On the agenda: West Branch Packet — Automated License Plate (Jul 20)

CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, July 20th, 2026 - 6:00 P.M.
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
110 N. POPLAR ST., WEST BRANCH, IOWA

https://zoom.us/j/5814699699
or dial in phone number 1-312-626-6799 with Meeting ID 581 469 9699.

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Call to order
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll call
Welcome
Approve Agenda. /Move to action. (This is the time to approve the agenda as presented or amend the agenda (such as
tabling items). Amendments or changes to the agenda require a motion, second and a full council vote.
6. Approve Consent Agenda/Move to action.
a. Approve Minutes from the July 7, 2026 City Council meeting.
b. Approve Board of Adjustment Minutes 6/30/2026
c. Approve Claims for July 7, 2026.
7. Presentations/Communications/Open Forum
8. Public Hearings/Non-Consent Agenda

a. Public Hearing Proposed Capital Improvement Plan for Fiscal Years 2028-2032./ Move to
Action.
b. Resolution 2026-70 Approving Proposed Capital Improvement Plan for Fiscal Years 2028 - 2032./
Move to Action.
c. Resolution 2026-71 Setting a Public Hearing date for the proposed Fiscal Policies Manual./ Move
to action.
d. Resolution 2026-72 Approving Pay Estimate No. 6 in the amount of $32,423.38 to Peterson
Contractors, Inc for the 2025 Channel Widening Flood Improvements Project./ Move to Action.
e. Resolution 2026-73 Approving Change Order No.1 in the amount of $9,570.00 to Triple B
Construction Corp. for the W Main Street Overlay Project./ Move to Action.
f. Resolution 2026-74 Approving Pay Estimate No.1 in the amount of $201,282.04 to Triple B
Construction Corp. for the W Main Street Overlay Project./ Move to Action.
g. Resolution 2026-75 Approve Invoices #01261033137, 05261039932, and 06261192608 in the
total amount of $7,356.03 to Eocene (formerly known as Impact7G) for the Wapsi Creek Widening
SRF Sponsored Project../ Move to Action.
h. Resolution 2026-76 Approve Invoices #07261310451 in the amount of $2,633.50 to Eocene
(formerly known as Impact7G) for the Wapsi Creek Widening SRF Sponsored Project../ Move to
Action.
i. Resolution 2026-77 Accepting a quote for residential solid waste and recycling collection services
and direct the City Administrator to negotiate a contract./ Move to Action.
9. Discussion
a. TIF Application – Heidi Van Auken to present
b. Fiscal Policies Update – Adam Kofoed to present
c. Rezoning/Development – 312 W Main Street

10. City Administrator Report
11. City Attorney Report
12. City Engineer Report
13. City Staff Reports
14. Comments from Mayor and Council Members
15. Motion to adjourn.

Mayor: Roger Laughlin · Council Members: Colton Miller, Chantry Noel, Tom Dean, Jerry Sexton, Mike Horihan
City Administrator Adam Kofoed · City Clerk Alycia Friis · Finance Officer Heidi Van Auken · Fire Chief Kevin Stoolman · Police Chief Greg
Hall · Public Works Director Matt Goodale · Library Director Jessica Schafer
Parks & Recreation Director Erin Laughlin

(The following is a synopsis of the minutes of the West Branch City Council meeting. A video recording is available
for inspection at westbranchiowa.org. The minutes are not approved until the next regularly scheduled City Council
meeting.)

West Branch, Iowa
Council Chambers

City Council
Regular Meeting

July 7, 2026
6:00 p.m.

Mayor Laughlin called the West Branch City Council regular meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Roll call: Council members present; Colton Miller , Jerry Sexton, Chantry Noel, Tom Dean and Mike Horihan.
City Staff present: City Clerk Alycia Friis, City Administrator Adam Kofoed, WB Fire Chief Gary Savona, City Engineer
Dave Schechinger, Sergeant Cathy Steen, Officer Brad Longlett, Finance Officer Heidi Van Auken, and Deputy City
Clerk Jessica Brown.
Attending by Zoom: Library Director Jessie Shaffer

APPROVE THE AGENDA

Motion to Approve the Agenda made by Dean and second by Miller. Motion carried on a voice vote.

APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA

Approve Minutes from the June 15, 2026 City Council meeting.
Approve Special Event Permit for WBHS Homecoming
Approve Appointment of Jeff Tadlock to the Board of Adjustments
Approve Special Class “C” Retail Alcohol License for Lucky Wife Wine Slushies for HHTD
Approve Special Class “B” Retail Alcohol License for Main Street West Branch for HHTD
Approve Special Class “E” Retail Alcohol License for Jack and Jill Store
Approve Special Class “E” Retail Alcohol License for Maverick #5079
Approval of the May Financial Statement
Approve Claims for July 7, 2026
EXPENDITURES
ESO SOLUTIONS
GREATER IOWA CITY
IMWCA
IOWA COMMUNITIES ASSURANCE
IOWA LEAGUE OF CITIES
LEXIPOL
MAINSTAY SYSTEMS OF IOWA
TYLER TECHNOLOGIES
TOTAL

7/7/2026
EMERGENCY SOFTWARE - FIRE
FY27 MEMBER DUES
IMWCA DEPOSIT FY27
FY27 ICAP INSURANCE PREMIUM
MEMBERSHIP DUES FY27
POLICY MANUAL & TRAINING FY27
WATCHGUARD 3 YRS
ANNUAL SOFTWARE MAINT FY27

5,014.98
2,575.00
9,082.00
84,063.00
2,147.00
4,264.33
24,172.00
25,550.45
156,868.76

REGULAR PAYROLL 6/19/2026
VACATION PAYOUT 6/19/2026
PAYROLL-WAGES, TAXES, EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

72,926.64
1,127.55
74,054.19

PAID BETWEEN MEETINGS
BOUND TREE MEDICAL
COMMERCIAL RECREATION
CORRIDOR ENERGY COOP
CULLIGAN WATER
DINGES FIRE COMPANY
DORSEY & WHITNEY
EOCENE ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP
HOTSY CLEANING SYSTEMS
JOHNSON COUNTY EMERGENCY
MEDIACOM
PAPAS TRUCK & TRAILER
PROTECT YOUTH SPORTS
SWANK MOVIE LICENSING
TUTTLE, PETER
WEST BRANCH REPAIRS
AMAZON.COM
CJ COOPER & ASSOCIATES
CROELL
HAWKINS
IOWA CITY PRESS-CITIZEN
LIBRARICA
LYNCH'S EXCAVATING
LYNCH'S PLUMBING
MAINSTAY SYSTEMS
OLSON, KEVIN
OVERDRIVE
PACHECO, HUGO VINICIO HERN
PETERSON CONTRACTORS
PLUNKETT'S PEST CONTROL
QUILL
STATE HYGIENIC LAB
STATE INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS
VERIZON WIRELESS
WEST BRANCH TIMES
ACTION SEWER & SEPTIC
AMAZON.COM
AT & T MOBILITY
BROWN, JESSICA
DEERY BROTHERS
EARL MAY NURSERY & GARDEN
FRIIS, ALYCIA
FUSIONSITE MIDWEST
GOERDT INSPECTION
GOODALE, MATTHEW
HD SUPPLY
IMAGINATION PLAYGROUND

