Johnston, Iowa Development News
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Johnston City Council Meeting - July 20, 2026
Published: Jul 20, 2026
City Council Approves Coyote Control Ordinance with Support from DNR and Animal Welfare Groups
The City Council approved the second reading of an ordinance (number 1160) amending city codes related to the authorized use of weapons and trapping for coyote control. The ordinance aims to provide a framework for managing coyote populations in urban areas. Feedback received after the first reading was generally neutral to positive, with support expressed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the national organization Humane World for Animals. The ordinance addresses sections 41.09 and 41.14 of the Johnson revised ordinances. The council unanimously approved the second reading.
Proposal to Lower Speed Limits in Northwest Johnston Advances
City staff presented a proposal to lower the speed limit from 40 mph to 35 mph on 100th Street and 107th Avenue in the Northwest area. This change aims to create more consistent speed limits throughout the developing area, enhancing driver expectancy and safety. The proposal is also linked to ongoing development, increased traffic volume, and the potential need for additional pedestrian crossings on 107th Avenue. Staff is evaluating pedestrian crossing options, which may involve collaboration with Grimes and require infrastructure work. While resident feedback on lowering the speed limit was solicited via communication, no specific comments were received. The council discussed the proposal, with one member noting that informal feedback suggested opposition, and requested documented results of the resident communication. Staff will bring back an ordinance change for future readings.
Site Plan Approved for New 7,200 Sq Ft Office Building
The City Council approved the site plan for a new 7,200 sq ft office building at 5420 West [Street Name not fully transcribed, likely Downing Street based on context]. The property, located at Lot 2, West Park Office Plaza Plat 3, was rezoned to the E1 Office Employment district in March 2024. The site plan meets all bulk regulations, including setbacks, lot area, and lot width. It also exceeds the open space requirement, proposing 43% open space (19,541 sq ft) against the required 25%. The development includes the required number of trees and shrubs, access via West Parkway, and provides 42 parking spaces (exceeding the required 27, including 2 ADA). The site will be EV charging ready and include bicycle parking. It is serviced by public water and sewer, meets fire protection requirements, and runoff will be managed by existing storm sewer systems. The property is not within a designated floodway or flood plain. No comments were received from adjacent property owners. Resolution number 26-170 was approved.
City Council Tables Rezoning Request Amidst Traffic Safety Concerns
The City Council discussed and ultimately tabled a rezoning request for approximately 18.94 acres from AR (Agricultural Reserve) and R1 100 (Large Lot Residential) to R175 (Medium Lot Residential) in the Northwest Towner Drive area. The rezoning was intended to allow for a higher density of single-family homes, moving from existing estate lots to smaller, more traditional lots. Staff presented the proposal, aligning it with the comprehensive plan's vision for medium-density residential development. The applicant, Ben Bungie, highlighted the alignment with the city's infrastructure investments and long-term vision. However, significant resident concerns were raised regarding traffic safety at the intersection of Towner Drive and Highway 141, with multiple speakers detailing past accidents and the perceived danger of the intersection. The Planning and Zoning Commission had previously voted to deny the rezoning. Due to the unresolved safety concerns at the intersection and the need for further discussion with the Iowa DOT regarding potential improvements, the council voted to table the item.
City Earns AA+ Credit Rating Renewal; Deputy Fire Chief to Retire
Councilman Burkhart publicly thanked staff for the renewal of the city's AA+ credit rating, emphasizing its positive financial implications for borrowing costs and fiduciary responsibility. He also announced the upcoming retirement of Deputy Fire Chief Burroughs at the end of the month, expressing gratitude for his leadership and service during the transition to Chief Coleman. Additionally, he shared details about the Library Foundation's 'Read Between the Wines' fundraiser scheduled for October 9th.
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The Johnston News archive
Johnston City Council Meeting - July 6, 2026
Johnston City Council - Special Meeting, June 30, 2026
Johnston Grimes Metropolitan Fire District Swift Water Training
Johnston City Council Meeting - June 15, 2026
Johnston City Council Meeting - June 1, 2026
Johnston City Council Meeting - May 18, 2026
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