Strategic Plan
Mission and Values
Our mission is to create a dynamic and vital city by providing quality, cost-effective, citizen-focused municipal services and by forming partnerships with citizens and organizations in our community.
We value our residents and coworkers as people who contribute ideas, energy, and commitment toward the betterment of the community. Employees are included in decision making at all levels and are treated with fairness and respect at all times.
We
believe good government depends on:
TRUST BALANCE
We maintain the highest level of integrity and honesty in all our actions. We believe truthfulness will create trust within the organization and public trust can be achieved and preserved by making government open and accessible to those we serve.
OPEN COMMUNICATION
We foster an environment of open, timely, and respectful communication between City staff, City Council, and residents.
EMPOWERMENT
We maintain proper equilibrium between responsive and responsible government services. We are sensitive to the diversity of those we serve.
CREATIVITY
We seek continuous improvements in City services by using our creativity and by engaging in prudent risk-taking.
We create an environment in which our citizens and employees are encouraged to use their initiative and expertise in constructive problem-solving. We accept ownership and responsibility of divisions and celebrate the many accomplishments that such an environment creates.
Internal Goals
What will we do internally to advance City services?
Technology Improvements
• The Sioux City Police Department (SCPD) has taken steps to increase the department’s capabilities to respond to Cyber Crimes. The second floor of SCPD headquarters was remodeled to accomodate a Cyber Crime phone and computer examination room and a new fingerprint camera was purchsed for the CSI unit.
• Although the new Woodbury County Law Enforcement Center is not a City owned asset, it will serve the City of Sioux City, and the City’s IT Department played a significant role in preparing the facility for operations. The list of equipment installed by IT includes: 147 monitors, 72 phones, 70 desktop PCs, 46 access points, 18 scanners, 17 laptops, 16 network switches, and 13 multi-function printers. In all, there are 780 network ports available for use with network interconnections located throughout the facility. The specialty systems integrated include HVAC, survelliance, barcode readers, AVI, kiosks, door access, messaging boards, cable TV, fingerprint readers, body scan device, bodycams, mobile video upload, and telecommunications.
• Human Resources has employed student interns the past several summers to help expand the information available on the department’s webpage of the City’s website. Recent additions include an interactive map to help individuals determine residency eligibility for employment, searchable salary schedules and job descriptions, and several calculators to help employees determine total compensation, retiree health and dental premiums, and retirement severance.
Staff Development & Communication
• The SCPD completed a new department strategic plan to align with the City’s strategic direction. This included an updated mission statement, “Working in partnership with our community to provide for public safety and enhance quality of life.”
• The City has partnered with Western Iowa Tech Community College (WITCC) to offer a series of classes suited for administrative support staff. Six classes were designed to boost administrative staff’s skill in Microsoft Word, Excel, The Customer Experience Difference, and Time Management and Organization. The City has collaborated with WITCC for several years now with a focus on class content specifically for City employees. In addition to the above classes, two multi-week sessions of leadership training were offered to supervisory and management employee or those employees wishing to pursue a leadership role.
Recognition Efforts
The City acknowledges that employee recognition is crucial to fostering a positive work culture. In June, a Years of Service Luncheon was held to recognize employees celebrating a milestone year of service. 131 employees were recognized at the event. In August, the City hosted an Employee Picnic at Pearl Street Park with more than 250 employees in attendance.
Commitment to Citizens Municipal Responsibilities
QUALITY OF LIFE
We will increase the quality of life for our residents and visitors through public services and position Sioux City as a preferred community through marketing initiatives and growing local pride.
HEALTH & SAFETY
We will enhance public health and safety by maximizing the utilization of technology, improved community engagement, and improved communications and facilities.
INFRASTRUCTURE
We will invest in infrastructure to attract and retain business, spur residential growth, and increase quality.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
We will use formal and informal methods to engage the Council, our employees, and our customers to promote enhanced commitment to our shared vision.
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY
We will work with current business to create job growth and aggressively seek out opportunities to attract new economic growth.
Grow Sioux City
Capitalize on development opportunities to expand and enhance Sioux City.
Diverse Housing Opportunities
Arch Icon Development began construction on an $8 million three-story apartment building on Sioux City’s west side. The building will include 30 units to serve low to moderate income families and three of these will be reserved for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
• The former East Junior High School building is being renovated into 41 affordable apartment units by Commonwealth Development Corporation. Five units will be reserved for those experiencing homelessness. The project represents a capital investment of over $20 million.
Work continues on Isabella Square, located at 1211 West 5th Street. This project includes the construction of 11 affordable single-family homes as well as a new park and upgraded utilities. The first half of the homes are expected to be completed this winter with the remaining completed in Fall 2025.
• City staff worked with multiple housing developers to apply for available Iowa Workforce Housing Tax Credits. Eight applications were submitted. In FY 2025, four Sioux City applications were successful in the compet itive program, including the Indian Hills Nursing Home conversion (47 units), Crescent Park School Site apartments (48 units), Residences at Lakeport Commons (40 units), and Isabella Square (11 units).
• Westland Property Management Development purchased 6.2 acres of land to develop twenty single-family and townhome residential units on Casselman Street. Construction on the utilities and street is underway.
• Aftershock Ventures, LLC began construction of the former nursing home site on Morningside Avenue. The project is an investment of $13.5 million and will create 90 new residential units.
