Independence public meetings in 2024
72 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Library Board
The Independence Library Board will meet on December 19, 2024 to conduct routine business. Items on the agenda include approving bills, reviewing statistics, and discussing a continuing education policy, an artwork donation, and proposed changes to the library budget. The board will also provide updates on goals, evaluate the library director, and receive staff reports.
- Approve Bills
- Statistics Report
- Continuing Education Policy
- Artwork Donation
- Budget Proposal Changes
The Independence Public Library Board of Trustees met on December 19, 2024, and unanimously approved the agenda, minutes, bills, a continuing education policy review, and budget changes. The board accepted an artwork donation from Scott Jans and discussed framing costs. Budget changes included adjustments for the Coordinator position and potential lighting system upgrades, with approval contingent on obtaining more quotes.
- Approved agenda (unanimous)
- Approved minutes (unanimous)
- Approved bills (unanimous)
- Approved Continuing Education Policy 3-year review (unanimous)
- Accepted artwork donation from Scott Jans (unanimous)
- Approved budget changes with contingency for lighting quotes (unanimous)
City Council
The City Council is meeting for a tour of downtown apartments located above Coles Ace Hardware. No other business or decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Tour of downtown apartments at 312 1st St E
City Council
The Independence City Council will meet to approve the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Amendment #1 and consider resolutions for the North Aircraft Parking Apron Project and a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan at the airport. The meeting will also include the approval of a special class C retail alcohol license renewal and the acceptance of claims.
- Approve Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Amendment #1
- Accept work for North Aircraft Parking Apron Project
- Approve Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan for James H. Connell Field
- Approve River'sEDGE Sport & Fitness Special Class C Retail Alcohol License renewal
- Approve Change Order #1 for North Aircraft Parking Apron Project
The Independence City Council approved the FY2025 Budget Amendment #1 after a public hearing, accepted work on the North Aircraft Parking Apron Project, and approved a change order decreasing that contract by $17,545.07. The council also reappointed members to the Planning and Zoning Commission and Board of Adjustment, adopted the 2025 meeting schedule, and canceled the December 23, 2024 meeting. All votes were unanimous except the cancellation, which passed 6-1.
- Approved FY2025 Budget Amendment #1 (unanimous)
- Accepted North Aircraft Parking Apron Project work (unanimous)
- Approved Change Order #1 for North Aircraft Parking Apron, decreasing contract by $17,545.07 (unanimous)
- Reappointed Jane Leaven to Planning and Zoning Commission (unanimous)
- Reappointed Tami Fenner to Planning and Zoning Commission (unanimous)
- Reappointed Matt Mayner to Planning and Zoning Commission (unanimous)
- Reappointed Julie Wulfekuhle to Board of Adjustment (unanimous)
- Canceled Dec 23, 2024 council meeting (6-1)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Airport Board
The Independence Airport Board will hear updates from the engineer, chairman/city manager, airport manager, and FBO. It will review revenue and expense figures to date and discuss scheduling for the January 1 meeting. No formal actions or approvals are listed on the agenda.
- Engineer update
- Chairman/City Manager update
- Airport Manager update
- FBO update
- Review of revenues and expenses to date
Planning and Zoning Commission
The Planning and Zoning Commission will meet to discuss an amendment to Article 17 regarding signs. The body will also review a preliminary plat of survey for Heidemann.
- Article 17, Signs amendment
- Preliminary Plat of Survey - Heidemann
City Council
The Independence City Council work session will consider a renewal of the liquor license for Wal‑Mart Supercenter #750. Council members will also receive updates on the wastewater treatment plant design, the RV park, and airport capital projects. Additional topics include street lighting on Lover’s Lane, speed‑education signage, and the FY 2026 budget timeline.
- Wal‑Mart Supercenter #750 Liquor License Renewal
- Wastewater Treatment Plant Replacement Project – Design Update
- RV Park Discussion
- Airport Five‑Year Capital Improvement Plan
- Lover’s Lane – Streetlighting
City Council
The Independence City Council will approve a consent agenda that includes the minutes of the November 12 meeting and a renewal of the Brick Kitchen Special Class C Retail Alcohol License. The council will set a public hearing for Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Amendment #1 and review the FY2024 Annual Urban Renewal Report. A resolution will dedicate certain real estate as a park, and the first reading of an ordinance amendment to Code Section 47.02 (Park Regulations) will be considered.
