The Jefferson City Council met Tuesday night in regular session.

The Council approved a technical assistance contract with Region XII Council of Governments to apply for a Community Development Block Grant on behalf of the city for upper story living at 123 North Chestnut Street, or the Public House. The grant is for up to $500,000 to renovate six apartments above the proposed business class restaurant. A public hearing prior to final approval is scheduled for the Council October 12th meeting at 5:30pm.

The Council also approved a $42,500 agreement with the Iowa Department of Transportation for hangar repairs at the municipal airport, with the Airport Commission supplying the matching $6,300 funds. They approved $13,188 of designs and plans for the upper story living project at 200 East State Street from a recently received CDBG grant. 

The Council held a lengthy discussion about an alternative for the animal shelter. Council member Dave Sloan said Dr. Amy Klauer of Jefferson Veterinary Clinic showed interest in owning and operating a new animal shelter. He said she had asked about getting the building built, but then she could own and maintain the facility. The latest bids the City received for the animal shelter was $150,000 over the engineer’s cost estimate.

Finally, the Council held its annual budget priority workshop. The workshop is to give city staff defined areas to set up its budget every year. The top three priorities included the animal shelter, water and sewer line improvements and zoning overview for new construction.