MUSCATINE, Iowa — The Muscatine City Council will meet Tuesday with a concise agenda that includes a proclamation recognizing January as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Mayor Brad Bark is scheduled to read the proclamation, formally designating the observance in Muscatine.
The national awareness month, established by presidential proclamation in 2010, focuses on educating the public about modern‑day slavery, identifying signs of exploitation, preventing trafficking, and supporting survivors of forced labor, services, or commercial sex.
Council members will also consider adopting the Muscatine County Emergency Plan as the official City of Muscatine Emergency Plan. Emergency Management/911 Director Chris Jasper noted during a presentation at the January 13 in-depth Council meeting, that the city’s existing plan has not been updated since 2013, and aligning with the county’s plan would streamline emergency coordination across local, state, and federal agencies. The countywide plan is designed to keep municipal operations consistent with broader regional response strategies.
Another item up for approval is the proposed Musco Sports Membership Program, which would introduce annual walking and facility memberships. The program aims to boost use of the Musco Sports Center during non‑free hours and throughout the spring, summer, and fall. If approved, details will be posted on the Musco Sports Center website, the Parks and Recreation Sports Center page, and the facility’s Facebook page.
Additional action items include:
- Accepting completed work on the Park Avenue Four‑to‑Three Lane Conversion Project
- Approving subgrant agreements tied to the Paul Bruhn Historic Preservation Grant
- Considering a salary increase for the City Administrator, pending a closed‑session performance review
- Approving several purchase orders and agreements:
- Recognition plaque purchase for the Musco Sports Center
- Safety netting purchase for the Musco Sports Center
- Right‑of‑way acquisition for the West Hill Sewer Separation Phase 6D project
- Additional land surveying services for the Isett Corridor reconstruction
- A Memorandum of Understanding between the Muscatine Fire Department and Muscatine County Emergency Management Commission for shared boat resources
How to Participate
Residents are encouraged to engage with their local government through the following channels:
- In-Person: Muscatine City Hall, 215 Sycamore Street.
- Live Stream: Watch via Civic-TV (MPW Channel 2) or the City of Muscatine YouTube channel.
- Documentation: Agendas and supporting materials are available at least 24 hours in advance at muscatineiowa.gov under the "Agendas & Minutes" section.
Accommodations: Individuals requiring special accommodations to attend or participate should contact the City Clerk’s Office at 563-264-1550 at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.