votes on the motion.
a. The minutes of the July 27, 2026, regular meeting.
b. Pat's Tap Class C reta …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, AUGUST 10, 2026 75
The Independence City Council met in regular session in the council chambers at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, August 10,
2026.
OPENING/ROLL CALL
Mayor Bleichner opened the meeting by calling the meeting to order with Council Members Weber, Hanna, Moore,
Prusator, O’Loughlin, and Appleby in attendance. Council Member Mayner was excused.
This meeting was available for public attendance. The meeting was also broadcast on the local access channel,
YouTube, and Facebook.
APPROVE THE AGENDA
Motion by Council Member Weber, second by Council Member Moore to approve the agenda as presented for the
regular meeting held August 10, 2026. Ayes: All. Absent: Mayner.
PUBLIC COMMENT
John Hertzberg, 413 8"" Avenue NW, spoke on behalf of his uncle Roger Tempus who does not want to be annexed
into the City and wants to know what can be done to stop the process.
Mayor Bleichner read a proclamation declaring August 27 — 29, 2026, as Poppy Days.
Mayor Bleichner performed the public swearing-in of Officer Brock Barnhart.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Council Member O’Loughlin, second by Council Member Moore to accept and approve the consent
agenda that approves the following: a) The minutes of the July 27, 2026, Regular Meeting. b) Pat’s Tap Class C
retail alcohol license renewal that includes outdoor service and living quarters with a tentative effective date of
September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2027. c) Request to hunt within City limits from Keith Donne …
Wed Aug 5, 2026 · 17:00
Airport Board
Airport Board to consider temporary lease of Hangar #2
The Airport Board will discuss a temporary lease of Hangar #2 at the Independence Airport. The meeting also includes routine items such as approving the agenda and minutes, along with updates from the Chairman, City Manager, and Airport Manager.
- Temporary lease of Hangar #2
airportleasespublic-meeting
Independence Municipal Airport, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
# Airport Board Meeting
## Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at 5:00 PM
## Airport Terminal Meeting Room - 1684 230th
## Street
## Agenda
|Meeting Opening|The Airport Board's mission is to advise the Council in developing the future of Independence aviation.|
|---|---|
|1.|Roll Call|
|2.|Approve the Agenda The agenda may be amended to remove items during this time, but no items may be added to the agenda.|
|3.|Approve Minutes|
|4. New Business|Public Comment Welcome to Visitors: 5-minute time limitation for speaking, no profanity will be tolerated, and no personal attacks against Board Members or City Staff will be allowed. The Airport Board is unable to respond or take any action at this time. Please state your name and address before addressing the Board for the official record.|
|5.|Temporary Lease of Hangar #2|
|6.|Chairman/City Manager Update|
|7.|Airport Manager Update|
|8. Adjournment|Revenues and Expenses to Date|
This agenda is subject to change.
Tue Aug 4, 2026 · 08:30
Planning and Zoning Commission
Planning and Zoning Commission to review rezoning for Buchanan County Senior Center
The Planning and Zoning Commission will meet to discuss land use changes and lot agreements. The body is reviewing a rezoning request for the Buchanan County Senior Center and platting items for Downs.
- Rezoning of parcels for Buchanan County Senior Center
- Buchanan County Lot Combination Agreement
- Plat of Survey - Downs
- Lot Combination Agreement - Downs
zoningland-usebuchanan-countyplatting
City Hall, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Planning and Zoning Commission
Meeting
Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at 8:30 AM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
Agenda
Meeting Opening
1. Roll Call
New Business
2. Approval of previous minutes - July 07, 2026
3. Rezoning of Parcels - Buchanan County, Senior Center
4. Buchanan County - Lot Combination Agreement
5. Plat of Survey - Downs
6. Lot Combination Agreement - Downs
Adjournment
This agenda is subject to change.
Mon Aug 3, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
Independence City Council to discuss 10th Street NE right of way and police contracts
The City Council will hold a work session to discuss and debate items for future formal consideration. The meeting includes department reports and discussions on local infrastructure and ordinances.
- Right of Way Abandonment for 10th Street NE
- Parking and load limits for 17th Street SE
- Police Department extra duty contract
- Library Park Project fundraising discussion
- Building Code of Ordinances amendments
infrastructurepolicezoningeconomic-developmentairportpublic-works
City Hall, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City Council Work Session
Monday, August 3, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
Agenda
Rules of Procedure
Workshops are not Public Hearings. No member of the public or interested party has the right to make a
presentation or address the Council on an item under consideration in a workshop or a study session.
During the City Council Work Session, the Council will primarily discuss and debate items intended to be
formally considered at a future City Council Meeting. However, the Council may at any noticed meeting,
including a City Council Work Session meeting, take action on any item shown on the posted agenda as
a potential action item. The City Council Work Session meeting is a regular meeting of the Independence
City Council.
Meeting Opening
Department Updates
1. Department Report - Airport
2. Department Report - Building & Code Enforcement
3. Department Report - Streets
4. Department Report - Utilities
New Business
5. Buchanan County Economic Development
6. Right of Way Abandonment — 10th Street NE
7. 17th Street SE Parking and Load Limit
8. Extra Duty Contract - Police Department
9. Library Park Project Fundraising Discussion
10. Alignment of Chapter 24 (Airport Board) with Current Organizational Practices
11. Building Code of Ordinances Amendments
Other Business
12. Council Topics
13. Mayor Topics
14. City Manager Topics
Adjournment
This agenda is subject to change.
Mon Jul 27, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
Council to set hearing for $56.6M sewer loan, consider rezoning
The City Council will hold public hearings and first readings on rezoning two properties from R-2 Residential to M-2 Heavy Manufacturing (LARD LLC and Pries Enterprises, INC). They will also consider a resolution setting a public hearing for a $56,658,000 Sewer Revenue Loan for wastewater treatment plant modifications. Other business includes third reading of an ordinance amending traffic code enforcement procedures and first reading of an ordinance amending fines and fees schedule.
- Public hearing and first reading for rezoning LARD LLC property from R-2 Residential to M-2 Heavy Manufacturing
- Public hearing and first reading for rezoning Pries Enterprises, INC property from R-2 Residential to M-2 Heavy Manufacturing
- Resolution to fix a date for a public hearing on a $56,658,000 Sewer Revenue Loan and Disbursement Agreement for wastewater treatment plant modifications
- Resolution approving contract and performance/payment bonds for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications Project
- Third reading of an ordinance amendment to Chapter 70 - Traffic Code Enforcement Procedures
zoningwastewaterbudgetpublic-hearingtrafficfinesmanufacturing
✓ Decided: Council adopts four ordinances, approves wastewater plant contract
The Independence City Council approved four ordinances, including final adoption of traffic code enforcement changes (No. 2026-637) and rezoning requests for LARD LLC (No. 2026-638) and Pries Enterprises, Inc. (No. 2026-639), plus removal of traffic camera references from Section 70.02 (No. 2026-640). The Council also approved a resolution (No. 2026-66) for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications Project contract and bonds, and set a public hearing for August 10, 2026, on a sewer revenue loan not to exceed $56,658,000 (Resolution No. 2026-67). All votes were 6-1 with Council Member Appleby dissenting on the wastewater-related items.
- Adopted Ordinance 2026-637 amending Chapter 70 Traffic Code Enforcement Procedures (7-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 2026-638 rezoning for LARD LLC (6-1, Hanna opposed)
- Adopted Ordinance 2026-639 rezoning for Pries Enterprises, Inc. (6-1, Hanna opposed)
- Adopted Ordinance 2026-640 removing traffic camera references from Section 70.02 (7-0)
- Approved Resolution 2026-66 for Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications contract and bonds (6-1, Appleby opposed)
- Approved Resolution 2026-67 setting Aug. 10, 2026 public hearing for sewer revenue loan up to $56,658,000 (6-1, Appleby opposed)
- Approved consent agenda including July 13, 2026 minutes (all ayes)
- Approved bills totaling $374,571.60 (all ayes)
City Hall, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City Council Meeting
Monday, July 27, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
Agenda
Rules of Procedure
Meeting is live-streamed on the Indytel Local Access Channel, YouTube, and Facebook. Per the Rules of
Procedure for Conduct of City Council Business, the length of any meeting shall be limited to three (3)
hours. This limitation may be extended for any particular meeting by a super majority (two-thirds (5 out of
7)) vote to suspend the rules and extend the meeting by the time required. The Mayor shall be
responsible for enforcing this rule.
Meeting Opening
1. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Roll Call
3. Approve the Agenda
The agenda may be amended to remove items during this time, but no items may be added to
the agenda.
4. Public Comment
Welcome to Visitors: 5-minute time limitation for speaking, no profanity will be tolerated, and
no personal attacks against Council Members or City Staff will be allowed. The Council is
unable to respond or take any action at this time. Please state your name and address
before addressing the Council for the official record.
5. Hope Wesleyan Church Presentation
Consent Agenda
6. Accept and Approve Consent Agenda
All items listed under the Consent Agenda will be enacted by one motion. There will be
no separate discussion of these items unless a request is made prior to the time the
Council Votes on the motion.
a. The minutes of the July 13, 2026, regular meeting.
Financials
7. Approve the …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, JULY 27, 2026 70
The Independence City Council met in regular session in the council chambers at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, July 27,
2026.
OPENING/ROLL CALL
Mayor Bleichner opened the meeting by calling the meeting to order with Council Members Weber, Hanna, Moore,
Prusator, Mayner, and Appleby in attendance. Council Member O’Loughlin attended via phone.
This meeting was available for public attendance. The meeting was also broadcast on the local access channel,
YouTube, and Facebook.
APPROVE THE AGENDA
Motion by Council Member Mayner, second by Council Member Weber to approve the agenda as presented for the
regular meeting held July 27, 2026. Ayes: All.
Senior Pastor Bob Solon with Hope Wesleyan Church presented each council member with a commemorative Bible
in recognition of the church celebrating 100 years within Independence.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Council Member Hanna, second by Council Member Mayner to accept and approve the consent
agenda that approves the following: a) The minutes of the July 13, 2026, Regular Meeting. Ayes: All.