Revitalization
• The Lyons Park Housing Rehabilitation Program has seen great success. A total of $810,999 has been invested into 20 completed projects and one project is currently out to bid.
• Work continues on the Lyons Park improvements. The approximately $1.2 million project is on track to be completed in Fall 2025 and includes Sioux City’s first obstacle course.
• The West 7th Facade Improvement Project continues. Additional projects are expected to begin in the spring of 2025.
Grow Sioux City
Capitalize on development opportunities to expand and enhance Sioux City.
Sioux City Ranked
• Sioux City was named one of the Top 10 Most Affordable Cities to Live in the U.S. by Market Watch.
• Sioux City ranked ninth in Secure Data Recovery’s Top 10 High-Tech Emerging Metros.
• Rocklin Manufacturing was named the U.S. Small Business Administration’s 2024 Small Business Exporter of the Year for the state of Iowa. The 90-year-old company was also selected as the SBA Regional Exporter of the Year winner for SBA’s Region 7, which includes Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska. A third-generation family business, Rocklin Manufacturing manufactures and distributes portable industrial electronic equipment to 50 countries.
Commercial Growth & Job Creation
Frontline Development broke ground on a new waterpark in August that will be located at 3820 Highway 75 North in Sioux City. Siouxland Splash will include a 50-foot slide tower with multiple water slides, a large kids play structure with splash elements, lazy river, adult pool area, and a surprise feature that will be unique to the area. The City is investing in infrastructure improvements that will support the water park site, including utility lines, storm water basin, new turning lanes, and a new street. The Iowa DOT is providing RISE-grant funding for a portion of the street construction costs. The waterpark is set to open Memorial Day weekend 2025.
• Chick-fil-A announced construction of a new restaurant on Hamilton Boulevard. Staff assisted with the vacation and sale of right-of-way for the project.
• The Sunnybrook area continues to see growth with the recent opening of Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers and Sierra.
Business Park Development
The City has completed annexations of several major parcels into the city for business park growth.
• City staff continue to work on certification of industrial development property in Southbridge. Staff are actively pursuing purchases of additional property in Southbridge which is expected to occur in 2025.
• City staff are actively working with the State of Iowa and other partners to market the growing Southbridge Business Park, including working with Union Pacific to market the rail yard.
Industrial Growth
• The new Oracle Aviation Center at Sioux Gateway Airport is now open. Oracle Aviation offers an academy in partnership with Morningside University for professional pilot training and other in-demand aspects of the aviation industry. The first classes will begin this fall.
• MidAmerican Energy’s major new service center located off Outer Drive is now complete. The City supported this project with street and utility improvements.
• Road Machinery and Supply purchased an 11.47-acre parcel from the City in the Expedition Business Park for the development of a new sales and service center. The project represents a capital investment of nearly $4 million and will retain the current employees at the exisiting facility. The project is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in early 2025.
• Cargill announced the expansion of rail and other facilities at their current location on Clark Street. The company received assistance for the expansion through Iowa Economic Development Authority’s (IEDA) High Quality Jobs Program and the 427B Industrial Tax Abatement Program.
Enhancing Downtown
• A ribbon cutting and tour of the new Floyd River Flats apartment complex at 130 Nebraska Street was held in June. A former Ramada Inn, the building was completely renovated into apartments with Jitters Coffee occupying the main floor retail space.
• The $26 million major renovation of the Benson Building is complete. The mixed use building offers 80 market-rate housing units and commercial space.
• A $10 million redevelopment of the historic Aalfs building downtown is underway by Ho-Chunk, Inc. and will include two floors of commercial space and three floors of residential units.
• SC Developers, LLC announced the renovation of the former Novelty Machine building into 15,000 square feet of commercial space on the first floor and 13 market-rate housing units on the second floor, representing a total investment of over $2 million.
Renovations to the former Holiday Inn hotel are underway. The property will be converted into a Hilton DoubleTree branded hotel and full-service restaurant named 1854 Grille, commemorating the year Sioux City was founded. Plans also include the construction of a new pool area, fitness center, and breakfast kitchen. The total project represents a capital investment of $10 million.
Planning for Future Growth
City staff continue to work with developers of the Lieber Heights, Castles Gate, and northern Whispering Creek areas regarding infrastructure construction. Staff anticipate construction in these areas will begin in 2025 and 2026. Planning for developments in or surrounding Downtown Sioux City continue with construction anticipated in 2026.
Grow Sioux City
Capitalize on development opportunities to expand and enhance Sioux City.
Entrepreneurship & Innovation
• Iowa’s West Coast Initiative (IWCI) hosted a Rural Business Blender in LeMars to connect with rural entrepreneurs and share resources and services available to help them start or grow their business.
• IWCI continues to host First Friday Coffee events on the first Friday of every month that feature an entrepreneur who shares their story, struggles, and successes of starting a business.
• The City supported Siouxland Growth Organization as they hosted the 14th Annual Innovation Market at Badgerow Flats Skyview Lounge in May. The event featured dozens of new business ideas with votes cast by the general public and the top five finalists advancing to the Pitch Event in June. The top award winner, Sizzle & Syrup, received $5,000, Orbit Creator Space received Second Place with $2,500, and WorthLiven Wines received Third Place and $1,000. The top five finalists also receive free legal counsel from Heidman Law Firm and Rawlings Law Firm to help kickstart their business in Siouxland.
