The Sioux Center City Council met Monday in regular session and among items on the agenda, received and approved a proposal from Sioux Center Public Library for renovations, adding a children’s STEM room, additional study rooms, and a programming room. Estimates for the project are high, but Library Director Becky Bilby says there are areas where significant savings can be made. Total estimate for the renovations is $436,000, the city included $250,000 in the 2023-24 budget to assist with the project.
The council received a proposal from Sioux Center Land Development for an addition to the Country View North development, extending 11th Ave. NE to 20th St NE. SCLD will develop and cover the estimated $625,000 cost to create a new cul-de-sac north of 14th Circle NE as part of the project. The approved proposal would have the city contract with Sioux Center Land Development, and fund the $998,000 11th Ave. NE expansion, and pay the city back as lots in the new development sell. Two local developers are interested in developing two separate affordable housing areas in the Country View North 2nd Addition proposal. Vision Builders, and 2011 North Developers, LLC, are applying for Workforce Housing Tax Incentives, but must have resolutions of support from the city council to proceed with the application. Unit cost may not exceed a maximum value of $295,000 per unit to qualify for the program.
The city also ratified the hiring of two new police officers. Steve Topete from Orange City will complete his schooling and training to join the Sioux Center Police Department, and Ryan Laroco, a veteran officer from the Hawarden Police Department has been hired. The process of hiring a new Sioux Center Police Chief is ongoing.