FINANCIALS
Motion by Council Member Mayner, second by Council Member Hanna to approve the following bills for payment.
Ayes: All.
ACCESS SYSTEMS LEASING EQUIP LEASE-ALL $1,746.98
ACCO CHEMICALS-PR $2,020.54
ADP PAYROLL SVCS $141,165.05
ALEX SATTIZAHN VOLUNTEER-F $39.81
AMAZON CAPITAL SERVICES SUPPLIES-L $938.36
ANDREW ROMAN VVOLUNTEER-F $1,074.87
ANTHONY SCHULER VOLUNTEER-F $132.70
ASCAP FEES-CH $466.13
BEAM I …
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
motion to approve the first reading of an ordinance that amends provisions pertaining to Chapter 170 — Zoning Regulations, seconded by Council Member Mayner. The roll being called, the following…
6 yea
Appleby yea · Weber yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’ Loughlin yea
motion to have this ordinance that amends provisions pertaining to Chapter 170 — Zoning Regulations, be placed on its final passage for adoption pursuant to lowa Code Section 380.3 and to authorize…
6 yea
Weber yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea · Appleby yea
motion to approve the first reading of an ordinance that amends provisions pertaining to Chapter 170 — Zoning Regulations, seconded by Council Member Mayner. The roll being called, the following…
6 yea
Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea · Appleby yea · Weber yea
motion to have this ordinance that amends provisions pertaining to Chapter 170 — Zoning Regulations, be placed on its final passage for adoption pursuant to Iowa Code Section 380.3 and to authorize…
6 yea
Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea · Appleby yea · Weber yea · Moore yea
ordinance to be considered and voted on for passage at two Council meetings prior to the meeting at which it is to be finally passed be suspended, seconded by Council Member Mayner. The roll being…
6 yea
O’Loughlin yea · Weber yea · Hanna yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea
[context] The roll being called, the following Council Members voted:
6 yea
Weber yea · Hanna yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea
motion to approve and authorize the Mayor to sign a resolution establishing a time and place for a public hearing on August 10, 2026, at 5:30 p.m., on a proposal to enter into a Sewer Revenue Loan…
6 yea
Hanna yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea · Weber yea
Thu Jul 16, 2026 · 18:30
Library Board
Board will consider the Library's Budget Forecast for upcoming fiscal year
The Independence Library Board will review and vote on several policy updates, including the Prize and Incentives Policy and the Fines and Fees Policy. The board will receive a Strategic Plan Update and a Programming Update. A Budget Forecast will be presented for discussion. Additional items include a Park Project update and a review of the website revision.
- Prize and Incentives Policy
- Fines and Fees Policy
- Strategic Plan Update
- Budget Forecast
- Park Project
budgetpolicyplanningprogrammingfacilities
Independence Public Library, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Library Board Meeting
Thursday, July 16, 2026 at 6:30 PM
Library Community Room - 805 1st Street East
Agenda
Meeting Opening
1. Introduction of Guests
2. Approve the Agenda
The agenda may be amended to remove items during this time, but no items may be added to
the agenda.
3. Approve May 2026 Minutes
4. Approve June 2026 Minutes
Financials
5. Approve Bills
Statistics
6. Statistics Report
New Business
7. Prize and Incentives Policy
8. Fines and Fees Policy
9. Strategic Plan Update
10. August Board Meeting
Unfinished Business
Miscellaneous
11. Programming Update
12. Park Project
13. Budget Forecast
14. Little Free Libraries
15. Website revision
16. Library Board Training
17. Board and Staff Reports
Adjournment
This agenda is subject to change.
Mon Jul 13, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
Council will vote on a loan election and award a wastewater plant contract
The Independence City Council will approve a consent agenda that includes a RAGBRAI special Class C retail alcohol license and a Sip N Zip retail tobacco permit. They will consider ordinance amendments to the traffic code and set a public hearing on fee schedule changes. The council will further review bids and award a contract for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications Project, and they will call an election on a proposed General Obligation Loan Agreement. Additional resolutions address preliminary plats, rezoning notices, and official posting locations.
- Approve consent agenda items: June 22 minutes, RAGBRAI Class C retail alcohol license (July 20‑24, 2026), Sip N Zip retail tobacco permit for FY 2027
- Second reading of ordinance amendment to Chapter 70 – Traffic Code Enforcement Procedures
- Award contract for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications Project after further bid consideration
- Resolution to provide notice of hearing on rezoning R‑2 to M‑2 for LARD LLC
- Resolution calling an election on a proposal to enter into a General Obligation Loan Agreement
financezoningwastewatertrafficpermitselection
✓ Decided: City Council awards $58.1M wastewater treatment plant contract
The City Council awarded a $58,176,300 contract to Woodruff Construction for wastewater treatment plant modifications. Council also approved a ballot measure for a fire protection facilities loan and repealed the automated traffic enforcement chapter.
- Awarded Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications contract to Woodruff Construction for $58,176,300 (5-1)
- Approved ballot measure for general obligation bonds up to $14.5M for fire protection facilities (7-0)
- Repealed Chapter 71 — Automated Traffic Enforcement (7-0)
- Approved second reading of ordinance amending Chapter 70 — Traffic Code Enforcement Procedures (7-0)
- Approved preliminary plat of survey for Pines Fourth Addition (7-0)
- Approved plat of survey for LARD LLC parcel for Pries expansion (7-0)
- Scheduled public hearings for July 27 regarding fines/fees and two rezoning requests to M-2 Heavy Manufacturing (7-0)
- Approved $1,862,319.43 in bills for payment (7-0)
City Hall, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City Council Meeting
Monday, July 13, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
Agenda
Rules of Procedure
Meeting is live-streamed on the Indytel Local Access Channel, YouTube, and Facebook. Per the Rules of
Procedure for Conduct of City Council Business, the length of any meeting shall be limited to three (3)
hours. This limitation may be extended for any particular meeting by a super majority (two-thirds (5 out of
7)) vote to suspend the rules and extend the meeting by the time required. The Mayor shall be
responsible for enforcing this rule.
Meeting Opening
1. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Roll Call
3. Approve the Agenda
The agenda may be amended to remove items during this time, but no items may be added to
the agenda.
4. Public Comment
Welcome to Visitors: 5-minute time limitation for speaking, no profanity will be tolerated, and
no personal attacks against Council Members or City Staff will be allowed. The Council is
unable to respond or take any action at this time. Please state your name and address
before addressing the Council for the official record.
Consent Agenda
5. Accept and Approve Consent Agenda
All items listed under the Consent Agenda will be enacted by one motion. There will be
no separate discussion of these items unless a request is made prior to the time the
Council Votes on the motion.
a. The minutes of the June 22, 2026, regular meeting.
b. Independence RAGBRAI Special Class C Retail Alcohol License ap …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, JULY 13, 2026 64
The Independence City Council met in regular session in the council chambers at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, July 13,
2026.
OPENING/ROLL CALL
Mayor Bleichner opened the meeting by calling the meeting to order with Council Members Weber, Hanna, Moore,
Prusator, Mayner, O’ Loughlin, and Appleby in attendance.
This meeting was available for public attendance. The meeting was also broadcast on the local access channel,
YouTube, and Facebook.
APPROVE THE AGENDA
Motion by Council Member O’Loughlin, second by Council Member Moore to approve the agenda as presented for
the regular meeting held July 13, 2026. Ayes: All.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Council Member Mayner, second by Council Member Weber to accept and approve the consent
agenda that approves the following: a) The minutes of the June 22, 2026, Regular Meeting. b) Independence
RAGBRAI Special Class C Retail Alcohol License application that includes outdoor service with a tentative
effective date of July 20, 2026, through July 24, 2026. c) Sip N Zip Retail Tobacco Permit application for Fiscal
Year 2027. Ayes: All.
FINANCIALS
Motion by Council Member O’Loughlin, second by Council Member Mayner to approve the following bills for
payment. Ayes: All.
ACCESS SYSTEMS LEASING EQUIP LEASE-ALL $1,746.98
ACCO MISC EXP-PR $10,814.91
ADESSA BRANDENBURG UMPIRE-PR $435.00
ADP PAYROLL SERVICES $271,212.94
AIR SERVICES INC BLDG MAINT-CH,F $721.00
AMAZON CAPITAL SERVICES SUPPLIES-A,PR,F,PD,W,CH $7,87 …
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
motion to approve the first reading of an ordinance to repeal Chapter 71 — Automated Traffic Enforcement, seconded by Council Member Weber. The roll being called, the following Council Members voted…
6 yea
Weber yea · Hanna yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea
motion to approve and authorize the Mayor to sign the resolution awarding the contract for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications Project to Woodruff Construction of Waterloo, Iowa, in the…
6 yea
Hanna yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea · Weber yea
Wed Jul 8, 2026 · 17:00
Airport Board
Airport Board to consider hangar lease requests and mechanic services RFP
The Airport Board will discuss two lease requests for Hangar No. 2 (Vault Hangar) and a request for proposals for mechanic services. Routine items include roll call, agenda approval, minutes approval, and public comment.
- RFP for Mechanic Services
- Hangar No. 2 (Vault Hangar) Lease Request
- Hangar No. 2 (Vault Hangar) Lease Request (2)
airportleasinghangarmaintenancepublic-worksindependence-iowa
Independence Municipal Airport , Independence
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Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Airport Board Meeting
Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at 5:00 PM
Airport Terminal Meeting Room - 1684 230th
Street
Agenda
Meeting Opening
The Airport Board's mission is to advise the Council in developing the future of Independence aviation.
1. Roll Call
2. Approve the Agenda
The agenda may be amended to remove items during this time, but no items may be added to
the agenda.
3. Approve Minutes
4. Public Comment
Welcome to Visitors: 5-minute time limitation for speaking, no profanity will be tolerated, and
no personal attacks against Board Members or City Staff will be allowed. The Airport Board
is unable to respond or take any action at this time. Please state your name and address
before addressing the Board for the official record.