- Renewal of Brick Kitchen Special Class C Retail Alcohol License (effective Nov 16, 2024 – Nov 15, 2025)
- Public hearing set for FY2025 Budget Amendment #1
- FY2024 Annual Urban Renewal Report
- Resolution dedicating certain real estate as a park
- First reading of ordinance amendment to Code Section 47.02 – Park Regulations
Library Board
The Library Board of Trustees will meet to review the 2026 Budget and Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) proposal. The board will also discuss a security camera policy and a board appointment for the IPLF. Other items include updates on the library bylaws and the Oaklee project.
- 2026 Budget & CIP Proposal
- Security Camera Policy
- IPLF Board Appointment
- Library Board Bylaws
- Oaklee Update
City Council
The joint meeting of the City of Independence, Buchanan County and the Independence Community School District will review anticipated 2024‑2025 projects, discuss budget issues and challenges, and consider legislative concerns and opportunities for each entity. The agenda also allows for other topics of interest before adjournment.
- Review of anticipated 2024‑2025 projects for city, county, and school district
- Discussion of budget issues and challenges for each entity
- Consideration of 2025 legislative concerns and opportunities
- Open discussion of other topics of interest
City Council
The Independence City Council will consider a resolution to approve a Homeowner/Agency Repair Program Project (Project 3.1). The meeting also includes a consent agenda for three Class C retail alcohol license renewals and several financial reports and resolutions, including a mowing compliance assessment and a Tax Increment Financing certification. Additional items are a discussion of the LEAD Buchanan Academy 2025 and routine monthly department reports.
- Renewal of El Mazatlan Authentic Mexican Restaurant Class C retail alcohol license
- Renewal of Wee Willy's Checkered Flag Class C retail alcohol license with outdoor service
- Renewal of Allerton Brewing Company Class C retail alcohol license with outdoor service
- Resolution to approve Homeowner/Agency Repair Program Project 3.1
- Resolution to assess property owners for Chapter 52 mowing compliance
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Airport Board
The Airport Board will meet to receive updates from the engineer, city manager, and airport manager. The board will discuss a draft Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP).
- CIP Draft
- SWPPP
- Revenues and Expenses to Date
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Planning and Zoning Commission
The Planning and Zoning Commission will vote to approve the minutes from the October 1, 2024 meeting. It will then consider a proposed amendment to Article 17 concerning signs. No other business is listed.
- Approve minutes from October 1, 2024 meeting
- Consider amendment to Article 17 – signs
City Council
The City Council will hold a work session to discuss and debate items for future formal consideration. The meeting includes department reports and updates on downtown initiatives.
- Downtown parking time limits
- Mayors’ Park designation
- Downtown housing update
- Department reports from Library, Parks & Recreation, Fire, and Police
City Council
The Independence City Council will consider a consent agenda that includes the meeting minutes, a Class C retail alcohol license renewal for the Sanity Room, and a tobacco permit for King Tobacco. They will approve claims and review revenue and expense information, then conduct a first reading of an ordinance amendment to create No Parking Zones. Several resolutions will be adopted, including the use of American Recovery Plan Act funds, approval of the final plat for the MBH Addition, and a moratorium on certain sign enforcement. Additional items include a library donation, a commercial restoration grant application, and updates on the water and sewer system.
- Consent agenda: minutes of the Oct 14, 2024 meeting
- Consent agenda: Sanity Room Class C retail alcohol license renewal (outdoor service Nov 16 2024–Nov 15 2025)
- Consent agenda: Tobacco permit for King Tobacco at 209 1st St E (Oct 28 2024–June 30 2025)
- First reading of Ordinance Amendment to Code Section 69.08 – No Parking Zones
- Resolution to establish use of American Recovery Plan Act Funds
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
Library Board
The Independence Library Board will review several agenda items, including the IPL Strategic Plan, a proposed amendment to the Library Board Bylaws, and the addition of a therapy dog for library programming. The board will also discuss the Budget Committee and approve pending bills. Miscellaneous items such as the Squirrel Area naming and board training will be addressed.
- Approve Bills
- IPL Strategic Plan
- Library Board Bylaws
- Therapy Dog for Programming
- Budget Committee
City Council
The Independence City Council will meet to approve consent agenda items including meeting minutes, a drug store alcohol license renewal, and a bow hunting request. The body will also consider financial reports, a debt review, and a commercial restoration grant application.
