On Monday, the Newton City Council will meet to discuss and vote on two major issues: approving the budget for Implementing Newton’s Future and allowing Bridgehouse Coffee Co. to use the alleyway as a drive-thru.
During the budget process last year, the council set aside $250,000 for the implementation of the city’s comprehensive plan. The money, which has been approved by Implementing Newton’s Future, will be used for way-finding signage, community branding, First Avenue West aesthetics, a community grant writer and a rent-a-sculpture program.
Additionally, the owner of Bridgehouse Coffee is requesting a non-standard use permit for a drive-thru and the use of the alleyway for the stacking of vehicles that are waiting to use it. The property owner, G&E Properties, is in favor of the drive-thru window.
The council has already discussed the drive-thru window at a previous meeting in March. The council said they were in favor of promoting business downtown. City staff has recommended a one-year agreement with the property owner.
The council will also discuss and vote on these topics:
• To approve special class C liquor — Sunday sales — for Giovanni’s Pizza, 2020 First Avenue East.
• A resolution adopting June 2013 supplement to the Code of Ordinances and approving distribution of the same to code subscribers.
• A resolution approving allocation of Local Option Sales and Services Taxes for Fiscal Year 2013-2014.
• A resolution approving allocation of Hotel/Motel Taxes for Fiscal Year 2013-2014.
• A resolution approving amendment number two to the agreement for grant funding with the United States Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration.
• An ordinance to add stop signs to West Third Street North and North Second Avenue West.
• A demo of the waterworks building.
Staff writer Dave Hon may be contacted at (641) 792-3121, ext. 425, or at dhon@newtondailynews.com.