New Business
5. RFP Mechanic Services
6. Hangar No. 2 (Vault Hangar) Lease Request
7. Hangar No. 2 (Vault Hangar) Lease Request (2)
Adjournment
This agenda is subject to change.
Tue Jul 7, 2026 · 08:30
Planning and Zoning Commission
Commission will consider multiple rezoning and survey proposals, including LARD LLC
The Independence Planning and Zoning Commission will meet on July 7, 2026 to review several development items. Items include approval of previous minutes, appointment of a chair, and the consideration of preliminary plats for The Pines Fourth Addition and Pries Enterprises. The commission will also discuss rezoning requests from LARD LLC, Pries Enterprises Inc., and Buchanan County for a senior center, as well as a lot combination agreement with Pries.
- Preliminary Plat of Survey – The Pines Fourth Addition to the City of Independence
- Plat of Survey – Pries Enterprises
- Rezoning of parcels – LARD LLC
- Rezoning of parcels – Pries Enterprises Inc.
- Lot Combination Agreement – Pries
zoningplanningdevelopmentsenior-centersurveysland-use
✓ Decided: Commission recommends several rezoning and plat approvals for City Council
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended the City Council approve two plats of survey and a lot combination. The commission also recommended that the City Council hold public hearings for three separate rezoning requests.
- Approved May 19, 2026 meeting minutes (6-0)
- Appointed Bill Lake as Chairperson (6-0)
- Recommended City Council approve Preliminary Plat of Survey for The Pines Fourth Addition (6-0)
- Recommended City Council approve Plat of Survey for Parcel Y (6-0)
- Recommended City Council set public hearing for LARD LLC rezoning from R-2 to M-2 (6-0)
- Recommended City Council set public hearing for Pries Enterprises, Inc. rezoning from R-2 to M-2 (6-0)
- Recommended approval of Pries Enterprises, Inc. lot combination subject to Parcel Y transfer (6-0)
- Recommended City Council set public hearing for Buchanan County rezoning from R-2 to C-1 (6-0)
City Hall, Independence
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Planning and Zoning Commission
Meeting
Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at 8:30 AM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
Agenda
Meeting Opening
1. Roll Call
New Business
2. Approval of previous minutes - May 19th, 2026
3. Planning and Zoning Commission appointment of Chair
4. Preliminary Plat of Survey – The Pines Fourth Addition to the City of Independence
5. Plat of Survey - Pries Enterprises
6. Rezoning of parcels - LARD LLC
7. Rezoning of Parcels - Pries Enterprises INC
8. Lot Combination Agreement - Pries
9. Rezoning of Parcels - Buchanan County, Senior Center
Adjournment
This agenda is subject to change.
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
July 7, 2026
The Independence Planning & Zoning Commission met in the Council Chambers on Tuesday, July 7,
2026. Matt Chesmore called the meeting to order at 8:30 AM with Stephanie Berns, Brian Keierleber,
Bill Lake, Jane Leaven, Tyler Rasmussen and Rick Wulfekuhle in attendance. Dawn Vogel was also in
attendance.
Minutes from the prior meeting of May 19, 2026 were reviewed. A motion was made by Rick
Wulfekuhle, seconded by Tyler Rasmussen to approve the minutes. Motion carried with a 6-0 vote in
favor of the request.
Motion was made by Rick Wulfekuhle, seconded by Jane Leaven to appoint Bill Lake as Chairperson of
the Planning and Zoning Commission. Motion carried with a 6-0 vote in favor of the request.
A request from Gee Construction, Inc. for approval of the Preliminary Plat of Survey for The Pines Fourth
Addition to the City of Independence was reviewed. A motion was made by Tyler Rasmussen, seconded
by Rick Wulfekuhle to recommend the Independence City Council approve the Preliminary Plat of Survey
as submitted. Discussion was held. Motion carried with a 6-0 vote in favor of the request.
A request from LARD LLC for approval of the Plat of Survey to create Parcel Y in the City of Independence
was reviewed. A motion was made by Tyler Rasmussen, seconded by Brian Keierleber to recommend
the Independence City Council approve the of the Plat of Survey as submitted. Discussion was held.
Motion carried with a 6-0 …
Mon Jul 6, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
City Council discusses funding for wastewater and fire department projects
The City Council will hold a work session to discuss funding for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Replacement and Fire Department Expansion projects. The body will also review a right-of-way abandonment and potential ordinance changes. This session is for discussion and debate prior to formal consideration at a future meeting.
- Wastewater Treatment Plant Replacement Project funding discussion
- Fire Department Expansion Project funding discussion
- Right of Way Abandonment at 10th Street NE
- Ordinance Amendment to repeal Chapter 71 regarding Automated Traffic Enforcement
- Discussion on Chapter 76 Bicycle Regulations and visibility at 2nd St NE and Highway 150 North
wastewaterfire-departmentinfrastructurezoningtraffic-safetybicycles
✓ Decided: Independence City Council held a work session for departmental updates
The City Council held a work session to hear updates from several city departments. Discussion included funding for the wastewater treatment plant and fire department expansion, as well as street and ordinance matters.
- No substantive decisions were made during this work session
City Hall, Independence
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City Council Work Session
Monday, July 6, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
Agenda
Rules of Procedure
Workshops are not Public Hearings. No member of the public or interested party has the right to make a
presentation or address the Council on an item under consideration in a workshop or a study session.
During the City Council Work Session, the Council will primarily discuss and debate items intended to be
formally considered at a future City Council Meeting. However, the Council may at any noticed meeting,
including a City Council Work Session meeting, take action on any item shown on the posted agenda as
a potential action item. The City Council Work Session meeting is a regular meeting of the Independence
City Council.
Meeting Opening
Department Updates
1. Department Report - Fire
2. Department Report - Library
3. Department Report - Parks & Recreation
4. Department Report - Police
New Business
5. Wastewater Treatment Plant Replacement Project Funding Discussion
6. Fire Department Expansion Project Funding Discussion
7. Right of Way Abandonment - 10th Street NE
8. Ordinance Amendment to Repeal Chapter 71 - Automated Traffic Enforcement
9. Chapter 76 — Bicycle Regulations Discussion
10. Visibility Issue at 2nd St NE and Highway 150 North
Other Business
11. Council Topics
12. Mayor Topics
13. City Manager Topics
Adjournment
This agenda is subject to change.
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
The Independence City Council met for a work session in the Council Chambers at 5:30 p.m., on Monday, July 6,
2026.
Mayor Bleichner called the meeting to order with Council Members Weber, Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner,
O’Loughlin, and Appleby in attendance.
This meeting was available for public attendance.
Council heard updates from the Independence Fire Department, Public Library, Parks, and Recreation, and Police
Department. Council held general discussion on the following topics: wastewater treatment plant replacement
project funding, fire department expansion project funding, right of way abandonment on 10th Street NE, an
ordinance amendment to repeal chapter 71, chapter 76 bicycle regulations, and visibility issues at the intersection
of 2nd Street NE and Highway 150 North.
Whereupon Mayor Bleichner declared the meeting adjourned at 7:36 p.m.
Wed Jul 1, 2026 · 17:00
Airport Board
Independence Municipal Airport, Independence
Mon Jun 22, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
First reading of ordinance amending traffic code enforcement procedures
The City Council will consider a first reading of an ordinance amendment to Chapter 70, which updates traffic code enforcement procedures. Resolutions include approving Geater Machining & Manufacturing's application to the Iowa BIG program and accepting work on the 8th Avenue NW stormwater improvements project. The council will also consider an engineering services agreement for the Enterprise Drive Trail Extension Phase 2. Consent items include several alcohol license renewals and a street closure request.
- First reading of Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 70 – Traffic Code Enforcement Procedures
- Resolution approving Geater Machining & Manufacturing's application to the Iowa BIG program
- Resolution accepting work on the Independence 8th Avenue NW - IPF Area Stormwater Improvements Project
- Consideration of Engineering Services Agreement with Crawford Engineering & Surveying for Enterprise Drive Trail Extension - Phase 2
- Renewal of Del Rio Class C retail alcohol license and Chuong Garden Special Class C retail alcohol license
traffic-codeordinanceseconomic-developmentstormwatertrailsalcohol-licensescity-council
✓ Decided: Council approved ordinance amendment, economic‑development resolution, and major projects
The council approved the agenda, consent agenda and a series of payment bills. It adopted the first reading of a traffic‑code amendment and suspended the two‑meeting rule for that ordinance. It also approved a resolution supporting Geater Machining’s application to the Iowa Economic Development Authority BIG Program, a storm‑water improvements project on 8th Avenue NW, and an engineering services agreement for the Enterprise Drive Trail Extension Phase 2.
- Approved agenda (all members ayes)
- Approved consent agenda items (all members ayes)
- Approved payment bills totaling $736,686.40 (all members ayes)
- Approved first reading of traffic‑code amendment (ayes: Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, Appleby, Weber)
- Suspended two‑meeting rule for ordinance (ayes: Moore, Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, Weber; nays: Appleby, Hanna)
- Approved resolution supporting Geater Machining BIG Program application (ayes: Mayner, O’Loughlin, Appleby, Weber, Hanna, Moore, Prusator)
- Approved resolution accepting 8" Avenue NW storm‑water improvements project (ayes: O’Loughlin, Appleby, Weber, Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner)
- Approved Engineering Services Agreement for Enterprise Drive Trail Extension Phase 2 (ayes: Weber, Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin; nays: Appleby)
City Hall, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City Council Meeting
Monday, June 22, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
Agenda
Rules of Procedure
Meeting is live-streamed on the Indytel Local Access Channel, YouTube, and Facebook. Per the Rules of
Procedure for Conduct of City Council Business, the length of any meeting shall be limited to three (3)
hours. This limitation may be extended for any particular meeting by a super majority (two-thirds (5 out of
7)) vote to suspend the rules and extend the meeting by the time required. The Mayor shall be
responsible for enforcing this rule.
Meeting Opening
1. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Roll Call
3. Approve the Agenda
The agenda may be amended to remove items during this time, but no items may be added to
the agenda.
