Belle Plaine, Iowa

January 28, 2026

The Belle Plaine City Council met for a special council meeting with budget workshop on January 28, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. with Mayor Garrett Landuyt presiding. In attendance were Councilpersons Judy Schlesselman, Tim Werth, Jacki McDermott, Charmaine Wickwire, and Mitch Malcolm. Also present: City Administrator Steve Beck, City Clerk Sandra Walton, Assistant City Clerk Bethany Grieder, Public Works Supervisor Jay Hamilton, and Police Chief Kris Hudson. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Motion by Schlesselman, seconded by Malcolm to approve the Consent Agenda. On roll call vote, all voted aye, motion carried 5-0.

Kate Robertson was in attendance to discuss the Catalyst Grant Pre-Application candidate for this year. Motion by Malcolm, seconded by Werth to approve submitting a Pre-Application for The Greens of 801 12^th Street. On roll call vote, all voted aye, motion carried 5-0.

The council discussed the budget as presented by City Clerk Sandy Walton. Decisions were made regarding proposed employee wage increases, distribution of LOST funds, utility rate increases, as well as a review of all other planned fund revenues and expenses for fiscal year 2027.

Increases in water and sewer rates were discussed which would go into effect on July 1, 2026. For residential customers, water will go from $8.60 to $9.03 per thousand gallons. Residential sewer rates will increase from $13.59 to $14.26 per thousand gallons. In total a minimum bill will go from $53.71 to $54.84; a proposed increase of $1.13 per 1000 gallons. Commercial and rural rates will also increase accordingly.

Miscellaneous questions were answered regarding budget items in a variety of funds.

All budget decisions were made, and the proposed tax levy rate will be presented to the council at a February council meeting for official approval and to set the required public hearing date.

Residents Comments: None.

Motion by Werth to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Malcolm. On roll call vote, all voted aye. The meeting was adjourned at 8:53 p.m.

Garrett Landuyt, Mayor

Attest: Sandra Walton, City Clerk

Transcribed by the City Clerk subject to Council approval.