Council adopts ordinance extending developer performance‑bond period to five years

The Decorah City Council adopted an ordinance amending the municipal code to increase the time developers have to complete subdivision improvements from three years to five years before the city may call the performance bond.

Staff said the change applies citywide and grew out of prior discussions about the Bend Subdivision. "This would increase the years from 3 to 5 that the developer would have to perform the improvements in their preliminary plat before final plat is finalized," Travis said, explaining the intent to give a middle ground between developer flexibility and the city's interest in completed sidewalks and other infrastructure.

Bergen moved the second reading, which the council approved. Neil then moved to waive the third reading and adopt the ordinance; the motion carried on roll call, and the ordinance was adopted.

Council members noted the change will allow developers to build sidewalks incrementally and that the city retains enforcement powers (calling the performance bond) if improvements are not completed within the extended timeline.