4. Public Comment
Welcome to Visitors: 5-minute time limitation for speaking, no profanity will be tolerated, and
no personal attacks against Council Members or City Staff will be allowed. The Council is
unable to respond or take any action at this time. Please state your name and address
before addressing the Council for the official record.
Consent Agenda
5. Accept and Approve Consent Agenda
All items listed under the Consent Agenda will be enacted by one motion. There will be
no separate discussion of these items unless a request is made prior to the time the
Council Votes on the motion.
a. The minutes of the June 8, 2026, regular meeting.
b. Del Rio Class C retail alcohol license renewal with a tentative …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, JUNE 22, 2026 59
The Independence City Council met in regular session in the council chambers at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, June 22,
2026.
OPENING/ROLL CALL
Mayor Bleichner opened the meeting by calling the meeting to order with Council Members Weber, Hanna, Moore,
Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, and Appleby in attendance.
This meeting was available for public attendance. The meeting was also broadcast on the local access channel,
YouTube, and Facebook.
APPROVE THE AGENDA
Motion by Council Member Mayner, second by Council Member O’Loughlin to approve the agenda as presented
for the regular meeting held June 22, 2026. Ayes: All.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Council Member Weber, second by Council Member Mayner to accept and approve the consent
agenda that approves the following: a) The minutes of the June 8, 2026, Regular Meeting. b) Del Rio Class C
retail alcohol license renewal with a tentative effective date of June 15, 2026, through June 14, 2027. c) Wapsie
Valley Creamery street closure request for Saturday, July 4, 2026. d) Renewal of Home Occupation and Solid
Waste permits for Fiscal Year 2027. e) Chuong Garden Special Class C retail alcohol license renewal with a
tentative effective date of July 11, 2026, through July 10, 2027. Ayes: All.
FINANCIALS
Motion by Council Member O’Loughlin, second by Council Member Mayner to approve the following bills for
payment. Ayes: All.
ACCO SUPPLIES-PR $8,943.85
ADESSA BRANDENBURG UMPIRE-PR $385.00
ADP PAYROL …
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
ordinance to be considered and voted on for passage at two Council meetings prior to the meeting at which it is to be finally passed be suspended, seconded by Council Member Weber. The roll being…
5 yea
Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’ Loughlin yea · Weber yea
motion to approve the Engineering Services Agreement for the Enterprise Drive Trail Extension — Phase 2 Project with Crawford Engineering and to authorize the City Manager to sign the Engineering…
6 yea
Weber yea · Hanna yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea
Thu Jun 18, 2026 · 18:30
Library Board
Library Board to discuss prizes and incentives and fines policies
The Library Board will meet to discuss and potentially approve policies regarding prizes and incentives for patrons and fines and fees. Other business includes approval of bills, a statistics report, staff and park updates, and library board training.
- Consideration of Prizes and Incentives Policy
- Consideration of Fines and Fees Policy
- Approval of bills and financial reports
- Staff and park updates
- Library Board training
librarypoliciesfinesfeesprizesincentivesboard-meetingindependence-iowa
Independence Public Library, Independence
📄 From the agenda
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Library Board Meeting
Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 6:30 PM
Library Community Room - 805 1st Street East
Agenda
Meeting Opening
1. Introduction of Guests
2. Approve the Agenda
3. Approve Minutes
Financials
4. Approve Bills
Statistics
5. Statistics Report
New Business
6. Prizes and Incentives Policy
7. Fines and Fees Policy
Unfinished Business
Miscellaneous
8. Staff Update
9. Park Update
10. Library Board Training
11. Board and Staff Reports
Adjournment
12. Motion for Adjournment
This agenda is subject to change.
Mon Jun 8, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
Council to hold public hearings on airport and wastewater projects
The City Council will hold public hearings regarding a snow removal project at the Independence Municipal Airport and modifications to the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The body will also consider the sale of real property and updates to solid waste collection fees.
- Public hearing and contract award for Snow Removal Acquisition Improvements Project at Independence Municipal Airport
- Public hearing and resolution for the sale of real property at 416 9th Ave SE
- Public hearing and bid consideration for Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications Project
- Resolution to replace and repeal Resolution 2025-52 regarding Solid Waste Collection and Environmental Impact Fee Rates
- Resolution approving Pries Enterprises' application to the Iowa Economic Development Authority BIG Program
airportwastewaterreal-estatewaste-managementeconomic-development
✓ Decided: Council approves airport improvements, property sale, and wastewater plant plans
The Council approved an airport snow removal project, the sale of real property at 416 9th Avenue SE, and updated wastewater treatment plant specifications. Additional actions included updating solid waste collection fees and establishing a temporary parking moratorium.
- Approved $457,378.64 airport snow removal contract to Bodensteiner Implement Company (7-0)
- Approved sale of 416 9th Avenue SE to Jared Donnelly for $1,500 (6-1)
- Approved Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications plans and specifications (7-0)
- Approved updated Solid Waste Collection Fees and Environmental Impact Fee Rates (7-0)
- Approved parking moratorium on south side of 12th Street NE through end of 2026 (7-0)
- Approved support for Pries Enterprises application to Iowa Economic Development Authority BIG Program (7-0)
City Hall, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City Council Meeting
Monday, June 8, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
Agenda
Rules of Procedure
Meeting is live-streamed on the Indytel Local Access Channel, YouTube, and Facebook. Per the Rules of
Procedure for Conduct of City Council Business, the length of any meeting shall be limited to three (3)
hours. This limitation may be extended for any particular meeting by a super majority (two-thirds (5 out of
7)) vote to suspend the rules and extend the meeting by the time required. The Mayor shall be
responsible for enforcing this rule.
Meeting Opening
1. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Roll Call
3. Approve the Agenda
The agenda may be amended to remove items during this time, but no items may be added to
the agenda.
4. Public Comment
Welcome to Visitors: 5-minute time limitation for speaking, no profanity will be tolerated, and
no personal attacks against Council Members or City Staff will be allowed. The Council is
unable to respond or take any action at this time. Please state your name and address
before addressing the Council for the official record.
Consent Agenda
5. Accept and Approve Consent Agenda
All items listed under the Consent Agenda will be enacted by one motion. There will be
no separate discussion of these items unless a request is made prior to the time the
Council Votes on the motion.
a. The minutes of the May 26, 2026, regular meeting.
b. Celebrate Indee Special Event Application for the time period of …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, JUNE 8, 2026 54
The Independence City Council met in regular session in the council chambers at 5:30 p.m., on Monday, June 8,
2026.
OPENING/ROLL CALL
Mayor Bleichner opened the meeting by calling the meeting to order with Council Members Weber, Hanna, Moore,
Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, and Appleby in attendance.
This meeting was available for public attendance. The meeting was also broadcast on the local access channel,
YouTube, and Facebook.
APPROVE THE AGENDA
Motion by Council Member Mayner, second by Council Member O’Loughlin to approve the agenda as presented
for the regular meeting held June 8, 2026. Ayes: All.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Steve Gibbs, 1102 David Drive, asked if there were regulations on e-bikes and scooters. City Manager Schmitz said
there are regulations. Mr. Gibbs asked why they aren’t being enforced. City Manager Schmitz replied the Police
Department wants to educate individuals with the first point of contact and then if there is another point of contact,
then a citation will be issued. Mr. Gibbs expressed his concerns about people possibly being hurt in an accident.
Downtown signage was recommended to educate people that e-bikes and scooters can’t be ridden downtown.
Jason Keninger, 301 7" Avenue SE, raised his concerns about speaking at Council Meetings and then feeling that
he is being retaliated against afterwards. He doesn’t understand how his past actions that never received citations
before are now resulting in him gettin …
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
motion to approve and authorize the Mayor to sign the resolution awarding the bid and authorizing the sale of 416 9"" Avenue SE to Jared Donnelly for a purchase price of $1,500, seconded by Council…
7 yea
Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea · Weber yea · JUNE yea · Hanna yea
Wed Jun 3, 2026 · 17:00
Airport Board
Airport Board to discuss commercial building findings and requirements
The Airport Board will receive updates from the engineer, chairman, city manager, and airport manager. Key discussion items include commercial building findings and research, as well as commercial building requirements for 2026. Revenues and expenses to date will be presented for information only.
- Commercial Building Findings and Research
- Commercial building requirements 2026
- Revenues and Expenses to date – Information Only
- Engineer Update
- Chairman/City Manager Update
airportboardcommercial-buildingupdatesrevenues-expensesprocedural
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Airport Board Meeting
Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at 5:00 PM
Airport Terminal Meeting Room - 1684 230th
Street
Agenda
Meeting Opening
The Airport Board's mission is to advise the Council in developing the future of Independence aviation.
1. Roll Call
2. Approve the Agenda
The agenda may be amended to remove items during this time, but no items may be added to
the agenda.
3. Approve Minutes
4. Public Comment (Welcome to Visitors: 5 minute time limitation for speaking, no
profanity will be tolerated, and no personal attacks against Board Members or City
Staff will be allowed. The Airport Board is unable to respond or take any action at this
time. Please state your name and address before addressing the Board for the official
record.)
New Business
5. Engineer Update
6. Chairman/City Manager Update
7. Airport Manager Update
8. Commercial Building Findings and Research
9. Commercial building requirements 2026
10. July 1st meeting
11. Revenues and Expenses to date – Information Only
Adjournment
This agenda is subject to change.
Tue Jun 2, 2026 · 08:30
Planning and Zoning Commission
Mon Jun 1, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
Council to review ballot language for fire department expansion
The City Council will hold a work session to discuss and debate items for future formal consideration. Key topics include a water system study, updates on the fire department expansion, and proposed ballot language for that expansion. The council will also consider an ordinance amending traffic code enforcement procedures and discuss a Mechanic IA services contract.
- Water System Study Report
- Fire Department Expansion Update
- Ballot Language for the Fire Department Expansion
- Mechanic IA Services Contract Discussion
- Ordinance amending Chapter 70 Traffic Code Enforcement Procedures
infrastructurepublic-safetyelectionstrafficcity-councilfire-departmentwater
✓ Decided: City Council held a work session for departmental updates and discussions
The City Council conducted a work session to hear updates from several city departments. No substantive decisions or votes were recorded during this meeting.