- Approve minutes from September 30, 2024
- Hartig Drug #14 Class E retail alcohol license renewal
- Bow Hunting Request from Tom Weigand
- Commercial Restoration Rehab Grant Application – 114-116 1st St E
- 1st Street West Reconstruction Project – RAISE Grant
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
City Council
The Independence City Council work session will review departmental reports and hold several discussion items. Council members will consider engineering funding for the 1st Street West reconstruction project, an EMS levy, and a speed camera update. They will also discuss a Chapter 69 yard parking ordinance and an emergency‑preparedness scenario walk‑through for elected officials.
- 1st Street West Reconstruction Engineering Funding
- EMS Levy Discussion
- Speed Camera Update / Discussion
- Chapter 69 Yard Parking Ordinance – Building/Code Enforcement
- Emergency Preparedness Scenario Walk‑through for Elected Officials
City Council
The City Council is holding a work session to discuss and debate items for future formal consideration. The primary topic for discussion is the EMS Levy.
- Discussion of EMS Levy
Airport Board
The Airport Board will meet to receive updates from the engineer, city manager, and airport manager. The board will also review the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and current revenues and expenses.
- Engineer update
- CIP review
- Review of revenues and expenses to date
- FBO update
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Planning and Zoning Commission
The Independence Planning and Zoning Commission will open with a roll call, approve the minutes from the September 3, 2024 meeting, and discuss the final plat for the MBH addition. No other business is listed.
- Approval of meeting minutes – September 3, 2024
- Final Plat‑MBH Addition
City Council
The City Council will hold a public hearing on a proposed rezoning request. It will also consider several ordinance amendments, including changes to water and sewer fees and street grades. The council will vote on a resolution to approve a Homeowner/Agency Repair Program project and on a resolution to assess property owners for mowing compliance. A consent agenda containing routine items such as meeting minutes and bow‑hunting requests will be approved.
- Public Hearing for the Proposed Rezoning Request (Item 11)
- Third and Final Reading of Ordinance Amendment for Section 1.15 Water and Sewer Fees (Item 9)
- First Reading of Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 138 – Street Grades (Item 10)
- Resolution to approve Homeowner/Agency Repair Program Project 6 under the Independence TIF LMI Set‑Aside (Item 15)
- Resolution to assess property owners for Chapter 52 mowing compliance (Item 13)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Library Board
The Independence Library Board will open the meeting, approve the agenda and minutes, and vote on pending bills. The board will also discuss an equipment policy, provide a facility update, and conduct board training. Additional reports from board members and staff will be presented before adjournment.
- Approve Bills
- Equipment Policy discussion
- Facility Update
- Board Training
- Board and Staff Reports
City Council
The Independence City Council will consider a consent agenda that includes the August 26 minutes, a special event application for a December 6 Jingle on Main, and a Class C retail alcohol license renewal. Financial items such as claims, bank reconciliation, and revenue and expense reports will be approved or noted. The council will conduct a second reading of an ordinance amendment to Section 1.15 for water and sewer fees and will vote on several resolutions, including a preliminary plat, a rezoning hearing date, street rehabilitation assessments, and multiple Homeowner/Agency Repair Program projects under the TIF LMI set‑aside. Additional business items include an airport SWPP plan, a commercial restoration grant application, and routine department reports.
- Establish date and time for public hearing on rezoning A-1 Agricultural to R-1 Residential
- Second reading of Ordinance Amendment for Section 1.15 Water and Sewer Fees
- Adopt final assessment schedule for the 2024 Street Rehabilitation Project
- Approve Homeowner/Agency Repair Program Project 1 under Independence TIF LMI Set‑Aside
- Commercial Restoration Rehab Grant Application – 216 1st St E
The Independence City Council approved the preliminary plat for Henderson First Addition, a 55-home development, and passed the second reading of an ordinance amending water and sewer fees. The council also approved multiple resolutions, including special assessments, street project acceptance, and several Homeowner/Agency Repair Program projects. All votes were unanimous with Council Member Huston absent.
