Regular Council Meeting
November 17, 2025, 6:00 P.M.
Community Media Center
Mayor Wayne Peach called the meeting to order. Council present were: Josh Brenneman, Candy Langerman, Mary Phelan, Jake Ellwood and Scott Brighton. Also, present were City Administrator Russell Farnum, City Clerk Sally Hinrichsen, Library Director Faith Brehm, Water /Wastewater Superintendent Jim Tjaden, Park & Rec Director Jacob Oswald and Ambulance Director Lori Lynch. Council member Dave Goedken was absent. The public was invited to attend the meeting in person, or to participate in the meeting electronically via “Zoom Meetings” or “Facebook” and were encouraged to communicate from the chat or message.
Brenneman moved to approve the agenda. Brighton seconded, roll call was unanimous.
Brighton moved to approve the consent agenda, Ellwood seconded. Roll call was unanimous.
Eli Moestchen presented his proposed Scout project, which focuses on redeveloping a walking trail through the Park and Ride area located at the south end of Monticello. This parcel of land is currently owned by the Iowa Department of Transportation, but maintained by the City. Moestchen’s project would include redeveloping a walking trail through clearing, grading, and defining a path; installing educational signage that highlights the natural environment; and adding plantings, benches and other amenities. He would like the City’s blessing before reaching out to the IDOT for their approval. Consensus of the Council was for Eli Moestchen to move forward with his proposed project and to place on next agenda for formal approval.
Brighton moved to approve Resolution #2025-162 Approving FY 2024-2025 Annual Urban Renewal Report. Ellwood seconded. Roll call was unanimous.
Langerman moved to approve Resolution #2025-163 Correcting Resolution 2025-90, Approving and Accepting the Voluntary Annexation of certain properties generally described as Lot 1 of Brad Stephen’s 4th Addition, including the adjacent right of way to the center of South Main Street (Business 151), adjoining the City of Monticello for at least fifty feet and not creating an island, as same is defined within Iowa Code §368.7(2). Ellwood seconded. Roll call unanimous.
Phelan moved to approve Resolution #2025-164 Approving Pay Request #18 to Bill Bruce Builders, Inc., Re: Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvement Project in the amount of $505,421.59. Ellwood seconded. Roll call was unanimous.
Langerman moved to approve Resolution #2025-165 Adjusting funds appropriated to meet the City’s Obligation to Kardes Inc. per Development Agreement dated March 17, 2014. Brenneman seconded. Roll call was unanimous.
John Monk, with Outlaws Mobile Entertainment requested the usage of the Monticello Community Building for a Family Friendly Movie theatre night that will be open to all of the community for free. Outlaw Entertainment wishes to provide a free Christmas family movie, with admission open to the public, at the Community Center on December 20th. This will be an all-inclusive activity, allowing access to those no matter their age or their financial limitations, to enjoy a nostalgic film in a warm and clean facility, with all of their friends and neighbors around. Sponsorships from local businesses and families have been procured in the past to help cover to cost of licensing as well as supplies. Besides the indoor movie, the option of popcorn and hot cocoa will be available as long as supplies last to those who wish to partake. Brenneman moved to allow Outlaw Entertainment free use of the Community Center for a free community movie event on December 20, 2025. Ellwood seconded. Roll call was unanimous.
Farnum reported the implementation of the new software allows the capability to download reports into Excel.
Farnum stated the airport farm lease bids have been sent out. Anyone interested in receiving a bid form should contact the City Clerk’s Office.
Farnum stated the Fire Board will be meeting on Wednesday to discuss the budget and turn out gear funding and invited Council to attend.
Lynch reported the Volunteer EMTs purchased two Lucas 3s for the department for approxinately $40,000. Lynch stated the department also received a grant from the Jones s County Community Foundation in the amount of $4,000.
Hinrichsen reported finalizing the training for the new software and the final two fiscal yearend reports.
Tjaden reported the sewer jet needs some major repairs and the grant funding for the sewer plant will not be available to purchase a sewer jet. Tjaden looked at options from two dealers. These would have a stainless steal tank. Hinrichsen advised they would need to hold a public hearing if they decide to lease payments. Council directed Tjaden to get more information and prices for the next meeting.
Oswald reported on activities happening now and programs with registration ending soon. He also reported many Christmas lights have been put up and the Seasons Greetings sign at the Aquatic Center was donated by the Rotary.
Brehm reported on activities happening at the library. She also advised that the mobile food truck will be at the Berndes Center. She advised the food pantry at the Library is fully stocked also.
Phelan moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:23 P.M.
Wayne Peach, Mayor
Sally Hinrichsen, City Clerk/Treasurer