Investing in Infrastructure
• In the upcoming FY 2026 Budget, the City is investing nearly $25 million in infrastructure. This includes $6 million in overlays of existing pavement, $10.5 million in complete utility and pavement reconstruction, $4 million in bridge rehabilitation and replacements, $1 million in sidewalk rehabilitation/repairs, and over $3 million in new water mains.
Neighborhood Improvements
• Several neighborhood projects made significant improvements to various areas of Sioux City. In 2024 the City wrapped up reconstruction projects that included new water, sewer, and storm utilities, along with paving and sidewalks on the following:
- Perry Lane (Stone Park Blvd. to Dearborn Blvd.) – 2024 Construction
- S. Cecelia Street (Dodge Ave. to Morningside Ave.) – 2024 Construction
- Dodge Avenue (S. Rustin St. to S. Cecelia St.) – 2023-24 Construction
- Kings Highway (Hamilton Blvd. to Meadow Ln.) – 2023-24 Construction
- Rebecca Street (W. 16th St. to Villa Ave.) – 2023-24 Construction
High Profile Projects
• Elk Creek Road roundabout construction is set to wrap up in Fall 2024. This single lane roundabout is the first in Sioux City and will improve the safety of the five-legged intersection that connects Southern Hills Drive, Old Lakeport Road, Elk Creek Road, and Christy Road. This joint project with Woodbury County was necessary after the area began to rapidly develop and traffic volumes increased.
• New asphalt surfacing and pedestrian sidewalk ramps were completed on Hamilton Boulevard from 36th Street north to city limits. This $2.3 dollar total investment was supported with a $1.6 million Surface Transportation Block Grant from the Iowa DOT. Construction took approximately three months to complete with approximately 8,000 tons of asphalt being placed.
• A multitude of projects were completed to support the new waterpark development. These infrastructure projects included new sanitary sewer along 41st Street from Floyd Boulevard to Highway 75, a new turn lane on Highway 75 into a new roadway (including all new water, storm, and sanitary utilities) for the waterpark, two new storm sewer basins along the east side of Highway 75 to serve the area, and a trail connection along the Floyd River levee.
• The Pierce Street Water Main Replacement continued south along the corridor from the 2023 replacement of 5th Street to 7th Street to the 2024 replacement from 4th Street to 5th Street. Projects in the core downtown area are long-awaited and highly visible. Maintaining continuous access to over 5,000 vehicles per day while replacing a delicate 100-year-old water main provided challenges for construction workers and those living and working in downtown. Patience from all and lots of communication to neighboring businesses resulted in a successful project.
Utility Infrastructure Improvements
• Well #2 at the Zenith Water Plant was constructed in the 1970’s and had reached its end of life. A new well was constructed in its place which provides roughly 1,400 gallons of raw water per minute to the plant. The $1.7 million project was funded with American Rescue Plan (ARPA) funds.
• The 38th Street Booster Station, located in Sutherland Park, was decommissioned and a new station was constructed. This booster station conveys water from the Grandview Pressure Zone to the Indian Hills Pressure Zone. Pumping capacities out of this station were increased during construction to provide adequate water during peak summer demands. This project was funded with ARPA funds in the amount of $2.5 million.
• The City’s hydrant painting program has been very successful this summer. At the end of September, nearly 500 hydrants have been painted throughout the city. With just over 4,000 hydrants, the plan is to paint each hydrant every 10 years. If citizens wish to paint their own hydrant, they can obtain paint from the Utilities Field Office by calling 712-279-6164.
Grow Sioux City
Capitalize on development opportunities to expand and enhance Sioux City.
2025 Construction Plans
The 2025 construction season will again be full of activity. Several major improvements are planned, including:
- Repaving Glen Oaks Boulevard from Outer Drive to Teton Trace.
- Overlay of Lorraine Avenue from South Lakeport St. to South Walker Street.
- Full reconstruction of streets, sidewalks, and utilities on 8th Street from Douglas Street to Jackson Street and on 29th Street from Jones Street to Cheyenne Boulevard.
- The replacement of the West Street Bridge and the resurfacing of the Floyd Boulevard Bridge.
In preparation for the Iowa DOT Gordon Drive Viaduct Project a number of City projects will take place in 2025-2026 to relocate utilities, replace dilapidated manholes, pavement patching, and a four to three lane conversion on Leech Avenue/Dace Avenue from Floyd Boulevard to Lewis Boulevard.
• Annual projects such as pavement patching, manhole and intake replacements, sidewalk reconstruction, and water main replacements will also be taking place throughout the year.
Riverfront Potential Realized
• A ribbon cutting for the Chris Larsen Park Riverfront Redevelopment Project was held in June to celebrate the completion of a generational project that has transformed the Sioux City riverfront. After eight years of dreaming, planning, meeting, fundraising, and building a new space for the community along the Missouri River, the project has provided an amazing new space for the community to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The park now includes two small shelters, three large shelters with restroom facilities, enhancements to the Historic Lewis and Clark Trail System, a yoga lawn, great lawn/event space, recreation lawn, play features, three exercise zones, a dog park for small and large pets, two basketball courts, three overlooks, and beautiful native plantings. In addition to a ribbon cutting and dedication, a time capsule was opened at the South Bottoms Memorial by residents, family, and friends who originally lived in the South Bottoms area.