- Approved preliminary plat for Henderson First Addition (6-0)
- Approved second reading of ordinance amending water and sewer fees (6-0)
- Set public hearing for Sept 30 on rezoning from A-1 to R-1 (6-0)
- Approved resolution to assess property owners for mowing violations (6-0)
- Accepted 2024 Street Rehabilitation Project work (6-0)
- Approved special assessments at 4% interest (6-0)
- Approved six Homeowner/Agency Repair Program projects (6-0 each)
- Approved $376,380.26 in claims for payment (6-0)
🗳️ How they voted (14 roll-call votes)
Airport Board
The Independence Airport Board will hear updates from the engineer, the chairman/city manager, the airport manager, and the fixed-base operator. The board will also review revenue and expense figures to date. No formal actions or decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Engineer update
- Chairman/City Manager update
- Airport Manager update
- FBO (fixed‑base operator) update
- Review of revenues and expenses to date
The Independence Airport Board met and received updates on the lighting project, including a planned preconstruction meeting on September 16, 2024. Reports from the airport manager and FBO were accepted. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational and procedural.
- Approved agenda (unanimous)
- Approved minutes (unanimous)
- Accepted airport manager's report
- Accepted FBO report
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
City Council
The Independence City Council held a work session to discuss items slated for future formal consideration. Presentations included an economic development update and reports from the fire, library, parks & recreation, and police departments. New business items covered a traffic signal at 5th Ave NE and 3rd St NE, a potential FEMA buyout property at 67 10th St NE, storm warning sirens, and an airport SWPP plan. No final actions were taken during this session.
- Traffic Signal – 5th Ave. NE (150 Hwy) and 3rd St. NE
- Potential FEMA Buyout Property – 67 10th St. NE
- Storm Warning Sirens
- Airport SWPP Plan
- Buchanan County Economic Development Update
The Independence City Council met for a work session on September 3, 2024, with all members present except Huston. They heard updates from the Fire, Library, Parks & Recreation, and Police departments, and discussed several topics including economic development, a traffic signal, a potential FEMA buyout, storm sirens, the airport SWPP plan, and project prioritization. No formal decisions or votes were made during this session.
- No formal decisions or votes taken during work session
Planning and Zoning Commission
The Planning and Zoning Commission will meet to consider a rezoning application and a preliminary plat approval for Henderson. The commission will also review minutes from the August 6, 2024 meeting.
- Henderson rezoning application
- Henderson application for preliminary plat approval
The Planning and Zoning Commission approved a rezoning application from Henderson Family Land LLC and a preliminary plat for the Henderson Addition to the City of Independence. Both motions passed unanimously. The meeting was brief and procedural, with no other substantive decisions.
- Approved rezoning application by Henderson Family Land LLC (all aye)
- Approved preliminary plat for Henderson Addition (all aye)
- Approved August 6, 2024 meeting minutes (all aye)
City Council
The City Council will conduct a public hearing and a first reading of an ordinance amendment regarding water and sewer fees. The body will also consider code amendments regarding fire and council authority and a resolution for mowing assessments.
- Public hearing and first reading of Ordinance Amendment to Section 1.15 for Water and Sewer Fees
- Code Amendment for Sections 35.13 Fire Officials Authority and 35.14 Council Authority
- Resolution to assess property owners for Chapter 52 mowing failures
- Pat's Tap Class C Retail Alcohol License renewal
- Private septic tank installation at 1511 1st St. East
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Library Board
The Library Board will meet to discuss updates to the meeting room and library card policies. The board will also review the FY2024 Strategic Plan Summary and staff development regarding an AI Learning Circuit.
- Meeting Room Policy
- Library Card Policy
- Strategic Plan Summary FY2024
- AI Learning Circuit for Staff Development
- Oak Trees by Library
City Council
The City Council will determine a date for a public hearing regarding amendments to water and sewer rate charges. The body will also consider several legislative code amendments and a personnel policy change regarding longevity.
- Public hearing date for Ordinance Amending Water and Sewer Rate charges
- Preliminary Plat – MBH Addition
- Resolution for a Personnel Policy Change – Longevity
- Wastewater Plant Design Contract Amendment
- Independence BrewBQ Special Class C Retail Alcohol License application
🗳️ How they voted (29 roll-call votes)
Airport Board
The Independence Airport Board will hear updates from the engineer, the chairman/city manager, the airport manager, and the fixed-base operator. The board will also review revenues and expenses to date and discuss topics raised by board members. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Engineer Update
- Chairman/City Manager Update
- Airport Manager Update
- FBO Update
- Revenues and Expenses to Date
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Planning and Zoning Commission
The Planning and Zoning Commission will review the preliminary plat for a property within two miles of the city limits. The agenda also includes the approval of meeting minutes from June 4, 2024.
