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Mount Vernon council approves urban renewal and TIF certifications, holds first reading for ITC franchise; DOT item and pay application tabled
Summary
At its Nov. 17 meeting the Mount Vernon City Council approved the annual urban renewal report and TIF certifications, held the first reading of a 25-year transmission franchise for Interstate Power and Light Company, approved claims and several purchases, and tabled a DOT preconstruction agreement and a concrete pay application pending further information.
The Mount Vernon City Council took a series of administrative and policy actions at its Nov. 17 meeting.
On utility and franchise business, the council held the first reading of Ordinance #11-17-2025A to grant Interstate Power and Light Company (ITC) a non-exclusive 25-year franchise to acquire, construct and operate electric transmission and distribution facilities in the city. Council members noted that ITC purchased transmission lines from Alliant Energy and needs a separate franchise. Councilmember Rose moved and Engel seconded the motion to approve the first reading; roll call was all yes.
On fiscal and development matters, the council approved Resolution #11-17-2025A adopting the annual Urban Renewal Report for fiscal 2025 and passed Resolution #11-17-2025B to certify TIF debt the city will request for fiscal year 2027; motions carried by roll call votes. Resolution #11-17-2025D, an item related to an Iowa Department of Transportation agreement, was tabled after staff clarified that the item is a preconstruction agreement rather than a predesign agreement; the council asked that DOT information be provided before further action.
The council approved the Claims List and heard line-item claims totaling $485,861.77, including payroll of $223,953.17. Council also approved several departmental purchases: a $11,050 purchase for fire training equipment to be reimbursed by the Mount Vernon Volunteer Firefighter’s Association; an RC Tech quote of $4,758.16 to replace failed audio/visual equipment at the LBC; and MGA invoice #2500388 for $8,281.85 related to the city’s CDBG downtown revitalization project. Council tabled Pay Application #2 for the 2025 Sidewalk Improvement Project pending confirmation from the City Engineer that quantities submitted match the work. Council also approved a water-bill adjustment of $2,654.61 for an account affected during the meter changeout project.
Administrative reports — including police, public works, parks and rec, and library reports — were filed and are available on the city website. Mayor Thomas M. Wieseler accepted the resignation of Doug Shannon from the Ambulance Board and appointed Michelle Zaruba to fill the vacancy. The meeting adjourned at 7:21 p.m.
