Adel City Council November 10, 2025 - Meeting Minutes

Adel City Council November 10, 2025 - Meeting Minutes The Adel City Council met in regular session at Adel City Hall, 301 S. 10th Street, Adel, Iowa on Monday, November 10, 2025. At 6:02 p.m., Mayor Peters called the meeting to order. The following answered roll: Ockerman, Trout, McAdon, West, and Selby. Staff Present: Deputy City Administrator/Finance Director Sandquist, City Clerk Erickson, City Attorney Stone, Public Works Director Overton, Police Chief Book, Library Director Jayne, Parks & Recreation Director Schenck, Community Development Director Nichols, and Police Officer Shay. OATH OF OFFICE 1.a. Police Officer - Brady Shay (administered by Mayor, James F Peters) PUBLIC HEARING 2.a. Public Hearing on an Ordinance Amending Chapter 165, Zoning Code, for the Purpose of Amending the Timeline for Published Notice Related to Zoning Matters and To Add a Practical Difficulties Variance Standard Motion by West, seconded by Selby, to open the public hearing. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. No oral or written comments received. Motion by Selby, seconded by Ockerman, to close the public hearing. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. 2.b. Public Hearing on the Matter of Extending the Lease for Real Property to Sprint Spectrum Realty Company, LLC Motion by West, seconded by McAdon, to open the public hearing. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. No oral or written comments received. Motion by Ockerman, seconded by Selby, to close the public hearing. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. 2.c. Public Hearing on the Matter of Granting a Private Storm Sewer Easement to Impakt Real Estate LLC Motion by West, seconded by Trout, to open the public hearing. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. No oral or written comments received. Motion by Ockerman, seconded by Selby, to close the public hearing. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. 2.d. Public Hearing on an Ordinance Vacating a Public Utility Easement Located in a Part of Lots 9 and 10, Southbridge Plat 3 Re-Platted, an Official Plat in the City of Adel Motion by Trout, seconded by McAdon, to open the public hearing. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. Doug Mandernach, Civil Design Advantage, 4121 W Urbandale Dr, Urbandale shared that this is a revised easement to allow for a larger building on a lot that was part of an approved plat. Motion by Ockerman, seconded by McAdon, to close the public hearing. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC 3.a. Presentation from the Adel Tennis Club - Jill Parker Jill Parker, Corey Schneider, and Lindsay Watson from the Adel Tennis Club presented an update on the club's growth and future facility needs. Since 2019, youth clinics offered in partnership with Parks & Recreation have expanded from 13 participants to a maximum of 90, with demand exceeding available space. Many youths age out of programs due to limited court capacity. The high school program, operating under a sharing agreement with Waukee High School, has grown from one participant in 2024 to 12 by fall 2025. Current facilities consist of two courts at Kinnick-Feller Park, which are deteriorating, undersized, and shared with basketball and cornhole leagues. The club has engaged in ongoing discussions with city staff, ADM school officials, and USTA representatives. USTA offers grant funding of $35,000 per court (up to $200,000 total), contingent on collaboration between the city, school, and club. Each court could cost up to $85,000. The club's goal is to construct eight courts to support youth leagues, tournaments, cardio tennis classes, and year-round use for school teams, summer camps, and physical education. Adult participation remains strong, with 76 women and 24 men involved over the past seven years, attracting players from surrounding communities. The club emphasized tennis as an inclusive, lifelong sport that promotes outdoor activity and community engagement. Council discussion addressed potential locations, including Water Tower Park and Kinnick-Feller Park, noting flooding concerns at the latter. The Mayor referenced the age of existing courts (installed in 1989–1990) and suggested school property as an alternative site. Grant timelines were confirmed through 2026. Members expressed interest in exploring options for six new courts and resurfacing existing courts, though current courts are not regulation size. The Council acknowledged the need for partnership and further evaluation of space and funding opportunities. 3.b. Review of the Completed Water, Sewer, and Stormwater USDA-RD Projects - Gary Brons, McClure Engineering Gary Brons of McClure Engineering presented a comprehensive review of the city's utilities projects completed over the past decade. His visual presentation highlighted major undertakings, including the installation of new water wells northeast of town, construction of a ground storage reservoir, and development of a water treatment plant designed to accommodate up to 2.4 million gallons per day as the city grows. Additional improvements included upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant and the addition of a laboratory and administration building. Brons reported that the total investment amounted to approximately $25 million in water projects and $24 million in wastewater projects. About 20% of these costs were covered through grants, and financing was achieved in collaboration with PFM and the City finance team. He noted that the average interest rate