160.98
12,267.00
348.27
75.23
4,038.25
10,000.00
3,182.00
214.10
75.00
41.90
1,729.22
43.50
117.00
195.00
683.30
1,324.30
75.00
657.00
2,796.00
245.02
328.20
3,840.00
90.95
7,549.00
1,500.00
1,023.10
1,650.00
257,105.41
164.54
866.04
1,326.50
533.96
424.71
613.20
611.00
164.18
258.14
257.35
3,064.36
299.00
197.20
228.99
1,260.00
178.35
267.12
166.37

MEDICAL SUPPLIES-FIRE
CUBBY SHADE INSTALLATION
STREET LIGHTS
WATER SOFTENER SERVICE
APPARATUS REPAIRS
WAPSI '26 SRF SPONSOR PROJECT
WIDENING WAPSI CREEK
MISC PARTS & SOAP
FY27 HAZMAT TEAM 28E AGREEMENT
CABLE SERVICES
196 REPAIR
FIRE CHIEF BACKGROUND CHECKS
SITE LICENSE-MOVIES
ICE MACHINE REPAIR-FIRE
DODGE SERVICE & REPAIR
VARIOUS ITEMS - LIBRARY
DOT FOR CDL - PW
WAPSI BATHROOM PAD
CHEMICALS
SUBSCRIPTION 7-1-26-6-30-27
COMPUTER MGMT SOFTWARE-LIB
GREEN VIEW WATER MAIN BREAK
HYDRANT FLUSHING RESIDENT INVOICE
LAPTOP/DOCK/MONITORS - FIRE, PW, CITY
LEGAL SERVICES - JUNE 2026
DIGITAL & AUDIO BOOKS
PAVERS FOR PICNIC AREA - LIB
WAPSI CREEK WIDE PAY EST 4 & 5
PEST CONTROL - TH, LIBRARY, CITY
OFFICE SUPPLIES - POLICE
LAB ANALYSIS
CHEMICALS
VERIZON WIRELESS
LEGAL PUBLICATIONS
RESTROOM BACK UP & LINE CLEAN
DOOR STOP,BASE PLUGS - TH, P&R
WIRELESS SERVICE
MPI MILAGE, MEAL REIMBURSEMENT
2019 F550 REPAIR - PW
TREE REPLACMENT FOR ROW TREE
MPI MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT
CUBBY BACKUP IN BATHROOM
BLDG INSPECTIONS
MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT
BATHROOM SUPPLIES - P&R
YOUTH PROGRAM SUPPLIES

IOWA ONE CALL
JETCO ELECTRIC
KATRINA KORSMO
LAUGHLIN DESIGN
LYNCH'S PLUMBING
MAINSTAY SYSTEMS
MISCELLANEOUS VENDORS
MOPPY MO'S
OASIS ELECTRIC
OVERDRIVE
STEEN, CATHERINE
STERICYCLE
US BANK CORPORATE CARD
VAN AUKEN, HEIDI
VEENSTRA & KIMM
MISCELLANEOUS VENDORS
SISCO
SISCO
SISCO
METLIFE
SISCO
UMB BANK
IOWA ALCOHOL BEV. DIVISION
IOWA ALCOHOL BEV. DIVISION
TOTAL

UTILITY LOCATION SERVICE
DIAGNOSTIC AND REPAIR - PW
SUMMER LIBRARY PROGRAM PRIZES
GAZEBO PAINTING & ROOFING
CUBBY PARK SEWER BACKUP
CUBBY SECURITY SYSTEM - P&R
P&R SWIMMING & STORMWATER REIMB
JANITORIAL SERVICES - FIRE
RETROFIT LIGHT FIXTURES - LIB
DIGITAL & AUDIO BOOKS
NSRO FLIGHT REIMBURSE- STEEN
SHREDDING SERVICES
CREDIT CARD PURCHASES
MPA MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT
VARIOUS PROJECTS
UB REFUNDS
HEALTH CLAIMS 6-12-2026
HEALTH CLAIMS 6-23-2026
HEALTH CLAIMS 6-26-2026
INSURANCE PREMIUM
INSURANCE PREMIUM
GO BOND FEES
FIRE DEPT HHTD ALCOHOL LICENSE
FIRE DEPT HHTD ALCOHOL LICENSE

GRAND TOTAL EXPENDITURES

618,089.88

FUND TOTALS
001 GENERAL FUND
022 CIVIC CENTER
031 LIBRARY
036 TORT LIABILITY
110 ROAD USE TAX
112 TRUST AND AGENCY
226 DEBT SERVICE
308 PARK IMP - PEDERSEN VALLEY
321 WIDENING WAPSI CREEK
331 CEDAR JOHNSON RD RECON
332 W MAIN ST IMPROVE
600 WATER FUND
610 SEWER FUND
740 STORM WATER UTILITY
GRAND FUND TOTAL

68.40
851.75
17.76
10,500.00
1,096.00
2,043.50
1,181.75
17.50
1,535.15
244.99
665.45
107.38
3,646.77
187.89
15,401.91
350.00
480.44
684.75
3,655.61
2,649.70
18,745.73
750.00
24.38
24.38
387,166.93

117,865.19
65.25
11,535.10
60,693.50
10,839.11
47,296.88
750.00
8,129.20
275,911.04
3,897.28
5,086.00
40,719.50
34,180.60
1,121.23
618,089.88

REVENUE-FISCAL YEAR 2026
FUND

MAY

001
022
031
036
110
112
121
125
226
300
500
600
610
740
TOTAL

194,059.71
18,570.00
190,794.51
5,458.28
33,416.65
21,329.71
27,378.88
27,124.95
15,625.56
6,200.38
1,222.49
81,988.94
87,754.48
6,192.10
717,116.64

GENERAL FUND
CIVIC CENTER
LIBRARY
TORT LIABILITY
ROAD USE TAX
TRUST & AGENGY
LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX
TIF
DEBT SERVICE
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT RESERVE
CEMETERY PERPETUAL FUND
WATER FUND
SEWER FUND
STORM WATER UTILITY

Motion by Miller, second by Noel to approve the Consent agenda. AYES: Miller, Noel, Dean, Sexton, Horihan. NAYS:
None. Motion carried.

PRESENTATIONS / COMMUNICATIONS / OPEN FORUM
Introduction of Fire Chief Gary Savona made by Mayor Laughlin.
Scott and Julie Kelly – 167 Northridge Dr.: shared a complaint that their neighbor has not been
mowing their yard. Scott has offered to help and the response has been, No. They are asking
for the yard to get cleaned up. The front was mowed one time after a notice had been received
from the City. However, the back yard has not been mowed in over a year.
PUBLIC HEARING / NON-CONSENT AGENDA
Third Reading - Ordinance 840 Adopt Limits to the use of Automated License Plate Readers and to Provide
Public Transparency./ Move to Action.

