Government : City Council covers a host of topics at Thursday's meeting

The City Council had a lengthy agenda on Thursday evening. Several property owners cited with a nuisance on their property, approached the council with requests for extensions. Most were granted. A couple of elderly residents with health issues were among those requesting more time. Blake Hansen explained that if there are issues residents need to speak with him and he does try to work with residents if he can.

Fuel Surcharge for Garbage Collection

Because of rising fuel costs, the city has been asked to include a monthly surcharge for fuel for garbage collection in the city. The amount would be based on the average cost of diesel in the MIdwest according to the US Energy Information Administration. However, if the price drops below $3.50 there would be no surcharge for that month.The city must first approve a change in the ordinances to make the accommodation.

The council agreed to hire Callahan Municipal Consultants to create a special study focusing on the possible adoption of a special water rate for in this case the Vinton Country Club. The club's water rates increased severely after their special rate was eliminated.

The council also heard from Kevin Schlaurbaum who presented plans for another downtown concert next year on June 10, 2023, bringing Hairball to downtown Vinton. The expected attendance would be 2,500. The fire chief and police chief voiced concerns about possible emergency access to the area with that many people downtown in one area and the fact that access to alcohol was given to underage drinkers. It was suggested on the application that the venue be moved back to the fairgrounds.

Boomtown's application for their event on August 27, 2022 was approved, along with a contribution of $6,000 for fireworks to be purchased. This will be the 15th Annual Boomtown in Vinton.

The Vinton Cruise presented their events request for Saturday, September 24, which was approved for downtown Vinton.

Pink Heals Fundraiser Ride, also presented an events application for July 23, 2022.

Matt Boggess of Vinton Parks and Recreation updated the council on the many projects happening in the department. Camera installation at all of the sites across the town is in progress with access given to the police chief in case there is an incident. Not a cheap project but necessary.

On the damaged playground equipment he said that the VPRD would receive $153,000 minus depreciation, and he expects that the area will be without playground equipment through this fall. As much as he hates to wait he said it would be better for the community.

For the pickup truck that was destroyed, the department will receive $23,000 minus the deductible.

The final rendering for the wellness center should be ready for a kickoff fundraiser in November.

The new shelter house is going up at Kiwanis and they are working hard to have it finished and the park looking nice by August 14th in time for the 75th Anniversary of the Kiwanis.

B.L. Anderson Park has many updates on the Pickleball/basketball court, and the lights should be lit next week.

Unfortunately, like everywhere else the department is facing staff shortages at this time.