Sheldon, Iowa — Sheldon will not have fireworks for Independence Day this year, but there might be a fireworks display for the Labor Day Weekend. Village Northwest Unlimited was forced to cancel their scheduled July 3rd celebration because of restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 virus. Recently city officials looked into the possibility of filling that gap with a city-sponsored fireworks display. At Wednesday’s council meeting it was decided that the city would sponsor fireworks on the Labor Day weekend unless either Risefest or Celebration Days are cancelled.
The council also discussed changing the requirement that all city public works and public safety employees live within city limits. The requirement has reportedly made it difficult in the search for new city employees. Several options were considered, including limiting their residence to within two miles of the city limits, or possibly within the Sheldon Community School District. After much discussion the topic was tabled until the city manager could discuss the subject further with the police chief and public works director.
In other business, the council moved the rezoning of the former Sunset Motel property and the adjacent mobile home park on to its third reading at the next meeting. They also accepted Larry Andringa’s resignation from the Cemetery Board, confirmed the mayor’s appointment of April Schaeffer to the Board of Adjustment and discussed the re-opening of the Community Services Center. City Manager Sam Kooiker pointed out that the building is not totally closed. Anyone who needs to enter simply needs to call in advance. The council gave their approval to set a target date of June 25th for unlocking the main entrance. The topic will again be discussed at the council’s June 17th meeting.
A target date of July 1st was set to open the Outdoor Aquatic Center. If restrictions don’t allow the pool to open at that time it will be considered closed for the season. And, the council set Monday, September 14th as the beginning of pick-up for Cleanup Week. The sale of virtual flags to those who wish to participate is scheduled to begin Monday, August 3rd. There will be no wire flags as in previous years.