ORDINANCE NO. 840
AN ORDINANCE TO ADOPT LIMITS TO THE USE OF AUTOMATED LICENSE PLATE READERS AND TO PROVIDE PUBLIC
TRANSPARENCY
BE IT ENACTED by the City Council of the City of West Branch, Iowa:
Section 1. Action. Adopting the Code of Ordinances Chapter 71 Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs):
71.01
PURPOSE AND INTENT:
Automated/automatic license plate readers (ALPRs) capture computer-readable images that allow law enforcement to compare plate numbers against
plates of stolen cars or cars driven by individuals wanted on criminal charges.
The data collected can enhance law enforcement's ability to investigate and enforce the law but also raises concerns that information collected may be
placed into databases and shared without restrictions on use, retained longer than necessary, and used or abused in ways that could infringe on
individuals' privacy.
The City of West Branch desires to equip its Police Department with the tools needed to perform their jobs in the most efficient and effective manner
possible.
The City of West Branch seeks to balance the needs of law enforcement and the need for transparency and privacy concerns of its residents.
71.02
DEFINITIONS:
AUTOMATIC LICENSE PLATE READER SYSTEM
Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) also known as License Plate Recognition (LPR) are high-speed, computer-controlled camera systems that
automatically capture images of vehicle license plates. They convert plate images into text, date-time stamp them, and check them against "hot lists" of
vehicles for law enforcement, such as stolen cars, missing persons, or suspects in criminal investigations.
71.03
ORDINANCE:
1. All data retention shall be subject to the Iowa State Code. Any captured plate data collected or retained by the City of West Branch
through the use of an automated license plate recognition (ALPR) system may not be stored or retained for more than 30 days unless the
data is retained or stored as part of an ongoing criminal investigation or prosecution. In that case, the data shall be retained as a part of the
criminal case file, and the City will follow the department’s evidence retention policies.
2. The selling or providing data generated by ALPRs to a non-law enforcement entity is hereby prohibited except where provided by state
law. All data generated by the ALPRs shall not be provided to a third party unless they are a Federal, State, County or Municipal Law
Enforcement Agency or a person or entity that is under contract with a Federal, State, County or Municipal Law Enforcement agency for the
purpose of protecting public safety, conducting criminal investigations, or to ensure compliance with federal, state or local laws.
3. The City of West Branch will not use ALPR data for facial recognition purposes but can use images of the occupants collected by the ALPR
as part of the investigation or prosecution of a crime.
4. This ordinance prohibits the City of West branch from placing ALPR cameras or directing the ALPR cameras directly at a place of religious
worship.
Section 2. Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect immediately upon passage and publication as required by law.

1st Reading:
2nd Reading:
3rd Reading:

Passed, adopted and approved this 1st day of June, 2026.
June 1, 2026
June 15, 2026
July 7, 2026
___________________________________
Mayor, Roger Laughlin

Attest:
_______________________________
City Clerk, Alycia A Friis

Motion by Dean, second by Miller to approve the Third Reading of and adopt Ordinance 840. AYES: Dean,
Miller, Noel, Horihan, Sexton. NAYS: None. Motion carried.
Resolution 2026-61 Approving Change Order #2 in the amount of $11,830.50 for the W Main Street Overlay
Project./ Move to Action.

This has been added due to a subdrain that will go in at the large gravel area for the shoulder widening at the W Main
Street Overlay Project.

Motion by Miller, second by Horihan to approve Resolution 2026-61. AYES: Miller, Horihan, Sexton, Noel,
Dean. NAYS: None. Motion carried.
Resolution 2026-62 Amending Resolution 2026-52 Setting Salaries for Appointed Officials and Employees of
the City of West Branch, Iowa for FY27./ Move to action.
Motion by Miller, second by Horihan to approve Resolution 2026-62. AYES: Miller, Horihan, Sexton, Dean,
Noel. NAYS: None. Motion carried.

Resolution 2026-63 Approving Change Order No. 5 to the Contract with Boomerang Corp for the 2025 CedarJohnson Road Reconstruction Project./ Move to Action.
Change due to additional grading, remove & replace curb & gutter at Lot 18 to remobilize for grading.
Motion by Miller, second by Dean to approve Resolution 2026-63. AYES: Miller, Dean, Noel, Horihan,
Sexton. NAYS: None. Motion carried.
Resolution 2026-64 Approving Pay Estimate No. 10 in the amount of $42,604.34 to Boomerang Corp for the
2025 Cedar-Johnson Road Reconstruction Project./ Move to Action.
Motion by Dean, second by Miller to approve Resolution 2026-64. AYES: Dean, Miller, Sexton, Horihan,
Noel. NAYS: None. Motion carried.
Resolution 2026-65 Approving the use of Perpetual Care Account funds to complete the road improvement
project in the West Branch Cemetery./ Move to Action.
Motion by Noel, second by Horihan to approve Resolution 2026-65. AYES: Noel, Horihan, Sexton, Dean,
Miller. NAYS: None. Motion carried
Resolution 2026-66 Setting a Public Hearing on the Capital Improvement Plan Implementation./ Move to
Action.
Motion by Miller, second by Noel to approve Resolution 2026-66. AYES: Miller, Noel, Dean, Sexton,
Horihan. NAYS: None. Motion carried
Resolution 2026-67 Approving a Salary Adjustment for Public Works employee Harrison Goodale./ Move to
Action.
Motion by Sexton, second by Horihan to approve Resolution 2026-67. AYES: Sexton, Horihan, Noel, Dean,
Miller. NAYS: None. Motion carried
Resolution 2026-68 Approving the Amendment to Resolution 2026-59 in order to receive benefits from the
Iowa DOT./ Move to Action.
Motion by Noel, second by Miller to approve Resolution 2026-68. AYES: Noel, Miller, Dean, Horihan,
Sexton. NAYS: None. Motion carried
Resolution 2026-69 Approving a Community and Economic Development funding agreement with the
Hoover’s Hometown Days Committee and authorizing the Mayor to execute the agreement./ Move to Action.
Motion by Miller, second by Noel to approve Resolution 2026-69. AYES: Miller, Noel, Sexton, Horihan,
Dean. NAYS: None. Motion carried
Discussion/Possible Action – 707 Cedar-Johnson Road Utility Bill Relief/ Move to Action.

Tim and Lisa Stull of 707 Cedar Johnson Rd. shared information on their yard, what was damaged due to the CedarJohnson Road Reconstruction Project and the timing of repairing that area. Much of the yards and areas that were altered
due to the project had been reseeded either during the Fall of 2025 or early Spring 2026 and then watered. The Stull’s
property was missed during this and then had sod laid out in June of 2026. This required the Stull’s to water this area
heavily during June and ongoing. This has resulted in doubling their normal usage of water. Due to the late placement
of the sod, the council agreed that this additional usage should be reduced from their bill, as it was a direct result of the
Cities project on their road and due to the contractor’s mistake of missing the seeding on their property. The Stull’s will
then get further credit for a portion of their sewer usage for the summer months when the landscape meter has been
returned, read and calculated.