- Review preliminary plat for Finholt property
- Approve June 4, 2024 meeting minutes
City Council
The Independence City Council work session will review several items slated for future council action, including a water and sewer rate ordinance amendment and a wastewater plant design contract amendment. The council may also take action on any agenda item during this meeting. Department reports on the airport, building/code enforcement, streets, and utilities will be presented, and other topics such as a liquor license and fire station site selection will be discussed.
- Independence Chamber Liquor License – Meet Me on Main
- Wastewater Plant Design Contract Amendment
- Water and Sewer Rate Ordinance Amendment
- Water Service Line Ownership
- Parcel #10.03.328.011 – approx. 596 9th Ave. SE
City Council
The City Council will meet to approve claims and review financial reports. The agenda includes a petition from the public regarding an update to the Ambulance-EMS Plan.
- Ambulance – EMS Plan Update petition
- Approval of claims
- Review of revenues and expenses to date
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Library Board
The Independence Library Board will hold its regular meeting to approve minutes, bills, and a statistics report. New business includes voting for officers and discussing a censorship and re-evaluation policy. The board will also address an oak tree by the library and receive updates on geothermal work and advocacy efforts.
- Voting for officers
- Discussion on censorship and re-evaluation policy
- Oak tree by Library
- Geothermal Update
- Advocacy with Elected Officials
City Council
The City Council will consider resolutions for the 8th Avenue NW stormwater improvements project and property owner assessments regarding mowing compliance. The agenda also includes alcohol license renewals and asbestos inspection services.
- Contract and bond approval for Independence 8th Avenue NW – IPF Area Stormwater Improvements Project
- Resolution to assess property owners for Chapter 52 mowing non-compliance
- Class C Retail Alcohol License renewals for Las Dos Marias Mexican Restaurant and Old Rush Park Tavern
- Asbestos inspection services at 812 10th St NE
City Council
The Independence City Council will hold a public hearing and consider contract awards for the 8th Avenue NW Stormwater Improvements Project. The council is also reviewing amendments to city zoning bulk requirements and the fines and fees schedule. Additionally, members will consider endorsing grant funding for the Enterprise Drive Trail Phase 2.
- Public hearing and contract award for Independence 8th Avenue NW Stormwater Improvements Project
- Second reading of ordinance amending city zoning bulk requirements
- First reading of ordinance amending fines and fees schedule
- Resolution to endorse Enterprise Drive Trail Phase 2 for grant funding
- Renewal of alcohol licenses for Mini-Mart, Chuong Garden, and Del Rio
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
Library Board
The Independence Library Board will meet on June 20, 2024, to discuss new policies and contracts. The agenda includes reviews of a cleaning contract, bulletin board policy, and FY25 wages and salaries. The board will also receive updates on the Summer Reading Program and hiring.
- Cleaning Contract
- Bulletin Board and Display Policy
- Gifts and Memorials Policy
- Wages and Salaries FY25
- Grant and Oak Tree
City Council
The council will hold a public hearing regarding bulk requirements in the city's zoning ordinance. The meeting also includes first readings for ordinances on golf carts and property mowing. Other business involves library board appointments and alcohol license renewals.
- Public hearing for Bulk Requirements Ordinance Change
- First reading of ordinances for golf carts and property mowing
- Lot Combination Agreement for Lots 11 and 12 in The Pines First Addition
- Library Board appointments for Matt Riggers and Quentin Stenger
- Alcohol license renewals for Casey's General Store and Las Dos Marias
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Airport Board
The Airport Board will receive updates from the engineer, city manager, airport manager, and FBO. The board will also review revenues and expenses to date.
- Engineer update
- Chairman/City Manager update
- Airport Manager update
- FBO update
- Review of revenues and expenses to date
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Planning and Zoning Commission
The Planning and Zoning Commission will review meeting minutes from 2023 and 2024. The agenda also includes the selection of a new Secretary and consideration of the MHI Plat of Survey and the Hansen lot combination agreement.
- Selection of Planning Commission Secretary
- MHI Plat of Survey
- Lot Combination Agreement – Hansen
- Approval of meeting minutes from September 2023 through May 2024
City Council
The City Council will hold a work session to discuss items intended for formal consideration at a future meeting. The session includes department reports and updates on city services and regulations.
- Ambulance – EMS Levy Update
- MSA Lead Service Line Inventory
- Municipal Infractions Collections Contract
- Building Permit Fees for working without a permit
- Proposed revisions to Chapter 52 (Grass Mowing) and Chapter 74 (Golf Cart Ordinance)
City Council
The City Council will consider several change orders and the final acceptance of work for the Independence Façade Phase 1 Project. The body is also reviewing a budget amendment and resolutions for various infrastructure and housing assistance programs.
