Muscatine council approves $4.26 million sewer contract, appoints interim fire chief and advances multiple infrastructure and transit measures

The Muscatine City Council on May 1 adopted a string of ordinances, resolutions and contracts, including a $4,263,028.47 award for the West Hills Sewer Separation Phase 6D project and the appointment of Michael (Mike) Hartman as interim fire chief effective May 1, 2025.

Council members voted unanimously to adopt on third and final reading an amendment to City Code (Title 10, Chapter 26, Section 2) to relax side-yard setback requirements for certain very narrow, preexisting residential parcels. The council also approved a separate ordinance amending city building-code provisions (Title 8, Chapter 1, Section 4; Title 8, Chapter 10, Section 2) to remove the requirement that engineered plans be submitted for post-frame buildings under 1,440 square feet; both actions passed on voice vote.

On personnel, the council approved a resolution appointing Michael Hartman as interim fire chief and administered his oath of office during the meeting. The city administrator thanked Hartman for returning from retirement and praised the fire and police departments for supporting the appointment.

Major capital actions included adopting a contract and bond with KE Flatwork Inc.…