DISCUSSION ITEMS
a. Administrator Kofoed shared the final Capitol Improvement Presentation from the U of I students.
Kofoed shared the background of the U or I students research and final presentation to show how their proposed
CIP was established. Through public meetings, meet and greets, and City Directors giving feedback from their

areas, the students were able to put together a presentation and plan that will be discussed and voted on through
the Public Hearing at the next council meeting.
CITY ADMINISTRATOR REPORT – Kofoed will be attending the Administrator’s summer conference in
Okoboji next week from Tuesday to Friday.
CITY ATTORNEY REPORT – None
CITY ENGINEER REPORT –
Engineer Schechinger shared that he has been in talks with the West Branch Village management discussing
the connection from their area to full City Sewer. There are programs through the IA Economic Development
Association through their CDBG program that can help fund this project. It would be a 2 year project, and
through the CDBG grants and with the LMI rate, this would allow for additional support in alleviating flow
issues down stream from where the flow would come in from West Branch Village and increase the efficiency
within our city.
STAFF REPORTS - NONE
COMMENTS FROM MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS –
Council person Miller asked about the sidewalk between the Heritage Hill development and the Miller building
and what the plan was for this area? Would it be sidewalk, dirt, etc.? The answer appears to be working with
PW director Goodale on next steps. Council person Horihan shared a welcome back to Sergeant Steen
following her work with the recent incident that resulted in a shooting and following the trip that she then took
with the WB middle school students. He also shared a deep Thank you, to Officer Dorsey and the rest of the
WBPD officers in stepping up and taking care of the city and PD area during Chief Hall and Sergeant Steen’s
absence.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn by Miller, second by Noel. Motion carried on a voice vote. City Council meeting adjourned
at 6:58 p.m.

ATTEST:
______________________________________
Alycia Friis, City Clerk

_________________________________________
Roger Laughlin, Mayor

(The following is a synopsis of the minutes of the West Branch Zoning and Board of Adjustment meeting. The minutes
are not approved until the next regularly scheduled Zoning and Board of Adjustment meeting.)

West Branch, Iowa
Council Chambers

Zoning and Board of Adjustment
Regular Meeting

June 30, 2026
6:00 p.m.

Vice Chair Wayne Frauenholtz called the West Branch Zoning and Board of Adjustment regular meeting to
order at 6:00 p.m. Roll call: Commission members present: Wayne Frauenholtz. Greg Humrichouse, Jeff
Tadlock. City Staff present: City Administrator Adam Kofoed and Zoning Administrator, Terry Goerdt
Approving Chairperson, Wayne Frauenholtz –/ Move to action
Motion by Humrichouse, second by Tadlock, motion approved 3-0.
Approving Vice Chairperson, Greg Humrichouse –. / Move to action.
Motion by Frauenholtz, seconded by Tadlock, motion approved 3-0.
Approving Secretary, City Administrator Adam Kofoed-. / Move to action.
Motion by Frauenholtz, seconded by Humrichouse, motion approved 3-0.
Approve variance request for 922 Prairie View Drive /Action The applicants were requesting a variance for a five-foot fence in their front yard on a corner lot as for a dog.
According to zoning ordinances, a corner lot must have two front yards. Front yard fences are only allowed to
be four feet tall due to sign visibility around corner lots where there can be sever conflict points.
Goerdt and Kofoed both agreed the application only met one of four of Iowa’s four-pronged test. It is a
requirement the application must meet all four of Iowa’s four-pronged test.
Board members agreed that if the rules say it’s a four-foot fence it should stay that way.
A motion to deny was made by Humrichouse and seconded by Tadlock. The board voted unanimously to deny
the variance request. 3-0 opposed.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn by Frauenholtz, second by Humrichouse. Motion carried on a voice vote. Zoning and
Board of Adjustment meeting adjourned at 6:23 p.m.
Submitted by:
Adam Kofoed
City Administrator

REQUEST FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
MEETING DATE: July 20, 2026
AGENDA ITEM:
PREPARED BY:
DATE:

Claims for July 20, 2026
Jessica Brown, Deputy City Clerk
July 20, 2026

SUMMARY:
Claims Report: These are routine expenditures that include payroll, budget expenditures, and other
financial items that relate to City Council approved items and/or other day-to-day operational
disclosures.

NOTICE OF PROPOSED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN FOR FISCAL
YEARS 2028 - 2032
The City Council of the City of West Branch, Iowa, will meet on July 20, 2026, at six o'clock
p.m., at the Council Chambers, 110 N Poplar St., West Branch, Iowa, for the purpose of instituting
proceedings and taking action on the proposal to approve and move forward with the Capital
Improvement Plan for Fiscal Years 2028 – 2032.
The Plan will incorporate the recommendations from the City Directors for future needed
projects and the feedback that the U of I students gathered during their research of West Branch
on projects and how they rank in an order of importance.
At that time and place, oral or written objections may be filed or made to the proposal to
accept the CIP. After receiving objections, the City may determine to approve and initiate the
plan, in which case, the decision will be final unless appealed to the District Court within fifteen
(15) days thereafter.
By order of the City Council of the City of West Branch, Iowa.
Alycia Friis
City Clerk

REQUEST FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
MEETING DATE: July 20, 2026
AGENDA ITEM:
PREPARED BY:
DATE:

Resolution 2026-70 Approving a proposed Capital Improvement Plan for
the City of West Branch Fiscal Years 2028 - 2032.
City Clerk, Alycia Friis
July 16, 2026

SUMMARY:
The City Council of the City of West Branch, Iowa has worked in conjunction with the University
of Iowa’s Iowa Initiative for Sustainable Communities in creating a Capital Improvement Plan for
FY28 – FY32.
Following the Public Hearing, we are now ready to approve and adopt the proposed CIP for FY28
– FY32.

RESOLUTION 2026-70
RESOLUTION APPROVING A PROPOSED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN FOR
THE CITY OF WEST BRANCH FISCAL YEARS 2028 - 2032
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of West Branch, Iowa has worked in
conjunction with the University of Iowa’s Iowa Initiative for Sustainable Communities in
creating a Capital Improvement Plan for FY28 – FY32; and
WHEREAS, there has been a Public Hearing as required by State law, to all the City
Council of the City of West Branch, Iowa to adopt the aforementioned Capital Improvement
Plan for FY28 – FY32; and
WHEREAS, following the Public Hearing and allowing public feedback on the proposed
Capital Improvement Plan for the City of West Branch FY28 – FY32, it is now time to adopt
said plan.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of West
Branch, Iowa, that the aforementioned Capital Improvement Plan for the City of West Branch,
Iowa is hereby approved.
Passed and approved this 20th day of July, 2026.
___________________________
Roger Laughlin, Mayor

ATTEST:
__________________________
Alycia Friis, City Clerk

REQUEST FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
MEETING DATE: July 20, 2026
AGENDA ITEM:
PREPARED BY:
DATE:

Resolution 2026-71 Setting a Public Hearing date for the proposed Fiscal
Policies Manual./ Move to Action.
City Administrator, Adam Kofoed
July 10, 2026

ITEM SUMMARY
Key enhancements include:
•
•
•
•
•
•

Establishing formal debt management guidelines, including debt affordability limits and
credit rating objectives.
Creating standardized purchasing and competitive quotation procedures for public
improvements.
Formalizing donation acceptance and surplus asset disposal processes.
Strengthening cash reserve requirements and financial reporting standards.
Updating investment policies to ensure compliance with Iowa Code and improve
investment oversight.
Increasing transparency through quarterly financial and investment reporting to the City
Council.