- Change Orders #14, #25, #26, and #27 for the Independence Façade Phase 1 Project
- Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Amendment #2
- Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance Resolution
- Public hearing setting for Table 1: Bulk Requirements change
- Agreement between City of Independence and Teamsters Local 238 for the Police Department
Library Board
The Library Board will meet to elect a Vice President and discuss policies regarding unattended children and library programming. The board will also review April statistics and plans for increasing revenues.
- Election for Vice President
- Unattended Child Policy
- Library Program Policy
- Hiring part-time staff
- Plans for increasing revenues
City Council
The City Council will consider a public hearing for the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Amendment #2. The meeting also includes a public hearing regarding a proposed Sewer Revenue Loan and Disbursement Agreement.
- Public Hearing for Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Amendment #2
- Sewer Revenue Loan and Disbursement Agreement proposal
- $2,178,000 Sewer Revenue Loan and Disbursement Agreement Anticipation Project Note
- Special Class C Retail Alcohol License for the 163rd Annual 4th of July Parade
- Change Order #21 for the Independence Façade Phase 1 Project
🗳️ How they voted (13 roll-call votes)
Planning and Zoning Commission
The commission will meet to introduce the Building Official and discuss bulk requirements for the Zoning Ordinance.
- Introduction of the Building Official
- Discussion of Bulk Requirements – Zoning Ordinance
Board of Adjustment
The Board of Adjustment will review the minutes from the July 27, 2023 meeting and discuss variance requirements. A specific request was submitted for a rear setback variance at 712 Spruce Drive.
- Rear Setback Variance Request – 712 Spruce Drive
City Council
The City Council will hold a work session to discuss utility rates and wastewater treatment plant capacity. The meeting includes department reports and discussions on home rehabilitation and drainage easements.
- Sewer and Water Rates presentation
- Proposed WWTP Capacity Information
- Child Care Market Analysis Results
- 1500 6th Ave. NE Drainage Easement
- Fiscal Year 2025 Home Rehab Program
Airport Board
The Airport Board will meet to receive updates from the engineer, city manager, airport manager, and FBO. The board will also review current revenues and expenses.
- Engineer update
- Revenues and expenses to date
- Craig Schutte Memorial
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
City Council
The City Council will consider a resolution to set a public hearing for a sewer revenue loan not to exceed $2,178,000. The body will also review work acceptance and a change order for the Airport Taxiway & Apron Expansion Project. Other business includes a budget amendment hearing date and alcohol license renewals.
- Proposed Sewer Revenue Loan and Disbursement Agreement up to $2,178,000
- Work acceptance and Change Order #3 for the Airport Taxiway & Apron Expansion Project
- Change Order #1 for the Baseball/Softball Complex Field Turf Project
- Setting a public hearing date for Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Amendment #2
- Alcohol license renewals for Crowbar, Allerton Brewing Company, and Independence Park & Recreation
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Library Board
The Library Board will meet to discuss updates to the emergency and safety policy and the hotspot policy. The board will also consider a potential closed session for a director evaluation.
- Emergency and Safety Policy
- Hotspot Policy
- BCCF Grant Application
- Director Evaluation
- Donor Wall Update
City Council
The City Council is meeting for a special session to conduct a public hearing regarding the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget.
- Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Public Hearing
City Council
The City Council will consider the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget, Capital Improvement Program, and transfers. The body will also discuss salary and wage increases for staff and the City Manager effective July 1, 2024.
- Resolution to approve Fiscal Year 2025 Budget, CIP, and Transfers
- Salary/wage increases effective July 1, 2024, including a specific increase for the City Manager
- Funding agreements with Operation Threshold Inc., Buchanan County Tourism, Buchanan County Senior Center, Independence Celebrations Committee, Heartland Acres Agribition Center, Northeast Iowa RC&D, and Pathways Behavioral Services, Inc.
- 2024 Fire Service Fee Update
- Private septic tank installations at 308 14th Ave. SE and 1201 6th Ave. SW
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Airport Board
The Airport Board will meet to receive updates from the engineer, city manager, and airport manager. The board is scheduled to discuss the FBO lease and review revenues and expenses to date.