City Hall, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City Council Work Session
Monday, June 1, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
Agenda
Rules of Procedure
Workshops are not Public Hearings. No member of the public or interested party has the right to make a
presentation or address the Council on an item under consideration in a workshop or a study session.
During the City Council Work Session, the Council will primarily discuss and debate items intended to be
formally considered at a future City Council Meeting. However, the Council may at any noticed meeting,
including a City Council Work Session meeting, take action on any item shown on the posted agenda as
a potential action item. The City Council Work Session meeting is a regular meeting of the Independence
City Council.
Meeting Opening
Department Updates
1. Department Report - Airport
2. Department Report - Building & Code Enforcement
3. Department Report - Streets
4. Department Report - Utilities
New Business
5. Water System Study Report
6. Fire Department Expansion Update
7. Ballot Language for the Fire Department Expansion
8. Mechanic IA Services Contract Discussion
9. Iowans Create Community Mural - Buchanan County Tourism
10. RAGBRAI update
11. An Ordinance Amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Independence, Iowa,
by Amending Provisions to Chapter 70 Traffic Code Enforcement Procedures
12. Parking Next to City Hall
Other Business
13. Council Topics
14. Mayor Topics
15. City Manager Topics …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
The Independence City Council met for a work session in the Council Chambers at 5:30 p.m., on Monday, June 1,
2026.
Mayor Bleichner called the meeting to order with Council Members Weber, Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner,
O’Loughlin, and Appleby in attendance.
This meeting was available for public attendance.
Council heard updates from the Airport, Building & Code Enforcement, Streets, and Utilities Departments.
Council held general discussion on the following topics: water system study report from MSA, Fire Department
expansion update, ballot language for the Fire Department expansion, mechanic services contract at the Airport,
Iowans Create Community Mural update, RAGBRAI update, Code Section 70.03 proposed changes, and parking
next to City Hall.
Whereupon Mayor Bleichner declared the meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m.
Tue May 26, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
City Council to consider zoning changes and property sales
The Independence City Council will hold its regular meeting on May 26, 2026, to discuss a final reading of a zoning ordinance amendment, a public hearing on selling a property at 204 3rd St NE, and a budget amendment.
- Final reading of Chapter 170 Zoning Regulations amendment
- Public hearing to sell 204 3rd St NE
- Resolution to approve Lot Combination Agreement for StealGard Inc.
- Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Amendment #2
- Old Rush Park Tavern Class C alcohol license renewal
zoningbudgetproperty-salealcohol-licensingcouncil-meeting
✓ Decided: Independence Council approves property sale and budget amendments
The City Council approved a zoning ordinance amendment and authorized the sale of 204 3rd Street NE to Jared Donnelly for $5,000. Additionally, the council passed resolutions to amend the Fiscal Year 2026 budget and approve a lot combination agreement for StealGard, Inc.
- Approved agenda (All)
- Approved consent agenda including May 11 minutes and Old Rush Park Tavern license renewal (All)
- Approved bills for payment (All)
- Adopted zoning ordinance amendment No. 2026-635 (7-0)
- Authorized sale of 204 3rd Street NE to Jared Donnelly for $5,000 (6-1)
- Amended Fiscal Year 2026 budget via Resolution No. 2026-49 (7-0)
- Approved lot combination agreement for StealGard, Inc. via Resolution No. 2026-50 (7-0)
- Approved $9,043.61 Commercial Restoration Rehab Grant for 119 1st Street East (7-0)
Council Chambers, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
AGENDA
RULES OF PROCEDURE
Meeting is live -streamed on the Indytel Local Access Channel, YouTube, and Facebook.
Per the Rules of Procedure for Conduct of City Council Business, the length of any meeting shall be
limited to three (3) hours. This limitation may be extended for any particular meeting by a super majority
(two-thirds (5 out of 7)) vote to suspend the rules and extend the meeting by the time required. The Mayor
shall be responsible for enforcing this rule.
MEETING OPENING
1. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Roll Call
3. Approve the Agenda
The agenda may be amended to remove items during this time, but no items may be added to
the agenda.
4. Public Comment
Welcome to Visitors: 5-minute time limitation for speaking, no profanity will be tolerated, and
no personal attacks against Council Members or City Staff will be allowed. The Council is
unable to respond or take any action at this time. Please state your name and address
before addressing the Council for the official record.
CONSENT AGENDA
5. Accept and Approve Consent Agenda
a. The minutes of the May 11th, 2026, regular meeting.
b. Old Rush Park Tavern Class C retail alcohol license renewal with a tentative effective date
of May 30, 2026, to May 29, 2027.
All items listed under the Consent Agenda will be enacted by one motion. There will be
no separate discussion of these items unless a reque …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
REGULAR MEETING TUESDAY, MAY 26, 2026 50
The Independence City Council met in regular session in the council chambers at 5:30 p.m., on Tuesday, May 26,
2026.
Mayor Bleichner asked for a moment of silence in honor of and respect for Joe Olsen.
OPENING/ROLL CALL
Mayor Bleichner opened the meeting by calling the meeting to order with Council Members Weber, Hanna, Moore,
Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, and Appleby in attendance.
This meeting was available for public attendance. The meeting was also broadcast on the local access channel,
YouTube, and Facebook.
APPROVE THE AGENDA
Motion by Council Member Mayner, second by Council Member Weber to approve the agenda as presented for the
regular meeting held May 26, 2026. Ayes: All.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Council Member Mayner, second by Council Member O’Loughlin to accept and approve the consent
agenda that approves the following: a) The minutes of the May 11, 2026, Regular Meeting. b) Old Rush Park
Tavern Class C retail alcohol license renewal with a tentative effective date of May 30, 2026, to May 29, 2027.
Ayes: All,
FINANCIALS
Motion by Council Member Weber, second by Council Member Mayner to approve the following bills for payment.
Ayes: All. :
ACCESS SYSTEMS LEASING EQUIP CONTRACT-ALL | $1,746.98
ADP PAYROLL SVCS $120,061.65
AMAZON CAPITAL SERVICES SUPPLIES-L $1,623.45
ASSURITY LIFE INSURANCE CO ASSUR CRIT ILL $586.64
B3 BREW, LLC TIF REBATE-CH $200.35
BANK IOWA 2022 GO BOND PAYMENT $146,655.50
BEAM INSURANCE ADMIN …
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
[context] The roll being called the following Council Members voted:
6 yea
Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea · Weber yea · Hanna yea
⚠️ FEMA flood zone AE at this address
🏢 Building at this address: Wapsipinicon Mill · 2 floors
Thu May 21, 2026 · 18:30
Library Board
Library Board to discuss FY27 wage and salary increases
The Library Board will meet to review financial bills and statistics. The primary new business item is the discussion of wage and salary increases for fiscal year 2027.
- Wage and Salary Increases FY27
- Approval of bills
- Programming update
- Park update
- Library Board Training
librarybudgetsalariespublic-services
Library Community Room, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
LIBRARY BOARD MEETING
Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 6:30 PM
Library Community Room - 805 1st Street East
AGENDA
MEETING OPENING
1. Introduction of Guests
2. Approve the Agenda
3. Approve Minutes
APPROVE BILLS
4. Approve Bills
STATISTICS
5. Statistics Report
NEW BUSINESS
6. Wage and Salary Increases FY27
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
MISCELLANEOUS
7. Programming Update
8. Park Update
9. Library Board Training
10. Board and Staff Reports
ADJOURNMENT
This agenda is subject to change.
Tue May 19, 2026 · 08:30
Planning and Zoning Commission
Commission will consider a parcel combination for Stealgard
The Independence Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a special meeting on May 19, 2026. The agenda includes a roll call, approval of the May 5, 2026 minutes, and discussion of a parcel combination for the Stealgard area. No other items are listed.
- Parcel Combination – Stealgard
- Approval of previous minutes – 5/5/2026
zoningparcel-combinationplanning
✓ Decided: Commission recommends approval of parcel combination for Stealgard Inc.
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended the approval of a lot combination request for three parcels. The commission also approved the minutes from the May 5, 2026, meeting.
- Approved May 5, 2026 meeting minutes (6-0)
- Recommended approval of parcel combination for Stealgard Inc. (parcels 0635151001, 0635151004, and 0635151005) (6-0)
Council Chambers, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
PLANNING AND ZONING
COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING
Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 8:30 AM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
AGENDA
MEETING OPENING
1. Roll Call
NEW BUSINESS
2. Approval of Previous minutes – 5/5/2026
3. Parcel Combination - Stealgard
ADJOURNMENT
This agenda is subject to change.
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
May 19, 2026
The Independence Planning & Zoning Commission met in the Council Chambers on Tuesday, May 19,
2026. Matt Chesmore called the meeting to order at 8:30 AM with Tami Fenner, Brian Keierleber, Bill
Lake, Jane Leaven, Rick Wulfekuhle and Tyler Rasmussen in attendance.
Minutes from the prior meeting of May 5, 2026 were reviewed. A motion was made by Rasmussen,
seconded by Leaven to approve the minutes. Motion carried with a 6-0 vote in favor of the request.
A parcel combination request from Stealgard Inc. for parcels 0635151001, 0635151004 and 0635151005
was reviewed. The proposed Agreement Regarding Lot Combination was presented. A motion was
made by Rasmussen, seconded by Lake to recommend approval of the lot combination as submitted.
Discussion was held. Motion carried with a 6-0 vote in favor of the request.
A motion to adjourn was made by Keierleber, seconded by Wulfekuhle. Motion carried.
Respectfully Submitted,
Matt Chesmore
Acting Secretary
Mon May 11, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
City Council to hold public hearing on Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Amendment #2
The City Council will discuss budget amendments, salary increases for the City Manager and other employees, and a new police union contract. The body is also considering the sale of two city properties and several equipment purchases.
