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Kalona council directs columbarium planning, accepts $100,000 IEDA grant for bakery renovation and explores city food pantry
Summary
Council directed staff to pursue a columbarium at Sharon Hill Cemetery, accepted a $100,000 Iowa Economic Development Authority grant for renovating 209 5th Street (former Kalona Bakery), approved an Alliant Energy DOT permit for underground electrical on E Avenue, and asked staff to explore a city food pantry at 2285 133rd Street.
The Kalona City Council on Aug. 5 directed staff to continue planning for a cemetery columbarium after staff reported consultations with local funeral homes and monument companies. Council members favored locating the columbarium in the northeast corner of Sharon Hill Cemetery and asked staff to gauge potential use before approving additional units.
The council accepted a $100,000 Community Catalyst and Remediation Grant from the Iowa Economic Development Authority for renovation of 209 5th Street, the building previously known as the Kalona Bakery. The motion by Bender, seconded by Beisheim, authorized the mayor to sign the acceptance; all council members voted yes.
Infrastructure permitting: Council approved an Iowa Department of Transportation permit application related to Alliant Energy’s underground electrical work along E Avenue (motion by Spitzer, seconded by Beisheim; unanimous vote).
Social services planning: Staff proposed exploring a city-run food pantry at 2285 133rd Street using city-owned space and forming partnerships with local nonprofits. Council directed staff to continue with grant-writing, prepare a preliminary budget and produce a site plan for the pantry exploration.
Next steps include staff continuing columbarium planning and preparing project details and budgets for the bakery renovation and potential food pantry, with follow-up actions to be reported to the council.