Value Sioux City
Create a destination for visitors and instill community pride in residents.
New Recreational Opportunities
An official park dedication and ribbon-cutting was held for the Cone Park Mountain Bike Trails and Pump Track on June 14, 2024, followed by Cone Park Trail Fest held on June 15, 2024. The all-day event drew thousands of mountain bike enthusiasts and supporters to enjoy the new park additions. Cone Park now features over 10.5 miles of soft surface, singletrack trails, a paved pump track and jump line, and a progressive dirt jump line with all features being built to various skill levels to accommodate beginner to expert riders. The park is already getting national attention as big mountain bike influencers like Rich Drew have visited and created videos to promote Cone Park and Sioux City to the world! Thanks to Explore Siouxland, MRHD, THOR, and Scheels for being event sponsors.
• Thanks to an Iowa 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! grant, in partnership with SIMPCO, the Parks and Recreation Department was able to purchase a trek recumbent bike for use on the Cone Park Mountain Bike Trails.
• Plywood Trail Phase 3, Loess Hills Scenic Trail, and Big Sioux Pedestrian Bridge are all currently under construction.
Park Improvements
• The last two remaining tennis courts at Riverside Park were converted to six pickleball courts. The facility now has 14 pickleball courts, shade structures, and benches.
• Stone retaining walls were installed at the Leif Erikson Park tennis courts, replacing the existing railroad ties, to provide proper drainage, ground stabilization, and park beautification.
• The ibp Ice Center locker room expansion project is complete. The project included the expansion of the lobby with an updated concessions and skate rental area, new locker rooms, restrooms, and showers. The expansion will allow Siouxland Youth Hockey to host more home tournaments.
MidAmerican Engergy presented the City with $5,000 to plant trees in city parks as part of their annual Trees Please program.
Value Sioux City
Create a destination for visitors and instill community pride in residents.
Expanded Cultural Initiatives
On May 11, 2024 the Sioux City Art Center hosted its first Free Family Art Day. The event included activities in both buildings as well as on the front lawn. Families could join scavenger hunts, watch live artist demonstrations in the Art Center atrium, and enjoy live performances in the lecture hall. Inside the Gilchrist Learning Center were kids arts and crafts activities and outside on the front lawn attendees enjoyed painting activities, a variety of lawn games, and a free lunch. With a turnout of approximately 1,200 people, the Art Center is already making plans to have Free Family Art Day become an annual event.
• In August 2024, the Sioux City Art Center installed one of its largest projects ever. Titled Razzle Dazzle, the project consisted of massive sheets of cotton fabric, constructed almost entirely out of small individual donations of fabric from community members. The project was conceived, designed, and overseen by Brooklyn-based artist Amanda Browder. Amanda spent extensive time in Sioux City beginning July 2023 and then regularly for the next 12 months. The arranging, pinning, and sewing of the fabric was done by Siouxlanders at dozens of “sewing days” in the tristate metro area. The four-day installation process was completed one week prior to the 30th annual ArtSplash art festival.
• With Razzle Dazzle as the backdrop for ArtSplash, the festival welcomed more artists downtown than ever before. 75 artists from Sioux City and throughout the country filled booths with artwork around the Art Center’s campus. Nearly 12,000 people enjoyed viewing art, taking part in art activities (which were free for the first time), participating in group projects, and watching local and regional entertainers. Along with a continuous series of short films from the Sioux City International Film Festival in the Art Center’s lecture hall, balloon sculptures and face painting inside the atrium, and a long line of food trucks and vendors, festival goers had no shortage of reasons to spend the weekend at ArtSplash.
• The Sioux City Public Museum continued the History at High Noon series, Kid’s Thursdays and Saturdays with free family activities, walking tours of Logan Park Cemetery, Jackson Street Neighborhood, and The Heights Neighborhood, and hosted the annual Sioux City History Projects Exhibit, Reception, and Awards Ceremony. The Sergeant Floyd Memorial Encampment was held at the Sgt. Floyd River Museum & Welcome Center in August and an open house was held at the Peirce Mansion in July.
The Sioux City Public Library’s Youth Services department worked hard to ensure 1,651 children and teens enjoyed 2024 Summer Reading. Participants read 436,946 minutes this summer, an increase of 36% from 2023! All Summer Reading events and activites were free and open to the public. 1,857 children and 1,060 adults attended Summer Reading events. The Library’s Adult Summer Reading program had 307 adults participate.
Social Hub
• The Sioux City Public Museum hosted Travel Iowa for their Tourism Insider meeting in May. An accessible tourism panel including City Councilmember Alex Watters, Braxton Hinders with The Miracle League of Sioux City, and Kerrie Kuiper with Visit Fort Dodge challenged attendees from across the state to keep accessibility top of mind at their attractions. The accessibility of Sioux City Railroad Museum, snow tubing at Cone Park Sioux City, the climbing wall at Long Lines Climbing, and all the accessible amenities at The Miracle League were highlighted. Also included was a tour of the Orpheum Theatre, an Iowa Tourism marketing update, and a winery, brewery, and distillery panel with Jackson Street Brewing, Oscar Carl Vineyards, Wise-I Brewing Co., and Sioux City Distilling Co.
