October 22, 2026
Work Session – City Website Update Project
- Staff presented a City Website Redesign proposal from CivicPlus, explaining that while the current website has served the community well, it has limitations that make it difficult to meet future accessibility, record retention and communication requirements. Upcoming federal accessibility compliances regulations will require cities to make websites, documents, videos and digital content more accessible beginning in 2027. The new platform would help West Liberty meet those standards while improving public access to information. Council members discussed the cost of the project, estimated at roughly $20,000 annually after implementation, but also noted the long-term benefits, including better customer service, easier access to public records, emergency communication tools, and reduced administrative workload. Some of the services provided on the proposed website would be:
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- Improved mobile accessibility & ADA compliance tools
- Enhanced search capabilities
- Easier online form submissions
- Text, email and emergency alert notifications
- Community event calendars
- Social media integration, archiving, & public records retention
- Better security and user access controls
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Public Hearing
- Council held a public hearing regarding the rezoning of approximately 24 acres north of East 17th Street as part of the DKD/Harvest Development project. During discussion, developers indicated plans for a mix of single-family homes and zero-lot-line housing that would continue the style and character of existing neighborhoods near 16th and 17th Streets. No public comments were received regarding the rezoning request. Council members also noted that a groundbreaking ceremony for the development is planned for Friday, October 23 at 11:00am.
City Council Updates & Correspondence
- Council reviewed updates from the City Engineer regarding ongoing infrastructure projects. Discussion included utility pole installation tied to electric system upgrades. Staff explained that the city is placing primary electric infrastructure underground but homeowners would still be responsible for any future conversion of their individual service lines from poles to underground connections.
- Council also discussed the swimming pool project. Staff reported that the project is currently paused while additional cost options and design parameters are developed before moving forward with planning and public input opportunities.
- The City Manager announced that two individuals have accepted positions for the administrative clerk role and are expected to begin onboarding in November.
- The Personnel Committee also reported that the city clerk hiring process continues to move forward. Initial interviews have been completed, and a smaller group of finalists will advance to a second round of interviews.
- Council received an update from the Fire and EMS Agency Board. Highlights included:
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- The agency currently has 25 firefighters, with 5 members still needing certification training.
- EMS billing is now being handled by the agency following the transition from the city.
- Fundraising for a new ambulance expected in 2027 is nearly complete.
- The board is exploring the possibility of purchasing a used fire truck, though no purchase has been approved.
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What the Council Approved
- Council approved rezoning for approximately 24 acres as part of the DKD/Harvest Development project.
- Council approved the annexation of approximately 49 acres associated with the DKD/Harvest Development into the city limits. Staff noted this was the final step needed to complete the annexation process before filing the required documents with county and state officials.
- Council approved a two-year agreement with CivicPlus for a new city website.
- Council approved financing steps for Phase 1 of the wastewater treatment facility improvements. Staff explained that the financing will support planned upgrades, including work connected to the West Liberty Foods facility.
- Council approved E 6th Street reconstruction project payments and change orders.
Looking Ahead…
- November 3rd, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. Council Meeting
For more information, check out:
City Council Meeting – City Council Video