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MT. PLEASANT — The Mt. Pleasant City Council expressed concerns about decrease in housing developments, approved applications for grants, and agreed to signing contracts for various city maintenance and improvements at the regularly scheduled Jan. 22 meeting.
In new business, the council approved contracts with Municipal Pipe and Tool Company for sewer lining projects on East Henry Street and West Pearl Street.
“If you remember, this is where we fixed a couple manholes and replaced manholes,” Mayor Steve Brimhall explained. “Then once we did that, we got the new surface on. Now, we’re going to have these two sewer projects.”
These efforts are aimed at reducing stormwater infiltration into the sanitary sewer system, which officials say has significantly improved over the years.
A resolution authorizing the city to apply for a Surface Transportation Program (STP) grant to fund the Reconstruction of West Washington Street was also approved. The project, slated for 2029, would cover repairs from Saunders Street to the city limits.
“We’ve been talking about this for a long 10 years, at least, ever since we got 2005 remember, we took over the highway,” City Administrator Brent Schleisman said. “We did not touch this. It is the only section of that old 34 we haven’t touched and we were waiting for things like this in that area of town to develop, and we just opened a new industrial park, and we’re working with property owners on potential more development out there. … So, I highly recommend that you apply.”
Additionally, the council approved a contract with Calhoun and Burns and Associates to provide engineering services for bridge inspections within the city. The agreement covers four bridges that require biennial inspections under state regulations. City officials noted that staying on top of maintenance has helped avoid major structural issues.
A resolution adopting the 2024 Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan was passed unanimously. Officials emphasized the importance of the plan in securing federal funding for disaster mitigation efforts.
In economic development, the council approved a tax abatement application for a single residential remodel project, underscoring a slowdown in new housing developments. Council members expressed concerns about the lack of residential growth and stressed the need for more housing to accommodate future residents
The council also accepted the completion of the Mt. Pleasant Municipal Airport hangar roof replacement project and authorized the final payment. Officials praised the quality of work and confirmed that the new hydraulic door installation is progressing on schedule.
Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com