- Public hearing for Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Amendment #2
- Proposed sale of 204 3rd Street NE and 416 9th Avenue SE
- Salary increases for City Manager and salaried/non-bargaining employees effective July 1, 2026
- Police Department Union Contract for July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2028
- Authorization for purchase of a combination jet/vac truck and a 3/4 ton streets truck
budgetsalariesreal-estatepolicezoningpublic-works
✓ Decided: Council adopts key ordinance changes and approves salary hikes
The council adopted final and second readings of ordinances amending Chapter 65‑Stop Required and Chapter 170‑Zoning Regulations. Members also suspended the two‑meeting rule for ordinance consideration, approved a citywide salary increase for employees, and authorized several resolutions including a snow‑removal project bid, a new coin‑acceptance policy, a lot‑combination agreement, and decertification of certain assessments.
- Adopted ordinance amending Chapter 65‑Stop Required (final reading) – Ayes: Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, Appleby, Weber (7 ayes)
- Adopted ordinance amending Chapter 170‑Zoning Regulations (second reading) – Ayes: Moore, Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, Appleby, Weber, Hanna (7 ayes)
- Suspended statutory rule requiring two‑meeting consideration for ordinances – Ayes: Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, Weber, Moore; Nays: Appleby, Hanna (5‑2)
- Approved salary increases for salaried and non‑bargaining employees effective July 1, 2026 – Ayes: Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, Appleby, Weber (7 ayes)
- Approved resolution ordering bids and public hearing for Snow Removal Acquisition Improvements Project – Ayes: Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, Appleby, Weber, Hanna, Moore (7 ayes)
- Adopted coin acceptance policy – Ayes: Weber, Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin; Nays: Appleby (6‑1)
- Approved lot‑combination agreement for property at 810 3rd Avenue SW – Ayes: O’Loughlin, Appleby, Weber, Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner (7 ayes)
- Approved decertification of certain assessments sent to Buchanan County Treasurer – Ayes: Appleby, Weber, Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin (7 ayes)
Council Chambers, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, May 11, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
AGENDA
RULES OF PROCEDURE
Meeting is live -streamed on the Indytel Local Access Channel, YouTube, and Facebook.
Per the Rules of Procedure for Conduct of City Council Business, the length of any meeting shall be
limited to three (3) hours. This limitation may be extended for any particular meeting by a super majority
(two-thirds (5 out of 7)) vote to suspend the rules and extend the meeting by the time required. The Mayor
shall be responsible for enforcing this rule.
MEETING OPENING
1. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Roll Call
3. Approve the Agenda
The agenda may be amended to remove items during this time, but no items may be added to
the agenda.
4. Public Comment
Welcome to Visitors: 5-minute time limitation for speaking, no profanity will be tolerated, and
no personal attacks against Council Members or City Staff will be allowed. The Council is
unable to respond or take any action at this time. Please state your name and address
before addressing the Council for the official record.
5. Proclamations
CONSENT AGENDA
6. Accept and Approve Consent Agenda
a. The minutes of the April 271th, 2026, regular meeting.
b. The Crowbar Class C retail alcohol license renewal that includes outdoor service with a
tentative effective date of May 15, 2026.
c. Dollar General Class B retail alcohol license ownership amendment.
d. Mini Mart Class E retail alcohol license o …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, MAY 11, 2026 43
The Independence City Council met in regular session in the council chambers at 5:30 p.m., on Monday, May 11,
2026.
OPENING/ROLL CALL
Mayor Bleichner opened the meeting by calling the meeting to order with Council Members Weber, Hanna, Moore,
Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, and Appleby in attendance.
This meeting was available for public attendance. The meeting was also broadcast on the local access channel,
YouTube, and Facebook.
APPROVE THE AGENDA
Motion by Council Member O’Loughlin, second by Council Member Mayner to approve the agenda as presented
for the regular meeting held May 11, 2026. Ayes: All.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Jason Keninger, 301 7" Avenue SE, stated he has concerns on what he feels is selective enforcement and retaliation
against himself after he speaks at a City Council meeting and mentioned potentially amending the federal lawsuit
he filed.
Mayor Bleichner read a proclamation declaring May 14-16, 2026, as Poppy Days.
Mayor Bleichner read a proclamation declaring May 11-16, 2026, as National Police Week.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Council Member Hanna, second by Council Member Weber to accept and approve the consent agenda
that approves the following: a) The minutes of the April 27, 2026, Regular Meeting. b) The Crowbar Class C
retail alcohol license renewal that includes outdoor service with a tentative effective date of May 15, 2026. c)
Dollar General Class B retail alcohol license ownership amendment. d) Mini Mart …
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
motion to approve the second reading of an ordinance that amends provisions pertaining to Chapter 170-Zoning Regulations, seconded by Council Member O’Loughlin. The roll being called the following…
5 yea
Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea · Weber yea · Moore yea
motion to approve and authorize the Mayor to sign the resolution adopting the coin acceptance policy, seconded by Council Member Hanna. The roll being called the following Council Members voted:
6 yea
Weber yea · Hanna yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea
[context] The roll being called the following Council Members voted:
12 yea
Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea · Weber yea · Hanna yea · Moore yea · O’Loughlin yea · Appleby yea · Weber yea · Hanna yea · Moore yea · O’Loughlin yea
motion to approve and authorize the Mayor to sign the resolution authorizing the bid process and setting a public hearing date of June 8, 2026, at 5:30 p.m., for the proposed sale of the property…
6 yea
Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea · Weber yea · Hanna yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea
motion to approve the 55.05 Livestock Request and to ensure that no chickens are replaced and identification bands are on all chickens, seconded by Council Member Mayner. The roll being called the…
5 yea
Weber yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · Appleby yea
motion to approve and authorize the City Manager to execute the Real Estate Purchase Agreement with Peak Property Solutions, LLC for the property located at 306 2™4 Street SE, seconded by Council…
6 yea
Weber yea · Hanna yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’ Loughlin yea
Wed May 6, 2026 · 17:00
Airport Board
Airport Board to discuss development inquiry on airport property
The Airport Board will consider routine approvals, staff updates, and a development inquiry regarding airport property. The meeting also includes reports on revenues and expenses to date.
- Development Inquiry – Airport Property
- Revenues and Expenses to Date
- Engineer Update
- Chairman/City Manager Update
- Clint Spearman update
airportdevelopmentfinancepublic-meetingupdates
Airport Terminal Meeting Room, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
AIRPORT BOARD MEETING
Wednesday, May 06, 2026 at 5:00 PM
Airport Terminal Meeting Room - 1684 230th
Street
AGENDA
MEETING OPENING
The Airport Board's mission is to advise the Council in developing the future of Independence aviation.
1. Roll Call
2. Approve the Agenda
3. Approve Minutes
4. Approve Special Meeting Minutes
5. Public Comment (Welcome to Visitors: 5 minute time limitation for speaking, no profanity will
be tolerated, and no personal attacks against Board Members or City Staff will be allowed. The
Airport Board is unable to respond or take any action at this time. Please state your name and
address before addressing the Board for the official record.)
NEW BUSINESS
6. Engineer Update
7. Chairman/City Manager Update
8. Clint Spearman update
9. Development Inquiry – Airport Property
10. Airport Manager Update
11. Revenues and Expenses to Date
ADJOURNMENT
This agenda is subject to change.
Tue May 5, 2026 · 08:30
Planning and Zoning Commission
Commission to decide on lot combination, parcel division, and more
The Planning and Zoning Commission will review and decide on three land-use items: a lot combination at 810 3rd Ave SW, a parcel division by Juhl, and a lot combination by Stealgard Inc. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes from April 7, 2026.
- Lot combination - 810 3rd Ave SW - Mishler
- Parcel Division - Juhl
- Lot Combination - Stealgard Inc
planningzoninglot-combinationparcel-divisionindependence-iowaland-use
✓ Decided: Commission approved multiple lot combinations and a parcel division
The Planning and Zoning Commission approved three lot‑combination requests and one parcel‑division request, each by a unanimous 6‑0 vote. All motions were recommended and carried as presented. The meeting then adjourned.
- Approved lot combination for Kevin and Wendy Mishler (parcels 1004416006 & 1004416007) – 6-0
- Approved parcel division for Terry and Christine Juhl (parcel 1003426004) – 6-0
- Approved lot combination for Stealgard Inc. (parcels 0635151001 & 0635151004) – 6-0
- Approved minutes from April 7, 2026 meeting – 6-0
- Adjourned meeting – motion carried
Council Chambers, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
PLANNING AND ZONING
COMMISSION MEETING
Tuesday, May 05, 2026 at 8:30 AM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
AGENDA
MEETING OPENING
1. Roll Call
NEW BUSINESS
2. Approval of previous minutes - 4/7/2026
3. Lot combination - 810 3rd Ave SW - Mishler
4. Parcel Division - Juhl
5. Lot Combination - Stealgard Inc
ADJOURNMENT
This agenda is subject to change.
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
May 5, 2026
The Independence Planning & Zoning Commission met in the Council Chambers on Tuesday, May 5,
2026. Matt Chesmore called the meeting to order at 8:30 AM with Stephanie Berns, Tami Fenner, Brian
Keierleber, Bill Lake, Jane Leaven and Tyler Rasmussen in attendance. Rick Wulfekuhle and Terry Juhl
were also in attendance.
Minutes from the prior meeting of April 7, 2026 were reviewed. A motion was made by Tami Fenner,
seconded by Tyler Rasmussen to approve the minutes. Motion carried with a 6-0 vote in favor of the
request.
A lot combination request from Kevin and Wendy Mishler for parcels 1004416006 and 1004416007 was
reviewed. The Agreement Regarding Lot Combination was presented. A motion was made by Tami
Fenner, seconded by Tyler Rasmussen to recommend approval of the lot combination as submitted.
Discussion was held. Motion carried with a 6-0 vote in favor of the request.
A parcel division request from Terry and Christine Juhl was presented. The request is to divide parcel
1003426004 and create two parcels to allow for construction of a single-family dwelling on each lot. The
Plat of Survey was provided for review. A motion was made by Bill Lake, seconded by Tyler Rasmussen
to recommend approval of the parcel division as submitted. Discussion was held. Motion carried with a
6-0 vote in favor of the request.