- FBO Lease discussion
- Review of revenues and expenses to date
- Engineer update
- FBO update
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
City Council
The Independence City Council held a work session to discuss upcoming actions, including a fiscal year 2024 budget amendment and salary increases effective July 1, 2024. The agenda included department updates for Building & Codes, Airport, Streets, and Utilities, as well as a presentation on the Wastewater Treatment Plant. No public comment was permitted on these items during the workshop.
- Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Amendment #2
- Salary/Wage Increases Effective July 1, 2024
- Haz Mat Fee Structure 2024
- Complex Turf Engineering Contract
- Private Septic Tank Installation – 308 14th Ave. SE and 1201 6th Ave. SW
City Council
The Independence City Council is holding a special meeting to conduct a public hearing on the proposed property tax levy for Fiscal Year 2025. The agenda contains only procedural items and this single hearing, with no other decisions or discussions listed.
- Public hearing for the Proposed Property Tax Levy for Fiscal Year 2025
City Council
The Independence City Council will consider routine consent items, approve claims, and set a public hearing for the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget. They will also hold the first reading of an ordinance amending public health and safety provisions related to fireworks, and vote on an engineering services agreement for a drainage project at 812 3rd Street NW.
- Set hearing for Fiscal Year 2025 Budget
- First reading of ordinance amending fireworks provisions
- Resolution to approve Engineering Services Agreement for 812 3rd Street NW Drainage Project
- Approve claims (dollar amounts not listed)
- Consent agenda includes BrewBQ 2024 special event application and bow hunting request
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Library Board
The Library Board will meet to review February statistics and discuss personnel policy. The agenda includes decisions on roof shingle color and design, budget amendments, and revisions to the IPL Plan.
- Roof shingle color and design
- Budget amendment
- IPL Plan revisions
- Donor wall and recognition changes
- Art focus grant project
City Council
The Independence City Council will meet to discuss public health and safety ordinances and various infrastructure projects. The body will review resolutions regarding housing studies, sidewalk compliance, and street rehabilitation funding.
- Final reading of an ordinance amending provisions for discharging weapons
- Resolution to approve the Buchanan County Housing Study
- Resolution to assess a property owner for Chapter 136 Sidewalk Regulations failure to comply
- Resolution to endorse STBG Funding for the 2028 STBG Street Rehabilitation Project
- Engineering services for storm drainage improvements in the 812 3rd St. NW area
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Airport Board
The Independence Airport Board is meeting to discuss routine updates from the engineer, chairman/city manager, airport manager, and FBO, as well as review rules and regulations, revenues and expenses, and a draft request for proposals. The agenda is procedural and contains no major decisions or public hearings.
- Young Eagles Kids Fly Free event on May 4th
- Rules and Regulations Review
- Revenues and Expenses to Date
- Draft request for proposals
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
City Council
The City Council will hear presentations from insurance providers and five engineering firms. The session includes department reports and updates on the BCEDC and the Buchanan County Housing Study.
- Insurance presentations by John Evers and PDCM
- Engineering presentations by Anderson Bogert, Crawford Engineering, Fehr Graham, Veenstra & Kimm, and Willett Hofmann
- BCEDC annual review and Catalyst Grant update
- Buchanan County Housing Study – Independence Appendix
- Discussion on fireworks within city limits
City Council
The Independence City Council will hold first and second readings of an ordinance amending public health and safety provisions on discharging weapons. They will also vote on a resolution approving the contract and bonds for the 2024 Street Rehabilitation Project, and consider a change order for the 2023 bridge rehab project. The consent agenda includes several alcohol license renewals. A potential closed session is listed to discuss real estate purchase or sale.
- Ordinance amending discharging weapons provisions (first and second readings)
- Resolution approving contract and bonds for 2024 Street Rehabilitation Project
- Change Order #1 for 2023 2nd St SW Bridge and 8th Ave SW Pedestrian Bridge Rehab Project
- Kwik Star #717 Class B Retail Alcohol License renewal and amendment
- Indee Cafe, LLC Class C Retail Alcohol License renewal with outdoor service
🗳️ How they voted — 2 divided votes
Library Board
The Independence Library Board will meet to approve bills and minutes, review January statistics, and discuss new policies for library hours and social media. They will also address unfinished business and miscellaneous items including the One Book Indee program, a community kiosk, Iowa legislative bills, and board training.