was less than 1.5%, which he described as unprecedented statewide, and emphasized that securing financing prior to COVID-19 significantly reduced costs. The USDA's 40-year amortization schedule was also cited as a major benefit for long-term financial stability. During the discussion, Council Member McAdon asked about planning and timelines for projects of this scale. Brons explained that large projects typically require four to five years from initial planning through completion, including extensive design and construction phases. He confirmed that preliminary engineering reports are essential for such undertakings. When asked about current financing conditions, Brons stated that interest rates are now around 4% and project costs have nearly tripled compared to previous years. Regarding future preparedness, Brons assured the council that the city is in good shape with its existing wells and infrastructure, though additional wells and expanded water treatment capacity should be considered for long-term growth. He further noted that a massive drought would be required to significantly impact the aquifer. Mayor Peters commended the benefit of the 40-year amortization, and Brons reiterated that USDA offers this option provided the asset lifespan supports it. 3.c. Quarterly Report from the Adel Chamber of Commerce President, Erin Milroy Erin Milroy, Adel Partners Chamber of Commerce, reported on three key initiatives: increasing active engagement in economic development within the city, strengthening connections with partners including business owners and real estate stakeholders, and planning for the upcoming year. Plans include a strategic planning session focused on economic development, organizing phases for a developer's meeting in February, collaborating with Iowa Tourism to distribute brochures at all state welcome centers, and coordinating an economic development tour bus. Milroy requested council support in sharing information and providing clarity on presentation and processing expectations. CONSENT AGENDA 4.a. Consider Approval of City Minutes Dated November 3, 2025 4.b. Consider Approval of October Bills and October 31, 2025 Treasurer's Report 4.c. Consider Approval of Annual Urban Renewal Report - Fiscal Year 2024-2025 4.d. Consider Approval of Special Event and Fee Waiver – Adel Partners Chamber of Commerce Hometown Holiday– December 5th & 6th, 2025 4.e. Consider Approval of Resolution No. 25- 76, Temporarily Closing Public Ways or Grounds in Connection With the Adel Chamber of Commerce Hometown Holiday Special Event 4.f. Consider Approval of Special Class C Liquor License for River to River Bakery and Pizza 4.g. Consider Approval of Special Class C Retail Alcohol License for Patrick's Restaurant 4.h. Consider Approval of Pay Application No. 15 - Adel Evans Park Trail Connections Project Motion by Ockerman, seconded by West, to approve the Consent Agenda. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. DEPARTMENT HEAD REPORT 5.a. Schedule for the City Administrator Finalist Interviews 5.b. Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget Timeline Deputy City Administrator/Finance Director Sandquist reported meeting with all department heads to review operational requests for the upcoming year. She emphasized the importance of monitoring legislative changes, noting that the 8.10 levy will continue to be reduced and the residential rollback has decreased to 44% of taxable valuations. Sandquist discussed the need to be strategic in cutting costs while maintaining quality city services, exploring options to combine resources and address existing facility needs. NEW BUSINESS 6.a. Consider Approval of Mayor Board and Commission Appointments: Parks and Recreation Board - One Opening Motion by Selby, seconded by Ockerman, to appoint Travis Pierce to the Parks and Recreation Board. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. 6.b. Consider Approval of Ordinance No. 432, Amending Chapter 165, Zoning Code, for the Purpose of Amending the Timeline for Published Notice Related to Zoning Matters and To Add a Practical Difficulties Variance Standard - First Reading Motion by Trout, seconded by Selby, to approve the first reading of Ordinance No. 432. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. Motion by Ockerman, seconded by Selby, to waive the second and third readings and adopt Ordinance No. 432. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. 6.c. Consider Approval of Resolution No. 25-77, Approving and Authorizing Extending the Lease of Real Property to Sprint Spectrum Realty Company, LLC (formerly a limited partnership), a Delaware limited liability company, successor in interest to Spring Spectrum L.P. Motion by Selby, seconded by West, to approve Resolution No. 25-77. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. 6.d. Consider Approval of Resolution No. 25-78, Approving and Authorizing Granting A Private Storm Sewer Easement to Impakt Real Estate LLC Within a Part of 7th Street Right of Way, A Part of Outlots 25 and 27, and A Part of Vacated Sixth Street Motion by West, seconded by Trout, to approve Resolution No. 25-78. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. 6.e. Consider Approval of Resolution No. 25-79, Approval of Northwater Preliminary Plat 3 Motion by Selby, seconded by West, to approve Resolution No. 25-79. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. 6.f. Consider Approval of Ordinance No. 433, Vacating a Public Utility Easement Located in a Part of Lots 9 and 10, Southbridge Plat 3 Re-Platted, an Official Plat in the City of Adel - First Reading Motion by Trout, seconded by West, to approve the first reading of Ordinance No. 433. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. Motion by Ockerman, seconded by Trout, to waive the second and third readings and adopt Ordinance No. 433. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. 6.g. Consider Acceptance of Public Utility Easement Located in Part of Lots 9 & 10, Southbridge Plat 3 Re-Platted, and Ratify the Mayor's Approval of the Same Motion by Ockerman, seconded by West, to approve the ratification of the approval of a public utility easement located in part of lots 9 & 10, Southbridge Plat 3. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. 6.h. Consider Approval of Final Pay Application No. 5 - Wastewater Treatment Plant Lab and Admin Building Motion by West, seconded by Ockerman, to approve the final pay application for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Lab and Admin Building. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. 6.i. Consider Approval of Resolution No. 25-80, Accepting the WWTP Laboratory and Administration Building Motion by Trout, seconded by Ockerman, to approve Resolution No. 25-80. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. 6.j. Discussion/Possible Action on Dallas County Board of Adjustment Item 1: A petition to consider approval of a Conditional Use Permit to operate a concrete and landscaping business on Parcel 1130201003 Community Development Director Nichols reported on a zoning concern regarding a parcel at the corner of Sportsman's Club Road and 15th Street. The Board of Adjustment approved use of the property for a concrete and landscaping business, despite its A-1 agricultural zoning and repeated advisories from the county that the zoning was not appropriate. Conditions of approval included agricultural storage and construction of a residence. Nichols raised questions about potential legal costs if the City challenges the decision. City Attorney Stone noted the City has a 30-day window to appeal, alleging the Board of Adjustment decision violates existing code and the comprehensive plan, which would involve civil litigation against the Board of Adjustment and the property owner. Costs are difficult to estimate. Discussion included traffic concerns, the City's two-mile radius authority, and whether the Board of Adjustment could reconsider. Stone indicated reconsideration would require the Board of Adjustment to initiate it. Nichols confirmed the business has been operating for 6–8 months. Council members expressed concern about precedent and discussed possible next steps, including initiating legal action. Motion by Ockerman, seconded by McAdon, to direct staff to proceed with legal action against the Board of Adjustment's approval of a conditional use permit. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. 6.k. Consider Approval of Resolution No. 25-81, Approving TIF Indebtedness Certification for the Adel Urban Renewal Area for FY27 Motion by West, seconded by Trout, to approve Resolution No. 25-81. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. 6.l. Consider Approval of Resolution No. 25-82, Approving TIF Indebtedness Certification for the Adel Southbridge Urban Renewal Area for FY27 Motion by McAdon, seconded by West, to approve Resolution No. 25-82. Roll: Ayes - Unanimous. Motion Carried. 6.m. Discussion / Possible Action on Options to Assist Residents During the Federal Government Shutdown and Lack of SNAP Benefits City Clerk Erickson reviewed options to assist residents during the lapse of SNAP benefits: 1. Refund all late fees for all residents across the board. 2. Donate funds to the Adel Food Panty so they may use the money as needed. 3. Hold a food drive at City Hall. It was the consensus of the Council to support a City Hall food drive to support the Adel Food Pantry. 6.n. Discussion/Possible Action on Replacement of Christmas Lighting for the Tree on Courthouse Square Deputy City Administrator/Finance Director Sandquist reported that the holiday tree lights downtown are in need of replacement, as two-thirds of the strands are burnt out. A quote of approximately $9,000 was received from a lighting company, with a local citizen offering to contribute about $3,000 toward the cost. Funding could come from LOST funds and the finance department's special programming budget. Mayor Peters noted the project aligns with the City's mission, while Council Member West requested additional quotes and suggested seeking local providers. Erin Milroy, Adel Chamber President, added that the lift rental is the largest expense and proposed purchasing higher-quality bulbs for easier replacement. Council Member Ockerman expressed that this should be a Chamber responsibility rather than a City expense. Motion by McAdon, seconded by West, to direct staff to work with Adel Partners Chamber of Commerce to secure replacement lighting for the tree on Courthouse Square. Roll: Ayes - McAdon and West. Nays - Ockerman, Selby and Trout. Motion failed. OTHER BUSINESS 1. Council Member Ockerman commented that the Dallas County Board of Supervisors have an item on their agenda for a new emergency services building located just west of the river, but the building footprint is over the top of water mains and sewer mains. Ockerman plans to attend the meeting. 2. Mayor Peters noted that he has been in contact with Tim Crannell, Mayor Elect, about transitioning Crannell into the role of Mayor. ADJOURNMENT Meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. James F. Peters, Mayor Attest: Carrie Erickson, City Clerk Publication Dates LIOW0409669