A lot combination request from Stealgard Inc. for parcels 0635151001 and 0635151004 was reviewe …
Mon May 4, 2026 · 18:00
City Council
Council to discuss police department staffing levels
This work session includes updates and discussions on several city departments and projects. Topics include police staffing levels, fire department expansion, wastewater treatment plant updates, and a potential real estate disposition. No public hearings are held during work sessions, but the council may take action on posted action items.
- Police Department Staffing Level discussion
- Fire Department Expansion Project Update
- Wastewater Treatment Plant Update
- 416 9th Ave. SE – Disposition of Real Estate
- 28E Agreement with BCEMA for Radiological Incident Response Assistance
policefire-departmentwastewater-treatmentreal-estateemergency-responsecity-councilpublic-safety
✓ Decided: Council held work session, discussed updates, no decisions made
The Independence City Council met for a work session on May 4, 2026. Council members received updates from the Fire Department, Public Library, Parks and Recreation, and Police Department and discussed topics such as RAGBRAI, wastewater treatment, stormwater study, fire expansion, a radiological‑incident response agreement, police staffing, real‑estate disposition, a city‑wide clean‑up day, a chicken request, and a coin‑acceptance policy. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded, and the meeting was adjourned at 7:06 p.m.
Council Chambers, Independence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
Monday, May 04, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
AGENDA
RULES OF PROCEDURE
Workshops are not Public Hearings. No member of the public or interested party has the right to make
a presentation or address the Council on an item under consideration in a workshop or a study session.
During the City Council Work Session, the Council will primarily discuss and debate items intended to
be formally considered at a future City Council Meeting. However, the Council may at any noticed
meeting, including a City Council Work Session meeting, take action on any item shown on the posted
agenda as a potential action item. The City Council Work Session meeting is a regular meeting of the
Independence City Council.
MEETING OPENING
Call the Meeting to Order
PRESENTATIONS
DEPARTMENT UPDATES
1. Department Report –Fire Department
2. Department Report – Library
3. Department Report – Parks & Recreation
4. Department Report – Police Department
NEW BUSINESS
5. RAGBRAI Update
6. Wastewater Treatment Plant Update
7. The Pines Third and First Addition Stormwater, Additional Scope Request
8. Fire Department Expansion Project Update
9. 28E Agreement with BCEMA for Radiological Incident Response Assistance
10. Police Department Staffing Level
11. 416 9th Ave. SE – Disposition of Real Estate
12. City Wide Clean-Up 2026
13. Rory Ratchford – Chickens
14. Coin Acceptance Policy
15. Council Topics
16. Mayor Topics
17. City Manag …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
The Independence City Council met for a work session in the Council Chambers at 5:30 p.m., on Monday, May 4,
2026.
Mayor Bleichner called the meeting to order with Council Members Weber, Hanna, Moore, Prusator, Mayner,
O’Loughlin, and Appleby in attendance.
This meeting was available for public attendance.
Council heard updates from the Independence Fire Department, Public Library, Parks and Recreation, and Police
Department. Council held general discussion on the following topics: RAGBRAI, Wastewater Treatment Plant
update, the Pines Third and First Additions stormwater study, Fire Department expansion project update, 28E
agreement with Buchanan County Emergency Management for radiological incident response assistance, Police
Department staffing level, disposition of real estate, City Wide Clean Up day, request for chickens, and a coin
acceptance policy.
Whereupon Mayor Bleichner declared the meeting adjourned at 7:06 p.m.
Mon Apr 27, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
Public hearing on rezoning M-2 Heavy Manufacturing to C-2 Commercial
The council will hold a public hearing on a proposed rezoning from M-2 Heavy Manufacturing to C-2 Commercial. They will also conduct third reading of a zoning ordinance amendment, second reading of a stop-required ordinance, and first reading of another zoning amendment. Other business includes funding agreements, a RAGBRAI special event application, and a closed session for real estate strategy.
- Public hearing on rezoning M-2 Heavy Manufacturing to C-2 Commercial
- Third reading of Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 170 Zoning Regulations
- Second reading of Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 65 – Stop Required
- First reading of Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 170 Zoning Regulations
- Closed session per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(j) for real estate strategy
zoningrezoningpublic-hearingordinancesreal-estatebudgetragbrai
✓ Decided: Council adopts final zoning amendment and approves key funding and appointments
The council passed the third reading of a zoning amendment to Chapter 170 and a second reading of a Chapter 65 amendment. It approved funding agreements for a $12,000 fireworks display and a $10,000 agribition center project. Several members were appointed to airport commissions, a $144,720.60 purchase was authorized, and the RAGBRAI special event was approved. A public hearing for Budget Amendment #2 was scheduled for May 11, 2026.
- Approved third and final reading of Chapter 170-Zoning Regulations amendment (6 ayes, 0 nays)
- Approved second reading of Chapter 65-Stop Required amendment (6 ayes, 0 nays)
- Approved funding agreement with Independence Celebrations Committee for $12,000 fireworks (5 ayes, 1 nay)
- Approved funding agreement with Heartland Acres Agribition Center for $10,000 (5 ayes, 1 nay)
- Appointed Bill Lake to the Airport Zoning Commission (6 ayes)
- Approved purchase of materials from J & R Supply, Inc. for $144,720.60 (6 ayes)
- Approved special event application for RAGBRAI (6 ayes)
- Set public hearing date May 11, 2026 for FY2026 Budget Amendment #2 (6 ayes)
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, April 27, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
AGENDA
RULES OF PROCEDURE
Meeting is live -streamed on the Indytel Local Access Channel, YouTube, and Facebook.
Per the Rules of Procedure for Conduct of City Council Business, the length of any meeting shall be
limited to three (3) hours. This limitation may be extended for any particular meeting by a super majority
(two-thirds (5 out of 7)) vote to suspend the rules and extend the meeting by the time required. The Mayor
shall be responsible for enforcing this rule.
MEETING OPENING
1. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Roll Call
3. Approve the Agenda
The agenda may be amended to remove items during this time, but no items may be added to
the agenda.
4. Public Comment
Welcome to Visitors: 5-minute time limitation for speaking, no profanity will be tolerated, and
no personal attacks against Council Members or City Staff will be allowed. The Council is
unable to respond or take any action at this time. Please state your name and address
before addressing the Council for the official record.
5. Proclamations
CONSENT AGENDA
6. Accept and Approve Consent Agenda
a. The minutes of the April 13th, 2026, special meeting.
b. The minutes of the April 13th, 2026, regular meeting.
All items listed under the Consent Agenda will be enacted by one motion. There will be
no separate discussion of these items unless a request is made prior to the time the
Council Votes on t …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, APRIL 27, 2026 38
The Independence City Council met in regular session in the council chambers at 5:30 p.m., on Monday, April 27,
2026.
OPENING/ROLL CALL
Mayor Bleichner opened the meeting by calling the meeting to order with Council Members Weber, Hanna, Moore,
Prusator, O’Loughlin, and Appleby in attendance. Council Member Mayner was excused.
This meeting was available for public attendance. The meeting was also broadcast on the local access channel,
YouTube, and Facebook.
APPROVE THE AGENDA
Motion by Council Member O’ Loughlin, second by Council Member Hanna to approve the agenda as presented for
the regular meeting held April 27, 2026. Ayes: All. Absent: Mayner.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Jason Keninger, 301 7" Avenue SE, stated he has been directly impacted by the actions of the Independence Police
Department. He held up a parking ticket and a traffic warning that were recently issued to members of his household.
He also spoke of an incident earlier today when a member of his household went to the Police Department for a
records request, and he felt the family member was unfairly treated.
Mayor Bleichner read a proclamation declaring April 2026 as Fair Housing Month.
Mayor Bleichner read a proclamation declaring May 3 — 9, 2026, as the 57" Annual Professional Municipal Clerks
Week.
Mayor Bleichner read a proclamation declaring May 8, 2026, as Provider Appreciation Day.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Council Member Weber, second by Council Member Hanna t …
🗳️ How they voted — 4 divided votes
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
motion to approve and authorize the Mayor to sign the resolution that approves the funding agreement with the Independence Celebrations Committee and for the City Manager and City Clerk to sign the…
5 yea · 1 nay
Moore yea · Prusator yea · O’Loughlin yea · Weber yea · Hanna yea · Appleby nay
motion to approve and authorize the Mayor to sign the resolution that approves the funding agreement with Heartland Acres Agribition Center, and for the City Manager and City Clerk to sign the…
5 yea · 1 nay
Prusator yea · O’Loughlin yea · Weber yea · Hanna yea · Moore yea · Appleby nay
[context] The roll being called the following Council Members voted:
5 yea · 1 nay
O’Loughlin yea · Weber yea · Hanna yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea · Appleby nay
motion to authorize the City Manager to move forward with the course of action the Council discussed in the closed session, seconded by Council Member Moore. The roll being called the following…
5 yea · 1 nay
Hanna yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea · O’Loughlin yea · Weber yea · Appleby nay
The other 12 items passed by unanimous or near-unanimous consent.
Thu Apr 16, 2026 · 18:30
Library Board
Library board to discuss technology plan, internet policy
The Independence Library Board meets to consider a technology plan and an internet usage policy, along with approving bills and reviewing a statistics report. Other updates include a park project and staff matters. The agenda is largely procedural with no detailed proposals or votes listed.
- Technology Plan discussion
- Internet Usage Policy review
- Approval of bills (no amounts listed)
- Park Update
- Staff Update
librarytechnologyinternet-policyparksstaff-updateindependence
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
LIBRARY BOARD MEETING
Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 6:30 PM
Library Community Room - 805 1st Street East
AGENDA
MEETING OPENING
1. Introduction of Guests
2. Approve the Agenda
3. Approve Minutes
APPROVE BILLS
4. Approve Bills
STATISTICS
5. Statistics Report
NEW BUSINESS
6. Technology Plan
7. Internet Usage Policy
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
MISCELLANEOUS
8. Park Update
9. Staff Update
10. Library Board Training
11. Board and Staff Reports
ADJOURNMENT
This agenda is subject to change.
