The Newton City Council approved several key measures during its June 2 meeting, including financial assistance for a downtown redevelopment project, staffing changes within city departments, and preparations for upcoming community events.
During public comments, residents raised concerns about increased traffic and speeding on Davis Street near the ballpark. Donna Kuhl said the roadway, which was originally intended as an exit-only access point, has seen heavier use than anticipated. Mayor Josh Kuhl noted that baseball tournament season is nearing its end and said the gate will be secured. The city will also explore the use of removable speed bumps and increase police patrols in the area.
Sarah Diel Kinkade addressed the council regarding the upcoming “End of an Era” Community Block Party scheduled for June 19 on the courthouse lawn. She requested assistance from city departments to ensure streets are closed to through traffic prior to the event’s 5 p.m. start and asked for barricades to reserve space for a band’s trailer.
The council received a report from the Finance and Audit Committee, which recommended approving a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) application submitted by St. Thomas School. The funding, up to $5,000, will assist with demolition of the former Pizza Man building at 103 S. Lafayette Street. The recommendation was unanimously approved by the council later in the meeting.
Council members also approved a $23,900 change order for the Electric Line D Grid Resilience Grant project and passed Ordinance 26-05, which offers incentives to encourage the demolition and disposal of dangerous and dilapidated buildings within the city.
Several personnel-related actions were approved. The council accepted the resignation of Brent Benefiel, effective June 2, and appointed Scott Rubsam as Wastewater Plant Operator Department Head effective May 28. Authorization was also granted to advertise for both a Water Plant Operator and a Wastewater Plant Operator position.
In other business, the council approved a one-year extension for construction to begin on Lot 18 in the Five Aprils Subdivision, extending the deadline to April 1, 2027. The vote passed 3-2, with Alderman RJ Lindemann and Mayor Kuhl voting against the extension.
The council also approved a special event application from the Jasper County Chamber of Commerce for the “End of an Era on the Square” Community Block Party, scheduled for June 19 from 5 to 9 p.m.
During council comments, multiple members expressed appreciation to Benefiel for his years of service to the city. Officials also recognized city employees for responding to a significant water leak over Memorial Day weekend, with crews reportedly working from approximately 4 p.m. until after 2 a.m. to complete repairs. Mayor Kuhl thanked employees for their dedication and teamwork and recognized the Rubsam family for providing refreshments during the overnight repair effort.
Following an executive session to discuss personnel and potential litigation, the council returned to open session and adjourned at 7:04 p.m. The next regular Newton City Council meeting is scheduled for June 16 at 6 p.m.