Adoption of these policies will provide a comprehensive framework for the City's financial
management, improve consistency across departments, strengthen internal controls, and ensure
continued fiscal responsibility as West Branch continues to grow.
Resolution to set a Public Hearing for August 3, 2026 at 6:00pm.

RESOLUTION 2026-71
RESOLUTION SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE FISCAL POLICIES MANUAL
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of West Branch, Iowa, has heretofore deemed it
necessary and desirable to create a Fiscal Policies Manual for the City of West Branch; and
WHEREAS, accordingly, the City Council, did heretofore direct the preparation of plans and
specifications for said manual; and
WHEREAS, it is now necessary to set a date for a public hearing on the formalization of this
manual; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of West Branch, Iowa,
that a public hearing on the Fiscal Policies Manual shall be set for 6:00 p.m. on Monday, August 3, 2026,
in the Council Chambers at 110 N. Poplar Street. Further, the City Clerk is further directed to publish
notice of said public hearing as required by law.
Passed and approved this 20th day of July, 2026.

ATTEST:
______________________________
Alycia Friis, City Clerk

__________________________________
Roger Laughlin, Mayor

REQUEST FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
MEETING DATE: July 20, 2026
AGENDA ITEM:
PREPARED BY:
DATE:

Resolution 2026-72 Approving Pay Estimate Number 6 in the amount of
$32,423.38 to Peterson Contractors, Inc. for the 2025 Channel Widening
Flood Improvements Project.
City Clerk, Alycia Friis
July 16, 2026

SUMMARY:
Peterson Contractors, Inc of Reinbeck, Iowa was awarded the construction contract for the 2025
Channel Widening Flood Improvement Project by the West Branch City Council through the
passage of Resolution 2025-87 on August 4, 2025 in the amount of $1,110,692.64.
The City has received and paid the following Pay Estimates for the project to date:
Pay Estimate Number
1
2
3
4
5

Amount
$124,909.08
$324,462.77
$341,878.81
$247,717.75
9,387.66
$1,048,356.07

Resolution #
2025-123
2025-132
2026-34
2026-55
2026-60

Date
November 17, 2025
December 15, 2025
April 20,2026
June 15, 2026
June 15, 2026

RESOLUTION 2026-72
RESOLUTION APPROVING PAY ESTIMATE NUMBER 6 IN THE AMOUNT OF
$32,423.38 TO PETERSON CONTRACTORS, INC. FOR THE 2025 CHANNEL
WIDENING FLOOD IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT
WHEREAS, Peterson Contractors, Inc. of Reinbeck, Iowa was awarded the construction
contract for the 2025 Channel Widening Flood Improvement Project (the “Project”) by the West
Branch City Council through the passage of Resolution 2025-87 on August 4, 2025 in the
amount of $1,110,692.64; and
WHEREAS, Peterson Contractors, Inc. has declared that said Project has started and
work has been rendered in accordance with drawings and specifications on the Project and based
on observations by project managers of Veenstra & Kimm who are contracted with the City of
West Branch to oversee the construction process; and
WHEREAS, it is now necessary for the City Council to accept Pay Estimate Number 6,
the final payment, within this project, in the amount of $32,423.38 to Peterson Contractors, Inc.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the West Branch,
Iowa, that Pay Estimate Number 6 in the amount of $32,423.38 to Peterson Contractors, Inc. is
approved.
PASSED AND APPROVED this 20th day of July, 2026.
______________________________
Roger Laughlin, Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________________
Alycia A Friis, City Clerk

REQUEST FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
MEETING DATE: July 20, 2026
AGENDA ITEM:
PREPARED BY:
DATE:

Resolution 2026-73 Approving Change Order #1 in the amount of
$9,570.00 for the W Main Street Overlay Project.
City Clerk, Alycia Friis
July 16, 2026

SUMMARY:
Triple B Construction Corp. of Wilton, Iowa was awarded the construction contract for the W
Main Street Overlay Project (the “Project”) by the West Branch City Council through the passage
of Resolution 2026-45 on May 4, 2026 in the amount of $742,540.50.
Change Order
1
2

Amount
$9,570.00
$11,830.50
$21,400.50

Resolution
2026-73
2026-61

Date
July 20, 2026
July 7, 2026

RESOLUTION 2026-73
A RESOLUTION APPROVING CHANGE ORDER #1 IN THE AMOUNT OF $9,570.00
FOR THE W MAIN STREET OVERLAY PROJECT
WHEREAS, Triple B Construction Corp. of Wilton, Iowa was awarded the construction
contract for the W Main Street Overlay Project (the “Project”) by the West Branch City Council
through the passage of Resolution 2026-45 on May 4, 2026 in the amount of $742,540.50; and
WHEREAS, Change Order #1 makes modifications to the project as described on
Exhibit A; and
WHEREAS, Change Order #1 increases the contract amount by $9,570.00; and
WHEREAS, it is now necessary to approve Change Order #1 in the amount of $9,570.00
for the W Main Street Overlay Project.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of West Branch, that
Change Order #1 in the amount of $9,570.00 for the W Main Street Overlay Project is approved.
Passed and approved this 20th day of July, 2026.

______________________________
Roger Laughlin, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________________
Alycia A Friis, City Clerk

REQUEST FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
MEETING DATE: July 20, 2026
AGENDA ITEM:
PREPARED BY:
DATE:

Resolution 2026-74 Approving Pay Estimate #1 in the amount of
$201,282.04 for the W Main Street Overlay Project.
City Clerk, Alycia Friis
July 16, 2026

SUMMARY:
Triple B Construction Corp. of Wilton, Iowa was awarded the construction contract for the W
Main Street Overlay Project (the “Project”) by the West Branch City Council through the passage
of Resolution 2026-45 on May 4, 2026 in the amount of $742,540.50.
Pay Estimate
1