• The 2024 Iowa League of Cities Annual Conference was held at the Sioux City Convention Center in September. Hundreds of government leaders from across the state spent nearly three days learning and gathering new information to help them guide and strengthen their communities. Mobile workshops included tours of the Seaboard Triumph Foods Expo Center, Chris Larsen Park Riverfront Redevelopment, Sioux City Career Academy, as well as a bike tour and wellness walk around downtown. The Sioux City Convention Center has been working to stimulate the local economy by bringing thousands of visitors to Sioux City. Notably, the Convention Center hosted the 2024 Educare Learning Network Meeting, the GWCC Truck Producer School, and the VNEA Junior National 8-ball Tournament.
• The Tyson Events Center and Orpheum Theatre kept Sioux City entertained throughout the summer with Hairball, Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live, the Abu Bekr Shrine Circus, comedian Pete Davidson, and premier family show Blippi. Additionally, the Tyson Events Center hosted a unique truck show –the “Life Rolls On” show, which brought hundreds of truck enthusiasts to Sioux City and benefited the Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital.
Celebrating our History
The 19th Annual Historic Preservation Week was held May 6-11, 2024 and included Pints for Preservation trivia, a walking tour of The Heights neighborhood on the city’s north side, a bicycle tour, and the 2024 Treasure of Sioux City Award was presented to Badgerow Flats. The goal of Historic Preservation Week is to bring advocacy and awareness to preservation in Sioux City.
Standards & Code Improvements
• City staff proposed multiple text amendments to the Municipal Code recently. The proposals included the removal of single-family exclusive zoning in Sioux City and allowed up to a four-plex in every residential zone. The zoning was also updated to allow high-density residential developments in certain zoning districts.
• Amendments also enhanced the requirements for autombile sales facilities in the city. Staff visited every automobile sales facility in Sioux City for conformity to the City’s zoning requirements.
Connect Sioux City
Enhance public and private partnerships to connect citizens and businesses.
Youth Involvement
The Sioux City Mayor’s Youth Commission worked with the Siouxland CARES Outreach Committee to solidify and implement the Kindness Connects Us initiative. PSA materials were finalized and distributed through social media and at community events, such as the Sioux City Pop Up Parks. The youth helped plan and lead monthly Kindness Connects Us activities and programs, including rock painting in the park, eco-friendly bingo, and the “Cool Bean” kindness book walk. They also recorded radio PSAs with iHeart radio, which aired over the summer months across multiple stations.
• In April, the public was invited to join the Communities Talk Virtual Town Hall on Alcohol and Vaping, hosted by Siouxland CARES, Growing Community Connections, and the Sioux City Mayor’s Youth Commission via Facebook Live. 20 Mayor’s Youth Commission members attended, along with their parents and other family members, and were asked to provide feedback about the event; 83% of surveyed attendees reported feeling prepared to discuss substance use with their families following the presentation, and 93% of the surveyed youth reported gaining knowledge and skills to help them make healthy choices in the future.
• Seven college and university students were hired as City interns for Summer 2024. The interns were featured on the City’s Facebook and Instagram pages. Each shared why they chose the City of Sioux City to complete an internship, what their job responsibilities are, what they most enjoy about Sioux City, and their favorite place to spend time.
Connecting Through Partnerships
The Sioux City Public Library works to identify ways to connect with the Sioux City Community through partnerships. The Library hosted programs with Goodwill at bi-monthly Career Cruiser events, hosted sewing sessions for Amanda Browder’s installation at the Sioux City Art Center, Sioux City Explorers for Youth Summer Reading, Buffalo Alice for our popular Trivia Nights, Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center for nature programs, The Audubon Society for information on bird watching, The Expansion Center for Family Yoga and meditation, Western Iowa Tech, and The Siouxland Center for Active Generations.
The Library partners with Siouxland Public Media to produce The First Fifty Pages podcast. This podcast features author interviews conducted by Sioux City Public Library staff. Bestselling authors included Erik Larson, Kate DiCamillo, Kristin Hannah, Ruth Ware, Katherine Center, and Jeneva Rose. The partnership also helps to produce Check It Out. 42 radio segments were produced to spotlight literature and book culture.
Increased Communication
• The semi-annual City Progress newsletter was published in July featuring the new mountain bike trails and pump track at Cone Park, Riverfront Redevelopment Project, Siouxland Splash waterpark, new training simulator for SPCD, housing development throughout the city, new recycling containers downtown, ibp Ice Center upgrades, and more. Hard copies are available at local tourism attractions and City facilities and the digital version may be found at sioux-city.org/cityprogress.
• Public service announcements regarding the acceptable timing and location of discharging fireworks were shared in June and early July on local television and radio stations. Spanish radio spots also aired. A press conference including Mayor Pro Tem Moore, Sioux City Fire Rescue, and local residents highlighted the effects of fireworks on pets and veterans. Information was also shared with fireworks vendors and on the SCFR, SCPD, and City social media platforms.
• Communication regarding programs and services provided by the Neighborhood Services Division were shared at a press conference and on social media platforms in September. Year to date statistics were also shared to help educate the public about the impact staff are making to assist individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
Planning Division’s summer intern developed outreach material for the Historic Rose Hill neighborhood and mailed materials to over 130 property owners. The goal of the project was to inform property owners of available historic tax credits and city-wide urban revite that would be available for improvements to their structures within the historic district.
