Waukon City Council hears presentation regarding Waukon Forward and potential endowment funding, discusses garbage collection issues with Republic Services
by Joe Moses
The Waukon City Council met in regular session Monday, June 15 to address a full agenda of matters including an informational update relating to the Waukon Forward group and potential project funding, discussion with Republic Services relating to Residential Waste Collection Services, and the review and consideration of the Year 1 Sidewalk Condition Assessment Program. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Arvid Hatlan with council members present including Cassie Handke, John Lydon, Steve Wiedner, Nic Engrav and Tim Smedsrud.
During Public Comment, resident Clint Rethamel addressed the council and requested clarification and greater transparency relating to his variance request which has been remanded back to the Board of Adjustment.
A resident, requesting to remain anonymous, of southwest Waukon made note of concerns relating to recycling and garbage collection by Republic Services. The resident noted that the 4th Avenue SW neighborhood has been periodically missed for garbage collection by Republic Services, which she advised is likely due to employee turnover with new and inexperienced garbage truck drivers. The resident noted that she has contacted Republic Services by phone to report issues 11 times within the year.
Mayor Hatlan briefly addressed the concerns mentioned by advising that the city is looking at options available relating to the existing contract with Republic Services and that the city is in the process of receiving competitive bids from solid waste and recycling contractors through requests for proposals (RFP).
Under Department Reports, Park, Recreation and Wellness Director Jeremy Strub noted that the Wellness Center and Park and Recreation programming are in full swing for the summer season. Strub noted the impact of weather conditions upon swimming pool use and with Music in the Park having been rained out recently.
Water and Sewer Superintendent Jim Cooper discussed a water main break near 3rd Street NE and 5th Avenue NE that took place following the Monday, June 1 City Council meeting. Cooper recognized the Water and Sewer Department employees that worked overnight to complete this repair work. He also noted a lightning strike near the Wastewater Treatment Plant with measures taken to compensate for controls that were impacted before repairs were completed.
To read the full article, pick up the Wednesday, June 17, 2026 print edition of The Standard or subscribe to our e-edition or print edition by clicking here.