Amount
$201,282.04

Resolution
2026-74

Date
July 20, 2026

RESOLUTION 2026-74
RESOLUTION APPROVING PAY ESTIMATE NUMBER 1 IN THE AMOUNT OF
$201,282.04 TO TRIPLE B CONSTRUCTION CORP FOR THE W MAIN STREET
OVERLAY PROJECT.
WHEREAS, Triple B Construction Corp. of Wilton, Iowa was awarded the construction
contract for the W Main Street Overlay Project (the “Project”) by the West Branch City Council
through the passage of Resolution 2026-45 on May 4, 2026 in the amount of $742,540.50; and
WHEREAS, Triple B Construction Corp. has declared that said Project has started and
work has been rendered in accordance with drawings and specifications on the Project and based
on observations by project managers of Veenstra & Kimm who are contracted with the City of
West Branch to oversee the construction process; and
WHEREAS, it is now necessary for the City Council to accept Pay Estimate Number 1
in the amount of $201,282.04 to Triple B Construction Corp.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the West Branch,
Iowa, that Pay Estimate Number 1 in the amount of $201,282.04 to Triple B Construction Corp.
is approved.
PASSED AND APPROVED this 20th day of July, 2026.
______________________________
Roger Laughlin, Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________________
Alycia A Friis, City Clerk

REQUEST FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
MEETING DATE: July 20, 2026
AGENDA ITEM:
PREPARED BY:
DATE:

Resolution 2026-75 - Approve invoices #01261033137, 05261039932, and
06261192608 in the total amount of $7356.03 to Eocene (formerly known
as Impact7G) for the Wapsi Creek Widening SRF Sponsored Project.
City Clerk, Alycia Friis
July 16, 2026

SUMMARY:
In October 2021, the City of West Branch was approved for Sponsored Project funds in the amount
of $719,000 associated with the Wastewater Treatment Facility Project
The City Council approved a Professional Services Agreement with Impact7G to assist Veenstra
& Kimm with the design and construction of an SRF project (Wapsi Creek Widening) in an amount
not to exceed $164,300.
The City has received and paid the following invoices to Impact7G for the project to date:
Invoice
Amount
Purpose
Date
25942
$20,782
Data collection
6/6/2022
26230
$25,385
Data collection & planning & design
6/17/2022
25519
$5,508
Data collection, design & funding mmgt.
6/24/2022
26665
$9,768
Data collection & design
7/18/2022
26986
$17,253
Data collection, design & funding mmgt.
8/19/2022
27315
$4,802
Data collection, design & funding mmgt.
9/19/2022
27724
$1,424
Data collection & design
11/7/2022
28474
$6,456
Data collection, design & funding mmgt.
12/19/2022
28888
$1,429
Funding mmgt & planning & design
2/6/2023
28265
$1,267
Data collection, planning & design
2/21/2023
29216
$7,056
Funding mmgt
2/21/2023
29478
$5,210
Funding mmgt, planning & design
3/25/2023
29822
$2,940
Funding mmgt
5/15/2023
31168
$5,020
Funding mmgt
9/5/2023
31444
$770.00
Funding mmgt
10/2/2023
33192
$4970.00
Funding mmgt
2/20/2024
34364
$382.50
Funding mmgt
7/1/2024
34618
$5753.67
Public outreach
8/19/2024
34740
$2852.50
Public outreach
9/3/2024
35132
$2581.25
Public outreach
10/7/2024
13-35378
$4,228.37
Public outreach
10/21/2024
13-35964
$ 592.55
Public outreach
11/18/2024
13-35922
$ 210.00
Public outreach
01/06/2025
12251031535 $5522.69
Construction Admin & funding mmgt
12/15/2025
1261033137 $686.39
Construction Admin
01/20/2026

5261039932
6261192608

$3487.64
$3182.00
$151,540.95

Construction Admin & Funding Mmgt
Construction Admin & Funding Mmgt

05/18/2026
06/16/2026

RESOLUTION 2026-75
A RESOLUTION APPROVING INVOICES #01261033137, 05261039932, and
06261192608 IN A TOTAL AMOUNT OF $7356.03 TO EOCENE (FORMERLY KNOWN
AS IMPACT7G INC.)
FOR THE WAPSI CREEK WIDENING – SRF SPONSORED PROJECT
WHEREAS, The City of West Branch Sponsored Project application associated with
Clean Water SRF project CS1920982-01 has been approved by the Iowa Environmental Protection
Commission for $719,000; and
WHEREAS, the City of West Branch is utilizing these funds to implement a water quality
improvement project within the West Branch Wapsinonoc Creek Watershed based on the
Watershed Assessment completed by Impact7G (now known as Eocene Environmental Group);
and
WHEREAS, the proposed plan includes implementation of a series of water quality
practices with and adjacent to the Wapsinonoc Creek south of East Main Street; and
WHEREAS, the project includes in-stream practices, re-meandering reaches,
reconnecting the floodplain, buffer restoration and the creation of oxbows: and
WHEREAS, Eocene Environmental Group (aka Impact7G) has been working closely with
the City Engineer on the preliminary and final design; and
WHEREAS, it is now necessary to approve the previously paid invoices #01261033137,
05261039932, and 06261192608 in the total amount of $7356.03.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of West
Branch, Iowa that the aforementioned invoices are now approved.
Passed and approved this 20th day of July, 2026.
_________________________________
Roger Laughlin, Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________________________
Alycia A Friis, City Clerk

REQUEST FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
MEETING DATE: July 20, 2026
AGENDA ITEM:
PREPARED BY:
DATE:

Resolution 2026-76 - Approve invoice #07261310451 in the total amount
of $2633.50 to Eocene (formerly known as Impact7G) for the Wapsi Creek
Widening SRF Sponsored Project.
City Clerk, Alycia Friis
July 16, 2026

SUMMARY:
In October 2021, the City of West Branch was approved for Sponsored Project funds in the amount
of $719,000 associated with the Wastewater Treatment Facility Project
The City Council approved a Professional Services Agreement with Impact7G to assist Veenstra
& Kimm with the design and construction of an SRF project (Wapsi Creek Widening) in an amount
not to exceed $164,300.
The City has received and paid the following invoices to Impact7G for the project to date:
Invoice
Amount
Purpose
Date
25942
$20,782
Data collection
6/6/2022
26230
$25,385
Data collection & planning & design
6/17/2022
25519
$5,508
Data collection, design & funding mmgt.
6/24/2022
26665
$9,768
Data collection & design
7/18/2022
26986
$17,253
Data collection, design & funding mmgt.
8/19/2022
27315
$4,802
Data collection, design & funding mmgt.
9/19/2022
27724
$1,424
Data collection & design
11/7/2022
28474
$6,456
Data collection, design & funding mmgt.
12/19/2022
28888
$1,429
Funding mmgt & planning & design
2/6/2023
28265
$1,267
Data collection, planning & design
2/21/2023
29216
$7,056
Funding mmgt
2/21/2023
29478
$5,210
Funding mmgt, planning & design
3/25/2023
29822
$2,940
Funding mmgt
5/15/2023
31168
$5,020
Funding mmgt
9/5/2023
31444
$770.00
Funding mmgt
10/2/2023
33192
$4970.00
Funding mmgt
2/20/2024
34364
$382.50
Funding mmgt
7/1/2024
34618
$5753.67
Public outreach
8/19/2024
34740
$2852.50
Public outreach
9/3/2024
35132
$2581.25
Public outreach
10/7/2024
13-35378
$4,228.37
Public outreach
10/21/2024
13-35964
$ 592.55
Public outreach
11/18/2024
13-35922
$ 210.00
Public outreach
01/06/2025
12251031535 $5522.69
Construction Admin & funding mmgt
12/15/2025
1261033137 $686.39
Construction Admin
01/20/2026

