Cedar Falls celebrates Sturgis Falls 50th anniversary with community volunteer effort

Cedar Falls celebrated a successful Sturgis Falls festival this past weekend, thanks to the tireless efforts of volunteers and community organizations. During the City Council meeting on July 7, 2025, city leaders expressed gratitude for the dedication shown by local groups and individuals who made the event possible.

The festival, which drew an estimated 13,000 attendees on Saturday alone, showcased the spirit of Cedar Falls, with various performances and activities held throughout the weekend. Mayor and council members highlighted the contributions of numerous volunteers, including members from the Lions Club, Rotary Club, and local youth organizations. Special recognition was given to the newly formed Sturgis Falls Entertainment Group, which played a crucial role in revitalizing the festival after a challenging period two years ago.

As the city prepares for the 50th anniversary of the Sturgis Falls celebration next year, there is a strong commitment to ensuring the event remains vibrant and engaging for future generations. The council encouraged continued collaboration between city leadership and community organizations to enhance the festival experience.

In addition to the festival discussions, the meeting also addressed ongoing community concerns regarding local governance. Resident Gabe Garde urged the council to engage in open discussions about potential changes to the city's governance structure, emphasizing the importance of community input and collaboration. He expressed frustration over the lack of public commentary from council members on this issue and called for a special meeting to facilitate further dialogue.

Another resident, Andrew Van Horbije, raised concerns about immigration enforcement in Cedar Falls, requesting the council to establish clear policies regarding interactions between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. He emphasized the need for transparency and communication to alleviate community fears surrounding immigration issues.

The meeting concluded with updates from city staff, including a positive review of the recent fireworks display during the holiday weekend, which saw a decrease in complaints and no reported injuries.

As Cedar Falls moves forward, the city council remains focused on fostering community engagement and addressing the diverse needs of its residents, ensuring that the spirit of collaboration and celebration continues to thrive.