Sigourney Council Extends Façade Project to Repair Brick Columns

SIGOURNEY – During the March 6 meeting of the Sigourney City Council, the council approved sending a letter to the Iowa Economic Development Authority requesting an extension on the Façade Project from an end date of Feb. 28 to Aug. 31 of 2024. Mayor Jimmy Morlan explained that the construction process uncovered two damaged brick columns in the storefront of Barnwired. The project is otherwise 95% complete, but will need more time to remedy this issue. Morlan stated that he understood this would be the final extension allowed.

The council approved amending the Urban Renewal Plan to include storm sewer repairs and concrete patching on Ringold Street, which the council hopes will alleviate flooding and facilitate businesses. The city plans to request $160,000 in TIF funds for these projects. The council also discussed the budgeting for various street and storm sewer projects planned over the next several years; these projects are expected to cost $266,000, paid from leftover street improvement money, money set aside from Alliant Energy money, and the LOSST fund.

Councilman Gary Iosbaker explained that KCED had formed a finance and grants committee tasked with identifying activities in the county that the organization can assist with and searching for relevant economic development grants to expand the funding base. Iosbaker stated he was excited to see an increase in economic development. Councilman Adam Clark stated that the public safety committee had interviewed another applicant for the police officer position and was meeting with the City of Keota to work out a 28e agreement for mutual law enforcement. Clark stated that the Keokuk County Community Endowment Fund has approved a grant application to put a speed sign on Pleasent Valley, near the school.