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City of Fairfield | City Council 6.22.26
Published: Jun 22, 2026
Ordinance on E-bikes and Mobility Devices Moved to Committee
The council considered a first reading of an ordinance amending title 10 related to bicycles, low-speed electric bicycles, and personal mobility devices on streets, sidewalks, and shared use paths. The discussion clarified Iowa code regarding e-bike licensing, helmet requirements, and definitions of different e-bike classes. It was noted that Iowa code already prohibits electric bikes with throttles or those exceeding 20 mph on trails, and modifications make them illegal. The proposed amendment aims to update the city's code to align with recent state code changes from 2004 (pedestrian code) and 2026 (e-bikes), defining differences between e-bikes and mopeds, and including new devices like hoverboards. Key decision points involve potential prohibitions on class three e-bikes (20-28 mph) on sidewalks and trails. Concerns were raised about rider responsibility and posting speed limits or warnings on trails due to fast-moving bikes potentially colliding with pedestrians. The council decided to move the ordinance to the Public Safety and Transportation Committee for further review.
K9 Unit Receives Vest, Water Crew Recognized
The meeting acknowledged the resignation of Mercedes Monchiva from the Fairfield Beautification Commission and thanked her for her service. The discussion then shifted to the police department receiving a vest for their K9 unit, Rambo, through the nonprofit Vested Interest K9s. Officer Nuno, Rambo's handler, applied for the vest, which was provided at no cost to the city and is valued at approximately $2,000. The vest weighs about 5 lbs. The mayor also recognized the water crew for their work on a Saturday night water main break, working until 4:00 a.m. to restore water service.
Council Approves Financial Items, Authorizes Investment Accounts
The council reviewed and approved various financial items including minutes, payroll, committee reports, resolutions for cigarette permits and wage adjustments, noise exemptions, liquor licenses, general obligation debt, ACH payments, and total claims over $75,000. Specific claims approved included Chrisner Contracting for the fire station, EBS for healthcare premiums, Fi Excavating for Sunrise Trail, North Asphalt for Adams resurfacing, Voss Two Partners LLC for a TIFF rebate, and Waste Management Corporate Services. The council also authorized investment accounts with Pilot Grove Bank as the winning bidder and approved naming depositories to accommodate these accounts.
Fire Station Nears Completion; City Explores Naming Policy and Community Initiatives
The city administrator reported on several ongoing projects and community initiatives. The fire station project is progressing, with drywall up, apparatus bays being enclosed, and electrical and HVAC work underway. Detailed work on phones, radios, door access, and data integration is in progress. A memo regarding a naming policy was introduced, with staff intending to bring a more comprehensive proposal later. The city wishes to recognize the Greater Jefferson County Foundation for their donation to the fire station by naming the multi-purpose room, but a formal naming policy is currently lacking. The city administrator also noted over 6 inches of rain in the past two weeks, confirming Walnut Lake is full and overflowing and functioning correctly. The city is engaging in community initiatives like 'First Community Toast' to recognize businesses and improve downtown participation. The city administrator also provided an update on the police chief hiring process, noting that candidate evaluations are ongoing and expected to take several days.
Council to Consider Employment Agreement for Police Chief
A discussion occurred regarding the hiring of a new police chief, following a closed session. Councilmember Estey proposed drafting an employment agreement for the police chief, citing a lack of such agreements for previous chiefs and the need for clarity on expectations and performance metrics, similar to agreements with the city engineer and administrator. Councilmember Gandy suggested this be discussed in the personnel committee, noting the council's current evaluation process for chiefs. The motion to refer the consideration of drafting an employment agreement to the personnel committee passed three to one. It was noted that this needs to be consistent with other employment contracts.
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