Sheldon, Iowa — A public hearing that began at the November 6th Sheldon City Council Meeting remains open for further discussion at this week’s meeting, which will be held Wednesday November 20th. The subject is an amendment to a zoning ordinance that currently prohibits first floor residential housing in the downtown area. The amendment was requested to allow this type of housing in the old Eagles Building and Top Notch Stitching with some restrictions. Several people voiced concern that this would lead to‘curtains’ all around downtown. However, it was pointed out that with the restrictions in the amendment it appears that there would be few if any other downtown locations that could allow first floor housing.
In other business, the council will address the second reading of ordinance amendments relating to requiring residents to have the new type garbage containers. They will also hear the first reading of an amendment that would add a new section to the Code of Ordinances pertaining to operating budget preparation, and will review the quotes from consulting firms for the Chief of Police search.
The council will also have to discuss their options for the next step in the City’s efforts to sell three vacated properties. According to City Manager Sam Kooiker, they have received no bids for the Sunset motel or the 1023 Garfield Avenue Properties. One bid was received for the property at 428 Park Street, but after review by the City Attorney it has been decided this is not a valid submission, saying it’s incomplete in scope and did not include the requested deposit.
And, the council will hear an update on the Lewis and Clark Water Project from the Executive Director, Troy Larson.
Wednesday’s council meeting begins at 4:30 in the upper level of the Sheldon Community Services Center.