Let’s Talk Transportation
• The Sioux City Active Transportation Advisory Committee took to social media to communicate recent legislation on crosswalk safety, trail etiquette, reporting bike or pedestrian issues via the City website, and the Great Siouxland Trail Exploration.
Sioux Gateway Airport hosted a public open house in July to gain feedback regarding the master plan process, how aviation demand is expected to grow, and different alternatives to meet future needs of the airport. As of July 2024, Sioux City Transit System (SCTS) now offers a new bus tracking mobile app to help riders see where their bus is located on the designated route. Passengers can download Passio GO to their smartphones to view arrival/departure times at the Martin Luther King Jr. Transportation Center and to locate a bus on their route in real-time. This app is a free download from the Google Play or App Store.
Connecting with Legislators
• A delegation from Sioux City traveled to Washington, D.C. in April to meet with legislators to discuss important topics affecting Sioux City. It was also an opportunity for connection with local business and industry leaders and community advocates. Students from Western Iowa Tech Community College were also able to attend. Meetings were held with Representative Randy Feenstra, Senator Joni Ernst, and Senator Chuck Grassley. Topics shared by the City included infrastructure projects, the Sioux City Wastewater Treatment Plant, and 185th Air Refueling Wing.
• City staff successfully lobbied for a three-year extension of the Targeted Jobs program.
Protect Sioux City
Promote overall well-being of our residents, visitors, and environment.
Community Response
The flooding event in Riverside over the summer required hundreds of hours of City staff time with crisis management, communication, education, debris removal/cleanup, inspections, and more. Partnerships with local non-profits were established and a Multi-Agency Flood Relief Resource Center was held at Riverside Lutheran Church to help connect residents with the resources they needed. The City worked closely with Woodbury County Emergency Management to relay information regarding debris disposal, water removal tips, volunteer efforts, financial assistance, avoiding scams, food pantries, trail closures, insect spraying, and more through press releases, interviews, CodeRED emergency notifications, and social media posts. The Neighborhood Services Division also created an income-based program to assist impacted households with HVAC, mechanical, electrical panels, water heaters, and radon mitigation and visited those affected in their homes to provide more information. Within three days after the flood breached the Riverside levee, Environmental Services was able to deploy roll-off containers in the residential neighborhoods for flood relief cleanup efforts and establish a temporary transfer sight at Goldie Beck Park. Residents were able to place debris from the flood curbside, and with the coordination of the Streets Division, City personnel collected the material with front loaders and removed the debris from the residential streets to the transfer site. Within a week, the debris at the transfer site was removed daily by Gill Hauling and the transfer site was closed within two weeks after the event. Roll-off containers remained in the area for four weeks to assist residents with cleanup efforts. Street crews were able to sweep and wash the streets nightly for sanitation and safety.
• Following the flood event in Riverside, City inspectors conducted over 200 inspections on the flood affected homes and businesses. As the water began to recede, inspectors began walking door to door to evaluate the property for gas and electric so that the utilities could be restored. 595.17 tons of debris was removed from the flood impacted area at a cost of $43,458. The City reimbursed or paid for $7,752 in rental fees for residential containers and landfill drop off fees. Parks Maintenance staff worked 592 hours from June 21 - June 30, 2024 addressing issues related to the flood.
Preventing Homelessness
A total of 55 households received homelessness prevention assistance in the amount of $107,510 and 24 households received rapid rehousing assistance in the amount of $99,994 between April – September 2024.
A total of 237 coordinated entry assessments were completed with households experiencing homelessness looking for permanent housing between AprilSeptember.
$520,859 was invested into 21 households as part of the Barrier Removal, Emergency Repair, and Elderly and Disabled Emergency Repair program (now known as the REMAIN Program) between April - September. Four additional homes are now in progress.
• A total of $104,002 was invested into 10 homes in Riverside as part of the special Riverside REMAIN progam. An additional two homes, in the amount of $16,074 are currently in progress.
Housing Assistance
• A total of $3,058,387 in housing assistance payments were made to over 1,038 participating households April - September 2024 through the Housing Choice Voucher Program to provide safe and affordable housing. Sioux City Housing Authority (SCHA) infused over $509,371 monthly into the local economy in direct rental assistance payments to 231 participating landlords. 45% of the individuals and families served through the program are elderly and disabled.
• Sioux City Housing Authority, through the completion of 471 rental inspections completed April - September, held property owners to Housing Quality Standards (HQS) to reduce hazards in our homes and community.
• Sioux City Housing assisted 46 families with HOME security deposit in combination with their Housing Choice Voucher to remove barriers to becoming housed.
Sioux City Housing Authority continues to see demand for the Housing Choice Voucher Program and processed 1,294 applications in the last six months. SCHA processed all eligible applications on the Housing Choice Voucher waiting list for rental assistance and continues to serve all eligible applicants. The current approximate wait time is 12-18 months. The main housing characteristics that have been linked with instability and increased risk of homelessness is cost burden and substandard housing.
• The HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) Voucher program combines HUD Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Rental Assistance for homeless veterans with case management and clinical services provided by the Veterans Affairs at its medical centers and in the community. SCHA originally received 25 HUD-VASH Vouchers in July 2010. HUD awarded additional vouchers in May 2016 (5), November 2022 (5), and September 2023 (5), bringing the total HUD VASH Program award to 40 vouchers. A total of $96,364 in HUD-VASH Housing Assistance payment were made to 35 participating households.