Mon Apr 13, 2026 · 16:45
City Council
City Council holds public hearing on the FY 2027 budget
The Independence City Council will conduct a public hearing on the Fiscal Year 2027 budget. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as the pledge of allegiance, roll call, and agenda approval. No other decisions or proposals are listed on the agenda.
- Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Public Hearing
budgetpublic-hearingcity-council
✓ Decided: Council approved agenda and adjourned; no substantive actions taken
The council unanimously approved the special meeting agenda and then adjourned. No budget approvals, ordinances, or other substantive matters were decided.
- Approved agenda (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING -
BUDGET HEARING - OVERALL
BUDGET
Monday, April 13, 2026 at 4:45 PM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
AGENDA
RULES OF PROCEDURE
Meeting is live -streamed on the Indytel Local Access Channel, YouTube, and Facebook.
Per the Rules of Procedure for Conduct of City Council Business, the length of any meeting shall be
limited to three (3) hours. This limitation may be extended for any particular meeting by a super majority
(two-thirds (5 out of 7)) vote to suspend the rules and extend the meeting by the time required. The Mayor
shall be responsible for enforcing this rule.
MEETING OPENING
1. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Roll Call
3. Approve the Agenda
The agenda may be amended to remove items during this time, but no items may be added to
the agenda.
BUDGET HEARING
4. Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Public Hearing
ADJOURNMENT
This agenda is subject to change.
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
SPECIAL MEETING MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2026 32
The Independence City Council met in special session in the council chambers at 4:45 p.m., on Monday, April 13,
2026.
OPENING/ROLL CALL
Mayor Bleichner opened the meeting by calling the meeting to order with Council Members Weber, Hanna, Moore,
Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, and Appleby in attendance.
This meeting was available for public attendance. The meeting was also broadcast on the local access channel,
YouTube, and Facebook.
APPROVE THE AGENDA
Motion by Council Member Mayner, second by Council Member Weber to approve the agenda as presented for the
special meeting held April 13, 2026. Ayes: All.
BUDGET HEARING
Mayor Bleichner stated, pursuant to the agenda, he will now convene a public hearing on the proposed budget for
Fiscal Year 2027. Bruce Michels, 2045 Jamestown Avenue, wanted to see if the taxes could be held down and if
businesses could be brought in to help offset the residents’ taxes. Sue Alber, 800 14" Street NE, stated her taxes
went up so much over the last five to six years. She asked why her taxes keep going up and wanted to know if there
was a mistake as to why her taxes are so high. City Clerk/Treasurer Lampe stated no other comments were received
prior to the hearing. Mayor Bleichner closed the public hearing and stated City Clerk Lampe will note all comments
in the record.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Council Member O’Loughlin, second by Council Member Mayner to adjourn. Ayes: All.
Whereupon Mayor Bleichn …
Mon Apr 13, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
City Council to approve Fiscal Year 2027 Budget and CIP
The City Council will consider the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget, Capital Improvements Program, and Transfers. The body will also review ordinance amendments regarding parking, zoning, and stop requirements, and discuss funding agreements with five local organizations.
- Resolution to approve the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget, CIP, and Transfers
- Notice of hearing for Wastewater Treatment Plant Modifications Project bids
- Rezoning request from M-2 Heavy Manufacturing to C-2 Commercial
- Funding agreements with Operation Threshold Inc., Buchanan County Senior Center, Buchanan County Tourism, Independence Area Chamber of Commerce, and Northeast Iowa RC&D
- Ordinance amendments to Chapter 69 (Parking), Chapter 170 (Zoning), and Chapter 65 (Stop Required)
budgetzoninginfrastructureordinancesfunding
✓ Decided: City Council approves FY 2027 budget and multiple ordinances
The council approved the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, capital improvement program, and related transfers. Several ordinances amending parking, zoning, and stop‑sign requirements were adopted, and a public hearing was scheduled for a rezoning request. Funding agreements were approved for Operation Threshold, Buchanan County Tourism, and the Independence Area Chamber of Commerce.
- Approved FY 2027 budget, CIP, and transfers (6-1)
- Adopted Parking Regulations amendment (Ordinance 2026-632) (6-1)
- Approved Zoning Regulations amendment (second reading) (7-0)
- Approved Stop Required amendment (first reading) (7-0)
- Set public hearing on April 27 for M‑2 to C‑2 rezoning (7-0)
- Approved $2,000 Operation Threshold funding agreement (6-1)
- Approved $5,000 Buchanan County Tourism funding agreement (6-1)
- Approved $8,000 Independence Area Chamber of Commerce funding agreement (6-1)
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, April 13, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Council Chambers - 331 First Street East
AGENDA
RULES OF PROCEDURE
Meeting is live -streamed on the Indytel Local Access Channel, YouTube, and Facebook.
Per the Rules of Procedure for Conduct of City Council Business, the length of any meeting shall be
limited to three (3) hours. This limitation may be extended for any particular meeting by a super majority
(two-thirds (5 out of 7)) vote to suspend the rules and extend the meeting by the time required. The Mayor
shall be responsible for enforcing this rule.
MEETING OPENING
1. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Roll Call
3. Approve the Agenda
The agenda may be amended to remove items during this time, but no items may be added to
the agenda.
4. Public Comment
Welcome to Visitors: 5-minute time limitation for speaking, no profanity will be tolerated, and
no personal attacks against Council Members or City Staff will be allowed. The Council is
unable to respond or take any action at this time. Please state your name and address
before addressing the Council for the official record.
5. Triumphant Church Donation Presentation to the Independence Police Department
CONSENT AGENDA
6. Accept and Approve Consent Agenda
a. The minutes of the March 23rd, 2026, special meeting.
b. The minutes of the March 23rd, 2026, regular meeting.
c. Independence Park & Recreation Class C retail alcohol license renewal for the
Baseball/Softball Complex with a tentative eff …
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2026 33
The Independence City Council met in regular session in the council chambers at 5:30 p-m., on Monday, April 13,
2026.
OPENING/ROLL CALL
Mayor Bleichner opened the meeting by calling the meeting to order with Council Members Weber, Hanna, Moore,
Prusator, Mayner, O’Loughlin, and Appleby in attendance.
This meeting was available for public attendance. The meeting was also broadcast on the local access channel,
YouTube, and Facebook.
APPROVE THE AGENDA
Mayor Bleichner stated he would like to move the Triumphant Church donation before Public Comment. Motion
by Council Member Mayner, seconded by Council Member O’Loughlin to approve the agenda as amended for the
regular meeting held April 13, 2026. Ayes: All.
Pastor Lance Fricke and other representatives from Triumphant Church presented a donation to the Independence
Police Department.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Jason Kenninger, 301 7 Avenue SE, addressed the Council regarding the conduct of the Independence Police
Department and his repurposed toilet planter in his yard. Mr. Kenninger stated that he filed a federal Civil Rights
lawsuit against the Independence Police Department and the City of Independence.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Council Member Mayner, seconded by Council Member Weber to accept and approve the consent
agenda that approves the following: a) The minutes of the March 23, 2026, special meeting. b) The minutes of the
March 23, 2026, regular meeting. c) Independence Park & Recr …
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
motion to approve the third and final reading of an ordinance that amends provisions pertaining to Chapter 69 — Parking Regulations, seconded by Council Member Mayner. The roll being called the…
6 yea
Hanna yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · Appleby yea · Weber yea
ordinance to be considered and voted on for passage at two Council meetings prior to the meeting at which it is to be finally passed be suspended, seconded by Council Member O’Loughlin. The roll…
5 yea
Weber yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’ Loughlin yea
motion to approve and authorize the Mayor to sign the resolution that approves the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, CIP, and transfers, seconded by Council Member Moore. City Manager Schmitz stated the total…
6 yea
Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea · Weber yea · Hanna yea
motion to approve and authorize the Mayor to sign the resolution that approves the funding agreement with Operation Threshold Inc, and for the City Manager and City Clerk to sign the funding…
6 yea
Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea · Weber yea · Hanna yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea
motion to approve and authorize the Mayor to sign the resolution that approves the funding agreement with Buchanan County Tourism, and for the City Manager and City Clerk to sign the funding…
6 yea
Weber yea · Hanna yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea
motion to approve and authorize the Mayor to sign the resolution that approves the funding agreement with the Independence Area Chamber of Commerce, and for the City Manager and City Clerk to sign…
6 yea
Weber yea · Hanna yea · Moore yea · Prusator yea · Mayner yea · O’Loughlin yea
Showing the 30 most recent meetings of 58 on record. See the yearly meeting archives below for the full history.
💰 Federal awards (top 2 by amount)
Largest recent federal contract/grant awards to recipients in this city (2023–present), via USAspending.gov.
Source: USAspending.gov (U.S. Treasury) — federal awards only, not city budgets.
🌐 County-level context (Buchanan County)
County-level context — from BLS, IRS, FEMA, HUD, Census. These figures cover the whole county this city sits in, not just the city itself.
Business establishments490 (5,387 employees · 2023)
Fair Market Rent (2BR)$921/mo (26 assisted households · 2025)
Adults with low literacy13.1% (low numeracy 22% · 2017)
Sources: BLS LAUS, IRS SOI, FEMA, NHTSA FARS, Census CBP, HUD, NCES PIAAC
City profile
Everything below is drawn from this city’s own public record and primary-source government data. AI-written summaries are a finding aid, not a citable quote.
The money — in
source: Census gov-finance & state comptrollerBudget
Revenue$25.1M
Spending$26.2M
Operating spending ran ahead of revenue this year.
Debt load MODERATE
Outstanding debt$16.2M
Debt-to-revenue0.65×
Debt-load index66 / 100
A debt-load indicator (national percentile of debt, deficit & aid-reliance) — not a solvency verdict. Cross-checked against official state fiscal-stress scores where they exist.
Outcomes — economic mobility
source: Opportunity Atlas (Harvard) · research useFor kids who grew up here in low-income households, their adult household-income rank (0–1). The average hides a gap by race:
Research-only layer, shown here for context — not included in the CC BY 4.0 bulk download.
Where it’s happening
geocoded land-use decisions🗺 Interactive map
Every rezoning, development approval, and permit — explore the geocoded records in the
research explorer.
Meeting archives
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