Hartley council mulls nuisance protocol

The Hartley City Council on Monday again debated better practices to deal with nuisance properties around town.

The council first broached the topic in April. The city currently utilizes the services of Northwest Iowa Planning and Development Commission (NIPDC), which was hired several years ago to assess problematic residences, send abatement notices and attempt to mitigate violations.

According to discussion, city officials have been disappointed in NIPDC's efforts, noting an alleged lack of follow-up enforcement once letters are sent to property owners.

"Every year we tell them we want to be on the beginning of the list," said Council Member Mary Westphalen. "We reach out in March or April and they give us the same song and dance, and in about July they show up...it's not working."

City Administrator Roxann Swanson reached out to several local municipalities regarding their nuisance property protocol. Procedures varied, but most respondents said they operate on a complaint-based system.

"It's obvious everybody has a different opinion of what a nuisance is," said Council Member Ron Hengeveld.

Ultimately, the council favored Paullina's approach. A two-person committee identifies offending properties, speaks with the owners and establishes a course of action to address issues. If nothing improves, the city attorney is then involved.

"I think we need to pick those houses and do something, because doing nothing is not the answer," said Westphalen.

No formal action was taken on the matter. Hengeveld and Council Member Nick Galm said they would be willing to serve on such a committee if one was established.

• Other business

The council approved pay raises for the upcoming fiscal year, which starts July 1.

Hikes were not across the board and ranged from 6-8 percent in the police department, 3-4 percent in public works, and 5 percent for office administrative staff. The lone custodial employee was given a 3 percent raise.

Additionally, the council approved an internal $250,000 loan from the electric utility fund to the water utility fund. The money will help cover depleted funds caused by water main breaks, water tower repair, water treatment maintenance and an upcoming water main project at M12/Eighth Avenue West.

The council will determine how the 0 percent interest loan will be repaid. It's authorization sparked brief discussion about a utility rate study in town, as the last increase for water occurred in 2019.

"It's better to raise it a small amount