5261039932
6261192608

$3487.64
$3182.00
$151,540.95

Construction Admin & Funding Mmgt
Construction Admin & Funding Mmgt

05/18/2026
06/16/2026

RESOLUTION 2026-76
A RESOLUTION APPROVING INVOICES #07261310451 IN THE AMOUNT OF
$2633.50 TO EOCENE (FORMERLY KNOWN AS IMPACT7G INC.)
FOR THE WAPSI CREEK WIDENING – SRF SPONSORED PROJECT
WHEREAS, The City of West Branch Sponsored Project application associated with
Clean Water SRF project CS1920982-01 has been approved by the Iowa Environmental Protection
Commission for $719,000; and
WHEREAS, the City of West Branch is utilizing these funds to implement a water quality
improvement project within the West Branch Wapsinonoc Creek Watershed based on the
Watershed Assessment completed by Impact7G (now known as Eocene Environmental Group);
and
WHEREAS, the proposed plan includes implementation of a series of water quality
practices with and adjacent to the Wapsinonoc Creek south of East Main Street; and
WHEREAS, the project includes in-stream practices, re-meandering reaches,
reconnecting the floodplain, buffer restoration and the creation of oxbows: and
WHEREAS, Eocene Environmental Group (aka Impact7G) has been working closely with
the City Engineer on the preliminary and final design; and
WHEREAS, it is now necessary to approve the invoice #07261310451 in the amount of
$2633.50.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of West
Branch, Iowa that the aforementioned invoice is now approved.
Passed and approved this 20th day of July, 2026.
_________________________________
Roger Laughlin, Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________________________
Alycia A Friis, City Clerk

REQUEST FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
MEETING DATE: July 20, 2026
AGENDA ITEM:
PREPARED BY:
DATE:

Resolution 2026-77 - Accepting a quote for residential solid waste and
recycling collection services with and direct the City Administrator to
negotiate a contract.
City Clerk, Alycia Friis
July 16, 2026

Below is a summary of the top two quotes for solid waste and recycling services:
Smith Sanitation

July 26

Trash - 35 gallon
Recycling – 65/95 gal
New monthly cost

$17.50
$4.00
$21.50

Trash - 65 gallon
Recycling – 65/95 gal
New monthly cost

$18.50
$4.00
$22.50

ABC Disposal

July 26

Trash – 35 gallon
Recycling – 65/95 gal
New monthly cost

$18.25 – $19.94 by Year 5
$4.75 - $5.19 by Year 5
$23.00
$25.13

Trash – 65 gallon
Recycling – 65/95 gal
New monthly cost

$19.00 - $20.76 by Year 5
$4.75 - $5.19 by Year 5
$23.75
$25.95

RESOLUTION 2026-77
A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING A QUOTE FOR RESIDENTIAL SOLID WASTE AND
RECYCLING COLLECTION SERVICES WITH SMITH SANITATION SERVICES
AND DIRECT THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR TO NEGOTIATE A CONTRACT.
WHEREAS, managing municipal solid waste is important to a sustainable environment for
future generations to enjoy a clean, safe and healthier world; and
WHEREAS, the City of West Branch regards this service as an important and a critical part of
establishing a high quality of life in this community; and
WHEREAS, office staff evaluated four proposals from vendors who responded to a Request for
Proposal placed by the City of West Branch for those interested in providing residential solid
waste and recycling collection services; and
WHEREAS, the proposals were evaluated based on service quality and dependability, service
offerings, and competitive pricing; and
WHEREAS, Smith Sanitation Services was recommended as the best company for the value to
negotiate a contract for services; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of West Branch, that the City
Administrator is authorized to negotiate contract with Smith Sanitation Services, for Residential
Solid Waste and Recycling Collection Services.
Passed and approved this 20th day of July, 2026.
______________________________
Roger Laughlin, Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________________________
Alycia Friis, City Clerk

REQUEST FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
MEETING DATE: July 20, 2026
AGENDA ITEM:
PREPARED BY:
DATE:

TIF Application Discussion
Heidi Van Auken
July 16, 2026

SUMMARY:
In collaboration with the IISC Fiscal Policy & CIP Team, we created an application for developers,
businesses, and anyone who wants to ask the City for Tax Increment Financing (TIF) dollars. (TIF
is a public financing method used to subsidize redevelopment, infrastructure, and communityimprovement projects. It works by capturing future increases in property tax revenues within a
designated geographic district to help fund these projects.)
There was a need to create a TIF application to standardize the review process and ensure proposed
projects meet public development goals. The application verifies that developments would not be
financially feasible without public tax dollars, protects the city from legal risks, and formalizes
community benefits. Below are some more specific reasons why our city should require a TIF
application:
It requires developers to prove that the project cannot move forward or provide necessary
community benefits "but for" the requested TIF assistance.
The form helps the city evaluate if the private investment will generate enough tax revenue to
cover the requested public subsidies and infrastructure costs.
It collects critical financial and project data so the city can assess the applicant's experience, track
record, and financial stability before committing public funds.
It serves as a formal agreement where the city can tie TIF dollars to specific requirements like job
creation, infrastructure expansion, targeting slum/blight, and/or attracting commercial, industrial,
or residential development.
It provides all the necessary information in one packet to all relevant parties and decision makers.
A standardized application ensures that all necessary criteria are met, minimizing confusion and
bias, while presenting information clearly and completely.

Tax Increment Financing Application
1. TIF is not an entitlement program. This policy shall not be construed as obligating the
City to use TIF for all projects that satisfy the criteria set forth in this policy. The final
decision to provide economic development incentives shall be at the sole discretion of
the City and shall be determined on a case-by-case basis. The application can be
denied at any step of the process.
2. Each project shall pass the "but for" test. The “but for” test means the project would
not occur as designed or envisioned “but for” the availability of the TIF funding.
3. TIF shall not be provided for projects that would place extraordinary demands on city
services or for projects that would generate significant adverse environmental
impacts.
4. TIF assistance should be evaluated for all projects on an equitable basis, while
recognizing that the amount of TIF assistance may vary among projects based on
project size, type, location, community impact, and market condition.
5. No TIF Agreements shall be formally approved that are dependent on other projects
that have not been formally approved first.
6. Upon receiving an application for financial assistance, the City will determine if any
public infrastructure is necessary in order to complete the project. If it is determined
that public infrastructure is necessary, the costs associated with constructing said
improvements will be paid for first with any increment generated off of the project.
Any increment remaining after the public improvement costs have been covered may
be eligible for rebate.
7. Applicants should submit the required documentation as early in the development
review process as possible. No applications will be considered for currently ongoing
or finished projects.

