The City of Hawarden will hold a special session this evening at 5:30 to consider the resolution to eliminate the Community and Economic Development position effective December 15th.
The City Council had voted 3-2 to eliminate the city’s economic development director position during a meeting held on November 13. The legality of that vote has been called into question as it was not specifically listed on the agenda for the November 13th meeting, requiring the special meeting this evening to revote.
This decision was made while the director, Carol Hoogestraat, was on vacation and unable to attend. The vote comes as the council faces the challenge of being without a permanent city administrator, with interim city manager Gary Tucker set to retire on January 29, and Jacob Stoner on a yearlong Army Reserves deployment.
Council member Monte Harvey, who initiated the motion, cited financial concerns as the reason for eliminating the position. Council members Kristi Warner and Patty Anderson supported the motion, while Derek Allen and Rob Klocke opposed it. Harvey argued that the decision would save the city money, but did not provide data on the financial contributions of the economic development department. Klocke countered that Hoogestraat’s efforts have brought in significant grant money and revitalized downtown businesses.
Community members have since voiced their concerns, highlighting Hoogestraat’s contributions over the past three years, including helping to open six businesses, securing grants, and aiding in disaster recovery. In the last 12 months, her efforts have brought approximately $5.5 million to Hawarden.
Interim city administrator Tucker emphasized the city’s $2.7 million flood disaster costs and uncertain federal or state funding. Mayor Larry Gregg and Allen criticized the decision, stressing Hoogestraat’s role in addressing the housing crisis and promoting economic growth. The city could save 142 thousand dollars by eliminating the position.
Mayor Gregg expressed disappointment over the lack of prior notice. It took less than three minutes from when Councilman Harvey initiated the conversation to the vote to eliminate the director position. Community members are urged to voice their concerns at the special council meeting this evening to protect Hawarden’s future.
