July 24, 2026
City Council Updates & Correspondence
- After holding a public hearing with no comments received, the council approved the transfer of the property at 109 E. 2nd Street from the City of West Liberty to the West Liberty and Rural Township Fire and Rescue Agency. The resolution passed unanimously. This action finalizes the transfer process that has been underway as the agency continues operating independently.
- City Manager’s Report included:
- Infrastructure Planning – City staff continue working on long-term infrastructure planning and capital improvement projects. Current efforts include developing electric utility capital improvement plans, and working with legal counsel and West Liberty Foods on agreements related to the upcoming wastewater treatment plant improvements.
- Cemetery Maintenance – The city received a complaint about weeds at the cemetery. Staff explained that heavy rainfall and seasonal staffing schedules created some delays. Public Works employees completed the needed maintenance by mid-July and have since addressed the issue.
- Parks & Recreation Staffing Change – Parks and Recreation employee Cobain Polman has accepted a position with a larger municipality and will be leaving West Liberty in early August. The city thanked him for his service and has already posted the position.
- Public Safety Updates – City administration continues working closely with the Muscatine Police Department and the Muscatine County Sheriff’s Office on public safety matters. No new updates were reported regarding the EMS transition.
- The City Manager also recognized:
- Officer Saleh for assisting with security and traffic control during Picnic in the Park and the Fair Parade.
- Officer Perez and his family for representing the police department in the parade.
- EMS personnel and volunteers who helped at the Muscatine County Fairgrounds.
- Electric Department staff and firefighters for their quick response to a pole fire at the fairgrounds, which helped restore power to the campground area quickly.
Public Comments
- Chamber Director Jacob Lane thanked city staff, elected officials, Public Works employees, police officers, and city administration for helping make both the Muscatine County Fair Parade and Picnic in the Park successful. Special recognition was given to:
- Public Works crews for street cleaning, barricades, trash service, and misting stations.
- The West Liberty Police Department for event support.
- City administration staff for coordinating logistics behind the scenes.
- Council members echoed their appreciation for everyone involved in making the events a success despite the summer heat.
- Pool Report Expected Soon – Councilmembers discussed ongoing community interest in the future of the Kimberly Park Pool. City Manager Geertz reported that engineers recently submitted a draft report, but additional information has been requested before it is finalized. The completed report is expected by August 4. Staff are considering holding a public work session in August so residents can hear the findings and ask questions before future decisions are made.
- Traffic Safety Concerns Raised – Councilmember Schultz shared concerns about vehicles failing to stop at the downtown four-way stop intersection. He noted that several residents have expressed concerns about speeding and traffic safety throughout town. Staff will explore options such as placing additional stop signs or safety reminders in high-traffic areas. Council encouraged residents to stay alert and drive carefully, especially in areas where children and pedestrians are present.
- Councilmember Martinez shared information about a community benefit meal being organized for a local resident who was injured while traveling in Mexico. The event will be held at Flamas Nightclub, with proceeds supporting the family.
- The City received a thank-you letter from the Muscatine County Fair Board expressing appreciation for West Liberty’s financial support of the fairgrounds’ new event center project.
What the Council Approved
- Council approved an extension of the Farmers Market street closure and event permit through October. Originally, the permit was approved only through August, but organizers requested the traditional fall extension. The market’s new leadership believes participation can continue successfully through the remainder of the growing season (Vote passed 4-0)
- Council approved a $100,000 payment to the West Liberty and Rural Township Fire and Rescue Agency for Fiscal Year 2026-27. The payment reflects the amount budgeted by the city and includes funding associated with the future EMS transition. (Vote passed 4-0)
- Council approved a renewal agreement with Goerdt Inspection and Consultation Services for building inspection services. The updated contract includes a 5% increase and establishes additional goals related to permitting, building review processes, and continued discussions regarding rental inspections. (Vote passed 4-0)
- Council approved a change order related to the Wastewater Treatment Facility Improvement Project Phase 1. The change order reduced project costs rather than increasing them, resulting in savings for the project budget. (Vote passed 4-0)
- Council approved the Community Catalyst Building Remediation Grant Agreement for the project at 120 East 3rd Street. Council members thanked staff and project partners for their work securing the funding. (Vote passed 4-0)
- Council approved a new administrative policy that creates a standardized process for city employees requesting financial records and reports internally. Council discussed balancing efficiency with transparency and ensuring all departments continue to have access to the information they need. (Vote passed 4-0)
Looking Ahead…
- August 4th, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. Council Meeting
For more information, check out:
City Council Meeting – City Council Video