8. Any project making an application for TIF funds must be located in a designated TIF
district.
9. Speculative projects (with no guarantee of type of businesses to locate in the project
or type and quality of jobs) shall not be considered for funding.
10. TIF projects will be funded on a “pay-as you go, and/or pay for performance” basis.
Once the improvement is made and the owner/developer pays their taxes, the City
shall refund a portion of their incremental property taxes according to the criteria
established in the Development Agreement.
10.a) In the Development Agreement, criteria will be designated and clearly outlined.
10.b) Failure to meet the conditions of the development agreement is grounds for
revocation of the TIF assistance.
11. The City shall have complete and sole discretion in determining eligibility for rebates
and in computing the amount of each and any rebate. The Developer shall only apply
for Tax Increment Rebates under one of the incentive programs for any particular
Project, and under no circumstances shall any Project receive tax increment rebates
under more than one of the incentive programs.
12. No prefunding of tax obligation is allowed. All incremental taxes must be paid to the
County, remitted by the County to the City pursuant to Iowa Code Section 403.19,
and then rebated pursuant to and conditioned on the terms of the Development
Agreement entered between and among the Developer and the City.
13. The TIF rate used for the purpose of calculating the rebate excludes certain property
tax revenues, and is subject to change annually.
14. All documentation will be retained by the City as the official application and record
for this program. All documents are subject to verification, and properties must be in
conformance with the Zoning Ordinance, Building Codes, and all other applicable
laws, ordinances, or regulations.
15. Developer will be required to pay to the City one half (1/2) the sum costs incurred by
the City in connection with the drafting and execution of the Development
Agreement. The developer will pay the entirety of: publication fees for legal notices,
engineering costs, actual costs associated with City Council meetings relating to the
TIF application, and reasonable legal fees of the City relating to the TIF application.

Developer must pay the City within 30 days of the date on which the City presents a
statement to the Developer demonstrating such costs, or if not previously paid the
costs shall be deducted from the first Tax Increment Rebate(s).
15.a) Miscellaneous studies, such as Traffic Control, Infrastructure Annexation etc.,
will be decided on a case-by-case basis in the Developer Agreement.
16. No TIF Agreements shall be formally approved before the City’s maximum direct
costs related to site development, provision of public infrastructure, etc., have first
been fully evaluated and agreed to by the City and Developer.
17. If the project does not meet all of the above standards, TIF funding may still be
considered for a project if one or more of the following actions are taken:
a. A financial impact statement is prepared that shows the Taxpayer Return on
Investment justifies the exception,
b. An impact statement is prepared that demonstrates a significant positive impact
on the community such as job creation/retention, increased amenities, or a visual
enhancement,
c. A finding is made that there exist extraordinary environmental remediation
costs for which sufficient funding is not otherwise available,
d. A finding is made that the project will support an adopted neighborhood plan
or public objective, or will cause a significant removal of slum and blight.
18. Projects receiving TIF are ineligible to receive tax abatement.

Tax Increment
Financing Application
Email Completed Application to:
Adam Kofoed and Heidi Van Auken
Call (319)643-5888 if there are any questions
Only completed applications will be considered
Name of Business: __________________________________________________________________
Mailing Address: ____________________________________________________________________
Organization’s HQ City, State, Zip: ____________________________________________________
Name of Applicant: __________________________________________________________________
Type of Entity: _______________________________________________________________________
Location of the proposed project: _____________________________________________________
County Assessor’s Parcel Numbers:___________________________________________________
Do you already own this property?: ____________________________________________________
Type of business for which TIF funds are requested: ____________________________________
Current zoning of the parcel: _________________________________________________________
Will the parcel zoning change? If yes, to what: __________________________________________
Which Urban Redevelopment District is the proposed project located in?
____________________________________________________________________________________
Is the proposed project in a slum or blight zone? _______________________________________
For what type of project are TIF funds being requested:
Residential ☐

Commercial ☐

Infrastructure ☐

Property Redevelopment ☐

Amount of TIF funds being requested:
Building: ____________________________________________________________________________
Infrastructure: ______________________________________________________________________

Property Redevelopment: ____________________________________________________________
Estimated start and end date: ________________________________________________________
How many jobs will this project add to West Branch? __________________________________
What are the expected pay ranges of these positions?
____________________________________________________________________________________
Description and History of the Business:
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________

Description of the Project:
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
How will this development benefit the West Branch Community:
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
If the applying business employs over X (50?) individuals, answer the following
section:
Estimated water consumption (In gallons/month): ______________________________________

Estimated monthly sanitary sewer use:
Flow: _______________________________________________________________________________
Biochemical oxygen demand: ________________________________________________________
Suspended solids: ___________________________________________________________________
Other: ______________________________________________________________________________

On a separate document please detail:
1. A Pro Forma that shows evidence that the project requires TIF to be economically
viable
2. Are you applying for any funding from the state? If yes, attach applications
3. Utility needs for the project
4. IRS w-9 form

REQUEST FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
MEETING DATE: July 20, 2026
AGENDA ITEM:
PREPARED BY:
DATE:

Discussion: Fiscal Policies Manual
City Administrator, Adam Kofoed
July 10, 2026

ITEM SUMMARY
As part of the City's partnership with the University of Iowa's Initiative for Sustainable
Communities (IISC), staff worked with graduate students to comprehensively review and
modernize the City's financial policies. The existing policies were consolidated, updated to
reflect current best practices, and expanded to address areas where formal guidance previously
did not exist.
The proposed Fiscal Policies Manual reorganizes the City's financial policies into four
comprehensive sections:
•
•
•
•

Fiscal Management Policies
Debt Management Policies
Purchasing Policies
Investment Policies

The manual includes numerous updates and additions, including policies governing cash
reserves, debt issuance and administration, purchasing procedures, competitive bidding,
emergency repairs, donation acceptance, surplus property sales, investment practices, financial
reporting, and internal controls. Several new policies have been added to strengthen financial
oversight while revising existing policies to align with current Iowa law and Government
Finance Officers Association (GFOA) best practices.
Key enhancements include:
•
•
•
•

Establishing formal debt management guidelines, including debt affordability limits and
credit rating objectives.
Creating standardized purchasing and competitive quotation procedures for public
improvements.
Formalizing donation acceptance and surplus asset disposal processes.
Strengthening cash reserve requirements and financial reporting standards.

•
•

Updating investment policies to ensure compliance with Iowa Code and improve
investment oversight.
Increasing transparency through quarterly financial and investment reporting to the City
Council.

Adoption of these policies will provide a comprehensive framework for the City's financial
management, improve consistency across departments, strengthen internal controls, and ensure
continued fiscal responsibility as West Branch continues to grow.

CIVIL ENGINEERS
LAND PLANNERS
LAND SURVEYORS
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS
ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALISTS
1917 S. GILBERT ST.
IOWA CITY, IOWA 52240
(319) 351-8282

www.mmsconsultants.net

SITE CONCEPT

MMS CONSULTANTS, INC.
6/15/26
JDM
1"=50'

1
1