• SCHA continues to administer 39 Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHVs) and funding as authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. A total of $91,445 in Emergency Housing Payments were made to 28 participating households.
Protect Sioux City
Promote overall well-being of our residents, visitors, and environment.
First Responders
• Additional Sioux City Fire Rescue (SCFR) personnel were sent to Live Fire Instructor Certification to enhance live fire training on the new training tower, bringing the total of trained instructors to 12.
• SCFR was again awarded the American Heart Association Mission Lifeline Gold recognition for care of heart attack patients. The recognition program focuses on transforming care quality by connecting all heart attack care components into a seamlessly integrated care system.
• Changes to the City’s Police Civil Service rules now allow the Sioux City Police Department (SCPD) to take constant applications for police officers. These changes allow for more streamlined recruitment and onboarding of employees and will assist in attracting new candidates.
Public Safety Initiatives
• SCPD Bicycle Patrol continues to be one of the department’s ongoing initiatives to increase visibility in the downtown parks, streets, and walking trails. Officer presence is a priority during peak times where police visibility provides the most value to citizens.
• SCFR received multiple grants to support the department’s SAFE Home Program, funding smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, as well as batteries. These alarms are provided and installed at no cost to Sioux City residents. The SAFE Home program also includes free, nonpunitive home safety inspections. Since 2012, SCFR has installed over 6,500 smoke alarms.
• With the help of EMS input and WCICC-IT location mapping, Sioux City Parks and Recreation staff designed and installed new signs along local trails to enhance public safety. Each trail is marked at .25 mile increments from the starting point. The letters correspond with the trail (ie. LC for Lewis and Clark, FR for Floyd River, OT for Outer Trail, etc.). By creating this system, trail users are able to notify emergency services of their location, making it easier to locate users more accurately. It also helps trail users see the distance they have traveled on the trail.
Equipment Improvements
• SCFR installed Mobile Data Terminal computers in each response apparatus to aid in navigation, situational awareness, and communications.
• In collaboration with the Woodbury County Communications Center, SCFR has begun using app-based technology to swifty locate lost or injured individuals. This is crucial in areas where no public addresses are visible.
• SCFR purchased and deployed mechanical chest compression devices for all frontline ambulances. High-quality chest compressions are emphazied as the most crucial aspect of CPR for improving patient outcomes. This device provides continuous, high-quality chest compressions, helping to reduce rescue fatigue and improving responder safety. The devices were purchased through a grant from Missouri River Historic Development.
• SCPD obtained a federal grant to install several license plate reader cameras around the city to be utilized as an investigative tool to seek wanted individuals or vehicles involved in criminal activity and assist in the recovery of stolen vehicles or property.
• SCPD has begun the process of replacing aging body worn cameras, in-car cameras, and police car computers. This technological change will provide increased capabilities to officers and better hardware and software for evidence management. These systems are crucial to maintaining transparency and meeting the unique public safety needs of our community.
Operational Readiness
The SCFR hazmat team collaborated with several response partners, including private industry, in Operational Readiness Exercises to help all participants become familiar with capabilities and response procedures.
In May, Sioux Gateway Airport and several local, state, and federal partners conducted a full-scale emergency exercise. The full scale simulation is required by the Federal Aviation Administration to be conducted every three years for agencies to gain valuable training to prepare for potential disasters.
Community Outreach
• SCFR provided fire extinguisher training to more than 500 individuals, including high school students and local business employees, to equip them for potential fire emergencies.
• SCPD’s Citizen’s Academy began in March and concluded in June. Academy attendees go through a mini version of an actual police academy to include classroom instruction, defensive tactics, firearms, and multiple presentations from special units on the many facets of the SCPD. This continues to be one of our favorite ways to engage with the community we serve.
• From March through September 2024, the SCPD participated in many community policing outreach events. Building relationships and trust with members of the community is essential to successful police, fire, and EMS operations. Two special events to highlight include the Unity in the Community block party and National Night Out.
Protect Sioux City
Promote overall well-being of our residents, visitors, and environment.
Litter Campaign Efforts
• Litter Dash 2024 was held April 19, 2024. 750 volunteers assisted in collecting 2.11 tons of litter and trash from the city streets and community. Litter Dash 2025 is scheduled for the Friday after Earth Day on April 25, 2025.
The 24 on 24 litter initiative continues to gain momentum and will continue through the end of 2024. Citizens and businesses are encouraged to get out and pick up 24 pieces of litter on the 24th of each month.
Recycling
• The spring Re-Event took place at the Citizen’s Convenience Center in April of 2024. 649 light bulbs were collected along with 303 alkaline batteries, 806 pounds of microwaves, 4996 pounds of miscellaneous electronics, 1,620 pounds of CPU’s/laptops, 4,121 pounds of CRT televisions, 510 pounds of LCD monitors, and 3,707 pounds of LCD TV’s.
• Eight recycling dumpsters were placed around the downtown area in March. These containers help promote recycling to the growing number of residents and businesses in the downtown area. The containers are for paper, cardboard, plastic, and aluminum. Approximately 11 tons of recyclable materials were processed in April – September 2024 from these recycling dumpsters.
• There are currently 26,186 recycle bins in use for Sioux City’s residential community. Approximately 1,422 tons of recyclable material was sent to processing April - September from residential household collection.
