By Edward Lynn
Editor
The Eagle Grove City Council convened for its first meeting of the year on Monday evening, addressing several key issues, including the presentation of the Fiscal Year 2024 audit, property matters, and budget planning for 2025.
Clean Audit for FY 2024 with Minor Deficiencies
TP Anderson auditor Tim McCartan presented the Fiscal Year 2024 audit, delivering a clean opinion on the city’s financial statements. The audit highlighted total cash receipts of $15.6 million and total disbursements of $12.7 million, resulting in a $2.97 million increase in the city’s cash balance. The city’s ending cash balance stood at $4.82 million.
However, the audit identified minor internal control deficiencies, including a lack of segregation of duties, an incorrect IPERS deduction for a transitioning employee, and discrepancies in utility billing adjustments. With respect to the segregation of duties issue, McCartan pointed out that, “with the city the size of Eagle grove. You’re just not going to get away from that. There’s just a limited number of office staff. McCarten advised that the way for the city to combat that limitation was simply that “you as a council really need to ask questions when you when you don’t understand something or or see something that doesn’t make sense.” McCartan noted a $3,500 discrepancy in the bank reconciliation, which the city is actively working to resolve. Bryce Davis, City Administrator, confirmed corrective actions are underway.
Council Approves Key Resolutions and Property Decisions
The council unanimously passed Resolution 2025-03, authorizing an amendment to the collective bargaining agreement with the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 234. The agreement includes wage increases of $1.50 per hour annually for the next three years, effective July 1, 2025.
Additionally, the council approved Resolution 2025-04, authorizing the disposal and sale of the 2009 Ford 450SD ambulance. Bob Hildreth submitted the highest bid of $6,000, which the council accepted.
The council also scheduled a public hearing for January 20, 2025, to discuss entering into a General Obligation Corporate Purpose Loan Agreement for up to $315,000 under Resolution 2025-05.
Resolution 2025-06 was approved, authorizing the future disposal and conveyance of 922 N. Iowa Street. Although no formal offers have been received, the council determined the property serves no public need and will entertain future offers.
Grant Disbursement for Daycare Improvement Project
The council approved a $5,976 grant disbursement request for the Eagle’s Wings Daycare Improvement Project. Funds will be used to install white vinyl fencing, utilizing remaining funds from a revolving loan fund.
Public Works and Police Department Updates
Public Works reported the imminent installation of insulated doors at the Public Works building and the arrival of a new cemetery truck and water van. Upcoming discussions will focus on the 25th Street project and fleet upgrades supported by the forthcoming loan.
Speaking on behalf of Police Chief Beltran, who was on vacation, Sergeant Mark Hennigar shared that officers responded to 332 calls in December, including 42 EMS assists and 86 traffic stops. The department is enhancing evidence handling procedures and recently restored a patrol vehicle after repairs. Training efforts continue with officers attending specialized classes on drug investigations and sex crimes. One officer did resign at the end of the year, but the department expects to fill the position quickly. “We’ve had lots of interest,” Hennigar said.
Looking Ahead
Council members discussed upcoming budget planning and committee assignments for 2025. Mayor Mike Boyd emphasized the importance of transparent communication with residents and encouraged the council to prioritize community needs in the coming year.
The meeting adjourned following discussions about improving public communication regarding the ongoing Recreation Center project.
