Fort Madison, Iowa Development News
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City Council July 7 2026, 05:30 PM
Published: Jul 7, 2026
Calhoun Burns and Associates to Finalize Design for Richards Drive Bridge Replacement
The council approved the mayor's signature on a professional services agreement with Calhoun Burns and Associates for the final design phase of the Richards Drive bridge replacement project. The agreement is for $144,900. Calhoun Burns has completed the preliminary design and NEPA clearance, and this contract moves the project into the final design stage. While grant money covers eligible construction costs up to $1.5 million, it does not cover design. The engineering costs were budgeted, with funding coming partly from the local option sales tax fund designated for construction.
Fort Madison Approves $8M Loan for 10th Street Sewer Separation Project
The council approved a resolution authorizing the issuance and payment of $8,012,000 in sewer revenue capital loan notes, Series 2026B, with the Iowa Finance Authority for the 10th Street Sewer Separation Project. This is a crucial step in finalizing the SRF loan for the project, which is expected to be completed by the end of the month. Grants totaling over $2 million have been secured for the project, with additional funding for engineering costs also allocated. [cite: 78, 81, 87, 92, 93, 95, 1030, 1031, 1032, 1033, 1034, 1035, 1036, 1037, 1045, 1046, 1047, 1048, 1049, 1050]
Fort Madison Council Advances Vacant Building Registration Ordinance Amidst Debate
The council considered and approved the first reading of an ordinance repealing and replacing Title III, Chapter 9, Vacant Building Registration. While acknowledging improvements from the previous version, some council members and audience members expressed concerns about the definition of a 'vacant property,' the potential for Fourth Amendment violations, and the fee structure. The ordinance aims to identify and address blighted and unsafe buildings, with provisions for exemptions and administrative warrants. Concerns were also raised about the distinction between vacant homes and second homes, and the purpose of the fee structure.
Amendment Approved for 10th Street Sewer Separation Project Design Services
The council approved an amendment to the professional services agreement with Venstra and Kim Incorporated for the 10th Street Sewer Separation project. This amendment, totaling $736,100, brings the total contract amount to $1,347,600. The additional costs cover changes to streets to full width with sidewalks, general services for dealing with grant funding, and construction phase services. The project is slated to officially begin the week of July 20th, starting on the block between Avenue G and F. The increased costs were included in the previously approved SRF loan amount.
City of Fort Madison to Vacate Undeveloped Avenue C Right-of-Way for Sale
The council approved the first reading of an ordinance to vacate a city right-of-way located east of 18th Street along Avenue C. This unplatted and undeveloped area, bisected by a creek, has been utilized for access by a neighboring property owner who has requested to purchase it. The vacation and sale are considered beneficial as the city does not utilize this section of right-of-way, except for an existing water main for which an easement will be retained. The neighboring owner has also agreed to provide an easement for the water main and access for neighboring garages. The council also voted to waive the next two readings of the ordinance.
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The Fort Madison News archive
City Council July 7 2026, 05:30 PM
City Council June 16 2026, 5:30 PM
City Council June 16 2026, 5:30 PM
City Council Special Meeting June 2 2026, 12:00 PM
City Council Special Meeting June 2 2026, 12:00 PM
City Council June 1 2026, 5:30 PM
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