• The City continues to partner with Ripple Glass for glass recycling. A total of 190.02 tons of glass was recycled in FY 2024. From April - September 2024 a total of 82.89 tons of glass has been recycled.
Enhancing Utility Infrastructure
• The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in conjunction with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), have started implementation of a 10-year program to replace lead service lines providing water to customers homes. As part of the Lead and Copper Improvements Rule, water utilities need to provide a lead inventory on its website by October 14, 2024. Citizens can find this information on the city’s website now. There will be further information sent to citizens in the coming months. Those citizens that have lead service lines, galvanized service lines, or service lines that are of unknown material will be receiving a letter from the City starting November 16, 2024.
• The City is investing nearly $9 million in ARPA funds to implement a cutting-edge UV disinfection system at its Wastewater Treatment Plant. This initiative is a critical step toward improving water quality, ensuring the long-term health of our community and local ecosystems. By transitioning to UV technology, the City will eliminate the need for hazardous chemicals traditionally used in disinfection, significantly enhancing safety for both plant personnel and the environment. The project is expected to be completed by December 2024, marking a major milestone in the City’s commitment to sustainable water management solutions.
• The City will commence the High Strength Waste Receiving and Digester Improvements project this fall, with an estimated investment of $21 million. This project will expand the capacity of the Wastewater Treatment Plant, enhance biogas production, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve operational efficiency. Additionally, it will enable Siouxland industries to haul increased volumes of waste to the facility. The project is slated for completion within 1.5 years, further advancing the City’s commitment to sustainable waste management and environmental stewardship. Plans for the City’s $470 million Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) upgrade are progressing with several key milestones. The City’s engineering team has achieved 30% design completion for Phase 1, and a WWTP Reconstruction Design and Advisory Committee has been appointed by the Council to oversee the project. The preliminary design has been finalized, and the Facility Plan has received approval from the Iowa DNR. The City is also approaching negotiations for a Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) contract to initiate preconstruction services. Phase 1 construction is expected to commence in January 2026, with project completion anticipated by the end of 2030. Site visits have been conducted to support the selection of critical equipment.
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Utilize new strategies to eliminate barriers and increase accessibility.
Public Engagement
The Human Rights Commission (HRC) staff and Commissioners provided anti-discrimination and Fair Housing information at the Sioux City Pride Festival celebrating the LGBTQ+ community on June 1, 2024, the Unity in the Community Annual Block Party on June 8, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives Pow Wow on July 13, National Night Out (five locations) on August 6, Siouxland Community Health Center’s “Rock the Center” event on August 8, the Siouxland African Festival on August 10, the Heartland Counseling Mental Health Fair on September 21, and the Celebrando Siouxland Festival on September 22. The HRC will table at the Haven House Wash Out Domestic Violence event on October 12.
• The HRC partnered with the Sioux City Public Library and Parks and Recreation to table at their free community events over the summer. HRC staff promoted their “Guide to Renting” at these events along with other helpful materials.
• The HRC hosted a Landlord and Property Manager Fair Housing Training on April 24, 2024.
• A Tenant’s Rights Training was held on April 30. The HRC will host another Tenant’s Rights Training on October 15.
Library Inclusivity
• The Sioux City Public Library has made strides to bring more language and culture inclusivity into the Library. Library card applications are now available in English and Spanish as well as our Children’s Book Walk. The Library’s World Language collection continues to grow, including books on Libby.
The Library continues to host Storytime en Espanol. This bilingual program is held the third Saturday of each month at 11 a.m. at the Aalfs Downtown Library.
The Library hosted two events this summer with Kofi Dennis, Wolf Trap Master, who tells stories from Africa while introducing participants of all ages to the drumming and music that is a part of African heritage.
Developing Relationships
• Sioux City hosted a delegation from Yamanashi City, Japan last November to celebrate the 20 Year Anniversary of our Sister City partnership. Sioux City Councilmembers received photo albums from our Yamanashi counterparts with photos from the visit.
• The Yamanashi Sister City Committee hosted a table at the Siouxland Asian Festival in May 2024. The event was hosted at Yummi Blox on West 7th and included live music, entertainment, community resources, vendors, and food trucks.
• This spring, the Gjilan Kosovo Sister City Committee was asked to help recruit students to participate in a pen pal program with students at the Rochester Institute of Technology in Pristina, Kosovo. 271 students in Iowa, 10 of which were from SIoux City, participated in the program.
• Over 2,531 people now follow the Human Rights Commission and 1,809 follow the City of Sioux City: Diversity page on Facebook. Facebook is used to communicate upcoming programming and events with residents and offers another opportunity to engage with the community.
Reintegration Assistance
• Agape Community Services purchased 38.82 acres of City-owned land to construct a new cognitive behavioral therapy, faith-based inpatient treatment center for men. The local non-profit plans to invest $12 million to construct a 50,000 square foot facility.
INCLUSIVE LANGUAGE NOTICE
The City of Sioux City promotes equity and inclusion of protected classes including sex, ethnicity, color, familial status, gender identity, age, marital status, national origin, geographic background, race, creed, religious and spiritual beliefs, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, mental and physical disability, or veteran status in admission to, access to, or operations of its programs, services, or activities. This notice applies to all departments, employees, commissions, boards, and volunteers that work with the City of Sioux City. Any questions or concerns about the application of this notice should be directed to the Community Inclusion Liaison at (712) 224-4994.