Muscatine council annexes 153.5 acres and approves industrial zoning near Mittman Road

The Muscatine City Council on May 19 approved resolution 16A to annex approximately 153.5 acres of land near the southwest corner of Mittman Road and the US‑61 bypass and adopted a third and final reading of an ordinance to designate the property M2 general industrial upon annexation.

The council approved the annexation in a voice vote after a motion from Councilmember Lewis, seconded by Councilmember Osborne. The third and final zoning reading was moved by Councilmember Gordon and seconded by Councilmember Lampy; both votes were recorded as all ayes.

The measure clears the way for the property to be incorporated into Muscatine City and converted to a general industrial zoning district if the annexation is completed. Council discussion before the votes emphasized infrastructure concerns for nearby local roads. “I’m still very concerned about the conditions of 25th Street and 47th Avenue West,” Councilmember Broeker said, asking that future developers address roadway conditions as projects proceed.

City staff did not identify a specific development proposal tied to the annexation at the meeting; the ordinance as approved simply changes the zoning classification to M2 contingent on the property becoming part of the city.

Why it matters: annexation and an M2 designation open the property for industrial uses that could bring jobs or increased traffic and require upgrades to local streets and utilities. Several council members asked staff to ensure developers account for needed improvements on 25th Street and 47th Avenue West before major work proceeds.

Next steps: the ordinance takes effect following required publication and after formal completion of the annexation process. The council recorded the votes as unanimous; no public comments were offered at the hearing on the annexation.