Dayton Receives National Park Service Appreciation Award

DAYTON-The City of Dayton has received a certificate of appreciation from the National Park Service, marking the 50-year anniversary of the National Historic Preservation Act. The city is one of 1,966 Certified Local Governments nationally, said Dayton Historic Preservation Commission Chairman Mike Smith at last week's council meeting.

Mayor Craig George said there were 952 towns and cities in the state of Iowa, alone, who received this award, and that being recognized is an honor for the City of Dayton.

Smith also talked about the history of the 1910 sidewalks and curbs on S. First St., and presented a bronze commemorative plaque to city council members.

In her report to city council, Planning Director Karen Scharer said she is seeking a grant to bring a consultant on board to help her meet timelines for the 2019 Comprehensive Plan Update. She had hoped for completion in three years, she said.

Scharer said a link on the city website will be provided for the public to view the City's Draft Visioning Statement which will also include objectives and goals of the housing element that was recently reviewed by the Planning Commission.

Also, the Dayton Development Task Force is offering mini-grants of up to $800 to building owners for façade improvements on Main Street, Scharer said.

Heather Ball, the city swimming pool manager has received a $3,500 grant from the Dayton/Columbia County Fund for new paint, umbrellas and chairs, to be used at the pool, Scharer told the council.

Public Works Director Jim Costello said the water main has been replaced on S. First St., and the city is waiting for the completion of bacterial testing before connecting individual services.

Mayor George said the dog park is 95% complete and just needs some signage stating the rules.

The city is considering a change from Monday night council meetings, which are held twice a month, to just once a month, on the second Wednesday of the month. No action was taken