The Guttenberg city council at its monthly meeting on Nov. 10 heard a report on regional housing funds, scrutinized the Chamber director's report, and moved forward on zoning changes.
Housing Trust Fund
Chris Troendle of the Upper Explorerland Regional Planning Commission spoke to the council with updates on the Housing Trust Fund and other programs that the agency administers. He said, "The trust fund is kind of a cornerstone program that allows for great programs in communities."
Troendle noted that there are funds available for home rehab projects or for down payment assistance for those meeting income guidelines and asked that the city help promote the program. He said that during its history the program has been involved in approximately 140 projects in the area, resulting in close to $6 million in direct and indirect economic activity. He asked that the city budget $3,000 annually for the program as in the past, or "maybe bump it up a little."
He also told of other programs available including federal home loans and funds for demolition projects for derelict properties.
"All in all, we are looking at creating safe, affordable housing," he said.
Chamber of
Commerce
The council okayed a special event permit for Christmas by the River, a Chamber of Commerce promotion. Chamber director Dan Schmelzer gave his monthly update to the council on activities, income and expenses.
Schmelzer said the Chamber is actively seeking board members to fill empty seats and also needs volunteers.
The city currently provides the Chamber with $20,000 annually. Schmelzer, who works 20 hours a week, faced numerous council questions and discussion about budget reports, his job description, hours, organizational structure, marketing, lining up a fireworks vendor for Stars and Stripes, and director reports.
Zoning changes
The council amended the city's zoning ordinance to allow for a C-1A designation in the industrial park area, as discussed at last month's meetings.
The council also approved the first reading of an ordinance that would permit a new designation, C-2, allowing residential use on the ground floor of buildings in the downtown business area, with the stipulation that at least 30% of floor space fronting the street be reserved for commercial activity. The council will further consider the change at next month's meeting before any final approval.
Other business
Kim Davis of the city park board received council approval to move forward with two grant applications to be used for a major project to replace park benches. She said the park board's plan is to eventually replace 100 benches, with the cost estimated at $1,000 each.
Marina rates were approved for the coming year and will remain the same as last year.
A $500 Business Accelerator grant was approved for The Store Next Door.
Two pay requests were approved for electric work on the city's flood control system.
Collin Krapfl and Madison Goedken were approved as volunteer firefighters, pending department approval.
The council okayed Police Chief Derek Chamber's request to buy new furniture for the police department. It will be purchased using a RAGBRAI donation.
A street closure on Nov. 24 for the Holiday Train was approved.
— Present for the meeting were Mayor Fred Schaub, City Manager Jamie Blume and council members Mandy Ludovissy, Austin Greve, Jane Parker, Steve Bahls and Michelle Geuder.