- Approve Bills
- Library Hours Policy discussion
- Social Media Policy discussion
- One Book Indee program update
- Community Kiosk update
City Council
The City Council will hold a public hearing and consider awarding a contract for the 2024 Street Rehabilitation Project. The body is also discussing property tax levies for Fiscal Year 2025 and updates to public health and safety ordinances regarding discharging weapons.
- Public hearing and bid consideration for the 2024 Street Rehabilitation Project
- Setting a hearing for the Fiscal Year 2025 Proposed Property Tax Levy
- First reading of an ordinance amending provisions for discharging weapons
- Alcohol license renewal for Dollar General #2329 and amendment for Gedney Bakery & Coffeehouse
- Approval of the Final Plat for Maryville
🗳️ How they voted (14 roll-call votes)
Airport Board
The Airport Board will meet to elect officers and receive updates from the engineer, city manager, and airport manager. The board will also review the FBO lease and current rules and regulations.
- Election of officers
- FBO Lease review
- Rules and Regulations Review
- 2023 Aviation Fuel Summary
- Review of revenues and expenses to date
Planning and Zoning Commission
The Planning and Zoning Commission will meet to discuss new business. The primary item on the agenda is a final plat located within two miles of the city limits.
- Review of a final plat within 2 miles of City Limits
City Council
The City Council will hold a work session to discuss items intended for future formal consideration. Key topics include budget updates, waste management, and public health ordinances.
- FY2025 Budget & Proposed Property Tax Levy Update
- Ordinance amending provisions for discharging weapons
- Independence Premium Foods status update
- Waste Management Services discussion
- 2nd Street SW Bridge drain extensions
Library Board
The Library Board is meeting to review the budget proposal for fiscal year 2024-25. The board will also approve bills and review statistics.
- FY2024-25 Budget Proposal
City Council
The City Council will consider a Resolution of Necessity and detailed plans for the 2024 Street Rehabilitation Project. The body will also review alcohol licenses and a housing development agreement.
- Public hearing and resolutions for the 2024 Street Rehabilitation Project
- Revised 2nd Story Housing Development Agreement
- Retail alcohol licenses for Gedney Bakery & Coffeehouse, The Spot Smoke Shop, and River'sEDGE Sport & Fitness
- Resolution to accept work for the Independence COVID Façade Project
- Resolution modifying Vacation Award, Accrual, and Carryover
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Library Board
The Library Board will meet to review December statistics and approve bills. The board is scheduled to discuss policies regarding sex offenders and prizes and incentives, as well as county funding and the FY2025 budget.
- Prizes & Incentives Policy
- Sex Offender Policy
- County Funding
- Library Budget FY2025
- Community Kiosk
City Council
The Independence City Council is holding a work session to discuss and debate items for future formal consideration, including department capital improvement program (CIP) budgets for FY2025, third-party budget requests, and a potential spring 2024 bond issuance. The meeting is a regular meeting, but it is not a public hearing, so no public presentations are allowed. No formal action is listed on the agenda, but the council may take action on any item shown as a potential action item.
- Department CIP budgets for FY2025
- FY2025 third-party budget requests
- Spring Bond 2024 issuance
- Historic tax information reports
- Council, mayor, and city manager topics
City Council
The Independence City Council will approve annual designations for depositories, newspapers, and mileage rates. The meeting focuses on reviewing four change orders for the Independence Façade COVID Project and Phase 1 Project, as well as an annual billing agreement with ILPT. Routine financial reports and the approval of previous meeting minutes are also on the agenda.
- Change Order #9 for the Independence Façade COVID Project
- Change Order #7 for the Independence Façade Phase 1 Project
- Change Order #15 for the Independence Façade Phase 1 Project
- Change Order #19 for the Independence Façade Phase 1 Project
- ILPT Annual Billing Agreement
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
City Council
The Independence City Council will hold a work session to discuss and debate items for future formal consideration, including an update on the fire station architect, a liquor license renewal, and department reports. The council will review proposed FY 2025 operating budgets for all city departments, and consider an ordinance amending public health and safety provisions regarding discharging weapons. Other items include vacation award/accrual/carryover policies and an ILP&T annual billing agreement.
- 319 Social House liquor license renewal
- FY 2025 proposed budgets for all departments (Airport, Building, City Admin, Animal Control, Garbage, Fire, Library, Parks & Recreation, Police, Streets, Storm Water, Utilities, Water)
- Ordinance amending Code of Ordinances pertaining to public health and safety – discharging weapons
- Vacation award, accrual, and carryover policy
- ILP&T annual billing agreement